This paper discusses the social status of the languages and the sociolinguistic behavior of the language speakers in multilingual conference settings. One prevalent and recurring phenomenon in such settings is the predominant use of the English language (EL), as opposed to other major and exotic languages. Two anecdotal examples of 'less-than-practical' choices of English as the language of speech delivery are presented. Then, this paper addresses the rationale behind minority language speakers' choice of English in multilingual conference settings. The question is answered by examining the status of English as an International Language (EIL), in general, and by examining the theory of language display, in particular. Brief literature reviews of the two theories are followed by the concluding comments on the role of the interpreter as the language mediator in multilingual situations, and as a proponent of language ecology.
