Countries can ratify the charter in respect of its minority languages based on Part II or Part III of the charter, which contain varying principles. Countries can treat languages differently under the charter, for example, in the
United Kingdom, the
Welsh language is ratified under the general Part II principles as well as the more specific Part III commitments, while until 2025 the
Cornish language was ratified only under Part II.
Part II Part II of the Charter details eight main principles and objectives upon which States must base their policies and legislation. They are seen as a framework for the preservation of the languages concerned. • Recognition of regional or minority languages as an expression of cultural wealth. • Respect for the geographical area of each regional or minority language. • The need for resolute action to promote such languages. • The facilitation and/or encouragement of the use of such languages, in speech and writing, in public and private life. • The provision of appropriate forms and means for the teaching and study of such languages at all appropriate stages. • The promotion of relevant transnational exchanges. • The prohibition of all forms of unjustified distinction, exclusion, restriction or preference relating to the use of a regional or minority language and intended to discourage or endanger its maintenance or development. • The promotion by states of mutual understanding between all the country's linguistic groups.
Part III Part III details comprehensive rules, across a number of sectors, by which states agree to abide. Each language to which Part III of the Charter is applied must be named specifically by the government. States must select at least thirty-five of the undertakings in respect to each language. Many provisions contain several options, of varying degrees of stringency, one of which has to be chosen "according to the situation of each language". The areas from which these specific undertakings must be chosen are as follows: • Education • Judicial authorities • Administrative authorities and public services • Media • Cultural activities and facilities • Economic and social life • Transfrontier exchanges ==Languages protected under the Charter==