European Day of Languages

European Union Ambassador Patrizio Fondi gave a speech at the event.

The European Day of Languages is an annual celebration of the linguistic diversity of a continent of 47 countries with more than 200 European languages, 24 official EU languages, about 60 regional/minority languages and many more spoken by people from other parts of the world. It is a chance to promote cultural & linguistic diversity, raise awareness of the wide variety of languages in Europe and encourage people to learn languages to connect with people whether through study, for purposes of mobility or for social and professional exchanges.

The day has been celebrated around the world every year since 2001 at the Council of Europe’s initiative, stemming from the conviction that linguistic diversity is a tool for achieving greater intercultural understanding and a key element in the rich cultural heritage of our continent. Therefore, the Council of Europe promotes plurilingualism in the whole continent.  

More than 400 people of different ages and backgrounds attended the event in Abu Dhabi which included film screenings, games, LIVE European music and a raffle draw.