Topic: 2024-Indigenous Languages
Country: Ethiopia
Delegate Name: Finola Green
The delegation of Ethiopia is pleased to address the issue of the preservation and promotion of Indigenous languages here at GLIMUN. As one of the most diverse countries in the world, Ethiopia recognizes the value of our voice on this topic. Our country’s democratic values include protecting Ethiopia’s stance on preserving, promoting, and developing Indigenous languages. Ethiopia has a federal system based on ethnic lines, which grants regional states the right to use their languages for administration, education, and legal proceedings. Also, many Ethiopian officials advocate for the broader use of indigenous languages to preserve cultural heritage, promote inclusivity, and ensure effective communication in public services. Ethiopian indigenous systems, like the Oromo people’s Gada system, demonstrate how integrating traditional knowledge and practices can address broader societal challenges, such as environmental sustainability and equitable resource management.
From a broader UN perspective, using Indigenous languages in non-Indigenous settings is vital for fostering inclusivity and intercultural understanding. For example, UNESCO promotes teaching indigenous languages in non-Indigenous contexts to build cultural awareness and appreciation. Ethiopia’s 1995 Constitution recognized the rights of all ethnic groups to develop and promote their languages and cultural heritage. This policy led to the creation of regional states where indigenous languages became integral to governance, education, and media. Ethiopia is also collaborating with organizations like UNESCO to support the preservation and promotion of Indigenous languages through global initiatives, such as the International Decade of Indigenous Languages (2022–2032). Preserving Indigenous languages helps maintain Ethiopia’s rich cultural diversity, a source of national pride, and social cohesion. In turn, Member states may prioritize this to foster unity within their regions and celebrate their unique identities.
With economic incentives, companies that use Indigenous languages in advertisements, products, or customer support can build stronger connections with local populations, expanding their market reach. By linking preservation efforts to these tangible benefits, both member states and private entities are incentivized to invest in safeguarding Ethiopia’s linguistic heritage. Overall, these views support integrating Indigenous languages into diverse contexts, provided this is done with respect for their origins and the consent of the communities they represent.
