LINGUISTIC INCLUSION FOR A VIABLE FEDERAL SYSTEM: PERSPECTIVES ON LANGUAGE POLICY IN PAKISTAN

Abstract

This study is linguistic inclusion for a viable federal system: perspectives of political elites and intellectuals on language policy in Pakistan, and investigate the perspectives of political leaders and intellectuals on the role of language policy in the creation of a viable federal order. Drawing upon a qualitative design, 13 informants were purposively selected for semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis was used to identify themes. Results suggest wide agreement on the requirement to exalt regional languages to the level of national languages and on their significance for maintaining humanity, governance and political balance and national unification. The participant of the study cited symbolic benefits (building trust in federal institutions and addressing historical inequities), practical benefits (efficiency of policy implementation, even lower income inequality at the margin), and systemic challenges (lack of resources, inefficient governance, and competing socio-economic priorities). The results also sees linguistic inclusivity as a pillar for justice and societal harmony, but recommends that it be introduced in stages, focusing on foundational changes in education, health care and governance that create a conducive context for lasting change. Worldwide, there is an acknowledgement of the importance of linguistic inclusivity in preserving culture and governing equitably, which serves to socially integrate and include a more diverse society. If linguistic diversity is accepted by Pakistan, it will be able to make its federal system strong, ensure inclusivity, and generate sense of belonging of the citizens. It is important to focus on more fundamental changes to make linguistic inclusion meaningful.

Keywords: Federalism; inclusion; language policy; regional languages; Pakistan