This presentation introduces the ReN, English as a Medium of Education, Multilingualism and the SDGs: Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. It explores the role of applied linguistics in contributing to the realisation of the SDGs and thus how it can foster the development of equity, diversity and inclusion. For SDG 4 on quality education, for example, research on language of instruction and multilingualism is crucially important, along with other linguistic concerns. The goal of quality education is likely to impact on SDG 16 on promoting peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development and providing access to justice. It also implies opportunities for women and girls to have the same access to linguistic resources as their male counterparts. In addition, SDG 8 on productive employment and decent work is dependent on the ability of all to communicate linguistically in the workplace. This presentation explores some language related concerns that can be taken up by applied linguists to complement inputs by other stakeholders and encourages linguists to venture into more practical and policy-engaged linguistic efforts. Research on English as a medium of education, minority languages, virtual exchange, English as a lingua franca and multilingual education will be discussed.
