Polish language in Lithuania: language cultivation nowadays
Polish language in Lithuania: language cultivation nowadays

Author(s): Magdalena Bartoszek
Subject(s): Theory of Literature
Published by: Wydawnictwo Uniwersytetu Łódzkiego
Keywords: Polish language; Lithuania; national minority; Borderlands
Summary/Abstract: The widespread use of the Polish language in Lithuania has its origin in the historical and cultural ties these countries share. Although geographically Poland and Lithuania are close, the official languages used there stem from different linguistic backgrounds. Moreover, due to the decreasing number of people utilizing the Polish language in Lithuania, as well as the influences of other popular languages in the area, the difficulty of maintaining the language tradition rises, posing a challenge to the nations living there. Therefore, it is incredibly crucial to cultivate not only the tradition but also the language aspects among the Polish minority abroad. The article presents a brief historical background on the union between Poland and Lithuania. It analyses and discusses statistics regarding language usage and identification with the Polish nation. The current state of the Polish language in Lithuania is examined, alongside an analysis of the differences in the Polish language used abroad due to influences and challenges posed by other languages. Furthermore, the significance of the Polish language for the Polish community is emphasised, highlighting the actions taken to promote the national language in the area. The research also summarizes the strategies for cultivating the Polish language abroad, including media, literature, educational initiatives and community organizations.

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