Azpeitia has joined the "Esnatu" initiative, promoted by UEMA, with the aim of guaranteeing the future of the Basque language and strengthening its strongholds. The details of the initiative will be presented on November 18th at the Azoka Plaza hall, by Ale Goikoetxea, a technician from UEMA.
The study "Norantz doa euskara? Hego Euskal Herria, 2036. Proiekzio demolinguistikoa" (Where is Basque heading? Southern Basque Country, 2036. Demolinguistic Projection), conducted by the research group Siadeco at UEMA's request, warns that if current trends continue, the Basque-speaking core of the Basque Country will significantly weaken, with a risk of language strongholds nearly disappearing within ten years. In response, towns like Azpeitia are essential for Basque to continue thriving, as they are the areas that ensure its natural and vibrant use.
The work carried out in recent decades has not been sufficient to face current challenges. Demographic changes, new technologies, global shifts, and new lifestyles all impact the status of the Basque language. The "Esnatu" initiative has been created to address this, uniting the strength and responsibility of Basque-speaking municipalities to consolidate the Basque-speaking core as a strategic axis for the language's revitalization.
The 18 stakeholders who have joined the initiative have communicated their commitments. Citizens also have a role and a task to play in reversing the situation. The event in Azpeitia will be another opportunity to become aware of the municipality's importance in the future of Basque, understand the current situation, and reflect on individual contributions.
The session on November 18th will cover three topics: a brief diagnosis of the sociological situation in the Basque Country and Azpeitia, the presentation of UEMA's Territorial Strategy, and what Azpeitia's stakeholders can do to support Basque-speaking municipalities. A small reception will follow the talk at the Azoka Plaza.
