Problems of preservation and development of the Abaza language

DOI: 10.33876/2311-0546/2021-54-2/355-364

Abstract

The article is dedicated to the problem of preserving the native language by the Abazins - a recognized small-numbered people in the Russian Federation. The threat of assimilation and language loss has intensified the ethnocultural activities of the Abaza social organizations. The issues of preserving the Abaza language and the convergence of the Abazins with the related Abhazians, including among diasporas in other countries, became priority. On the initiative and with the support of social activists, numerous projects aimed at preserving and developing the Abaza traditional culture are being implemented; it is planned to create a single Abaza-Abkhaz alphabet. The results of sociological surveys conducted in the Karachay-Cherkess Republic over the years revealed a fairly high level of proficiency in the Abaza language, including among young people. A request for studying the native language persists. At the same time, the lack of interest to studying it among some of the respondents is seen as a disturbing trend. However, state language policy, measures taken by social activists and a fairly high level of ethnic identity of the population suggest that the Abaza language will be preserved and continue developing in the nearest future.

For Citation: Shcherbina E.A., and L.V. Kubanova. 2021. Problems of preservation and development of the Abaza language. Herald of Anthropology (Vestnik Antropologii) 2: 355–364.