The fragility of minority languages is becoming apparent in a globalizing world. Linguists, civil society organizations, local communities, governments and supranational organizations are advocating for maintaining and reviving endangered languages to preserve the world's cultural heritage and indigenous peoples' cultures and identities.

This publication, the first of a two-volume set entitled Minority Language in Today's Global Society, is intended as a small contribution to this effort, and examines issues concerning the status of minority languages with a special focus on the Tibetan language and its dialects. The legal issues and policy framework surrounding minority language use, as well as strategies for language revitalization, are also addressed.

This work is part of Dendzom, a publication series by Trace Foundation, which supports the continuity and development of Tibetan culture, language and places, improving lives and strengthening communities on the Tibetan plateau.