European Day of Languages | Access to Culture

European Day of Languages

By Sharon Schweitzer

In 1997, the idea of organizing a campaign to convince the general public of the importance of learning more languages was born. This idea arose at the conference on Language learning for a new Europe, which launched the Common European Framework of Reference for languages (C.E.F.R.) and the concept of plurilingualism.

On September 26th, 2001, the first European Day of Languages took place and was the main event of the European Day of Languages campaign, which was organized jointly with the European Union. This event was a success, and the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe decided that this day would be celebrated annually every September 26th.

This day promotes awareness about language learning and protecting linguistic heritage. The overall purpose is to raise awareness of Europe’s rich linguistic and cultural diversity, which must be encouraged and preserved. It also strives to broaden the spectrum of languages that people learn throughout their lives to improve plurilingualism and intercultural understanding. E.D.L. provides a chance to honor all of Europe’s languages, particularly those spoken less frequently and spoken by migrants. The E.D.L. is part of the Language Policy Programme. The more significant part of the program is directed at national education authorities and practitioners in this field. This campaign aims to convince the general public of the importance of learning more than one language.

Learning languages does not only mean communication. It also helps to develop tolerance and understanding between people from different linguistic and cultural backgrounds. The importance of plurilingualism has been highlighted by numerous awareness-raising initiatives and documents, such as “The celebration of linguistic diversity.” The European Day of Languages is the perfect occasion to honor the dozens of languages spoken throughout Europe. This day’s primary purposes are to celebrate linguistic diversity in Europe, the plurilingualism of its citizens, and lifelong language learning and to promote its rich diversity by encouraging people to be open to different languages and cultures.

Every year, countries throughout Europe participate in the tradition of selecting a “word of the year.” This practice involves choosing a single word or phrase that reflects the social, cultural, or political trends and events of the year. The word of the year serves as a symbolic representation of the collective consciousness and prevailing themes within a society. It captures the zeitgeist and becomes a reflection of the shared experiences, concerns, and aspirations of the people.

Some of the words from last year include: AI/Artificial Intelligence, Femicide, Climate bomb, Rizz, Polarisation, Rubble, Monsterbank, Professor, Chancellor’s menu, and Crisis mode. What kind of words might be selected for this year? 

Photo by https://www.twinkl.com/resource/t2-l-408-european-day-of-languages-uk-a2-display-poster

Sharon Schweitzer JD, is a diversity and inclusion consultant, cross-cultural trainer, etiquette expert, and the founder of Access to Culture. In addition to her accreditation in intercultural management from the HOFSTEDE Centre, she is an attorney and mediator. Sharon served as a Chinese Ceremonial Dining Etiquette Specialist in the documentary series Confucius was a Foodie, on Nat Geo People. Her Amazon #1 Best Selling book in International Business,  Access to Asia: Your Multicultural Business Guide, won a coveted Kirkus Star, and was named to Kirkus Reviews’ Best Books. She’s a winner of numerous awards, including the British Airways International Trade Award at the Greater Austin Business Awards.

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