Document details

A Rights-Based Framework for Minority and Indigenous Languages in Africa: From Endangerment to Revitalization

Minority Rights Group International (2019), 23 pp.

ISBN 978-1-912938-21-6

CC-like licence

"It is estimated that between 6,000 and 7,000 languages are currently spoken worldwide, of which approximately half, if not more, will disappear by the end of this century [...] Language plays a central role not only for the preservation of identity and culture, but also in matters of non-discrimination and access to a variety of rights [...] As a small number of dominant languages gain an increasing hold, the pressure on communities speaking minority and indigenous languages will grow [...] African states should revise their laws and policies, in line with current understanding of language rights, to ensure minority and indigenous language rights are respected ..." (Key findings)
Legal framework, 7
Causes of language endangerment and impacts on human rights, 15
Conclusions, 18
Recommendations, 19