While English is only the native language of 7.1 % of the world's population and less than 19 % can speak the language, nearly 80 % of all scientific publications in public diplomacy are in English.
Public diplomacy should provide equal representation to all actors, regardless of where they live or the language they speak. Unfortunately, our current system falls short on this promise. As the flaws in our institutions have become impossible to ignore, more scientists are taking note — and taking action. Reforms like engaging non-English speakers and other innovations aimed at strengthening engagement of non-state actors in international relations are spreading across the world, and organizations like Institut de diplomatie publique are working with local communities to meet this moment of opportunity.
The Institute is a non-profit that works directly with non-English speaking groups advancing public diplomacy to build effective organizing, education, and advocacy strategies and to ensure just implementation. Language justice is a core part of our work.
We believe that people who are not English speakers are full of wisdom and brilliance and have a lot to contribute to society, and policy. We recognize that people who are not English speakers have knowledge to share. The Institute creates avenues for people who speak languages other than English to participate fully in society, without barriers.At the Institute, we support our members and other organizations in developing materials that make sense to different language communities in a cultural context to create spaces where people can show up and actually participate fully in international relations in their language, without barriers.
The engagement of non-English-speaking members increases the value, impact, and transparency of our projects and increases the accountability and inclusivity of the Institute.