Languages and Translation Policy

This guide is available in multiple languages to make it easier for newcomers to access important information. However, translation policies may differ by language.

Please keep the following points in mind if you are reading a translated version (i.e., any version other than English).

Working Language

• The original text of this guide is written in English.
• Any proofreading (if performed) is carried out on the English version.
• All other language editions are translations of the original English document.

Official Languages

In this article, “official languages” refers to those recognized in Section 16¹ of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Although Ballot and More is not a federal government entity, we respect Canada’s bilingualism and aim to provide as much information as possible in both official languages.

• Providing the guide in the official languages is a priority.
  • However, depending on the availability of volunteer translators, some other language editions may be released before the French edition.
• URL structures are adapted for each language.
• Where possible, hyperlinks in the References section direct readers to materials in the corresponding language.

Other Languages

In addition to the two official languages, we aim to provide the guide in other languages whenever resources allow. Our target audience includes newcomers, many of whom may prefer to read in their first language.

• Additional translations are offered as long as resources permit.
• The URL structure follows that of the original English version.
• In the References section, hyperlinks may lead to the English sources from the original version.
• Names of people or organizations may remain in English rather than be translated.

Translation Process

• For all non-English versions, a machine translation is produced first.
• While volunteer proofreading is in progress, the machine-translated version is published with a clear note that it is machine translated
• Once volunteers complete proofreading, the machine-translation notice is removed.

References