To highlight the importance of the European Day of Languages (26^th September), the Network to Promote Linguistic Diversity (NPLD), Mercator Network of Language Diversity Centres, and the European Bureau for Lesser Used Languages (EBLUL), have come together to sign a declaration of cooperation. These networks aim at promoting constitutional, regional and smaller-states languages. As part of the agreement they will share their expertise and strengthen their ability to influence EU policy on multilingualism.

This joint declaration provides a framework for future collaboration and sets out the parameters of joint initiatives, including:

• * Sharing best practices and expertise in language planning across the CRSS language communities;
  
• * Seeking greater international recognition for CRSS languages by raising awareness of the value and importance of these languages to Europe’s linguistic diversity;
• * Endorsing the continuation of a Multilingualism Commissioner as a stand-alone portfolio within the newly formed European Commission;
• * Jointly provide intelligence to influence the EU Council, Member Sates, the European Parliament and Commission; and,
• * Introducing common proposals for further research in the field of CRSS languages;

Meirion Prys Jones, Chair of the Network to Promote Linguistic Diversity said “this is an opportunity for us to work together for the common cause that links us all – the promotion and safeguarding of our languages, and to do so in a somewhat more formal framework. We welcome the chance to share and learn from the experiences of our peers and hope this will be the start of a fruitful and mutually beneficial initiative.”

For a copy of the joint declaration, click on the link on the top right hand corner.