Having navigated some difficult times since 2020, I am glad to say that the Chartered Institute of Linguists is in good shape as we close out the 2023/24 membership year. First and foremost, it is really worth celebrating that CIOL has been fortunate enough to maintain a strong and active membership community across more than 50 countries and speaking over 50 languages. The diversity of our membership underscores our international reach and the breadth and depth of the linguistic expertise we represent.

We have also expanded our portfolio of highly respected qualifications, introducing the degree-level Certificate in Translation (CertTrans) to complement our established Master's level Diploma in Translation (DipTrans). We continue to support the Diploma in Public Service Interpreting (DPSI) in the UK and have added Language Level Assessments and Certified English to our international assessment offerings. These qualifications enable language professionals to validate their skills across a wide range of languages and contexts. In the past year, hundreds of candidates took CIOL professional qualifications in more than 30 countries and languages.

In many ways we have re-invented ourselves – not least in offering our qualifications wholly online - but we have also successfully hosted large in-person and international online conferences annually since the pandemic lifted. Our events in London in 2022, 2023 and 2024, each culminating in the CIOL Awards, have brought linguists together to network, share knowledge and celebrate outstanding achievements in the field of languages.

We have also significantly increased our stakeholder engagement, research initiatives and policy impact. By working closely with ITI, ATC, NRPSI, language stakeholders, universities and our governance community of expert linguists, we have expanded the range of knowledge resources and good practice guidance available on our website.
Online engagement has been a key focus and we have increased our social media output, put on regular webinars and virtual events, invested in our mentoring platform and in online training.

CIOL Highlights (as above) captures some of the resources, projects and events we have developed and delivered this year.  

I am also very proud that The Linguist, our flagship publication, continues to provide engaging writing on a wide range of topics, bringing valuable insights and endlessly enjoyable reading to our many readers – and to increasing numbers who read The Linguist online. And this would not be possible without Miranda Moore’s editorial flair and the ongoing support of our excellent Editorial Board.

But, for me personally, perhaps the most encouraging thing which has developed in the last year of so is the positive, active and mutually supportive relationship we have with ITI. It’s a real pleasure to work with Sara Robertson; and with Raisa McNab at the Association of Translation Companies. We’ve also re-connected with Alison Rodriguez, President at the International Federation of Translators (FIT) too.

Things get better when we work together. So, it’s great to have such good colleagues and friends in the world of languages and linguists; both in the UK and around the world. Here's to more in 2024/25.

John Worne, Chief Executive