The importance of languages in global context: an international call to action

Abstract

The importance of languages in global context is discussed. As global businesses, diplomatic corps, and other leaders have repeatedly stated, language education, and the accompanying linguistic and intercultural competencies, are a necessity for social, political and economic development. and for effective collaboration. During a global health crisis, researchers, governments and health care workers must be able to share accurate information. In such times, language matters, and fluency in the languages matters, the people of the world must be able to speak to each other and be understood - to communicate as effectively and as rapidly as technology allows.