Sprachenvielfalt und Sprachenpolitik in Kolumbien: das Projekt der Ethnischen Bildung

Abstract

This article deals with the linguistic situation in Colombia. In addition to its enormous biological and geographical diversity, Colombia also has an astonishing number of autochthonous languages that still exist. In total, there are 65 indigenous languages, two Creole languages and the Romani of the Roma community. First, the status quo of these languages is outlined. Special attention is given to language policy and language maintenance, because the current legally protected rights of the indigenous peoples, also with regard to the use of their own languages, required a longstanding struggle. The most important stages of this development are outlined, starting with the constitution of 1991. The project of ethnic education, initiated in 1985, is an outstanding example for all of Latin America with regard to an inclusive language and cultural policy. The most important milestones of this development are briefly discussed. The long way to achieving equal participation of the autochthonous peoples, the protection and preservation of their languages is not over yet. For this reason, the article concludes with a look at the latest language and cultural policy project, the Ten-Year Plan for Native Languages in Colombia, which will set the guidelines for language policy between 2022 and 2032.