When people think of endangered languages, they usually picture remote islands or isolated mountain communities. But language extinction is also a pressing reality in Europe, home to over 200 spoken languages. While Europe is often associated with linguistic powerhouses such as English, French, and German, numerous lesser-known European languages are quietly fading away.
Here are some languages whose endangered status may surprise you:
1. Scots (Scotland)
Although spoken by more than a million people according to some surveys, Scots isn’t formally recognized as a language in the way Gaelic is. Often considered just a dialect of English, Scots actually has its own vocabulary, grammar, and literary heritage. Unfortunately, with young people gravitating toward standardized English, the future of Scots remains uncertain.
2. Arpitan (France, Switzerland, Italy)
Also known as Franco-Provençal, Arpitan was once widespread across southeastern France, western Switzerland, and northern Italy. Today, it’s on the verge of extinction, with most speakers being elderly and few opportunities for younger generations to learn it. It’s rarely taught, lacks official recognition, and is increasingly viewed as irrelevant to modern life.
3. Griko (Southern Italy)
Griko is a Greek dialect that has persisted in southern Italy for centuries, a relic from when Greek colonies dotted the region. Though still spoken in some Calabrian and Apulian communities, proficiency is rapidly declining. It doesn’t appear on television or in school curricula, and many young Italians aren’t even aware of its existence.
4. Kashubian (Poland)
This Slavic language from northern Poland is related to Polish but distinct enough to be classified separately. Although Kashubian is taught in some schools and recognized officially as a minority language, it’s still under threat. Increasingly, Kashubian speakers switch to Polish for economic and social reasons, weakening its transmission to younger generations.
5. Livonian (Latvia)
Livonian, a Finnic language historically spoken along Latvia’s coast, no longer has native speakers. However, efforts to revive it are ongoing, with some individuals learning it as a second language. Immediate action is crucial to prevent Livonian from becoming merely a museum curiosity.
Why It Matters
Language extinction isn’t just about losing words; each language represents unique ways of thinking, storytelling, and understanding the world. When a language disappears, a unique perspective of the world vanishes with it. Europe might be politically and economically integrated, but culturally it’s a mosaic. Preserving this mosaic means protecting even its lesser-known languages.
Bottom Line
Language extinction isn’t just happening in distant, remote regions. It’s happening right here in Europe, sometimes just hours away from major cities. Recognizing and supporting these languages through education, media exposure, and public policy can make the difference between survival and silence.
Want to help? Start by learning a few phrases, supporting local language initiatives, or simply spreading awareness. Every little effort counts.
