The European Day of Languages is annually marked on September 26th, promoting linguistic diversity and multiculturalism across Europe. This year, Europe House in Sarajevo, drew hundreds of enthusiastic guests, in particular students eager to engage in a variety of language learning related activities.
The lively atmosphere at Europe House was filled with participants taking part in interactive language crash courses, allowing them to sample new languages and cultures in just a short time. These immersive sessions encouraged students to step out of their comfort zones and explore the beauty of communication beyond their native tongues.
“Being able to communicate in multiple languages opens new doors and possibilities as well as new ways of seeing the world. The linguistic diversity of the European Union is a source of cultural richness of which we are proud. I am very glad that so many young people decided to find out more about the languages of Europe today in Europe House, and am grateful to all the EU member state cultural institutes and embassies who made this event so lively and interesting,” said Ambassador Luigi Soreca, Head of the EU Delegation and EU Special Representative in BiH.
On behalf of the Goethe Institute, currently presiding over the EUNIC network, Simone Voigt, underlined the importance of language learning to cognitive development, adding that: “Today we celebrate the European Day of Languages, not only in Bosnia and Herzegovina, but across the world. More importantly, we are celebrating multilingualism and language diversity. This year, the motto is Languages for peace and we are here today, representing 11 out of 24 official EU languages and celebrating peace.”
The central event of marking European Day of Languages in BiH is organised in cooperation with EUNIC – the network of cultural institutes of European Union Member States embassies in BiH as well as the embassies of France and the French Institute, Embassy of Germany and Goethe Institute, Embassy of Austria and the Austrian Cultural Institute as well as the Embassies of Spain, Czech Republic, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Romania, the Netherlands, Slovenia and Norway.
Another highlight was the speak dating sessions, where students paired up to practice different languages in a fun and informal setting. This dynamic format not only facilitated language learning but also fostered connections among participants, celebrating the spirit of intercultural exchange.
Throughout the event, educational and informative stands offered resources on language learning, showcasing the importance of multilingualism in today’s globalized world. Attendees learned about the cognitive, cultural, and economic benefits of speaking multiple languages, reinforcing the idea that language is a vital tool for understanding and connecting with others.
The European Day of Languages at the Europe House in Sarajevo served as a powerful reminder of the richness that languages bring to our lives. By fostering a passion for language learning, this event helped inspire a new generation to embrace linguistic diversity and become active participants in the European community.
