CELC Conferences and Workshops
Twelfth Cambridge Conference on Language Endangerment
Language Endangerment and Revitalization: Language planning, Variation and the Speech Community
July 13th 2026
Venue
Alison Richard Building, 7 West Road, Cambridge CB3 9DT
Organisers
- Mari Jones (French Section, Faculty of Modern & Medieval Languages & Linguistics / Peterhouse, University of Cambridge) mcj11@cam.ac.uk
- Oliver Mayeux (French Section, Faculty of Modern & Medieval Languages & Linguistics / Peterhouse, University of Cambridge) ofm23@cam.ac.uk
Call for papers
Recent years have seen considerable advances made in our understanding of both the social and linguistic dynamics of language endangerment and revitalization. In this context, we seek to explore new approaches to the notion of language planning in minority speech communities. We invite papers that reflect on issues including the following: is it possible to undertake language planning without also undertaking identity planning in parallel? To what extent does language planning imply standardization, and how are competing standards reconciled in the community? Does language planning in revitalization necessarily imply elimination of linguistic variation? What is the interaction between language planning and shifts in language ideologies? What are the implications of language planning on community and individual identities? Which actors have a stake in language planning? How do processes of language variation and change interact with language planning?
Abstracts: Abstracts of 200 words maximum should be submitted here via EasyAbs by 15 March 2026. Please submit in docx/odt or similar, including in your abstract your current academic affiliation and whether or not you are a student.
Paper format: 20 minutes + questions.
We regret that we cannot offer the possibility of virtual participation at the conference.
Registration
Registration is now open. The standard fee is £35 with a reduced fee of £30 for students (proof of student status will need to be presented). This includes lunch, coffee breaks and a drinks reception at Peterhouse. Please note that registration will only work for one delegate at a time.
Registration closes on July 1st 2026. We regret that it is not possible to register after this deadline and that it is not possible for delegates to register or pay on the day of the conference.
Accommodation
The organisers are unable to arrange or help book accommodation. However, the following websites may be useful: