17th International Congress of the European Lexicography in Tbilisi

Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University hosts the 17th International Congress of European Lexicography, which involves a total of 150 delegates from 40 countries. Amongst the delegates, there are leading lexicographers, publishers, researchers, programmers and general lexicology-lexicography enthusiasts. The Congress participants were welcomed by the deputy Ministry of Education and Science of Georgia – Giorgi Sharvashidze.

Moreover, there were 100 reports presented regarding the 40 world languages during the International Congress. The program entails public lecturees, sectional sessions on various topics, computer software presentations, discussions at the round table, specialized workshops, an exhibition of books and computer software, as well as the cultural program for the congress participants.

Additionally, famous European scientists will give public lectures during the International Congress such as; Patrick Hanks (UK), Robert Ilson (UK, Gippert Jost (Germany), Jeffrey Williams (France), and Pius Ten Haken (Austia). Also, the roundtable will be moderated by Thierry Fontenelle (Belgium).

The Congress motto - "lexicography and linguistic diversity," refers to one of the main objectives of the Congress, which is the display of lexicography to preserve the linguistic diversity. The motto fits well with the newest University of Oxford project– Oxford World Languages, which will be presented on the opening day of the Congress in Tbilisi State University.

Lexicography dictionaries are closely related with the language, which plays a vital role in determining the identity and culture of certain people. Language plays a certain role in the formation and the maintenaance of National identity, and the dictionary is the key tool for understanding it. The dictionaries are a powerful language policy tools.

The European Association of Lexicography was founded in the 80s of the last century. It was created by the leading European lexicographers and linguists, who formed the impressive model of the international congress, held once every two years and is distinguished by its high scientific level. The congress was held in 16 different European countries, and Georgia is the first non-EU country, where the 17th International congress will be held.

The congress will last for five days and will end on September 10, 2016.