The arrival of the 2023 linguistic use survey
On February 19, the first results of the population’s linguistic use survey, which had been in place for almost a year and a half, were published. This survey provides a snapshot of linguistic changes in Catalonia, a community that, in recent years, has experienced a demographic earthquake that has deeply affected its cultural and linguistic identity.
An image of change: Reduction of identification with Catalan
From the beginning of the series of surveys in 2003, Catalan had always been perceived as a symbol of identity more than as an initial language. However, a significant decrease in this identification has recently been observed, especially among young people. The percentage of people who identify Catalan as their identification language has fallen to only a percentage point of difference with the initial languages, reflecting a growing concern about the attractiveness of Catalan for new generations.
The concern between young people
Among young people between the ages of 15 and 29, the discrepancy between the initial and identification language has become negative. The data suggests that a segment of these young people, who in the past had been identified as Catalan speakers, now see Spanish as an equally their own language. This trend towards bilingual identification has increased dramatically, from 7.1% to 16.9% in five years.
The decrease in the usual use of Catalan
The use of Catalan among young people has reduced considerably, with only 29.2% declaring to be a regular Catalan -speaker, a significant fall compared to 30.9% that recognizes it as their initial language. This indicates that a significant percentage of those who have Catalan as their mother tongue do not use it usually.
Spanish, dominant language
Currently, Spanish is the most spoken language in this age group, with 50.1% use it on a regular basis. This highlights that, despite the increase in bilingual identification, the actual use of Catalan is much more limited.
Linguistic transmission: an imminent challenge
As there is a decrease in the use of Catalan, the intergenerational transmission of the language is in a delicate situation. Although the data indicate that the initial speakers of other languages use Catalan with their children, the phenomenon of Castilianization may be affecting this dynamic.
Alarming Youth Data
Recent studies reveal that some of the young Catalan -speaking young people are not transmitting Catalan effectively. Surveys show that only 54.2% want to speak mainly in Catalan, and a significant percentage opts for a future in which Spanish predominates.
Reflections on the future of Catalan
In the face of this panorama, the Catalan language is at a junction. The importance of creating policies that promote the revitalization of Catalan cannot be underestimated. Without a collective commitment to defend the language, Catalonia risks losing its cultural identity.
The example of other languages
The experience of other linguistic communities, such as the Basque in the Basque Country, shows that it is possible to reverse the negative trends. With proper language policy and a community approach, Catalan can regain its prestige and use among new generations.
Ultimately, the future of Catalan depends on the will of its community. Only through decided and collective action can its survival and prosperity be guaranteed.
