Sorbian, Lower
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A language of Germany
ISO 639-3
Alternate Names
Bas Sorabe, Delnoserbski, Lluzykie, Lower Lusatian, Lusatian, Luzycki, Niedersorbisch, Wendish
Autonym
Dolnoserbski
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 (Dolna Luzica), Cottbus (Chósebuz) main town; ethnic group in over 60 towns and villages.
Language Status
7 (Shifting). Statutory language of provincial identity in Brandenburg (1992, Constitution, Article 25).
Classification
Language Use
Older adults.
Language Development
Newspapers. Radio. TV. Bible: 1796–1824.
Language Resources
Writing
Latin script [Latn].
Sorbian has lost much of its former public support after the unification of Germany. Many Sorbian schools have been closed (Salminen 2007).