LANGUAGE POLITICS IN GLOBAL COMMUNICATION

Abstract Language is not only a means of communication, but also the cornerstone of identity construction, balance of power, and cultural transmission. Historically, English first emerged from the local language of England and gained a universal dimension with the Renaissance, and thanks to colonial movements, the industrial revolution, and globalization, it has become the dominant language of international communication today. Background. Especially in the 20th century, the global integration experienced in the economic, scientific, and cultural fields has reinforced the positioning of English as the "lingua franca". However, the views that this dominance of language threatens justice in universal communication and that multilingualism and cultural diversity should be protected are also gaining importance. In the globalizing world, English has become the primary language of international communication and has assumed a dominant role in science, technology, diplomacy, and cultural interaction. However, this dominance has also brought about various discussions on the issues of multilingualism and equality in communication. Methods. This study analyzes the origins and effects of the global dominance of English from historical and current perspectives, and examines the initiatives aimed at protecting communication justice within the framework of the European Union's multilingualism policies. Results. In the research conducted using the literature review method, the dynamics of language imperialism, cultural interaction and language policies from the colonial period to the present were evaluated. Conclusions. The findings show that despite the functional power of English, the preservation of multilingualism is indispensable for global communication justice.