Linguists Collective Conference & International Mother Language Day IMLD Celebration
Linguists Collective Conference & International Mother
Language Day Celebration
Saturday, 21st February 2026
Exploring ‘dangerous’, ‘hegemonic’ and ‘celebratory’ multilingualism: Language Policy & the United Nations
Whilst the United Nations recognises that “multilingualism strengthens dialogue and ensures tolerance amongst countries” (UN 2023) and could not function without it, significant barriers remain to its effective implementation. This talk will examine the challenges the organisation faces in putting its multilingualism policy into practice, along with the pervasive language ideologies and practices that serve to undermine the goals of the Multilingualism Resolution.
About Lisa
Professor Lisa McEntee-Atalianis is a researcher in Applied Linguistics at Birkbeck, University of London with experience at the Universities of Bristol, Cyprus, Reading and Queen Mary. Her research spans Language Pathology, Sign Language/Deaf Studies and Sociolinguistics, with her recent work focusing on identity and language policy in international organisations, particularly the United Nations. She has conducted ethnographic studies of UN language practices, including at the International Maritime Organisation in London and UN Headquarters in New York. Professor McEntee-Atalianis is a member of the Study Group on Language and the United Nation and a founding member of the NGO Committee on Language and Languages. Her recent work includes Language and Sustainable Development (2023). She is dedicated to supporting the UN in implementing its multilingual policy effectively.