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MOC to launch "2021 National Languages Development Convention"

  • Date:2021-07-22
MOC to launch '2021 National Languages Development Convention'

The Ministry of Culture held an online press conference for the upcoming "2021 National Languages Development Convention (國家語言發展會議)" on July 21, inviting the Ministry of Education, the Hakka Affairs Council, and the Council of Indigenous Peoples. The MOC hoped to discuss issues related to national language development through public participation to come up with measures that will help revitalize endangered national languages.

Online discussion forums will start on July 31, and eight online forums will be held to discuss four major topics during August. The official conference is expected to be held in mid-September, with county and city governments, non-governmental organizations and the public invited to participate.

Culture Minister Lee Yung-te pointed out, "Language is the main carrier of ethnic culture, emotions and memory, and language rights are an important manifestation of cultural citizenship." Although many efforts have been made in the past, there are now national laws to ensure the inheritance and preservation of languages. However, it is undeniable that the languages of various ethnic groups are still facing severe loss under the current social developmental trends.

MOC stated that the first online forum will be held on Saturday, July 31. Through the participation of all citizens, the four major issues will be discussed, public opinion will be collected, consensus will be raised, and specific and feasible policy directions for the national language will be proposed.

In addition, in order to enhance language awareness and promote the use of language in daily life, MOC will organize 15 promotional activities during the conference. Through cultural and artistic activities, the public will understand the concept of language equality and the importance of language restoration, and by encouraging people to use their own language in their lives, the MOC hopes that it will help foster pride in one’s own language.

MOC also announced that it will officially launch the National Languages Development Convention's website today, where people can register and participate in the forum through live streaming. For details of the event, please visit the official website for inquiries.

For 2021 National Language Development Conference’s YouTube, click here.