Taiwan is rich in linguistic diversity. However, many languages, among which the Indigenous languages are now at risk of disappearing. This rapid decline is largely the result of a century of drastic language policies. This special issue presents four articles that offer various insights into the challenges faced by both researchers and Indigenous communities in relation to these policies. The authors address the complexities involved in the preservation and revitalisation of Indigenous languages, shedding light on the obstacles scholars and policymakers encounter while embarking on different measures. The papers also reflect on the experiences of Indigenous peoples themselves, who are directly affected by these policies. Through these contributions, the special issue aims to deepen the understanding of the ongoing struggles to sustain Taiwan’s linguistic heritage.
If you are interested in learning more about these articles, please check out International Journal of Taiwan Studies 9.1 (March 2026): https://brill.com/view/journals/ijts/9/1/ijts.9.issue-1.xml.
Introduction to “Indigenous Language Policies in Taiwan and Beyond”
Written by Elizabeth Zeitoun.
Who Represents Indigenous Peoples in Taiwan’s Language Policy? Written by Cassandra Preece, PhD.
A Problem-Solving Approach to Indigenous Language Teaching: An Example of Truku Seediq Instruction Employing the Silent Way Written by Apay Ai-yu Tang.
Reflections on Orthography in Formosan Languages Written by Amy Pei-jung Lee.