Language Endangerment and Sustainable Futures in Solomon Islands Part 1: Preserving and Promoting Linguistic Diversity

Abstract

This In Brief forms the first part of a two-part series looking at language endangerment and loss in Solomon Islands, and ways to mitigate this. Melanesia has some of the most linguistically diverse nations in the world. Amid this massive linguistic diversity, how does Solomon Islands deal with preserving its rich linguistic and cultural heritage? In the context of the new Solomon Islands Education Act, the issue of vernacular languages and mother-tongue education is particularly in focus.