Functional Distribution of Chechen Language in Chechen Republic: Findings from Field Research (2022–2023)

Abstract

This article explores the social functions of the contemporary Chechen language and assesses its vitality within the current linguistic landscape of the Chechen Republic. It presents the results of a comprehensive study on the co-functioning of the Chechen and the Russian across key communicative domains in the lives of Chechen people. The paper synthesizes and systematizes data collected during field research conducted in the Chechen Republic from 2022 to 2023, alongside various statistical and factual information sourced from publicly available resources. A thorough analysis of the gathered data provides a detailed picture of the functional distribution of languages in the Chechen Republic, characterizing the specifics of bilingualism in the region and the ethno-linguistic identity of contemporary Chechens. It highlights that the Chechen language, like other languages in the Russian Federation, faces challenges related to urbanization and digitalization, which contribute to linguistic centralization and a gradual imbalance favoring dominant languages. The study finds that the Chechen language currently exhibits a relatively stable level of vitality, particularly in familial and ethnocultural contexts, bolstered by its high symbolic value and a persistent need for identity expression among Chechen speakers.

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