Language management theory as a basis for the dynamic concept of EU language law

Abstract

Language law is a tool used to manage problems of linguistic diversity in the EU. The paper analyzes the processes in which language law is found in the discursive practice of agents addressing the Court of Justice of the European Union with their language problems. The theoretical–methodological basis for the research is Language Management Theory, in which language management is defined as behavior toward language [Nekvapil, J., & Sherman, T. (Eds.). (2009a). Language management in contact situations: Perspectives from three continents. Frankfurt/Main: Peter Lang]. This theory systematically considers the power relations among the participants as well as the interconnection of the macro- and micro-levels of language use, and the necessary integration of law in books and law in action [Dovalil, V. (2012). Language as an impediment to mobility in Europe. In P. Studer & I. Werlen (Eds.), Linguistic diversity in Europe (pp. 259–286). Berlin: Mouton de Gruyter]. Drawing upon this conceptual and theoretical basis, the following research questions are posed: (1) In which domains have language problems arisen recently? (2) To what extent is it possible to argue that this case law strengthens the equality of languages in the EU?