Official language policies in post-independence Cape Verde: the construction of a nation

Abstract

This work analyses the language policies developed in Cape Verde where Portuguese, official language, and Capeverdean, national language and “official language under construction”, share the interactional spaces. Language policies in vitro (CALVET, 2002 [1993], 2007) implemented by the State after the Independence of the country are investigated. These policies are characterized as answers to internal requirements – the construction of the nation and of the administrative instruments – and external requirements – policies oriented by international organisms. The State has promoted the Capeverdean language as the language of the tradition and of the national identity. The Portuguese language is related to progress and international dialogue.