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Transnational policy and ‘authenticity’ discourses on Romani language and identity

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  25 June 2015

Yaron Matras
Yaron Matras*
Affiliation:
School of Arts, Languages and Cultures University of Manchester, Oxford Road, M13 9PL, UKyaron.matras@manchester.ac.uk
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Abstract

Romani is a fascinating test case for the role that language plays in the process of identity consolidation in a transnational context. Standardisation is no longer inherently connected to the ‘territorialisation’ of language. Instead, we witness a bottom-up process in which individuals take ownership of language and negotiate language practices. Status regulation and language planning can be instigated and even implemented by institutions other than national states. All of this leads to pluralism of form rather than unification. Yet language remains a key locus for political mobilisation. It allows players to claim authenticity, it offers opportunities for intervention by external facilitators, and it provides a discussion platform through which traditional images can be challenged and recognition can be awarded. (Romani, language planning, standardization, language policy, transnationalism)*

Type
Articles
Information
Language in Society , Volume 44 , Issue 3 , June 2015 , pp. 295 - 316
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2015 

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