Citizen Translation in the Arab World: How Citizens’ Needs Are Met Through Non- Professional Translation in the Dissemination of Knowledge

Abstract

The phenomenon of citizen translation in the Arab world is emerging as a critical force in the dissemination of knowledge and cross-cultural communication. With the advent of Web 2.0 technologies and social media, bilingual citizens, driven by a sense of social responsibility and activism, are increasingly contributing to the translation landscape without formal training. This research addresses the gap in understanding how citizen translators influence the availability of Arabic content online and shape the socio-political discourse in the region. By employing a constructivist grounded theory methodology, this study investigates the motivations behind citizen translators' involvement, their impact on the professional translation field, and the broader implications for translation studies. The study involved qualitative data collection through in-depth interviews with active citizen translators across various online platforms. Data analysis revealed that these individuals often operate out of a commitment to preserving and promoting cultural identity and bridging the information gap in underserved fields such as philosophy, political science, and non-Western media. The research found that citizen translation is not merely a supplementary activity but is becoming a significant force that challenges traditional notions of translation professionalism and academic discourse. The findings suggest that citizen translation contributes to a democratization of knowledge, enabling broader access to information and participation in global dialogues. The study proposes a new theoretical framework that situates citizen translation within the larger context of socio-political activism and digital content creation. This framework offers insights into how non-professional translators can influence both the quality and quantity of translated content available in Arabic, shaping the cultural and intellectual landscape of the Arab world. The implications of this study extend beyond translation studies, offering a lens through which to understand the evolving role of digital media and grassroots movements in knowledge production. It highlights the need for further research into the socio-economic impacts of citizen translation and its potential to transform both local and global communication networks. Keywords: Digital Arabic content, translation, Web 2.0 tools, online content, Arabic language, content creation