Understanding the post-Soviet nuclear locality through language policy orientations

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study focuses on a unique case of Visaginas, a Lithuanian post-Soviet nuclear industry site both geographically and mentally marked by the Soviet mono-industrial past, as reflected in its ethnic composition and linguistic practices. This article examines the concept of nuclear exceptionalism in the domain of language policy and patterns applied to the Ignalina Nuclear Power Plant case. It discusses exceptions in the state language legislation during the transition period from Soviet to independent Lithuania and nuclear to post-nuclear industry; moreover, it reflects on more recent developments in linguistic practices of locality.