In a region as diverse as Latin America, linguistic wealth represents a cultural treasure. However, this heritage faces a silent and devastating threat: the danger of the disappearance of many indigenous languages. This phenomenon implies the loss of languages and also of worldviews, traditional knowledge and the identity of entire peoples.
The urgency of this situation has attracted the attention of international organizations such as UNESCO, which are working with governments and local communities to identify strategies to reverse this trend. Preserving these languages is not only a matter of cultural heritage, but also of human rights, as it ensures that indigenous peoples can continue to express their identity, history and traditions.
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Which original languages could disappear?
In Latin America, countries like Mexico and Peru are home to a large one Language diversity, with hundreds of native languages still alive. However, many of them are found seriously threatened with extinction.
According to the “Sociolinguistic Atlas”, 26% of the languages in the region are at risk of extinction. In certain areas, such as the Caribbean, the few that remain have almost disappeared. A notable case is that of Nahuatl in El Salvador, which is in an advanced process of disappearance, said Leonardo Herrera, coordinator of the Nahuatl section of the National School of Language, Linguistics and Translation (Enallt) of UNAM, in consultation with CNN.
Globalization and cultural assimilation policies are the main causes of the displacement of languages. Photo: Andina
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Why are indigenous languages being lost?
The Structural discrimination, globalization and cultural assimilation policies are the main causes of the displacement of indigenous languages. The Eurocentric vision imposed since colonization has marginalized and relegated these linguistic expressions to the background, while also promoting a cultural homogenization that privileges Spanish.
This situation is exacerbated by the lack of educational policies that include or promote the learning and use of native languages.
According to researcher Adalberto Santana Hernández, a manuscript in the journal UNAM Global states: “Although there are various native languages in the world, they have been historically relegated to the background due to the Eurocentric vision that prevailed in conquest and colonization. ” People.”
Latin America's linguistic diversity demonstrates the cultural richness and historical depth of its people. Photo: AFP
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Additionally, Leonardo Herrera told CNN: “Languages are alive, but there are many risks. One of the main risks is people’s ignorance, ridicule and failure to recognize that these are wealth, they are intangible heritage.”
Context of linguistic diversity
Latin America's linguistic diversity reflects the cultural richness and historical depth of its people. However, this is threatened by a complex web of socio-economic and political factors. The UN General Assembly recognized the critical importance of this situation and proclaimed the International Decade of Indigenous Languages (2022-2032) with the aim of promoting concrete measures for its preservation and revitalization. This global effort invites us to rethink language and education policies by encouraging change Multilingualism and inclusion.
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This linguistic panorama in Latin America reflects challenges as well as opportunities for strengthening cultural identity and recognizing diversity as a cornerstone for sustainable development. The task of preserving native languages is therefore a collective commitment involving governments, international organizations, indigenous communities and society in general.