Syriac MP George Aslan addresses Turkish Parliament in native language, calls for preservation of linguistic diversity

ANKARA — In a historic moment, Syriac Member of Turkish Parliament George Aslan (Halkların Eşitlik ve Demokrasi Partisi, DEM Party) delivered a speech in his native Syriac to commemorate International Mother Language Day. His address highlighted the marginalization of non-Turkish languages in Turkey and underscored the urgent need to preserve endangered linguistic traditions.

Language as Cultural Legacy

Speaking in Syriac, Aslan emphasized that language is more than a tool for communication — it represents the cultural and historical memory of a people. He stressed that linguistic diversity is vital for social cohesion and that protecting endangered languages is a shared societal responsibility.

Endangered Languages in Turkey

Drawing attention to UNESCO reports, Aslan noted that at least 15 languages in Turkey, including Syriac and Armenian, are at risk of extinction. He lamented the long-standing discriminatory policies that have marginalized these languages in public life, contributing to their decline.

Aslan called on citizens to embrace and preserve their mother tongues, asserting that every individual has the right to education and public expression in their native language. He urged the government to adopt policies that support language learning and protect Turkey’s linguistic heritage.

Impact of Language Suppression

Alsan criticized restrictions on the use of non-Turkish languages, arguing that such policies erode not only the languages themselves but also the cultural identities of entire communities. He condemned measures such as the removal of multilingual signage, the closure of minority language schools, and the ban on non-Turkish speeches in Parliament, calling these actions violations of human rights and cultural diversity.

Vision for Inclusive Language Policies

In closing, Aslan reaffirmed that respect for linguistic diversity is essential to a thriving democracy. He called on policymakers to establish robust protections for endangered languages and integrate them into education and media as an integral part of Turkey’s cultural identity.

Aslan’s speech served as a powerful reminder that linguistic rights are human rights and that safeguarding them is fundamental to building an inclusive and democratic society.