Introduction in Croatian dialects and non standard speeches in public space

Guest lecture by Ivančica Banković-Mandić, PhD, Croaticum – Centre for Croatian as a Second and Foreign Language (University of Zagreb).

The presentation will discuss the presence of non-standard linguistic varieties of the Croatian language today and within the Yugoslav media space during the SFRJ period (1945-1991). Although the Yugoslav media space aimed for a unified identity, dialects thrived in comedic series produced by then Zagreb Television (Croatian Television). Despite Croatian humor being considered inferior to Belgrade’s (Serbian), some Croatian TV series (e.g., Gruntovčani, Naše malo misto) gained significant popularity across Yugoslavia. The TV series Naše malo misto faced political criticism for its language - specifically the presence of Italianisms - and ideological stances (as it mocked members of the Communist Party).

After the dissolution of Yugoslavia, Croatian dialects and non-standard speech became more prominent in films, theater, and television programs. Dubbing animated films in dialects became particularly popular. Non-standard idioms are present in various reality shows and online portals. While the political left tends to favor dialects and the right prefers linguistic purism, dialects and non-standard speech remain present in Croatian media regardless of the ruling political party.

Today, Croatian dialects hold cultural heritage status (e.g., Čabar dialects are protected as intangible cultural heritage), and the media play a key role in both - preserving dialects and promoting linguistic globalization. Dialects do not threaten the standard language but rather enrich cultural identity.

The future of the Croatian language depends on maintaining a balance between the standard language and regional varieties.

In the European context, a dual approach is observed - both the promotion of local idioms and the dominance of global languages.