Last week, Inclusion Europe took part in Civil Society Week at the European Economic and Social Committee.
A stand to remember (and learn about easy-to-read)
Inclusion Europe had a stand where visitors could learn more about our work.
We made the stand interactive: Visitors could play a game where they turn difficult EU words or phrases into easy-to-read and understand language.
Many people came to the stand and played the game. Almost everyone was surprised by how difficult they found it.
This showed something important. Many of us are used to complicated language in EU spaces. Over time, we adapt to it. But this language can make participation harder and less inclusive.
A working session on clear information
During Civil Society Week, Soufiane El Amrani also moderated a working session on clear information for inclusive participation.
Around 20 people joined the session. We had very open and interesting discussion.
Participants talked about several problems with communication in policy spaces:
- Politicians sometimes answer questions without really answering them, and use complicated words.
- Policy documents are often written in a very complicated way, so it is hard to understand their real purpose.
- This type of language can make people feel uncomfortable. It’s not always easy to ask for an explanation. Especially when you think you’re the only one who has trouble understanding.
- In international settings, plain language is especially important to include people with intellectual disabilities and people with different levels of English.
Ideas for clearer and more inclusive communication
Together, the group discussed simple ways to make information clearer and more inclusive:
- Slow down.
- Speak clearly.
- Use simple words.
- Give people time.
- Ask if everyone can follow what you are saying.
The discussion showed that clear language helps everyone. It makes participation easier and helps more people take part in important conversations. That’s what democracy is all about.
