Linguistic authority in the context of European mobility: addressing the empty promise of élite multilingualism

Abstract

ABSTRACT This qualitative study examines linguistic authority in an international department of a European Union institution in Luxembourg. Using socio-pragmatic discourse analysis, it investigates language workers’ stances towards language use at work. The findings reveal manipulative effects of language ideologies – (élite) multilingualism and native speakerism – that promote a business-like understanding of the value of language(s) in a public institution. While the institution benefits from this setup, its negative effects seem more pronounced for (‘routed’) workers in unstable situations of international mobility compared to those who are settled (‘rooted’). The paper advocates for increased critical language awareness and seeks to sensitise stakeholders to the effects of language ideologies in professional settings. This discussion is particularly relevant for public institutions that promote multilingualism while using English as the common language of communication. However, it may also inspire other multilingual organisations in which management aims to enhance their employees’ work experience.