Multilingualism in Prizren, Language Use and Language Policy

Abstract

This research focuses on theoretical and practical issues of multilingualism in Prizren, the Republic of Kosovo’s most linguistically diverse city. It examines the city’s linguistic landscape, culture, and values, investigating language use at home, in public, and in institutions. It analyzes language legislation and its often uneven implementation. In the last 20 years, the language situation in Prizren has changed dramatically. This research attempts to provide a clear picture of the current language situation in Prizren in the new and independent Republic of Kosovo, and is relevant for the general public, minority communities, government, non-governmental, and international organizations. The research was conducted in order to shed more light on the concept of multilingual societies. The central sources for this research are the Constitution of the Republic of Kosovo, the policy on language rights and language use in the country, questionnaires, and observation.