European language policies in monolingual southern EuropeImplementation and outcomes

Abstract

This article outlines and comments upon recent language-planning initiatives in Andalusia, southern Spain. Unlike some of its northern counterparts (Catalonia, the Basque Country), Andalusia is a largely monolingual region. In recent times, however, it has experienced a significant influx of affluent foreign residents and less solvent economic immigrants. This has served as an impetus for change, yet it is our contention that without the European policies and guidelines emanating from continental institutions, notably the Council of Europe, the radical overhaul of social and educational language planning currently under way would have been nigh-on impossible. We examine Andalusian initiatives in the light of European policy, exemplifying the ways in which said policy is being adopted and adapted on a regional scale. This allows the debate to flow both ways. We can observe how the smaller picture fits into the larger. And in doing so, note its contribution: the added detail.