Catalan Language Faces Significant Challenges in Academic and Social Spheres

In a troubling trend that has sparked concern among linguists and cultural advocates, the Catalan language is facing a significant decline in its usage, particularly in academic settings and everyday social interactions.

Decline in Academic Usage

A recent study has highlighted that Catalan is increasingly rare in doctoral theses in Catalonia. This decline is alarming, as it indicates a broader trend where Catalan is being marginalized in academic and intellectual discourse. The study reveals that the number of doctoral theses written in Catalan has plummeted, reflecting a shift towards more dominant languages such as Spanish or English.

Social Use and Minoritization

The decline in academic usage is part of a larger issue where Catalan is experiencing minoritization and a decrease in social use. This trend is not new, but it has accelerated in recent years. The Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB) has expressed its firm commitment to defending and promoting the Catalan language, acknowledging the critical role it plays in the cultural and educational landscape of Catalonia[1].

Educational Initiatives and Challenges

Organizations like La Bressola, which has been working tirelessly for nearly fifty years to promote Catalan in Northern Catalonia through innovative linguistic immersion school models, are facing financial difficulties. The UAB has urged authorities to address these challenges to ensure the sustainability and viability of such educational initiatives. La Bressola's work is seen as a beacon of cultural and linguistic resistance, promoting the values of diversity and inclusion[1].

Broader Context and Similar Challenges

The challenges faced by Catalan are not unique; other minority languages in Europe are experiencing similar struggles. For instance, the Frisian language in the Netherlands, despite enjoying increased official status and institutional support, still grapples with negative attitudes from the majority Dutch-speaking population. Studies have shown that top-down language planning has not necessarily led to more positive attitudes towards Frisian, highlighting the complexity of language policy and its impact on public attitudes[2].

Call to Action

The decline of Catalan in academic and social spheres is a call to action for the entire educational and university community. It underscores the need for collective efforts to ensure the future of the Catalan language and culture. The UAB's statement of support for La Bressola and its commitment to promoting Catalan education are crucial steps in this direction. As expats in Spain, understanding and supporting these initiatives can contribute to the preservation of linguistic diversity and cultural heritage in the region.

In conclusion, the struggle to maintain and promote the Catalan language is a multifaceted issue that requires immediate attention and support. It is a challenge that not only affects the academic community but also the broader social fabric of Catalonia, emphasizing the importance of linguistic and cultural preservation in a rapidly changing world.