Safeguarding linguistic diversity in Fiji: an overview of Indigenous language revitalisation

Language transcends mere communication; it encapsulates cultural identity, family legacy, spiritual ties to a place and a sense of communal belonging. The rapid decline in linguistic diversity—particularly among Indigenous languages—poses a significant risk to intangible cultural heritage, especially during the phase of the International Decade of Indigenous Languages (2022–2032) and beyond. This research reviews the urgent need to revitalise, safeguard, and advocate for endangered Indigenous languages and their major constraints, including iTaukei, Fiji Hindi and Rotuma, focusing on the Fijian context. The research conducts a thorough analysis of existing literature and secondary data sources to estimate the extent of language endangerment in Fiji (in total, Oceania countries represent 22.9% of all languages in the world, and have gone through linguistic colonisation), assesses current preservation efforts, and identifies critical obstacles and methods for sustainable linguistic and cultural continuity. The results seek to influence policy discussions and promote proactive, community-driven strategies to preserve the linguistic legacy for future generations.