In pursuit of common ground: Language policy in transient multilingual communities

In this paper, I explore the intersection of common ground theory and language policy research, focusing on Danish universities and transient multilingual communities. I introduce Spolsky’s tripartite framework of language policy and connect this to the concept of common ground, defined by Allan as shared knowledge within a community. I argue that language policy is integral to managing common ground and therefore essential for effective communication in established as well as transient communities. I conclude by suggesting that the emergence of practiced language policies in transient multilingual communities represents an empirical case which holds the potential to inform and mutually enrich understandings of common ground and language policy.