Comparison of the language vitality between Oroqen and Russian Chinese in the Hulunbuir region of Inner Mongolia, China

Abstract

In this study, the language vitality of Oroqen and Russian Chinese in the Hulunbuir region of Inner Mongolia, China will be examined from a comparative perspective. The goals of the study are to determine the corresponding language vitality and to analyze the factor(s) that cause(s) such difference between these two ecologically very similar language varieties. There are only a few studies in the literature dealing with this topic, and none has followed the specific line of this study. This study employs the nine factors proposed by UNESCO to assess the vitality of a language. The samples from various administrative regions including counties (Erguna city, Oroqen Banner), townships (Labudarlin, Alihe) to the villages (Enhe, Tuohe) were selected. The situation of Oroqens and Chinese Russians and their ethnic languages is examined. The findings of this study revealed the critical factor that there would be insufficient language usage in Oroqen communities, as only a few seniors, and middle-aged Oroqen people still speak the language. Unlike Russian, Oroqen plays no role in business trades, the employment market, education industry etc. Due to this, Oroqen language usage has narrowed down even though Oroqen people still have strong national sentiments. Therefore, for the goal of the revitalization of Oroqen, it is necessary to promote the language usage by people, and make considerable planning as well as the concerted effort from different parties.