Luxembourg shares experiences on multilingualism at UNESCO conference
A. Calvar, Unsplash
Luxembourg's Minister of Culture, Eric Thill, gave a keynote speech at the Language Technologies for All (LT4All) conference, which takes place from 24 to 26 February 2025 at UNESCO headquarters in Paris. The main theme of the event is "Advancing Humanism through Language Technologies" and the focus is on supporting small language communities and promoting multilingualism through digital technologies.
In his speech, Eric Thiel emphasised that Luxembourg sees its linguistic diversity as a clear advantage and that digital technologies contribute to the development of the Luxembourg language. He also noted that the government is willing to share its experience in the field of multilingualism and multiculturalism as well as digital tools with language communities around the world in order to support international efforts to preserve languages and cultures.
Eric Thiel emphasised the importance of digital solutions for language learning, inclusion and integration. According to him, Luxembourg is ready to invest in the development of technologies that help preserve linguistic heritage and support multilingualism in the digital age.
The conference was also addressed by Dr Christopher Morse, Computer Linguist at the Zenter fir d'Lëtzebuerger Sprooch (ZLS). In his presentation "Rethinking progress at the periphery: lessons from Big Tech and Small Data", he discussed the advances in digital applications for Luxembourgish as well as the challenges and prospects for small languages in a multilingual environment.
The Luxembourg delegation actively discussed language technology issues with experts from other countries and representatives of the digital sector, strengthening international cooperation in the field of multilingualism.
As part of the conference, Eric Thiel invited participants to visit the travelling exhibition "D'Lëtzebuerger Sprooch(en)", which was inaugurated on 18 February at UNESCO Headquarters on the occasion of International Mother Language Day (21 February). The exhibition introduced hundreds of visitors to the linguistic situation in Luxembourg and the development of the Luxembourg language.
In addition, Luxembourg was represented at cultural events on International Mother Language Day by the rap singer Nicool, who performed three songs in Luxembourgish, demonstrating the contemporary sound and relevance of the mother tongue.
During his visit to UNESCO, Eric Thiel met with Ernesto Ottone, Assistant Director-General for Culture, and Tawfik Jelassi, Assistant Director-General for Communication and Information. The main topic of discussion was Luxembourg's candidature for a seat on UNESCO's Executive Board for 2025-2029.
The talks focused on deepening co-operation in the field of culture and communication, as well as supporting cultural diversity and peace through culture. Eric Thiel emphasised the importance of access to culture as a political priority for Luxembourg.
