15: Primary schools abroad in the context of transnational relations: the example of the Czech diaspora

Abstract

This chapter examines the role of mother tongue education within the transnational experiences of the Czech diaspora, and how Czech language instruction abroad intersects with the mobility of young people and the strategies of families considering a return to Czechia or long-term residence abroad. Based on qualitative research involving 18 interviews with directors and teachers of 15 Czech Heritage Language (HL) schools, the chapter identifies the various types of these schools and their significance in promoting Czech as a heritage language and cultural identity. While schools play an essential role in language and cultural education, they face challenges such as insufficient financial support, lack of tailored educational materials and limited integration with the Czech educational system. The chapter emphasises the need for enhanced collaboration between Czech institutions and HL schools abroad to more effectively support the linguistic and cultural identity of the Czech diaspora.