How Does Language Influence Contact with Agencies? A Comparative View of the (Un)intelligibility of Administrative Language

Abstract

The administrative language, like the natural language of which it is a part, is subject to constant changes that reflect the tendencies in the language as such. An example of such a tendency is plain language, pioneered by Sweden with its klarspråk tradition. Not without a reason, the postulate of simplifying the language used in public spaces has incentivised similar initiatives in other countries, including Poland. This, in turn, provides a unique opportunity to assess whether a postulate convergent in its theoretical framework is being implemented in the same way in Sweden and Poland. In the search for possible similarities and differences in the theory, we analyse the legal basis of the plain language in Poland and Sweden, referring to the legal doctrine. Subsequently, in accordance with the comparative legal study methodology, we will juxtapose Polish and Swedish examples of implementing plain language in practice. The aim of these comparisons is to establish whether the implementation of theoretical assumptions is convergent in the two countries, and in which way it affects the comprehensibility of the texts that reach the final recipients. In fact, it is their perspective that makes the present article relevant, as the intelligibility of official language influences the situation of numerous citizens on a daily basis, and the minor changes proposed in the article may significantly facilitate interaction between citizens and governmental agencies.