This paper will explore the complexity of the issues presented by linguistic diversity at the global and the national levels. The paper will analyse the contradictory features of the current phenomena of globalisation. These features range from the changes at the macro global level to the micro local levels. The national entities around the world are caught in the middle of these complex and contradictory changes. National governments face pressures at political, economic, social and cultural levels and have led to centralisation or devolution of powers. In some instances both processes may be taking place simultaneously. In educational terms agencies like UNESCO institute measures which are recommended by national educational systems. However, many of the recommendations are ignored by the national education systems. One of the fundamental current global agenda is to provide 'Education for All.' Yet, the realisation of this aim is far from a reality. This paper will focus on the implications of these issues for linguistic diversity around the world.