INTERVIEW ⟩ The Ombudsman: the one who knows what he wants to say and dares to say it will also find simple Estonian words

Justice Minister Warns of Risks to Estonian Language Preservation

Helsinki, Finland – Justice Minister Ülle Madise, a patron of the Clear Message initiative, has cautioned against complacency regarding the future of the Estonian language. Speaking on the potential for diminished linguistic vitality, Madise emphasized the importance of active engagement and critical questioning. “If you don’t provoke with your work and your diligence, the Estonian language can have the same status as Tom Sawyer’s painting of the fence: in the end, it’s a matter of pride,” Madise stated.

She highlighted the possibility of deliberately obscuring the intended message and the success that can be achieved when insufficient individuals are willing to pose critical inquiries. Madise expressed concern that a tendency to embrace bureaucratic language, often laden with foreign terminology, could inadvertently contribute to the language’s decline. “It can also be successful if there aren’t enough people who dare to ask questions,” she explained.

“Sometimes, people tend to bow to bureaucratic language, which is covered in foreign words – it sounds smart, because it is smart.”

The comments come as part of ongoing efforts to promote the use and preservation of the Estonian language. Minister Madise’s words serve as a reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance and active participation in safeguarding the language’s future.

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