25 April 2024

CONFERENCE THE IMPACT OF LANGUAGE TECHNOLOGIES ON THE ECONOMY AND SOCIETY

The Network to Promote Linguistic Diversity, in collaboration with the Government of
Galicia, is hosting the Conference “The Impact of Language Technologies on the Economy
and Society”. This event presents a unique opportunity for experts, policymakers, and
researchers from across Europe to delve into the role of language technologies in protecting,
preserving, and equalizing regional or minority languages. It’s a platform for networking,
knowledge sharing, and fostering collaborations among a diverse array of professionals.

As we all know, language technologies play a crucial role in bolstering the vitality and
preservation of regional or minority languages, offering a pathway to ensure their continued
relevance and resilience in an increasingly interconnected world. By harnessing tools such as
natural language processing, machine translation, and speech recognition, speakers of
regional or minority languages gain enhanced access to digital content, communication
platforms, and educational resources, thereby breaking down barriers to participation and
fostering inclusive linguistic ecosystems.

These technologies not only facilitate intergenerational transmission and usage of minority
languages but also amplify their visibility and relevance in diverse societal domains, ranging
from education and media representation to cultural expression and economic participation.

Moreover, language technologies empower communities to actively engage in language
revitalisation efforts, enabling them to create and share content, connect with fellow speakers,
and collaborate on initiatives to preserve and promote their linguistic heritage. Thus,
integrating language technologies is a pivotal strategy in safeguarding the diversity of
languages and cultures, affirming their intrinsic value and enriching the tapestry of human
expression and identity.

Conference Programme

26 APRIL 2024 | 09:00-13 :00

Cidade da Cultura – CINC Building (Auditorium 2) | SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA

8.30 – 9.00 Registration

9.00 – 9.30 Welcoming words

Bartomeu Riera Tarongí | Network to Promote Linguistic Diversity

Valentín García Gómez | Government of Galicia

Anna Solé | European Commission

9.30 – 10.30 Keynote speech: Nós: a language technology project for Galician,
focusing on society and economy

Senén Barro Ameneiro | University of Santiago de Compostela

Elisa Fernández Rei | University of Santiago de Compostela

10.30 – 11.00 Coffee break

11.00-12.00 Quick-fire session: Best cases across Europe

Francesc Xavier Vila | Government of Catalonia

Jeremy Evans | Government of Wales

Miren Dobaran | Government of the Basque Country (TBC)

12.00-12.45 Round Table: A European perspective of the importance of
language technologies for regional or minority languages

Vicent Climent-Ferrando | University Pompeu Fabra

Fernando Ramallo | University of Vigo

Cor van der Meer | Mercator Fryske Academy (TBC)

Jordi Solé | Member of the European Parliament (TBC)

12.45-13.00 Closing words

Gregorio Ferreiro Fente | Government of Galicia

13.00 – 14.00 Networking Lunch

* Interpretation services are provided from/to Galician, Spanish, English, and French.

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