International Sign: a bridge between cultures

In a world where spoken languages vary from one country to another, International Sign offers a unique way to make communication easier between Deaf people of different nationalities. But what is International Sign, and how does it work?

What is International Sign?

Unlike a universal sign language (which does not exist), International Sign is a simplified visual communication system used at international meetings, congresses or events that bring together Deaf people from different backgrounds. It is used by professional interpreters, international organisations and people travelling around the world.

How does it work?

International Sign relies on iconic gestures that are easy to understand, and on elements taken from different existing sign languages. This way of communicating puts the focus on facial expression and context to help understanding. Many signs are inspired by the most representative gestures of a concept, which makes them more intuitive to learn. Beyond gestures, facial and body expressions play a key role.

Why is it useful?

International Sign allows Deaf people to understand each other despite different native languages, which encourages cultural exchange and international cooperation. It is especially useful when it is not possible to have a specific interpreter for each national sign language, for example at world conferences, international sports events or when travelling.

Learning International Sign

Although International Sign is not an official language as such, learning it is made easier by educational resources, specialised courses and meetings with international Deaf communities. Events such as the Deaflympics, the World Congress of the Deaf, events organised by the European Union of the Deaf Youth (EUDY) and the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD), or the Clin d'Œil Festival are ideal opportunities to see International Sign in action.

A driver of inclusion and exchange

By spreading knowledge of International Sign, we encourage better inclusion and smoother communication worldwide. Promoting these signs helps create a more accessible world, where language barriers are reduced and everyone can express themselves freely, whatever their linguistic background.

So International Sign is not only a communication tool: it is a real link between cultures and peoples.