Multilingual dynamics in the wake of COVID-19: a comparative study on home language shifts across four countries

• Meir, Natalia ^[1] ; Karpava, Sviatlana ^[2] ; Ringblom, Natalia ^[3] ; Warditz, Vladislava ^[4]
  1. [1] Bar-Ilan University

     Bar-Ilan University

     Israel

     
  2. [2] University of Cyprus

     University of Cyprus

     Chipre

     
  3. [3] Umeå University

     Umeå University

     Suecia

     
  4. [4] University of Potsdam

     University of Potsdam

     Kreisfreie Stadt Potsdam, Alemania

     

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• Localización: International journal of multilingualism, ISSN 1479-0718, Vol. 23, Nº. 1, 2026, págs. 357-383
• Idioma: inglés
• Texto completo no disponible (Saber más ...)
• Resumen

  • This study explores language shifts in multilingual families during the COVID-19 pandemic across Cyprus, Germany, Israel, and Sweden, employing the Family Language Policy (FLP) framework. It addresses critical gaps in FLP literature by examining how external disruptions affect the maintenance and sustainability of minority home language (HL) and country language (CL). The study provides new perspectives on the flexibility of FLP in rapidly changing environments. Data were collected via an online survey for 807 multilingual children across four countries: Cyprus (n = 74), Germany (n = 291), Israel (n = 370), and Sweden (n = 92). Participants reported speaking 39 different mother tongues; their partners reported 41. Russian emerged as the most common HL, spoken by 50% of respondents and 36% of spouses. We evaluated language shifts in caregivers and children, noting no significant change in Cyprus, while respondents in Germany, Israel, and Sweden reported increased HL use. Using network analysis, we revealed complex interdependencies among factors influencing HL and CL shifts. In HL-Russian families, child community language proficiency and home activity engagement were most influential. In other HL groups, respondent–child interaction was central. These findings advance FLP theory and demonstrate the broader impact of crises on language practices, underscoring the need for adaptive, supportive language policies.