Language barriers within an international organizations : a case study of the English language in the Central American Integration System (SICA)

Abstract

This dissertation examines the relevance of practicing inclusive language communication within the Central American Integration System (SICA), a regional organization in Latin America. Although Spanish is the de facto medium of communication among SICA members, one member, Belize, has English as its official language. Thus, the dissertation asks: How far does the absence of a common language within SICA account for Belize's limited regional integration? One of its findings contends that it is crucial to establish inclusive communication between all member states in order to lessen the obstacles that language barriers impose on rhetorical participation between member states. This, thereby, provides a sense of equality, respect for each country's identity, and parallel power distribution. Further, in the case of SICA, being a regional organization with a global presence in other international forums may be achieved via the addition of languages. This does not dilute the strength of its members but rather complements it.