Sorbian, Lower
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A language of Germany
Alternate Names
Bas Sorabe, Delnoserbski, Dolnoserbska reč, Lluzykie, Lower Lusatian, Lusatian, Luzycki, Niedersorbisch, Wendish
Autonym
Dolnoserbski, Dolnoserbšćina
User Population
6,670 (Salminen 2007). 20,000–30,000 total Sorbian, one-third in lower Lusatia, two-thirds in upper Lusatia (Salminen 2007). Ethnic population: 50,000.
Location
Brandenburg state: Niederlausitz town, Cottbus is the main town.
Language Status
8a (Moribund). Statutory language of provincial identity in Brandenburg (1992, Constitution, Article 25).
Language Use
Older adults only. Shifted to Standard German [deu].
Language Development
Newspapers. Radio. TV. Dictionary. Grammar. Texts. Bible: 1796–1824.
Sorbian has lost much of its former public support after the unification of Germany. Many Sorbian schools have been closed (Salminen 2007).