Intercultural Competence and Multiple Identities in the Context of English Language Use in an Institutional Setting

The aim of this study is to explore the connection between the cultural content of the English language as a means of international communication and the formation of the identity of its speakers within the context of intercultural interaction in institutional settings. The study proposes to rethink the perspective of using English, focusing not on communication with native speakers, but on developing skills for interaction in a multilingual environment. The practical significance of the research lies in its potential to promote the development of intercultural communication and improve interaction in multilingual and multicultural contexts, fostering better understanding and acceptance of diverse cultural identities in a globalized world. The study also emphasizes the importance of adapting educational programs aimed at preparing individuals for professional interaction in a culturally diverse environment, which is particularly relevant in an era of global interdependence. The scientific significance of the research lies in introducing a new concept of English cultural competence as a phenomenon that transcends individual cultures and embraces diverse contexts. The study employs methods of theoretical analysis and synthesis, sociolinguistic and socio-constructivist approaches, as well as comparative analysis, to reinterpret the role of English as a lingua franca and its connection to multilingual communicative practices. The practical significance of the research lies in its potential to advance intercultural communication and improve interactions in multilingual and multicultural contexts, fostering greater understanding and acceptance of diverse cultural identities in a globalized world. The findings underline that the focus should be on developing intercultural competence resources rather than on studying isolated linguistic and cultural traditions.

Lingua Franca, intercultural communication, cultural identity formation, multilingual practices, sociolinguistics, intercultural competence, polycodality, globalization, multicultural interaction, institutional environment.