(2004/C 78 E/0726)

WRITTEN QUESTION E-4031/03

by Michl Ebner (PPE-DE) to the Commission

(12 January 2004)

Subject:   Language programme for minority languages

In July 2003, the Commission published a call for proposals (GD EAC/45/03) to prepare the ground for the implementation of the Action Plan on language learning and linguistic diversity (1).

One of the aims explicitly mentioned in the call for proposals was to disseminate information and raise awareness on the potential of existing programmes and activities to promote regional and minority languages. Following the deadline for the submission of project proposals at the end of September(!), seven of the thirty-three project proposals received were accepted.

How many of the 33 project proposals submitted were specifically concerned with the promotion of regional and minority languages, which, as reflected by the Action Plan's inclusive approach, contribute as much to linguistic diversity as the official languages of the European Union?

How many of the seven project proposals selected are specifically concerned with the promotion of regional and minority languages, which, as reflected by the Action Plan's inclusive approach, contribute as much to linguistic diversity as the official languages of the European Union?

Answer given by Mrs Reding on behalf of the Commission

(5 February 2004)

Call for proposals EAC/45/03 aimed at funding:

The Commission received a total of 33 project proposals. A large majority of projects did not target specific languages. However, 10 proposals were specifically concerned with the promotion of regional and minority languages.

Out of the seven project proposals selected, three were aimed specifically at promoting regional and minority languages:

The remaining four projects do not aim to promote specific languages.

Information about the seven selected projects is available at the following website: (http://europa.eu.int/ comm/education/programmes/calls/languages/selection.pdf).

(1)  OJ C 180, 31.7.2003, p. 34.