The Sociolinguistic Situation of the Budukh in Azerbaijan

Abstract

This paper presents the results of sociolinguistic research conducted in August 2000 and June 2001 among the Budukh people in northeastern Azerbaijan. The goals of the research were to investigate patterns of language use, bilingualism, and language attitudes with regard to the Budukh and Azerbaijani languages in the Budukh community. Of particular interest are the effects of out-migration from the home area that have resulted in a language shift from Budukh to Azerbaijani. Interviews, observations, and questionnaires were employed.∗