The understanding of English as lingua franca and its involvement in language education policies in Europe

This material addresses a topic that has long been relevant in scientific circles. It is about the meaning or understanding of the use of English as Lingua Franca (ELF) and its role in the formation of language education policies in Europe, which in fact is creation of a multi-lingual individualism and a multilingual environment characterized by tolerance and respect for the different. The first part deals with the spread of English at a global level as a result of globalization, the development of information technologies and the need for lifelong learning and advancement. This concept speaks of Europe’s educational language policies, where English domination is present. The purpose of the work is to present, based on a survey of relevant resources, the understanding of English as Lingua Franca in the formation of language education policies in Europe. Some authors believe that ELF’s knowledge enables the largest movement of European citizens and participation in all public spheres, and that ELF can serve to promote other languages and cultures. However, in the Council of Europe it is thought that there is a lot of linguistic dominance. English language can jeopardize the desire of European language policies to create a multilingual society, where all languages are equally and equally valid