Taiwan’s Indigenous Language Nests: a Comparative Analysis with Te Kōhanga Reo in New Zealand

This is the authors' abstract. We don't add key points for this paper.

Te Kōhanga Reo, a pioneering initiative in New Zealand aimed at revitalising endangered Indigenous languages, has inspired similar efforts worldwide, including in Taiwan. This study delves into the nuances of language nests by comparing the success of Te Kōhanga Reo among the Māori people and three Kōhanga Reo-inspired programmes in Taiwan. The research reveals that the Taiwanese programmes often lack community involvement and are primarily guided by top-down policy with little autonomy. Government regulations, focused predominantly on linguistic output and influenced by settler-centric policies, also pose additional challenges for community workers. The comparative analysis highlights critical factors for language nest success: community and familial commitment to language transmission, autonomy in programme implementation, and holistic consideration of language revitalisation within the broader Indigenous community context. Drawing from these findings, we propose tailored strategies for language revitalisation in Taiwan, emphasising the importance of aligning initiatives with local needs and cultural dynamics.