Sociolegal perspectives of linguistic minorities in Europe : the Basque language, education and media

Abstract

This dissertation addresses the legal framework and social embedding of the Basque language. As a minority language located between two European states (France and Spain) with different approach towards minority languages, the task of understanding the legal framework of the Basque language and its relationship with the community of speakers is challenging. In fact, this legal framework results in a vast array of legal rules for Basque speakers. This research examines the fundamental and linguistic rights of these minority language speakers (norm users), from international and European legal frameworks to national or regional ones. It carries out a comparative analysis between France and Spain, and between the three Basque regions to examine the legal framework. This doctrinal analysis is complemented by the study of key actors participating in the context and implementation of the legal norms regulating the Basque language. An emphasis is placed on the analysis of the relationship between the legal framework of the Basque language and the Basque society, applying a sociolegal methodology. By focusing on the examples of education and media, this thesis aims to shed light on the relationship between law and context in the case of the Basque language. It displays the tension and collaboration between norm givers and norm users in the case of a minority language. Studying the examples of education and media exposes the difficulties that Basque speakers face, as well as their commitment to the survival of their language. At the same time, progressive legal frameworks for Basque have enabled the creation of linguistic policies favouring the recovery and development of this language, where active collaboration between the three Basque regions is increasing. Ultimately, this research showcases a contextualised understanding of the legal framework of the Basque language, telling the story of this minority language in law.