These Languages Are Endangered! Check the List

Languages are indeed the essence of cultural identity. They have encapsulated the traditions, history, and thoughts of the speaker ever since they originated. It is extremely beautiful to note that almost every culture of the world has its own unique language. However, on the very same side, it is important to note that there are multiple languages across the globe that are at risk of disappearing. What does it mean for a language to disappear? Well, it means that the number of speakers of that language is declining day by day.

Languages are cultural treasures, and thus, preserving these languages is important to maintain heritage and cultural diversity. He brings a short list of some of the most endangered languages of the world.

Ainu (Japan)

This language is spoken by the indigenous Ainu people situated in northern Japan. The Ainu language is critically endangered. There are fewer than ten native speakers of the language. Additionally, it is important to note that most of the speakers of this language are elderly. Some significant efforts are being made to bring back the language, such as through cultural initiatives and educational programs. For instance, the Ainu language classes and the Ainu museum are some of these efforts.

Koro (India)

This language is very recently discovered. It is actually spoken by a tiny community situated in the state of Andhra Pradesh, India. Estimations say that there are only 1,000 speakers of the Koro language, Many linguists are attempting to document the language. Moreover, linguistics who are concerned about endangered languages are creating resources to preserve the Koro language. These efforts include creating educational materials and dictionaries.

Yuchi (United States)

The Yuchi language is spoken in Oklahoma by the Yuchi people. This language is critically endangered. There are less than five fluent speakers of the language, and all of these are elderly people. All in all, it can be said that the Yuchi language is on the verge of extinction.

In order to preserve the language, the Yuchi Language Project aims to teach the Yuchi language to younger generations by means of community programs and immersive learning techniques. The project also aims to document the language.

Warlpiri (Australia)

This is an indigenous language, and it is spoken in Australia. It is safe to say that the language has more speakers than the other languages on the list that are on the verge of extinction, the language is still facing some threats with the inclination of younger generations toward the English language. The Warlpiri language has around 3,000 speakers. Several community initiatives, such as cultural programs and bilingual education are aiming to revive the language.

ALSO READ: How Has American Music Evolved? Here are the 7 Most Influential Musical Movements in the History of United

Kusunda (Nepal)

This stands as an isolated language, spoken in Nepal. The Kusunda language is on the verge of extinction. Can you guess the number of speakers of the language? Well, there is only one known fluent speaker of the Kusunda language. The unique structure of the language has intrigued various linguists across the globe. There are several attempts being made to preserve and document the language before it vanishes from the world. Linguistics aims to bring the language back through the transcription of oral histories and recordings.

Sami Languages (Norway, Sweden, Russia, Finland)

The Sami languages are spoken by the indigenous Sami people across Russia, Finland, Norway, and Sweden. These languages are facing endangerment at varying degrees. There are several attempts being made to preserve the language, especially through media, cultural events, and educational programs.

Manx (Isle of Man)

In the 20th century, Manx, the Celtic language of the Isle of Man was completely declared extinct. However, the language has since seen some forms of revival. There are efforts being made to revive the language, including through media broadcasts, language courses, and immersion schools. At present, there are several hundred speakers of the Manx language. No wonder the Manx language is seeing a cultural resurgence.

The Final Note

What does preserving endangered languages actually mean? Well, the task is not only limited to saving words. Rather, it is also about maintaining the cultural identity and heritage of communities across the globe. There have been several efforts made so far to teach, promote, and document these languages. Such efforts are crucial for ensuring that future generations can effortlessly access the richness of these languages. The need of the hour is to provide stronger support to such initiatives, in order to keep these languages and their essence alive.

ALSO READ: Empowering Ink: Here We Celebrate the Groundbreaking Women Authors of American Literature

ALSO READ: Are There Caves on the Moon? NASA Says Yes! A Cave Is Found on the Moon, and It Could House Crews