25/09/2026 President
Petra Bayr, the President of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE), made the following statement on the eve of the European Day of Languages (26 September 2026), during a visit to the 2026 Graz Language Festival and the European Centre for Modern Languages:
‘“Languages unite!”, the motto for the 2026 European Day of Languages, reminds us that languages can serve as bridges between people, communities and cultures. In a world often marked by division and misunderstanding, the willingness to learn, speak and value other languages fosters mutual respect, empathy and co-operation.
Europe’s rich linguistic heritage is one of its greatest strengths. By encouraging language learning at all stages of life, protecting regional and minority languages, and promoting plurilingual education, we help build more inclusive, cohesive and resilient societies.
Europe speaks with many voices, and each language learned can open new perspectives and strengthen our shared European commitment to democracy, human rights and cultural understanding.”
