The Gurbetties of Cyprus: Identity, Marginalisation and Language Preservation
The seminar explores the Gurbetties of Cyprus, a Roma community officially classified within the Turkish Cypriot community yet remaining socially marginalised and largely invisible. It situates the community within its historical and socio-political context, examining issues of identity, exclusion, and limited institutional recognition. Particular attention is given to Gurbetcha, their endangered mixed language, as a key marker of cultural identity and community cohesion. The presentation discusses the social conditions contributing to language shift and decline, highlighting the connection between marginalisation and linguistic vulnerability. It concludes by outlining strategies for documentation, education, and policy support aimed at strengthening visibility and long-term sustainability.
Dr. Chryso Pelekani
Dr. Chryso Pelekani is a Special Scientist at the Language Center of the University of Cyprus and a turcologist at the 18th Agios Antonios Primary School in Limassol, supporting communication between Roma and non-Roma communities. She is the President of the Association of Roma and Friends (Cyprus). She holds a PhD in Turkish Studies, and her research focuses on the Gurbetties of Cyprus and the preservation of the Gurbetcha language, alongside participation in European projects on multilingualism and minority language policies.