State language as a determinative sign of the state

Abstract

The article is devoted to the study of the question of whether and how essential it is the state language as a sign of the state, what is its influence on the formation and development of the state. Language is a universal means of communication of the ethnic community, a spiritual treasure, a cementing basis of national identity. The state-building role of language is manifested in the interaction of a set of functions that ensure the unity and free cultural development of the nation, guarding the preservation of its identity. To determine whether language is a sign of the state, the authors turn to the historical background of its emergence. The modern state in the process of its development and formation in the vast majority also cannot avoid the language issue. The authors consider the preference for a single state, official language to be the most effective way to solve this problem. This need follows from the essence of the state and its nature. The state (official) language is the language to which the state has granted the legal status of a mandatory means of communication in public spheres of public life . Most theorists do not attribute language to the basic features of the state. Someone does not mention language at all in the context of revealing the essential features of the state. Some do not attach special importance to it. Some refer to language as an additional attribute, an attribute of state sovereignty, a full-fledged symbol of the state, along with the flag, coat of arms and anthem. Based on the analysis of the meaning, functions and state-building role of language, the authors come to the conclusion that the state language is the main, inalienable essential and integral feature of the state. The language policy of the state should continue to be directed towards the preservation and protection the Ukrainian language as a single state language, because it is a symbolic attribute of Ukrainian state, a guarantee of the preservation of the national identity of the Ukrainian ethnos and the consolidation of the Ukrainian nation.