Could the Accession of Bosnia and Herzegovina Contribute to the Development of the EU Language Policy

Abstract

This research paper explores the public opinion of Bosnia and Herzegovina adopting the European Union (EU) Language Policy, the country’s relations, and how the policy would impact the future of the country and its relations with the EU. The EU Language Policy encourages multilingualism and promotes the learning of two additional languages, in addition to the official language of the country. Adoption and adequate implementation of this policy are important for both aspiring members and EU member states, as it aims at advancing the functionality and competitiveness of the EU. The paper examines relevant aspects of the EU’s history, the importance of the policy, and how adopting it would impact the education system in B&H if economic and social growth could be expected. The research part of the paper was conducted via a self-responded survey gauging the public opinions on certain aspects relevant to the topic. Overall, the research finds that adapting the EU Language Policy is a significant step towards integration of B&H into the EU; and that adapting it would be logistically challenging but a welcome and necessary step for immeasurable benefits that come with becoming a member state of the EU. The opinions of the participants were mostly unanimous regarding positive attitudes towards learning languages, retaining culture, positive long-term effects on the country, and dissatisfaction with B&H’s behavior in relation to their relationship with the EU.