Resisting Linguistic Imperialism: A Conversation with Robert Phillipson on Linguistic Human Rights, Multilingualism, and Indigenous and Minority Languages

Amid the rise of global monocultures, dominant colonial languages, and ongoing effects of colonial legacies on language practices, linguistic imperialism continues to pose a significant challenge in the struggle for linguistic human rights and revitalization of Indigenous and minority languages. This conversation with Professor Robert Phillipson— an eminent scholar in applied linguistics, known for his seminal work on linguistic imperialism and linguistic human rights—explores complexities and nuances in (in)equitable multilingualism, Indigenous languages and knowledges, and environmental sustainability. Reflecting on extensive academic and field experiences, particularly his work with distinguished scholar and mother-tongue education activist, the late Tove Skutnabb-Kangas, Phillipson delves into the intersectionality of linguistic human rights, decolonization, and language policy. Through analysis of language in preservation or destruction of cultural and ecological knowledge, Phillipson illustrates how dominant language education systems, nation-state policies, and international power dynamics contribute to linguistic discrimination, linguicide, and marginalization of Indigenous and minority languages. The conversation calls on educators, policymakers, researchers, and citizens to challenge linguistic imperialism and work toward a more equitable future for Indigenous and minority language communities.