Language Rights in the Digital Age: Expanding Scopes, Emerging Limits

Abstract

Language rights have traditionally been framed as essential to cultural identity, equality, and democratic participation. However, recent developments have significantly reshaped their scope and limitations. This paper examines emerging challenges to language rights in the contemporary era, particularly in the context of technological advancement, globalization, and shifting political dynamics. It highlights how digital platforms and artificial intelligence systems risk reinforcing linguistic hierarchies by privileging dominant languages while marginalizing low-resource and indigenous ones. At the same time, the paper explores tensions between language preservation and national integration, as well as the practical difficulties of implementing mother-tongue education policies. Additionally, it addresses growing concerns over data ownership and the use of linguistic resources by private technology actors, raising questions about cultural sovereignty in the digital age. By critically analysing these developments, the study argues that language rights must be reconceptualized beyond formal recognition to ensure meaningful inclusion, equitable access, and protection of linguistic diversity in an increasingly interconnected world.