On 7-8 May 2026, the European Centre for Modern Languages (ECML) of the Council of Europe hosted the DeafSign Network Meeting in Graz, Austria, bringing together 26 experts from 18 countries. This meeting advanced the DeafSign project – “Unlocking educational opportunities in sign languages in Europe” (2024-2027), part of the ECML’s current programme Language Education at the Heart of Democracy – which aims to strengthen inclusion and democratic participation through access to sign language education.
The DeafSign project addresses inclusion in two ways: by recognising sign language education as an integral part of Europe’s linguistic landscape, and by focusing on vulnerable learners who are often overlooked. It supports deaf, hard of hearing, and hearing signers from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds – including deaf children and their families, deaf refugees and migrants, and heritage signers. The Graz meeting focused particularly on the needs of deaf children (about 90-95% of whom are born into hearing families) and heritage signers – deaf or hearing individuals who learn sign language at home from deaf signing parents or other family members, who often face complex language learning situations and may need specialised and flexible support in educational settings.
Two major DeafSign surveys across Council of Europe member states show that the existence of legal frameworks alone do not guarantee equitable access to sign language education. The meeting highlighted the need for accessible information, sustainable funding, and strong deaf-led leadership. Regarding the rise of digital and AI tools, it was highlighted that these can enhance access to learning opportunities, while also posing a risk of reinforcing inequalities if not carefully curated.
Project coordinator Christian Rathmann emphasised that true inclusion acknowledges the diversity of deaf learners and must build on the expertise of deaf professionals. Good practice examples from across Europe were discussed, and participants agreed that wider sharing of these will support further progress. A recent ECML webinar on deaf learners with refugee and migration backgrounds, presenting good practice examples, is available to rewatch online.
The recommendations and resources being developed through the DeafSign project, further shaped at the meeting, aim to offer practical guidance for policy makers and educators. By raising the visibility of sign language education and responding to the needs of all learners, the project seeks to foster more equitable educational opportunities and broader democratic participation across Europe.
Learn more by visiting the DeafSign project website available in English and International Sign or the ECML’s thematic area on sign languages.
