Romani Language Day: Language as the Root of Identity

On November 5, the world celebrates the International Day of the Romani Language — a date initiated by Romani activists to draw attention to the gradual disappearance of the Romani language in the context of globalization. The date was officially recognized by UNESCO as part of global efforts to preserve linguistic diversity.

In Ukraine, the Romani language is officially classified as endangered. Yet, when discussions about linguistic diversity arise, it is rarely mentioned — even though it is an integral part of Ukrainian history, culture, and modern identity.

The Romani people do not have their own state, and therefore lack a legal mechanism to ensure the protection of their language, history, and cultural heritage. This is why the responsibility for preserving it lies with the countries where Roma live. For Ukraine, this is not only a matter of culture but also a sign of political maturity — since the preservation of linguistic diversity is one of the key indicators of a democratic society.

History has seen many examples of nations losing their languages — and with them, a part of their identity. One such example is the Irish language, which was gradually displaced by English over the centuries. Only in recent decades has Ireland begun to actively revive it through education, media, and cultural initiatives. This experience shows that language revival is possible when there is both political will and public understanding of its value.

The Youth Agency for Romani Culture Advocacy “ARKA” has sent an open letter to the National Council of Television and Radio Broadcasting of Ukraine, calling for support of the Romani Language Day in Ukrainian media. This is not just about marking a symbolic date — but about a consistent effort to shape an honest, dignified, and respectful representation of Roma in the public sphere.

“Romani activists are doing a great deal of work — we document stories, work with communities, and develop educational projects. But achieving real change solely through civil society efforts is difficult. Without state support — through educational programs, funding for language initiatives, and inclusion of Romani topics in cultural policy — the language will continue to disappear.

The negative perception of the Romani community was shaped over decades under Soviet and imperial ideology, which marginalized Roma and erased their contributions from Ukrainian history. Supporting Roma and preserving the Romani language today is not only a cultural issue — it is part of the broader process of decommunization and decolonization of Ukrainian society,” — said Volodymyr Yakovenko, Executive Director of the Youth Agency for Romani Culture Advocacy “ARKA.”

The observance of Romani Language Day serves as an important reminder of the fragility of linguistic and cultural diversity. Yet, real change requires systematic and long-term support — through education, intercultural dialogue, research, and the dissemination of accurate information about Roma.

Only such consistent efforts can transform public perception and bring sustainable progress in the fields of human rights and cultural policy.

Khetane amen zorale! 
Together we are strong!