Language Policies in the EU : A Case Study of Hungary

This paper investigates language education policies in the European Union (EU) through the local context of Hungary, which was integrated into the EU in 2004 and has made steady progress towards democracy and a market economy since the sweeping political and social transformations of 1989-1990. As is the case with other EU member states, it is a multicultural and multilingual country, where language education policies play an important role in integrating and developing the nation. Along with the rapid progress of globalization, proficiency in foreign languages has not only become an indispensable tool of communication but represents tolerance towards those who are different and helps to effect peaceful coexistence. With increased spatial and social mobility, Japan is also likely to become increasingly multicultural and multilingual in the near future and must deal with language education policies including those of the Japanese language. This paper is composed of the following issues: the general background of Hungary, its education system, language education policy, teacher training and an assessment of language education. In conclusion, research results are discussed and ways to improve Japanese language education policies are suggested