Intercultural communicative competence and critical cultural awareness: implications for the Ukrainian ESP context

Abstract

Abstract. The recent consultations on the relevance of the European Reference Framework of Key Competences for Lifelong Learning resulted in the update to ensure that the document reflects political, social, economic, ecological and technological developments and the labour market demand of the last decade. Among others, this Framework emphasizes the significance of socalled ‘soft’ skills, critical thinking, teamwork, intercultural skills and problem solving [4, p.9]. Special attention is paid to promoting a broader range of contemporary forms of cultural expression and developing one’s own cultural identity, highlighting positive and open-minded attitudes towards other cultures and cultural differences.