In brief
Iparralde government grants recognition to Basque, Occitan as native languages
Decision “symbolic” but followed by “strong linguistic policy”, says deputy president
The decision has been passed with 145 votes for, 18 against, and 22 abstentions.
La Communauté d’agglomération Pays Basque reconnaît officiellement le basque et le gascon occitan comme langues de son territoire, aux côtés de la langue française. 145 voix pour, 18 contre, 22 abstentions https://t.co/HmuJsxW4Ec
— Mediabask INFO (@MediabaskInfo) 23 de juny de 2018
The recognition of Basque and Occitan is “symbolic” given that only the French Parliament has the power to grant languages official status, but it will be followed by “a strong linguistic policy” supporting both languages, Community deputy president Beñat Arrabit explained. That policy covers support for Basque language organizations, bilingual signs and the use of Basque and Occitan in official communications. Thus, some parts of the Community’s official site are available in both languages.