Which value requires the interpreter to remain neutral and unbiased?

• A. Impartiality
• B. Advocacy
• C. Confidentiality
• D. Respect

Answer: (A)

Impartiality is the obligation to convey information without bias, withholding personal opinions or beliefs from influencing what is interpreted. In medical interpreting, this means faithfully relaying everything spoken by both sides exactly as it was said, so the patient and clinician receive an accurate, uncolored message. This neutrality protects the patient’s right to understanding and supports fair communication, without steering outcomes or advocating for one party. The other values—advocacy involves supporting a side, confidentiality protects private information, and respect covers courteous treatment—are important, but they do not by themselves require or guarantee the same neutral stance in how the message is conveyed.