According to the AIIC, the forwarding of preparation material to interpreters prior to simultaneous
interpreting (SI) is a contractual term, as it enables interpreters to fully harness their
expertise and provide a better service. Yet, despite being largely acknowledged as a fundamental
support tool and a helpful resource by professional interpreters and students alike,
preparation has been the subject of a limited number of experimental studies. This study
aims to examine the importance of preparation for the SI of speeches including a number of
cultural items, in order to both underline the importance of previous knowledge for achieving
a higher level of proficiency in SI and to raise awareness in speakers and event managers
about the need to provide interpreters with all the relevant documents.
