Introduction to the Special Issue: Translation in Political Discourse and Global Narratives

Abstract

Translation serves as a potent yet often overlooked force in political discourse, shaping global narratives and mediating information across linguistic and cultural boundaries. This introduction explores the transformative potential of translation as a form of activism and identity construction in political discourse, delving into its ability to challenge prevailing narratives, amplify marginalised voices, and foster a more inclusive and empathetic global dialogue. Drawing on the insights of George Orwell and John Searle regarding the potency of language in political manipulation and power dynamics, the study illuminates the transformative role of translation as a catalyst for change and cross-cultural understanding. It underscores the significance of activist translation, particularly within Chinese contexts, an area that remains relatively underexplored in scholarly discourse. Structured into three sections, this introduction initially traces the historical underpinnings of activist translation within political and religious discourse, outlining translation's transformative power. The second section analyses how translation influences cultural transmission and identity construction on a global scale. The third section portrays activist translation as a driver of inclusivity, amplifying marginalised voices, dismantling systemic inequalities, and advocating for equality worldwide. Looking ahead, the conclusion outlines challenges and future directions in political discourse translation, emphasising the necessity of maintaining ethical portrayals of cultural identities and addressing cross-cultural misunderstandings. The introduction concludes with a list of references, offering key perspectives to inspire further research in the realm of political discourse translation.