The Saami people have inhabited the northern region of Scandinavia since ancient times, and their unique culture, history, and way of life continues to attract interest from around the world. One aspect of Saami culture that immediately stands out is their linguistic heritage. In this blog post, we will explore the languages spoken by the Saami people, delving into the structure, the dialects, and the efforts to preserve and revitalize their native tongue.
The Saami Language Family
The language of the Saami people belongs to the
Uralic language family, making it quite distinct from its neighboring Scandinavian languages such as Swedish, Norwegian, and Finnish. It is important to note that there is not just one Saami language, but, in fact, a collection of closely related languages known as the
Saami languages. The number of distinct Saami languages ranges from nine to eleven, depending on the criteria used for classification. These languages are further classified into three main branches: Eastern, Central, and Southern Saami.
Dialects and Distribution
Each Saami language encompasses multiple dialects, with significant variation in vocabulary, grammar, and phonology. Some dialects are mutually intelligible, while others might require the help of a translator. Some of the most widely spoken Saami languages include
North Saami,
Inari Saami, and
Skolt Saami.
North Saami, considered the largest and most widely spoken of the Saami languages, is the primary language used in many Saami communities across Norway, Sweden, and Finland. Inari Saami is spoken by a smaller population, primarily in the Inari region of Finland, while Skolt Saami can be found in the Sevettijärvi region, also in Finland.
Saami languages are predominantly used in the northern regions of Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia within the area traditionally known as Sápmi, the homeland of the Saami people. It is estimated that around 20,000 to 35,000 people still speak Saami languages today.
Efforts to Preserve and Revitalize Saami Languages
Like many
indigenous languages worldwide, Saami languages face the threat of extinction due to the influence of dominant languages, globalization, and
cultural assimilation. Efforts have been made in recent years to preserve and revitalize Saami languages through legislation, education, and media.
Some countries, such as Finland and Norway, have passed laws to provide official status to certain Saami languages, which grants them the right to be used in official contexts alongside national languages. Additionally, there has been increased emphasis on teaching Saami languages in schools within Sápmi, with some institutions offering specialized courses in Saami linguistics, culture, and history.
Saami-language media, such as television programs, radio stations, and online publications, also plays a crucial role in sustaining and promoting these languages.
In conclusion, the Saami people of northern Scandinavia have a diverse linguistic heritage that spans multiple languages and dialects. Belonging to the Uralic language family, the Saami languages are a unique and distinct element of the Saami identity. As efforts to preserve and revitalize these languages continue, researchers and language enthusiasts worldwide can take part in appreciating and celebrating the rich linguistic tapestry that the Saami people have woven over centuries.