Multilingualism and EU Law

Mgr. Jakub SCHWAN

Master's thesis

Abstract:

Multilingualism in the EU poses both challenges and opportunities: the Union has twenty-four official languages that represent the diverse cultural, political, and economic landscapes of its Member States. This thesis delves into the multifaceted dynamics of multilingualism, examining the intricate balance between linguistic equality and the pragmatic demands of effective communication and a functioning legal system. Legal interpretation emerges as a pivotal tool in navigating the complexities inherent to multilingual legal systems with a focus on ensuring the equal authenticity of legal provisions across all languages. The thesis evaluates various proposals, ranging from radical shifts like advocating for English as the sole or primary language of the EU to more moderate approaches that seek to preserve linguistic diversity while enhancing efficiency. Despite the practical advantages of promoting English, such as streamlining communication and reducing translation costs, the thesis underscores the importance of safeguarding linguistic diversity as a cornerstone of European identities and unity.

Abstract:

Multilingualism in the EU poses both challenges and opportunities: the Union has twenty-four official languages that represent the diverse cultural, political, and economic landscapes of its Member States. This thesis delves into the multifaceted dynamics of multilingualism, examining the intricate balance between linguistic equality and the pragmatic demands of effective communication and a functioning legal system. Legal interpretation emerges as a pivotal tool in navigating the complexities inherent to multilingual legal systems with a focus on ensuring the equal authenticity of legal provisions across all languages. The thesis evaluates various proposals, ranging from radical shifts like advocating for English as the sole or primary language of the EU to more moderate approaches that seek to preserve linguistic diversity while enhancing efficiency. Despite the practical advantages of promoting English, such as streamlining communication and reducing translation costs, the thesis underscores the importance of safeguarding linguistic diversity as a cornerstone of European identities and unity.

Keywords

EU, multilingualism, EU law, legal interpretation, English, principle of linguistic equality, linguistic diversity

Jazyk práce: English

Datum vytvoření / odevzdání či podání práce: 18. 4. 2024

Obhajoba závěrečné práce

• Vedúci: doc. JUDr. Michal Petr, Ph.D.

Palacký University Olomouc

Faculty of Law

Master programme / odbor:
Political Science / European Studies Focusing on European Law