Mercator aims to create a space for exchanging experiences and documentation between the different European language communities. Each centre has its own thematic programme and role:

• Mercator Research Centre, Fryske Academy in Ljouwert (NL), focuses on multilingual education and language learning;
• Mercator-Legislation, CIEMEN in Barcelona (ES), studies minority languages legislation and the use of these languages in public administration;
• Mercator-Media, University of Wales in Aberystwyth (UK), deals with the relationship between minority languages and mass media, including new technologies.