Discourse Surrounding the Recognition of Elfdalian in Sweden

Abstract

This article employs inductive discourse analysis to examine the discussion surrounding the recognition of Elfdalian in Sweden. Although multifaceted in terms of framing, most parliamentary initiatives tend to focalise Elfdalian’s qualities as a language. In contrast, local advocates see recognition as empowering revitalisation efforts, addressing historical injustices, celebrating heritage, and diversifying funding opportunities. Governmental communications cite findings of the specialist minority committee’s 1997 report and class Elfdalian as a folkmål. Conflict between discourses appears where the legally undefined term folkmål enters and obscures the language discussion. Whereas the government sees integration into the public and administrative spheres as integral to recognition, local advocates reject this legal protection. The article concludes that working with a unified terminology would facilitate the discussion and outlines potential avenues for recognition.