You can write diplomatically and still use plain language principles. Here are some practical ways. I’ve recapped all the arguments why UN and international aid professionals might want to use …
UN writing isn’t very clear. But clear writing can promote human rights, level power imbalances, and boost transparency and accountability. UN writing doesn’t have a great reputation for clarity. While …
Want to get more people in your organization to use plain language and inclusive language and follow accessibility practices? Word templates may be your friend. I used to think Word …
W. H. Hindle, a career editor for the UN, wrote a guide on how to write clearly for the organization. Peppered with gems (pointing out the “sonorous polysyllables” with their …
International organizations like the UN aren’t known for clear writing. But there are some guides and examples out there. Writing at the UN and in international development isn’t easy. Writers …
Ever wonder how to write English suited for international readers? Edward Weiss’s Elements of International English Style is a comprehensive and thoughtful guide that gives concrete strategies while being sensitive …
As events have gone online since 2020, we’ve become more conscious of time zones. If your event targets an international audience, express the event time in a way that makes …
Understanding the big picture — before you start writing — will help you write better. When you know who and what the document is for, you can put the right pieces in the right place.
