LANGUAGES OF THE PEOPLES OF RUSSIA: EQUAL RIGHTS AND LEGAL STATUS

This article examines the legal regulation of the linguistic sphere within the Russian Federation, with specific attention to the differentiation and interconnectedness of the concepts "legal position of a language" and "legal status of a language". The author critically assesses contemporary legislation concerning the lucidity of definitions and terminological consistency, particularly with regard to the status of "languages of official communication of the population in areas of compact residence". The argument is advanced that the insufficient delineation of these concepts precipitates issues in legal application and diminishes the efficacy of language rights protection. This paper proposes considering the "legal position of a language" as a more expansive category, encompassing not only legal status but also the principles governing language function, safeguards for its preservation and development, and measures designed to protect against distortion and unwarranted borrowing. Key elements of the legal status of a language are analyzed, including its sphere of utilization, legal subjects, the scope of rights and responsibilities, guarantees ensuring operational capacity, and liability for infractions of language legislation. Particular emphasis is placed on the implementation of principles underlying state language policy, encompassing linguistic equality and the protection of cultural heterogeneity. The author concludes that legislative enhancement is necessary to rectify terminological ambiguities and establish more effective mechanisms for the protection of the languages of the peoples of Russia. This article will be of interest to scholars and practitioners in the fields of language law, constitutional law, and ethnopolitics.