språkpolitik

Språkpolitik, or language policy, is the set of laws, guidelines, and practices that govern how languages are used, taught, and developed within a country or region. It outlines official languages, the status of minority languages, and the role of language in government, education, public services, and media.

It includes corpus planning, such as standardizing spelling and terminology, as well as measures to promote language maintenance and revitalization. Policy instruments commonly used are official language statutes, multilingual administration, language of instruction in schools, public signage, and funding for language development and teacher training.

Language policy aims to enable effective communication, protect linguistic rights, support education and economic activity, and manage linguistic diversity. It must balance national unity with the rights of minority language communities and the preservation of linguistic heritage, while avoiding discrimination or unequal resource allocation.

Policy approaches vary. Some states designate a single official language; others recognize multiple official languages at national or regional levels. In federations or multicultural states, subnational bodies may have language autonomy. International human rights instruments often shape national choices regarding education in minority languages and access to public services.

The term is particularly associated with Swedish-speaking contexts, but the concept is global and implemented in diverse ways by nations and institutions.