The Voices of Linguistic Sovereignty in Mali

Abstract

The aim of this study is to examine the changes in language policies in Mali within the framework of the new constitution adopted in 2023 and the impact of these changes on national language sovereignty. Mali has recently experienced a significant political development with the change in the state language as stipulated in the new constitution adopted in 2023; French is no longer the official language of the country, with the 13 national languages now holding official status. However, French remains the working language, particularly in administration and education. Despite the current political context showing a distancing from France, this change is rooted in a strong social demand for heightened national sentiment of linguistic sovereignty. Calls for the formalization of Mali's most widely spoken national language, Bamanankan, and its use in place of French in public spheres have grown increasingly vocal. The advocacy for official recognition of local languages dates back to independence, with various governmental initiatives aimed at promoting indigenous languages. Nevertheless, these efforts have been largely limited, and the prominence now achieved by national languages, led by Bamanankan, owes much to the unexpected engagement of a key actor. Young activists have emerged as advocates for linguistic sovereignty, and their mobilization played a crucial role in the adoption of the new constitution, marking a significant turning point in the country's contemporary history. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the changes in language policies and their impact on national language sovereignty in Mali, thus providing a significant foundation for research on language policies and cultural identity