European Day of Languages

Celebrating linguistic diversity, plurilingualism, lifelong language learning

The European Day of Languages celebrates the rich heritage of cultures and traditions embodied in all the languages of Europe – and not only the 23 official languages of the EU.

The first European Day of Languages took place on 26 September 2001. It was one of the highlights of the European Year of Languages.

The general objectives of the European Day of Languages are:

• Alerting the public to the importance of language learning and diversifying the range of languages learnt in order to increase plurilingualism and intercultural understanding;

• Promoting the rich linguistic and cultural diversity of Europe, which must be preserved and fostered;

• Encouraging lifelong language learning in and out of school, whether for study purposes, for professional needs, for purposes of mobility or for pleasure and exchanges.

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