The Role of Language in the Transnational Formation of Romani Identity

This project set out to investigate the ongoing role of language in forging the modern Romani identity and in turn shed light on our theoretical understanding of transnational and diasporic identity formation in the age of globalisation.

The emergence of new Romani political, cultural and religious networks supported by trans organisations and the rise of electronic communication have contributed to a massive expansion of Romani into new domains. Romani is a fascinating test case for the role that language plays in the consolidation of identity in a globalised world.

This project investigated what roles language has played in forging the modern Romani identity. These roles include as:

• a key cultural asset providing a foundation for identity
• an emblem of identity
• a medium through which identity is presented and communicated

The project also explored the:

• role new technologies play in the innovative use and shaping of language
• extent to which European-led initiatives and processes have helped raise the profile of Romani in individual countries