Biel/Bienne – Leben in einer zweisprachigen Stadt

Biel/Bienne is a bilingual city with the two official languages, German and French. This article begins by tracing the historical development of bilingualism in the city, going on to describe the current legal status of bilingualism and changes in the local demography. Next, the history of research on bilingualism in the city is recounted, providing a context for the project bil-bienne, whose main features are presented. Finally, an example of the project's findings is offered: the theme of two language groups living either with or alongside each other is explored on the basis of the social networks of 40 participants.