Navigating Language and Identity: A Study of Mixed Estonian-Russian Families in Estonia

• In Event: Language Dynamics in Transition: Case Studies from Ukraine, North America, and Estonia

Abstract

This paper investigates language policies and communication dynamics within mixed Estonian-
Russian families residing in Estonia, where the wife is Russian and the husband is Estonian.
Drawing on Spolsky's model of family language policy, the study explores how parents navigate
language transmission to their children and the challenges they encounter. Through qualitative
interviews with 18 Russian wives, the research sheds light on the complexities of maintaining
cultural and linguistic heritage amidst intermarriage and geopolitical tensions, highlighting the importance of language in shaping cultural identity within these families.

Author

• Anastassia Zabrodskaja, Tallinn U (Estonia)