Step by step… Creating a community of practice for public service interpreting in Slovakia

This article examines the evolving infrastructure for public service interpreting and translation (PSIT) in Slovakia in the context of recent migration challenges, with a particular focus on the professionalisation of PSIT. It analyses institutional, educational and civil society responses to the urgent demand for interpreting services following the arrival of displaced persons from Ukraine. The primary aim is to examine the process of establishing a community of practice for community interpreters in Slovakia, informed by the expectations of key stakeholders, the lived experiences and practical challenges reported by interpreters, and comparative insights from countries with more established PSIT systems. The paper also outlines the rationale for developing a knowledge platform - a structured, interactive environment designed to facilitate professional learning, exchange and coordination between language service providers, educators and public institutions. Methodologically, the study is based on empirical data collected between 2023 and 2025 through qualitative research conducted as part of the UNHCR-supported RESPLAIN project. It combines semi-structured interviews with institutional actors and interpreter trainees, feedback questionnaires and follow-up impact surveys. Participants in the research included representatives of public authorities, NGOs and interpreter trainees with different linguistic profiles and levels of experience. The analysis focuses on competence development, perceived roles and responsibilities of interpreters, and the application of interpreting skills in legal, health and social service settings. The findings underline the need for systematic training, institutional support and the integration of research and practice in the long-term professionalisation of PSIT in Slovakia.