Linguistic Justice and Ethnic Minority Education in Vietnam

Abstract The relationship between language and education is deeply intertwined, with each domain exerting a profound influence upon the other. Drawing on international law on minority rights, the right to education and protection of endangered languages, this article seeks to probe the extent to which linguistic justice in the education of ethnic minorities in Vietnam is realized, an important issue in the preservation and promotion of ethnic cultural identity and linguistic diversity. It argues that despite the alignment of Vietnamese laws with international standards, as suggested by a legal positivist approach, ethnic minorities in Vietnam still encounter significant challenges when attempting to use their native languages in educational contexts. This article examines the hurdles faced by ethnic minorities in Vietnam in achieving linguistic justice for ethnic minorities in Vietnam from the perspective of international law. By exploring this intersection, it contributes to a deeper understanding of the complex issues surrounding language rights and minority rights within the context of Vietnamese education policy.