The WFD has been contacted by our Ordinary Members about the issue of hearing people taking the place of deaf people by teaching sign languages or conducting research on national sign languages. Deaf people are excluded from participation in these activities related to their languages. This is unacceptable and a contravention of best practices in working with minority language communities.

The WFD now issues this Position Paper on Research and Teaching in National Sign Languages as a guide to understanding the importance of deaf-led teaching and research work on national sign languages. English text and International Sign versions are available.