Putin Highlights Linguistic Diversity Across Russia
President Vladimir Putin has underscored the importance of promoting the linguistic variety found among Russia’s many peoples. He spoke at an informal gathering with winners of young artist awards that recognize contributions to literature and the arts for children and youth, following the awards ceremony. The comments were reported by TASS.
One laureate from Tatarstan, director Aidar Zabbarov, described the regional theater as more than just a stage. He emphasized that the theater serves as a repository for another language, an institution dedicated to preserving linguistic heritage even when it lives beyond the everyday use of the majority language.
Putin noted that after the Soviet collapse, support for national languages within the federation diminished, making renewed attention to linguistic diversity essential. He pointed out that the post-Soviet period saw a decline in backing for these languages, which he described as a significant loss that must be addressed.
According to the president, the Russian Federation is home to roughly 170 to 175 languages that belong to this broad linguistic spectrum. He stressed that several of these languages have very limited numbers of native speakers remaining. Maintaining this diversity, he said, is a paramount goal for the country and its cultural landscape.
During the discussion, a director from Tatarstan noted that in some regions, national theaters still perform predominantly in the Russian language because productions in minority languages do not always attract the same audience. Putin responded by calling for the creation of new formats and approaches to reach wider audiences while preserving linguistic variety. He added that market dynamics often drive demand: if there is little demand, supply wanes, and the opposite becomes a problem as well. The leadership must explore supportive measures that can stimulate and sustain productions in minority languages.
In closing, Putin reflected on the broader goal of safeguarding linguistic diversity as part of Russia’s cultural policy. He highlighted the need for practical steps and innovative formats that can keep minority languages vibrant within the country’s dynamic cultural ecosystem. The discussion emphasized a balance between popular appeal and the preservation of linguistic heritage, with an understanding that deliberate support is essential for languages at risk of shrinking in use.
The dialogue occurred in the context of recognizing outstanding achievements in children’s and youth literature and art, and it highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen cultural life across Russia while honoring the country’s linguistic plurality. The exchange underscored a national commitment to celebrate and protect the linguistic mosaic that characterizes the federation. [Citation: TASS]