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News Summary
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In July 2025, Bangladesh launched the “Multilingual Cloud” website, a groundbreaking online portal preserving 42 Indigenous languages. This initiative, led by the Information and Communication Technology Division (ICTD) under the Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications, and Information Technology, aims to safeguard the country’s linguistic diversity. The project, part of the EBLICT initiative implemented by the Bangladesh Computer Council, systematically collects words, phrases, and phonetic transcriptions of endangered languages. Despite this progress, around 14 to 15 Indigenous languages in Bangladesh remain critically endangered, with some having as few as five speakers. The government’s efforts, including a National Consultation on Indigenous Languages held in February 2025, mark important steps towards preservation. However, experts emphasize the need for more inclusive, community-centered strategies and bilingual education to ensure sustainable language revitalization. The project highlights the urgency of preserving cultural heritage while facing significant challenges in implementation and long-term effectiveness.
Source: globalvoices
Our Commentary
Background and Context
Bangladesh, known for its rich cultural tapestry, is home to numerous Indigenous communities with distinct languages. The preservation of these languages is crucial for maintaining cultural identity and linguistic diversity. Historically, many of these languages have been marginalized, leading to their decline. The government’s recent initiative to digitally preserve 42 Indigenous languages marks a significant step in recognizing and safeguarding this linguistic heritage.
Expert Analysis
The launch of the “Multilingual Cloud” website represents a pivotal moment in Bangladesh’s efforts to preserve its Indigenous languages. Led by Mamun Or Rashid, a consultant for the EBLICT Project and faculty member at Jahangirnagar University, this initiative demonstrates a commitment to using technology for cultural preservation. However, the effectiveness of digital preservation alone is limited without complementary efforts in education and community engagement.
Key points:
- Digital preservation is a crucial first step but requires additional support mechanisms
- Community involvement is essential for successful language revitalization
- Policy implementation and funding remain significant challenges
Additional Data and Fact Reinforcement
The current state of Indigenous languages in Bangladesh underscores the urgency of preservation efforts:
- 42 Indigenous languages are now digitally preserved on the Multilingual Cloud platform
- 14 to 15 Indigenous languages are considered critically endangered
- Some languages, like Kharia, have as few as five speakers remaining
Related News
This initiative aligns with global efforts to preserve Indigenous languages. In 2024, the U.S. Administration for Native Americans awarded over $7 million to fund new Native American language preservation projects. Similar efforts are underway in Latin America, including the implementation of the Atlas of Indigenous Languages in Danger in the Bolivian Amazon.
Summary
Bangladesh’s digital preservation of 42 Indigenous languages is a significant milestone in safeguarding linguistic diversity. While this initiative provides a valuable resource for future generations, the critical status of many Indigenous languages underscores the need for comprehensive, community-centered approaches to ensure their survival and revitalization.
