The Value of Translations

The article examines translation subsidies in Slovenia, Croatia, and Czechia. We compared the three subsidies and presented a short overview of each of them. The comparison shows that conditions for translation subsidies are similar in the three countries, although the funding awarded varies. To further explore the effects of translation subsidies, we conducted a survey among publishers who sell translation rights, and we present two case studies. Using Bourdieu’s field theory (as adapted for publishing by Thompson), we show how translation subsidies play an important part in publishers and authors obtaining symbolic and economic capital. The need for translation subsidies is further illustrated with the help of Pascale Casanova’s literary world system. Finally, we present suggestions for effective use of such cultural policy tools.