Yulia Aliyeva2; Tsypylma Darieva1; 1 Centre for East European and International Studies, Germany; 2 ADA, Baku, Azerbaidjan
Discussion
Using the linguistic landscape perspective as a starting point, this study explores the dynamics of multilingualism and ethno-religious diversity in Baku, Azerbaijan. The study is based on qualitative (ethnography and in-depth interviews with residents) and quantitative research data focusing on a complexity of multilingual codes, formal and informal signs, advertisements, billboards and language use in Baku's central and peripheral public spaces.
Preliminary results of the research show that the official policy of monolingualism (de-Russification of the linguistic landscape) in Azerbaijan is challenged by lived bilingualism, vernacular mixing patterns that maintain multilingualism. We discuss discrepancies between the official language policy shaping street sign regulations (top-down) and the impact of this policy on local public spaces (bottom-up). The Russian language retains its positions as a medium of communication and commercial functionality, intertwined with recent geo-political developments related to the promotion of Russian soft power in Azerbaijan and in the region. br />
