Keeltekandjate

Keeltekandjate, or language brokers, are individuals who translate or interpret between languages in everyday situations, usually without formal professional training. The term stems from keel (language) and kandja (carrier) and is used in sociolinguistics to describe people who carry linguistic information across language boundaries, most often children or relatives who interpret for parents in schools, clinics, or public offices.

They provide ad hoc translation, explain cultural norms, relay questions and answers, and sometimes advocate for the non-English-speaking party. They operate in settings such as education, healthcare, social services, and community life. While they help access services and information, this informal role can place heavy responsibilities on the broker.

Bilingual development and strengthened social ties can be benefits; risks include confidentiality issues, inaccurate translations, dependency on children, and pressure. Studies discuss how language brokering affects identity, academic performance, and empowerment or stress for young brokers.

In research and policy: The concept has been studied since the late 20th century, with extensive work in North America and Europe. In Estonia and neighboring contexts, keeltekandjad are recognized as a social phenomenon associated with migration and minority languages; policies emphasize professional interpreters and translation services while acknowledging the ongoing informal brokering in families.