The Role of Native Languages in Identity Preservation Among Turkic Minorities in Kazakhstan

Abstract

Kazakhstan is a multilingual country and home to many languages, including several Turkic ones in varying degrees of danger and vulnerability. The sociolinguistic problems associated with preserving and reviving these languages are significant due to complex historical, cultural, and political factors. The purpose of this article is to analyze these problems by studying the sociolinguistic status of endangered and vulnerable Turkic languages in Kazakhstan, such as Kumyk, Balkar, Gagauyz, Sakha (Yakuts), Crimean Tatar, Nogai, Khakas, Tuvans, Karachay and others, against the background of the dominant bilingual context of the country – Kazakh and Russian. The study adopted a socio-linguistic and qualitative research design to collect data of the Turkic ethnic groups in Kazakhstan, in relation to the issue of language extinction. Primary data was collected through questionnaire and semi structured interviews from a sample of 27 speakers from various Turkic-speaking nationalities. The findings reveal a complex interplay of cultural practices, linguistic usage, and ethnic identities among the Turkic peoples in Kazakhstan. These ethnic groups are facing challenges to preserve their traditions and languages due to factors such as assimilation, migration, and the dominance of the Russian language. The study provides valuable insights into the sociolinguistic dynamics of Turkic ethnic groups in Kazakhstan, and highlight the urgent need for greater support for the preservation and promotion of vulnerable and critically endangered languages, as well as the cultural heritage associated with them.  The study recommends a more inclusive language policy that recognizes and supports the linguistic rights of Turkic-speaking minorities in Kazakhstan.