The European Union of the Deaf (EUD) is pleased to announce the publication of its new book, From recognition to officialisation – A European evolution of sign language rights, released today, 5 December 2025.
This new publication proposes a fundamental shift in how sign language rights are understood and advanced across Europe. Rather than framing progress solely in terms of the recognition of national sign languages, the book invites readers to consider officialisation as the ultimate objective. It challenges the prevailing assumption that recognition is an end in itself, arguing instead that recognition should be viewed as a means towards achieving full official status for national sign languages.
The book is structured in two complementary parts. The first part explores the concept of official status, analysing what it entails and what it would mean for national sign languages at European Union level. Drawing on multidisciplinary perspectives, it brings together contributions from leading experts who examine the legal, political, linguistic and societal implications of officialisation, as well as the opportunities and challenges it presents.
The second part turns to the national level, assessing existing legal frameworks governing sign language rights across Europe. It identifies both strengths and gaps in current legislation and policy, and puts forward tailored recommendations for legal reforms that would support and accelerate the officialisation of national sign languages within domestic legal systems.
This publication also integrates visual data developed by EUD, offering a clear and accessible overview of the state of sign language rights across Europe. These visual resources complement the legal analysis and are designed to support advocacy, policymaking and public understanding of the path from recognition to officialisation.
Overview of sign language rights in Europe
Overall, this publication is intended as a practical and analytical tool for policymakers, advocates, researchers and deaf communities. It aims to clarify the implications of sign language recognition and officialisation at both EU and national levels, while also providing concrete guidance on how existing legal frameworks can be strengthened to move beyond recognition and towards full official status.
More information about the book, including access to the publication and the accompanying visual data, is available on EUD’s website.
