V. N. Nemechkin. International Decade of Indigenous Languages: the history of formation, legal framework, implementation mechanisms

Introduction. The main objective of this article is to study the historical and legal aspects of the establishment of the International Decade of Indigenous Languages (2022–2032), proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly, as well as to analyze international instruments, establishing the legal framework and mechanisms for the implementation of the Decade.
Materials and Methods. The research methods are based on a system approach. The general research (system, analysis and synthesis) and subject specific methods of knowledge (historical, formal-legal) were applied during the research. The main international legal instruments for the International Decade of Indigenous Languages were used. This article explored a wide range of regulatory sources.
Results and Discussion. The article considers the historical stages of formation and development of the International Decade of Indigenous Languages, gives an overview of international legal documents and normative legal acts of the Russian Federation, which constitute the legal framework for the implementation of the Decade. The article also considers the main mechanisms of management, coordination and implementation of the Decade, among which are the following: UNESCO, Global Task Force providing strategic guidance and oversight in the areas of planning, implementation and monitoring of progress towards the goals set by the Global Plan of Action. This document provides a strategic framework, describes the main actions and guidelines for the implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the activities of the UN, national governments, indigenous peoples’ organizations, civil society, academia, the private sector and others.
Conclusion. The author concludes that, at the level of the international community, there is a rather serious understanding of the need to preserve and develop languages, the realization of the linguistic rights of indigenous peoples, The International Decade of Indigenous Languages will contribute to this end. The Decade provides a unique opportunity to introduce additional support measures, including by reforming national legislation, language training, digital language development, etc.

Keywords: international decade, language rights, indigenous peoples, international standards

For citation: Nemechkin VN. International Decade of Indigenous Languages: the history of formation, legal framework, implementation mechanisms. Finno-ugorskii mir = Finno-Ugric World. 2023;15;2:200–209. (In Russ.). DOI: 10.15507/2076-2577.015.2023.02.200-209.