The Intriguing Case of Language Planning in Kazakhstan: Unveiling a Linguistic Transformation

Language planning refers to the deliberate efforts made by governments or institutions to influence the use, structure, or functions of language in a particular society. In the case of Kazakhstan, a beautiful country situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, language planning has played a significant role in shaping the linguistic landscape and national identity.

A Multilingual Nation

Kazakhstan is a multilingual nation with over 130 ethnic groups residing within its borders. The country gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991 and with it came the challenges of defining a national identity and promoting unity amongst its diverse population. Language became a crucial tool for nation-building efforts, and language planning initiatives were introduced to address these issues.

The Case of Language Planning in Kazakhstan: Examining the Establishment of Kazakh as the State Language through a Nation-building Perspective

by Ario Bimo Utomo(Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1172 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	52 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

The Language Question

The linguistic situation in Kazakhstan is complex. Russian, a legacy of the Soviet era, has a dominant presence and serves as a lingua franca among different ethnic groups. However, Kazakh, as the official state language, holds significant importance in fostering a sense of national belonging. The challenge lies in maintaining a balance between these two languages while respecting the rights of other ethnic groups to maintain their native languages.

Historically, there have been debates and controversies surrounding language planning in Kazakhstan. Some argue for the complete adoption of Kazakh to strengthen national identity, while others advocate for a more inclusive approach that preserves the linguistic diversity of the country. The government has continuously strived to find a middle ground that respects the rights of all linguistic groups while promoting Kazakh as the unifying language.

The Role of Language Planning

Language planning efforts in Kazakhstan encompass various domains, including education, government administration, media, and cultural initiatives. An essential aspect of language planning has been the development of language policies and regulations that establish the status and functions of Kazakh and Russian in various domains. These policies aim to increase the use of Kazakh in public life while safeguarding the rights of speakers of other languages.

One of the significant developments in language planning was the of the State Program for the Development and Functioning of Languages in Kazakhstan. This program, launched in 2013, aims to reinforce language planning mechanisms, ensure equitable access to education in Kazakh, and create an environment that values linguistic diversity and multiculturalism.

Challenges and Progress

Language planning in Kazakhstan faces several challenges. The diverse ethnic composition and linguistic landscape of the country present complexities that require careful consideration. Balancing the aspirations of different ethnic groups with the need for national unity is an ongoing challenge.

However, there have also been notable achievements in the linguistic transformation of Kazakhstan. The increased presence of Kazakh in education, government, and media has helped promote its usage and elevate its status. The state has actively supported the publication of literature and cultural materials in Kazakh, further enriching the language and encouraging its use among the population.

Implications and the Future

The language planning initiatives in Kazakhstan have profound implications for the country's future. By nurturing Kazakh as the national language while respecting linguistic diversity, the government hopes to strengthen the national identity and promote inclusiveness. The aim is to create an environment where individuals can celebrate their cultural heritage while feeling a part of the larger Kazakhstani society.

Language planning is an ongoing process, and the case of Kazakhstan exemplifies the complexities and intricacies involved in shaping a linguistic landscape. The country's journey towards linguistic transformation serves as an inspiration and a valuable lesson for other multilingual nations facing similar challenges around the world.

The case of language planning in Kazakhstan highlights the nation's ongoing efforts to balance linguistic diversity with national unity. Through various language planning initiatives, the government seeks to promote the use of the Kazakh language while respecting the rights of speakers of other languages. The journey towards linguistic transformation in Kazakhstan serves as a remarkable example for other multilingual countries striving to shape their linguistic landscapes.

The Case of Language Planning in Kazakhstan: Examining the Establishment of Kazakh as the State Language through a Nation-building Perspective

by Ario Bimo Utomo(Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1172 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	52 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

This book is a revised version of the author's masters degree capstone project at the University of Sydney, Australia. It puts the main highlight on the process of language planning in Kazakhstan.

It begins with a big idea that language is an important factor in the process of nation-building, as it serves as a tool to create a uniform sense of understanding and enables the group of its speakers to share the same experience. On the other hand, language also represents a cultural power, where a dominant language also signifies a more dominant culture.

The book attempts to answer two problems: (1) why do the Kazakhstani government attempt to elevate the status of the Kazakh language as the sole state language despite its marginal status during the Soviet era? and (2) how successful is the ongoing language policy in Kazakhstan given the preconditions which disfavor Kazakh?