Introduction to Special Issue

Abstract

Several researchers have underscored the role of foreign language education in overcoming linguistic barriers, fostering global citizenship, and promoting shared values. These studies emphasise the societal benefits of language learning, such as cultivating empathy, mutual respect, and cross-cultural understanding. They also highlight the interconnection between migration and language evolution, thus, reinforcing the relevance of sociolinguistic studies on cultural exchange. For example, research on the impact of language immersion programmes demonstrates their influence in bridging cultural gaps and broadening global perspectives. Others refute the long-standing negative societal reaction towards code-switching, thus challenging linguistic imperialism while celebrating diversity, and offering innovative insights for language teaching. This introduction to the special issue on overcoming linguistic barriers, advancing global citizenship, and embracing humanism through foreign language education presents a theoretical backdrop to these areas of foreign language education, with a focus on its sociolinguistic dimensions. The authors highlight, among other things, the role of language in fostering national unity and cultural diplomacy, providing lessons for multilingual societies. They also show how, collectively, the contributions affirm the value of language education as a tool for forging social ties. They conclude that the papers in the issue advocate for educational practices that embrace linguistic diversity, which will equip people to better navigate today’s globalised world