Language policy instruments of a multinational state in the construction of nationalstate identity

Abstract

Introduction. The article presents a description of a methodological approach to analyzing language policy instruments as a system-forming factor in the construction of national-state identity, using the Russian Federation as a case study. The author substantiates the relevance of the research by referencing the adoption of new strategic documents in the Russian Federation (2025–2026), which set the development vectors for the language sphere. Goal. he research is aimed at identifying and systematizing language policy instruments that contribute to strengthening all-Russian civic identity, as well as highlighting the key challenges and prospects for the implementation of this policy in the context of preserving ethnocultural diversity. Materials and methods. The study is based on an analysis of federal and regional normative legal acts (the Constitution of the Russian Federation, Presidential Decrees), international cases (Kazakhstan, Indonesia, India, the Czech Republic), and scholarly publications in sociolinguistics. The methodological framework comprises documentary analysis, a comparative legal method, and the synthesis of empirical data. Results and discussion. The study reveals that language policy is implemented through four universal mechanisms: institutional (establishing the legal status of languages in regulatory acts), educational (language learning at the school and higher education levels), communicative (regulating the public sphere and advertising), and cultural-symbolic (through educational and outreach projects). The Russian model is characterized as multi-component, combining the dominance of the Russian language with support for the languages of the peoples of the Russian Federation. At the same time, acute contradictions between the federal center and regional elites have been identified, along with a systemic problem of declining language literacy among young people. Conclusion. Based on the findings of the conducted research, it can be concluded that the contemporary language policy of the Russian Federation represents a comprehensive strategic resource for societal consolidation. Institutional successes and an expansion of educational program coverage are observed; however, further policy development requires attention to the quality of language education and a cautious approach.