Sánchez Seeks to Change Germany's Stance on Catalan Language Recognition in the EU

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez is making diplomatic efforts to persuade Germany to soften its opposition regarding the Catalan language's official status in the European Union. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance the recognition of regional languages within EU institutions, highlighting Sánchez's commitment to cultural diversity and regional identity.

During a crucial meeting scheduled for September 18, 2025, Sánchez aims to engage with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz to discuss this sensitive issue. According to sources, Germany has historically taken a firm stance against the recognition of less widely spoken languages, including Catalan, which is spoken by around 10 million people in Catalonia and other regions. Sánchez's government sees this as a pivotal moment to advocate for greater representation in EU matters.

The discussions are expected to focus on the importance of multilingualism and how acknowledging Catalan as an official language could promote cultural exchange and cooperation within Europe. This effort reflects Sánchez's vision for a more inclusive Europe, where all member states, regardless of size, can have their languages recognized and appreciated.

Sánchez stated, "It is time for Europe to embrace its linguistic diversity and recognize the value it brings to our collective identity." The outcome of these talks remains to be seen, but they are indicative of the ongoing conversation around language rights within the EU framework, which continues to evolve amid growing regional identities and demands for recognition.