Medienkombination, Englisch, Band 139, 274 Seiten
Why Diacritics Matter for European Integration
Medienkombination, Englisch, Band 139, 274 Seiten
Reihe: Soviet and Post-Soviet Politics and Society
ISBN: 978-3-8382-6703-6
Verlag: ibidem
This book examines the current use of diacritical marks in Western Europe, such as the use of names from Slavic languages in electronic data processing systems. The role of the media as multiplier receives particular attention, with most error examples taken from actual media coverage.
Considering international, EU, and national law and referring to landmark court decisions, Kappenberg answers the question: `Is there a right to diacritical marks in people`s names?` This is followed by a description of current practice in several European countries.
Finally, Setting Signs for Europe answers the question how in the framework of the EU`s multilingualism policy, effective approaches can be created to raise awareness among software vendors, the media, government agencies, and individuals regarding the correct handling of diacritics. Kappenberg also assesses the use of diacritics as a style element and offers an improved input method for diacritics.