The Cornish language, known as Kernewek, is poised to receive the highest level of legal protection available in the United Kingdom, marking a historic step for its revival and future.
From Critically Endangered to Legally Protected
This move means the government is recommending Part III status for Cornish under the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages. Britain remains signed up to this charter, which is overseen by the Council of Europe, a body separate from the European Union. This status mandates that authorities adopt concrete measures to protect and promote endangered tongues.
For Kernewek, this elevated protection could lead to its use in official settings, including criminal court proceedings in judicial districts where the number of speakers justifies it. The language will also have to be actively promoted in public life, covering areas from education and media to cultural and economic activities.
The Fight for a Celtic Tongue's Future
Cornish joins Welsh, Irish, and Scottish Gaelic as the only UK languages with this top-tier Part III status. The announcement has been warmly welcomed in Cornwall. Councillor Sarah Preece, portfolio holder for tourism, localism and planning, stated: 'Kernewek is a fundamental part of Cornwall's unique identity. We welcome this announcement as a huge step forward, giving the language the recognition and protection it deserves for future generations.'
Dick Cole, a campaigner for Cornish recognition, added: 'It means that Cornish will have the same status as the other Celtic languages of the United Kingdom... The priority must now be for the Government to work with the people of Cornwall to better support and promote our national language.'
A Modern Revival Against the Odds
The journey to this point is a story of remarkable resurgence. After nearly dying out, a revival began in the early 20th century. By 2010, UNESCO had reclassified Cornish from 'extinct' to 'critically endangered', acknowledging the revival efforts.
Today, while only 563 people speak it as a first language according to the last census, up to 5,000 more have a basic grasp. Its popularity is growing:
- Over one million searches were made using the online Cornish dictionary in the past year.
- More than 200 people sign up for Kernewek classes annually.
- Almost 6,000 schoolchildren are introduced to the language through a primary schools programme commissioned by Cornwall Council.
This growing interest means more people will soon understand that 'Kernow a'gas Dynnergh' means 'Welcome to Cornwall' and 'Fatla genes?' is a friendly 'How are you?'. The new protected status aims to ensure such phrases are heard for generations to come, solidifying Cornwall's distinct linguistic heritage within the UK.
