Regional and minority languages in Europe today
Absztrakt :
The report takes stock of the situation as regards the implementation of
the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages on the occasion
of the 25th anniversary since its opening to signature and in light of new
developments in our societies, including digitalisation. It underlines that local
and regional authorities should be guided by the principle that diversity is an
enriching element of society and that the protection of historical regional or
minority languages constitutes the firmest protection of said diversity, with
a positive outcome from both an economic and cultural perspective. It invites
them to take measures, where and when possible, to consolidate and develop
regional or minority language teaching and education in these languages in
their regions.
The report also draws the attention of member States to the fact that in many
countries austerity measures have resulted in cutbacks in education and in
services provided to minority language speakers. It calls on member States to
refrain from bringing the weight of austerity measures to bear on language
policies. Noting that, regrettably, only 25 States have ratified the Charter and
8 have signed it, without ratification, it invites the remaining 14 member States
to sign and ratify the Charter.