O futuro para a língua portuguesa em Timor-Leste

Abstract

This thesis relates to the linguistic situation in Asia, in particular to East-Timor. Untill today, at least a small part of the population speaks a variety of the Portuguese language, as well as a Portuguese-based creole. The purpose of this work is to analyze this linguistic situation. I will take into account the Portuguese heritage, as well as the future of the languages influenced by the Portuguese language. The history of East Timor will be discussed, where I will take notice of the Portuguese-based creoles and the Portuguese variety spoken in that area. By means of a linguistic analysis I will justify traces of the Portuguese language and explain what measures are taken to maintain these traces. Of the many languages in Asia influenced by the Portuguese language, some have disappeared for different reasons. Therefore, I’m greatly interested in analyzing if the Portuguese language will have a future in East Timor.