The making of European Applied Linguistics: Tracing global origins, examining local identities

Abstract This editorial introduces the special issue “European Junior Applied Linguists in a Globalized World.” which showcases the work of emerging scholars in Applied Linguistics who took part in a recent AILA Europe Junior Researchers’ Meeting (JRM). The issue invites reflection on the historical development of Applied Linguistics within a European context and considers how (early career) researchers may be contributing to the construction of a distinct European identity in the field. It begins by tracing the evolution of Applied Linguistics in Europe, followed by an analysis of findings from two surveys conducted two decades apart. The editorial concludes by outlining the rationale behind the selection of articles featured in this volume.