Document Type

Article

Disciplines

International Law

Abstract

The right to use one's native language might seem so basic as to be uncontroversial. There is little that is more essential to the human personality than self-expression in the language an individual knows best. One who is impeded in communication ability for linguistic reasons is unable to participate fully in society and to protect him or herself from violations of civil rights. If the world were composed of authentic nation states, and if foreigners did not enter as immigrants, there would be little difficulty over language use. However, in many states ethnic minorities speak languages different from that of the dominant ethnic group.' Members of ethnic minorities often face an uphill battle in using their language in the public sphere.

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