Language Policy in Ethiopia: The Interplay Between Policy and Practice in Tigray Regional State

This book explores the dynamics of hegemonic and counter-hegemonic language policies and processes in Tigray, Ethiopia, during the pre- and post-1991 periods. It demonstrates how official language policies are often undermined by unofficial language policies, ideologies, mechanisms, and agents, leading to diverse patterns of language use.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 171 pages
Publication date: 20 February 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This captivating book delves into the intricate interplay and tensions between hegemonic and counter-hegemonic language policy and processes in Tigray, a regional state of Ethiopia, during the pre- and post-1991 periods. By examining language use and language policy as dynamic social and ideological processes, the author presents Ethiopia as a remarkable case study of language policy creation and implementation over time, amidst a highly volatile political context.

The uniqueness of Ethiopia lies in the fact that different language policies and practices were implemented at different times, as the country's leadership changed through political takeovers. While declared language policies were not always followed, those that were implemented often faced protests and resistance. The book begins with an overview and review of language policy and planning, followed by a chapter that explores the history of such planning in Ethiopia.

The methodology employed in this study is then discussed, highlighting the appropriation of hegemonic language policy planning (LPP), patterns of resistance, schools and public sites as centers of resistance, and the emergence and development of specific patterns of language use in different regions of the country.

The book concludes with recommendations for future research and draws a overarching conclusion that official or de facto language policies are often undermined by overt or covert unofficial language policies, ideologies, mechanisms, and agents, leading to diverse patterns of language use.

In conclusion, this book offers valuable insights into the complex dynamics of language policy and practice in Ethiopia, shedding light on the ways in which power, ideology, and social dynamics shape language use and language planning in a rapidly changing political landscape.

Weight: 320g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030639068
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021