Companies work better with languages: languages means business / DG EAC

• Europe should put in place farsighted policies that turn linguistic diversity into an asset for prosperity.
• Languages can be used as a competitive advantage for European business.

However, a significant number of small and medium-sized enterprises lose business every year, as they lack linguistic and intercultural competences.

The objective set in 2002 that every citizen should learn two languages at school in addition to his or her mother tongue is still very far from reality. Non-formally and informally acquired language skills are often not officially recognised. The recommendations for governments and companies include language learning at all levels and in all sectors of education with explicite references to VET and continuing training.