European Day of Languages
A day to celebrate the rich mosaic of languages coexisting in Europe and beyond: the European Day of Languages marks every year since 2001 our linguistic diversity and cultural heritage. The European Centre for Modern Languages of the Council of Europe (ECML), encouraging excellence and innovation in language teaching, will take part in a key event in Graz, Austria.
A wide range of initiatives are organised across the Continent: a language festival in the Students’ Square in Belgrade, apresentation of 13 different idioms and cultures at the University library in Bergen, a language fair in Zagreb, and exhibitionat the multimedia centre in Nice, amongst them.
Message from Council of Europe Secretary General Thorbjørn Jagland
“The European Day of Languages is celebrated every year on 26 September. It’s a day to encourage language learning for young and old. This year’s European Language Day is also an opportunity to highlight the huge value of Europe’s cultural diversity.
Europe’s nations are always at their strongest and most prosperous when we are open and outward-facing, willing to embrace other ways of life, and when we welcome those who can contribute to our societies. By pausing to celebrate the dozens of languages spoken across our communities we can send a powerful message: that Europe is a place where all backgrounds are welcome and individuals of every heritage can feel at home. Hundreds of events have been organized by schools, universities and cultural establishments to mark the day. I would like to send my best wishes to all those taking part.”
Source: www.coe.int; ec.europa.eu