Languages of Internationalism – Roundtable Discussion

In the concluding session of the conference on ‘Languages of Internationalism’, hosted by the Reluctant Internationalists research group, members of the project both past and present reflect on how language can be a tool of communication, solidarity and unity, as well as a force of division and alienation. Participants included: Jessica Reinisch (Birkbeck), Dora Vargha (University of Exeter), Brigid O’Keefe (Brooklyn College), Johanna Conterio (Flinders University), Ana Antic (University of Exeter), David Brydan (Birkbeck), Heidi Tworek (University of British Columbia), and Elidor Mëhilli (Hunter College). ‘Languages of Internationalism’ aimed to shed light on the centrality of language to people’s pursuit and experiences of internationalism. Language is at the heart of every international enterprise, but as the conference showed, it presents obstacles and dilemmas, as well as opportunities. Many of the papers emphasised frictions and tensions which emerged over the use of languages in international settings. Discussions showed how language could be a tool of communication, solidarity and unity, as well as a force of division and alienation. But the conference also made clear the centrality of language in the performance, experience and pursuit of internationalism. For more information - bit.ly/2rC0u61