Why is UNESCO talking about it?
In November 2025, UNESCO presented the Global Roadmap on Multilingualism in the Digital Era. At first glance, the topic may seem highly specialized. In reality, however, it affects everyone who works, studies, and interacts in an international environment.
What is the problem?
Today, more than 7,000 languages are spoken worldwide. Yet only around 1,000 of them are fully represented in the digital space. As a result, millions of people:
– have limited access to education;
– cannot fully use digital services;
– remain excluded from global communication.
AI, technology, and linguistic inequality.
Artificial intelligence is increasingly used in education, public services, healthcare, and business. However, if technologies “understand” only a small number of languages, entire communities risk being left out of the digital economy. UNESCO explicitly states that linguistic accessibility is not only a technological issue, but also a human rights issue.
What does the roadmap propose?
– Developing linguistically inclusive technologies;
– Supporting minority and endangered languages in the digital environment;
– Ensuring equal access to knowledge and digital services;
– Engaging linguists, translators, and language communities in the development of AI.
Why does this matter for translation?
Translation and localization are no longer just services — they are becoming part of global infrastructure:
– for education;
– for science and research;
– for international business;
– for preserving cultural identity.
Can the digital environment truly become multilingual? What do you think?
Prepared based on the following source: https://www.unesco.org/en/articles/unesco-launches-global-roadmap-multilingualism-digital-era
