Introduction |
The Council of Europe
The Council of Europe has been active in the promotion of modern language learning and teaching since the signature of the European Cultural Convention in December 1954. Its programmes are co-ordinated by two complementary bodies: the Language Policy Division in Strasbourg (France) and the European Centre for Modern Languages (ECML) in Graz (Austria).
The Council of Europe summarises its languages policy as according 'special importance to fostering the linguistic and cultural diversity of its member States. Its activities in the field of languages aim to promote plurilingualism and pluriculturalism among citizens in order to combat intolerance and xenophobia by improving communication and mutual understanding between individuals.'
Further information will be found under:
The European Union
The European Commission believes that languages have a vital role to play in building a 'common home' in which 450 million Europeans can live, work and trade together. Learning other languages contributes to its goal of becoming 'the most competitive knowledge-based economy in the world' by the end of the decade. It regards the ability to understand and communicate in other languages as a basic skill for all European citizens.
Further information about European Union initiatives will be found under:
