European Commission: Action to Promote Regional or Minority Languages and Cultures

IRIS 1997-8:1/2

Isabel Schnitzer

European Audiovisual Observatory

In IRIS 1997-1: 5, we reported on the EU Council's decision on adoption of a multiannual programme to promote the linguistic diversity of the Community in the information society. Within the framework established by this decision, the Commission recently announced a programme to promote regional and minority languages and cultures. Language-promoting initiatives with a European dimension, including film and video productions and radio and television programmes, will be eligible for grants up to 50% of total cost, as long as they fulfil certain requirements which are detailed in the EU's Official Journal. For example, only organisations which have legal personality and whose registered offices are located in an EU member state or a country within the European Economic Area may apply. Projects promoting languages which are not regionally or nationally recognised are not eligible. Applications for aid must be made on a form which is available on Internet at: langmin@dg22.cec.be, or by post from the following address: For the attention of Mrs. O. Profili - Regional and Minority Languages Rue de la Loi/Wetstraat 200, B-7 6/34, B- 1049 Brussels Fax +32 2 299 63 21/+32 2 296 42 58 Applications must be sent to the Commission by 1 November 1997 (projects starting from 1 April 1998), or 1 April 1998 (projects starting from 15 September 1998).