Al-Anon’s strength lies in the many way members help care for and carry our message. The articles Translating Conference Approved Literature, Part 1 and Part 2 introduce the independent review process that ensures translated Conference Approved Literature (CAL) is accurate, spiritually grounded, and legally protected. The first article outlines how the process works, and the second shares the service experience, strength, and hope of an independent reviewer. Together, they provide insight into how trusted servants care for Al-Anon’s words, meaning, and message worldwide.
Before joining the World Service Office (WSO) as a Paralegal, I had not considered how Conference Approved Literature (CAL) is translated into languages other than Spanish and French. Today, I appreciate the independent review process, which ensures that CAL translations are both faithful to the original English text and effective in conveying the program’s spiritual message.
When the Board of Trustees of Al-Anon grants permission to an international structure (an organized group responsible for Al-Anon activities in a specific country or region) to translate CAL into a language for the first time, the structure suggests several individuals to the WSO who could potentially serve as independent reviewers once the translation is completed. These individuals are members of the program, are bilingual in English and the target language, and were not involved in the original CAL translation.
With knowledge and objectivity, and with the WSO acting as intermediary, the independent reviewer evaluates translations submitted by the structure. Their review might highlight words or phrases that are not translated exactly or that inadvertently distort the meaning. Communicating the program’s concepts or spiritual principles in another language can be challenging. For example, which word best conveys the emotional element of “detachment,” rather than just a physical idea? Other challenges can be specifically grammatical: in several languages, “God” is a masculine noun while “Higher Power” is feminine. An independent reviewer is charged with offering suggestions for these and other linguistic and conceptual questions that involve core principles of the program.
Upon receipt of the independent reviewer’s comments, the WSO forwards them to the structure. The structure then discusses internally whether to incorporate the suggestions. The WSO facilitates this process by providing legal and traditional guidance to both the independent reviewer and the structure as may be necessary. Concept Four guides us all: we work harmoniously and respectfully, recognizing that we are equals and partners in a spiritual endeavor.
This thorough and careful process often produces a more accurate translation with deeper and more heartfelt meaning. In addition, our CAL is legally protected when we confirm translations, and the message of help and hope is protected from possible dilution or misunderstanding. Throughout the process, members are asked to act with responsibility and acceptance. They reach out to others and their Higher Power for help. They talk to each other and reason things out, trusting the overall process.
Our CAL brings the worldwide fellowship together. The independent review process shows how individual members can work for the good of Al-Anon as a whole.
By Olivia S-G., Paralegal
The Forum, August 2026
“Inside Al-Anon Family Groups” presents news, policy, and commentary from volunteers, staff and readers sharing experience through service. Please feel free to reprint these articles on your service structure website or newsletter, along with this credit line: Reprinted with permission of Al-Anon Family Group Headquarters, Inc., Virginia Beach, Virginia, USA.