The Bureau of the Governing Board of the European Centre for Modern Languages (ECML) of the Council of Europe met in Graz on 14 and 15 October 2026. It brings together representatives from ECML member states. The meeting was chaired by Ms Pille Põiklik (Estonia), with fellow Bureau members from Czechia, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Montenegro and Spain.

During the meeting, the Bureau adopted the ECML’s 2027 programme of activities and received an update on three forthcoming resources developed under the programme Language Education at the Heart of Democracy (2024-2027). “Pluriwell – Fostering the plurilingual wellbeing of language teachers” offers tools for teachers to value their language repertoires and feel confident using them; “CLILMat – CLIL teaching materials for developing 21st century competences” supports secondary school learners to develop competences for engaging critically with global challenges; and “ARPIDE – Using ECML resources to support plurilingual and intercultural education for democratic culture” shows how ECML resources can be adapted to national contexts. The first language versions are expected in January 2027, with all three resources available in both languages by spring. Find out more on the project websites.

Looking further ahead, the Bureau discussed preparations for the ECML’s 2028-2031 programme. An online survey of member states’ priorities, opened on 5 October, will help shape the themes for the 2027 call for project proposals. Members considered how to promote the call and how to encourage language education experts to submit proposals.

The meeting was the final Bureau meeting for ECML Executive Director Sarah Breslin. Members warmly thanked her for her outstanding work and generous support for the member states throughout her time as Executive Director.