The idea here is to show that we can achieve both these aims: preserving linguistic diversity and promoting a lingua franca for Europe. To ensure the European project, we should defend the idea of democracy as inseparable from a common language. Throughout history, we find examples of linguae francae chosen for their intrinsic communication skills, devoid of identity dimension which proved out to be effective.
English is often under suspicion of being an accessory to an American plan to repress all other cultures and languages. This assertion must be challenged: English does not present the characteristics of a hegemonic language. Research on "World Englishes" shows how English was singled out in the context of multilingualism, and how it is moving away from an Anglo-American context. English is not only a pragmatic tool, but also a complement to national and regional identities, respecting and even promoting linguistic and cultural diversity. Whereas national linguistic policies struggle with such issues, English can afford to be a neutral tool, reappropriated by any national and local culture.
