The European Community and minority languages : a question of competence?

• Main Author: Nic Shuibhne, Niamh
• Published: University of Edinburgh 1999
• Subjects: 320
• Online Access: http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.661884

This thesis examines the role, both actual and potential, of the European Community in the development of effective minority language policy. The study is confined to indigenous or autochthonous minority languages spoken in the EC Member States and focuses on the use of language in official or public domains. The involvement of the Community in language, and particularly minority language, issues is justified on a number of grounds, primarily on the basis that the dynamic of European integration has disrupted patterns of language use throughout the Member States. The reciprocal role of the Community is presented as a fundamental responsibility rather than a gesture of goodwill. The present official languages policy of the EC is outlined briefly, followed by a more extensive discussion on measures initiated by the institutions that deal with minority languages specifically and on relevant decisions of the European Court of Justice. The respective competence of the Community and the Member States in this policy domain is explored, with particular emphasis on the application of the principle of subsidiarity. It is established that subsidiarity does not always preclude action by the Community and may, in fact, require the implementation of EC measures in certain circumstances. Initiatives in favour of minority languages are proposed in the context of the promotion of diversity, grounded in cultural policy, the protection of fundamental rights and the realisation of effective European citizenship. The expansion of these policy domains to encompass such measures is justified, within the contemporary political culture of non-harmonisation, respect for national and regional identity, and the development of minimum standards.