
The Urgent Need for Language Preservation: A Global Perspective
A recent compilation of data sheds light on the alarming number of endangered languages across the globe. The table, categorizing endangered languages by country, reveals the regions where linguistic diversity is most at risk.
Leading the list is Indonesia with a staggering 425 endangered languages. This highlights the immense linguistic richness of the archipelago and the critical need for conservation efforts. Following Indonesia is Papua New Guinea with 312 endangered languages, underscoring the linguistic diversity within its numerous communities. Australia ranks third with 190, reflecting the impact of historical and ongoing factors on Indigenous languages. The U.S. also faces a significant challenge with 180 endangered languages, many of which are spoken by Native American tribes.
Other countries with a high number of endangered languages include China (133), Nigeria (128), Mexico (124), India (114), and Brazil (107), each representing unique linguistic landscapes facing various pressures.