ABSTRACT
This part introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters. The part describes the rise and fall in status of different languages and demonstrates the calamitous impact of exclusive language policies. It focuses on the domination of Western ideas in shaping professional development programmes and details the cultural appropriateness of such approaches, given the rich pedagogical traditions and distinct characteristics of education systems in Asia. The part describes the complexities underpinning policy decisions, implementation and impact and offers an analytical framework for researchers to conduct further studies in the area. It is only to be borne if necessary for some greater good. One day English too, the last lingua-franca to be of service to a multilingual world, will be laid down. Such an event would recast the linguistic landscape of language education throughout Asia.
