Ecuador: language policies and the situation of minority indigenous languages.

Abstract

Language policies are fundamental to regulate and promote the use of languages, involving governmental decisions and the participation of speakers. This study aimed to determine whether language policies in Ecuador to regulate Kichwa marginalize other local varieties. Using a documentary methodology and a bibliographic design, ten specialized articles published in the last eight years were analyzed. The analysis-synthesis method and semantic content analysis allowed for an in-depth interpretation of the data. The results indicated that, although policies favored standard Kichwa, they also marginalized other local varieties, putting them at risk of extinction. This underscores the need for more inclusive policies that promote linguistic diversity as a whole.