Cornish language granted top-level protection
Kernewek now has the same status as Welsh, Irish and Scots Gaelic
The Cornish language, Kernewek, is set to gain the highest level of protection under European treaty with the Government recommending it for Part III status.
This aligns Kernewek with other UK Celtic languages such as Welsh, Irish Gaelic, and Scots Gaelic, firmly recognising its role in Cornwall’s identity and culture.
The announcement follows years of effort by Cornwall Council, alongside local community groups and cultural organisations, committed to preserving Kernewek as a living language.
Councillor Sarah Preece, Portfolio Holder for Tourism, Localism and Planning, said: “Kernewek is a fundamental part of Cornwall’s unique identity.
"We welcome this announcement as a huge step forward, giving the language the recognition and protection it deserves for future generations.”
Councillor Dick Cole, chair of the Fifth Nation Working Group, added: “It is really positive news that the Government has confirmed that Cornish will be covered by Part III of the Charter for Regional or Minority Languages.
"It means that Cornish will have the same status as the other Celtic languages of the United Kingdom – Welsh, Scottish Gaelic and Irish – and I would like to pay tribute to everyone who has campaigned for these greater protections for the Cornish.
“The priority must now be for the Government to work with the people of Cornwall to better support and promote our national language. And we must build on this status to ensure that Cornish nationhood is better reflected in all aspects of the governance of the UK, which needs to include a meaningful devolution settlement.”
Keeping Kernewek alive
With an increasing interest in Kernewek across Cornwall, 2024-2025 saw over a million searches made using the online Cornish dictionary.
Cornwall Council's Cornish Language Team received more than 650 requests during the same period, translating over 32,000 words into Kernewek – representing a 22% increase from the previous year.
More than 200 people annually enrol in Kernewek classes, while the Go Cornish for Primary Schools programme engages nearly 6,000 pupils, teaching them to explore and enjoy the Cornish language.
Cornwall Council Leader Leigh Frost praised the efforts of local organisations and individuals in protecting the language:
“This is brilliant news for Cornwall. Achieving Part III status reflects years of hard work by Cornwall Council, our partners and the many community groups who have fought to keep the Cornish language alive.
"To see Cornish recognised alongside Welsh, Scottish Gaelic and Irish Gaelic is something we can all be extremely proud of.
“Our language is a vital part of who we are. This announcement sends a strong message that Cornish matters, and that it deserves the highest level of support and protection. It’s an important step in strengthening our culture for future generations.”