Is the Welsh Language Dying? Discover Why the Answer is No
The Welsh language has survived centuries of political and social change, yet debates about its future persist. This article explores the current state of the Welsh language, its deep historical roots, and the efforts to secure its future. We will also discuss how learners can contribute to its growth by taking Welsh courses in London and other cities, whether for personal interest, cultural connection, or professional use. If you've ever asked yourself “is the Welsh language dying?”, the answer may surprise you.
Table of Contents
→Sign Up Now: Free Trial Welsh Lesson With a Native Teacher!←
Is the Welsh Language Dying?
Recent data presents a nuanced picture of the Welsh language's status. According to the 2021 census, approximately 538,000 people in Wales speak Welsh, which accounts for 17.8% of the population. This marks a decline from 19% in 2011, raising concerns about the language’s long-term survival. However, other surveys provide a more optimistic view. The Annual Population Survey suggests that 29.5% of the population aged three or older were able to speak Welsh as of September 2021, which is significantly higher than the census data. This discrepancy highlights the complexity of tracking language use, as self-reported ability may differ depending on how the question is framed and whether respondents feel confident identifying as Welsh speakers.
Despite these figures, Welsh remains one of the most robust minority languages in Europe, supported by government policies and grassroots activism. The Welsh government has set an ambitious goal to increase the number of speakers to one million by 2050. To achieve this, they have invested in Welsh-medium education, expanded Welsh-language media, and introduced policies to promote its use in workplaces and public life. Interestingly, UNESCO does not classify Welsh as an endangered language, unlike other Celtic languages such as Irish and Scottish Gaelic. This suggests that, although Welsh faces challenges, its decline is not inevitable and largely depends on continued institutional and societal support.
What is the History of the Welsh Language?
Welsh is one of the oldest languages in Europe, with origins tracing back over 4,000 years. It evolved from the Brittonic branch of the Celtic language family, which was once spoken across much of Britain. The language developed through several stages: Primitive Welsh (6th–8th centuries), Old Welsh (9th–11th centuries), Middle Welsh (12th–14th centuries), and Modern Welsh from the 15th century onward. The oldest surviving Welsh text, Y Gododdin, dates back to around the 9th or 10th century, demonstrating the language’s deep literary tradition.
For much of the Middle Ages, Welsh was widely spoken across Wales and even parts of England. However, political events, particularly the Laws in Wales Acts of 1535 and 1542 under Henry VIII, led to English becoming the dominant language in administration and education. Over time, English encroached on Welsh-speaking communities, particularly in urban areas and among the upper classes. By the 19th and early 20th centuries, Welsh faced a steep decline due to policies that discouraged its use, such as the infamous "Welsh Not," a punishment system in schools that discouraged children from speaking their native language. Despite these challenges, Welsh never fully disappeared, and a cultural revival began in the 20th century, leading to legal protections, bilingual road signs, and the establishment of S4C, a Welsh-language television channel, in 1982.
What Does the Future Hold for the Welsh Language?
The future of the Welsh language depends on a combination of government initiatives, education, and community engagement. The Welsh government has set clear targets for language revitalisation, including increasing the number of Welsh speakers to one million by 2050. Education plays a crucial role in achieving this goal, with Welsh-medium schools providing young people with a strong foundation in the language. These schools have been instrumental in reversing declines in Welsh fluency, as studies show that children who attend them are far more likely to continue using Welsh into adulthood.
Beyond formal education, community and cultural initiatives are essential for keeping Welsh alive as a living language. Events like Dydd Miwsig Cymru (Welsh Language Music Day) and the Eisteddfod, an annual festival celebrating Welsh literature, music, and performance, help normalise Welsh in modern settings. Welsh-language media, including BBC Radio Cymru and S4C, offer entertainment and news content, ensuring that the Welsh language remains a practical and relevant language in daily life. Additionally, new policies, such as requiring more Welsh in workplaces and expanding bilingual signage, help reinforce its presence in public spaces.
However, challenges remain. The census figures indicate that the Welsh language is declining in some traditionally strong areas, particularly Carmarthenshire, where the proportion of speakers fell significantly between 2011 and 2021. Some linguists argue that revitalisation efforts should focus not only on education but also on maintaining Welsh as a community language where it is already spoken. This would involve greater economic incentives for businesses to operate in Welsh and encouraging its use in social settings beyond schools.
So, is the Welsh language dying? We think not. Ultimately, Welsh has survived centuries of political and social change, and with sustained effort, it is likely to remain a key part of Wales’ identity. The next few decades will be crucial in determining whether efforts to increase the number of speakers succeed or if the language continues to decline in daily use
Where Can I Find Welsh Courses?
For anyone looking to learn Welsh, Listen & Learn offers a flexible and highly personalised approach that makes mastering the language both effective and enjoyable. Unlike generic Welsh courses that follow a rigid curriculum, we specialise in one-to-one lessons with native Welsh teachers, ensuring that each course is tailored to the student’s goals, level, and learning style.
One of the key advantages of our tailor-made Welsh courses is convenience. If you prefer face-to-face lessons, our teachers can come to your home or meet you in another convenient location, such as a library, café, or workplace. If flexibility is a priority, we also offer online courses, allowing students to learn Welsh from anywhere in the world. Whether you're preparing for a move to Wales, want to reconnect with your heritage, or simply enjoy learning new languages, our courses adapt to your needs.
At Listen & Learn, there is no fixed lesson plan for everyone. Instead, Welsh courses are customised to match each student's objectives. For example:
- A student moving to Wales for work may focus on business Welsh and workplace communication.
- Someone with Welsh-speaking family members may prioritise casual conversations and everyday phrases.
- A history enthusiast may prefer a course that incorporates Welsh literature and traditional storytelling.
→Sign Up Now: Free Trial Welsh Lesson With a Native Teacher!←
So, is the Welsh language dying? Not on our watch! Our Welsh courses don’t just teach the language; they immerse students in Welsh culture. Language and culture go hand in hand, so we integrate elements like Welsh traditions, music, and local expressions into lessons. This cultural focus helps learners understand not just the words, but the context in which they are used, making it easier to use Welsh naturally in real-life situations.
Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to refine your skills, our native-speaking teachers provide the guidance and real-world practice you need. If you're ready to start your journey with a Welsh course designed just for you, contact Listen & Learn today!