[lg policy] Should Denmark Implement a Language Policy in The Country?

[Harold Schiffman]

Should Denmark Implement a Language Policy in The Country?


Today, English is one of the most important languages in the world; it
is usually used within larger corporations, small businesses, and
individual alike. In a country like Denmark, where the Danish language
is giving importance and spoken by six million people in the country
and it is vitally significant in business entities across Europe,
English is playing an increasing role in the country as well, however,
the government itself believes that English represents a threat to the
Danish language and to Danish cultural values as well.

Danish is considered a Scandinavian or North Germanic language, and
its written form is closest to the Norwegian language. Although the
Danish language is part of the cultural identity of the Danish people,
English is symbol of economic success and international mobility.

Every language has the same functions in the world, and this is to
improve communication and bridge understanding. However, not all
languages have the same global status; and thus, language policies are
sometimes a good tool in order to keep a society intact. However,
Denmark is not really sure whether the continuous use of the English
language in the country is appropriate locally, or being faithful to
the Danish language can meet all their linguistic needs and sustain
their requirements in the international arena.

Many scholars have described English as a killer language, while some
others described it as a road to success and mobility. English is one
of the most hybrid and rapidly changing languages in the world, but it
should be noted that the power and important contribution of a
language is reflected in its major global linguistic status.

Perhaps, a language policy is a likely solution to resolve the issue,
which may give privilege both to Danish people and language
translation and interpreters to learn and develop more of their
linguistic skills. Denmark has no tradition for a language policy;
they believe that such rules and regulations may put up linguistic
borders and limit of the import of loan words. However, some Danish
citizens believe that not all of them seems have no right to receive
messages, information and service. Thus, Danish government should not
only advertise goods or services in a foreign language, as is
increasingly the case. Instructions and information must be available
in the Danish language as well.

So, what are the effects on people in Denmark of implementing a language policy?

Actually, a language policy is set of rules and regulations that
determine the status and rights of a language and its speakers; it
also effectively promotes, strengthen, and protects a particular
language. Implementing language policy in Denmark may as well continue
to support the development of Danish terminology and enhance the
capabilities of the Danish people to communicate effectively
internationally.

Read more: Should Denmark Implement a Language Policy in The Country?
http://www.sooperarticles.com/education-articles/languages-articles/should-denmark-implement-language-policy-country-1000162.html#ixzz208NglgIA


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