The Mercator Conference: Shaping Policy for Minority Languages and Multilingualism 


As the “proper” grey and cold of early November set in, Aran and Nick travelled to Friesland in The Netherlands to attend a conference that looked to address the challenges and opportunities surrounding minority languages and multilingualism.

We chose this event to help us focus SSi activity and our plans for Welsh and other endangered or indigenous languages.

Organised by the Mercator European Research Centre on Multilingualism and Language Learning, the conference brought together policymakers, educators, researchers, and the SSi team to discuss strategies for preserving linguistic diversity and promoting effective multilingual policies.

It is grounded in the understanding that linguistic diversity is a cornerstone of cultural heritage and societal cohesion. These are SSi core values too.

With over 200 regional and minority languages in Europe alone, many are at risk of extinction due to globalisation, assimilation pressures, and lack of institutional support. The conference aimed to foster dialogue on sustainable practices that support minority languages, particularly through education, technology, and community engagement.

It also addressed the integration of multilingualism into broader societal frameworks, advocating for the inclusion of minority languages in public life, media, and digital platforms.
All music to our “language activist” ears!

A major focus was the role of education in maintaining minority languages – again an area SSi strongly believes is key, especially as we develop resources for schools in Wales.

We were inspired by the wonderful initiatives – including a couple of exciting Welsh ones – which made us buzz with future possibilities for SSi.

Our future is going to be very bright and not cold at all!!!