On February 22, 2025, over thirty civil society associations in Catalonia united to demand stronger government action to support the Catalan language. With recent surveys indicating a decline in Catalan as a primary language, these groups are calling for increased access to language courses for all residents, especially newcomers.
- Over thirty civil associations unite in Catalonia.
- Concerns over decline of Catalan language usage.
- Demand for increased Catalan language courses.
- Insufficient government funding for language education.
- Proposed actions for improving access to courses.
- Commitment to expand community language learning initiatives.
Catalonia’s Civil Society Demands Action for Language Education
Why is the future of the Catalan language at risk? Recent data shows a troubling decline in its use, prompting a coalition of cultural, social, and educational organizations to take action. They believe that without adequate language education, the essence of Catalan culture is in jeopardy.
Key Demands from Catalonia’s Civil Society for Language Courses
The coalition has outlined several crucial demands to the Catalan government to enhance access to language education:
- Increase annual Catalan course availability to 200,000 places.
- Ensure a minimum of 30,000 places at the Consorci per a la Normalització Lingüística.
- Provide courses for parents of schoolchildren to facilitate family integration.
- Implement workplace language programs for 30,000 employees each year.
Community Involvement in Language Learning Initiatives
Community engagement is key to revitalizing the Catalan language. Local associations are stepping up to create more opportunities for residents to learn Catalan. This grassroots approach aims to fill the gaps left by government offerings, ensuring that everyone has a chance to learn.
Government’s Role in Supporting Language Education
The Catalan government has announced an investment of 8.8 million euros to improve language education. However, many believe this is insufficient. Activists argue that the government must prioritize language access to prevent further decline.
Long-term Vision for Catalan Language Preservation
The coalition envisions a future where Catalan is not just a language of the past but a vibrant part of everyday life. By 2035, they aim to create a community where learning Catalan is accessible to all, helping to preserve the language for future generations.
In conclusion, the call for action in Catalonia highlights the importance of language preservation in a multicultural society. By ensuring access to language education, Catalonia can protect its linguistic heritage and foster a more inclusive community.