Critical Link International

The global voice for community interpreting and language accessibility

Advancing the
profession of community interpreting worldwide

Since 1992, CLI has been at the forefront of shaping community interpreting into a recognized field of professional practice, research, and education.

By connecting interpreters, researchers, educators, and decision makers from around the world, we have been able to advance standards, research, and advocacy in public service interpreting.

We champion the belief that language should never be a barrier to accessing services. Community interpreters makes that possible.

9

international conferences

34

years of
advocacy work

40+

countries
in our network

1000+

members
driving change

CLI unites global networks
& champions language access

Connecting people

We build collaborative non-competitive communities where practitioners and stakeholders from different sectors and countries build lasting professional relationships.

Sharing knowledge

We share research and real-world evidence through our internationally respected conferences and resource hub to help the field grow and improve.

Shaping the field

By promoting professional standards and ethical practice, we support stronger training and higher-quality interpreting in public services.

Advocating for access

We raise awareness so that institutions recognize language access as a practical step towards equity, social justice, and inclusion.

Supporting those who support others

Individuals

  • Interpreters
  • Academics
  • Educators
  • Policy developers
  • Students

Institutions

  • Government &
community services
  • Schools & universities
  • Language Service Providers

Organizations

Professional associations representing community interpreting around the world

“I’ve been to 7 CLI conferences and have made amazing friends, built inspiring networks, and gained valuable insights from around the world.”

– Anonymous Member, Interpreter, Australia

News

Stay informed on
developments shaping the sector

Posted by:
Critical Link
04.04.2025

March 11-13, 2026 University of Alcalá (Madrid) In an increasingly globalized and interconnected world, Public Service Translation and Interpreting (PSIT) faces unprecedented..

Posted by:
Critical Link
01.03.2024
Posted by:
Critical Link
01.03.2024
Events

Where the global field meets

CLI conferences

CLI's conferences have helped shape the profession for decades by bringing research, real-world practice, and institutional leadership into one conversation.

We’re working hard behind the scenes to hold our next conference.

Online events

CLI and its networks keep ideas moving across borders, sectors, and disciplines.

Members are welcome to share their events with the CLI network.

View CLI Member posted events

Resources

The global knowledge hub for community interpreting

We bring together evidence from research, lived experience, and professional standards so members can learn from each other, strengthen the field, and advocate for better language access.

Members are encouraged to post research and resources so the whole community can benefit.

Members only
Posted by:
Critical Link
17.11.2020

On behalf of the major translator and interpreter associations worldwide, advocacy organizations, and academia, we..

Members only
Posted by:
Critical Link
17.08.2020

Critical Link International (CLI) is pleased to announce that it has teamed up with the..

Members only
Posted by:
Critical Link
05.06.2020

Click here to see or share original Press Release Critical Link International (CLI) is pleased..