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Using plain language means giving everyone the opportunity to understand and take action. Plain language does not dilute ideas or lower standards; rather, it ensures messages are precise and inclusive, tailored to the reader and their professional context.
Originating in the United States in the 1970s, the Plain Language movement has since spread widely across public administrations and international organizations such as the European Parliament. In contexts where institutional complexity is often the norm, plain language is a powerful tool for efficiency and inclusion, and it promotes multilingualism.
The Centre for Learning and Multilingualism (CLM) is committed to this approach and continues to strengthen its engagement. Following the success of initiatives in the English programme, including the course Writing in Plain English, the Spanish programme organized, on 27 and 28 November, the workshop Mejora tu comunicación en español: de la teoría a la práctica del lenguaje claro, dedicated to plain language and made possible thanks to the support of the Government of Spain.
Over two mornings, participants—diplomats and UN staff in Geneva—explored what makes a text clear in Spanish: logical structure, smooth syntax, precise vocabulary, and, above all, genuine attention to the people receiving the message. By working on authentic institutional texts, participants realized how certain formulations, considered “normal” in our environments, can hinder understanding. They also learned that with a few thoughtful adjustments, a document can become truly accessible.
The workshop also demonstrated how artificial intelligence can assist in drafting plain language texts. Participants discovered a range of tools that help with writing, improve coherence, and test readability. Most importantly, they learned to use these technologies ethically and thoughtfully—to support, not replace, human expertise.
This workshop followed a webinar that provided a practical introduction to plain language and its application in professional communication.
By keeping plain language at the heart of its activities, CLM reaffirms a strong conviction: understandable communication is essential for working together in an international, multilingual environment.
The initiative continues with a new in-person session of this Spanish workshop, which will take place on 29 and 30 January 2026, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. You can already register by clicking on the following link: Enrolment form .