.jpg)
History of HIGA
Meeting of Young Speakers of Minoritized Languages
What is HIGA?
HIGA (Association of Young Speakers of Minoritized Languages) is a unique global platform aimed at creating, strengthening, and expanding networks among young activists working for minoritized languages.
It combines community-based collaboration, critical training, and participatory projects, all from a feminist and intersectional perspective.
Founded in Vitoria-Gasteiz (Basque Country), HIGA is not just a meeting: it is a space for learning, a space for collective creation, and a global platform for linguistic activism.
HIGA's trajectory
Where do we come from and where are we going?
❖ 2011 | The First HIGA (Beginnings)
The first edition was held in Vitoria-Gasteiz, bringing together young Basque speakers and others from nearby languages. It was the first time that critical sociolinguistics and linguistic activism were combined in this format.
❖ 2018 | Going International
75 young participants took part, representing 35 minoritized languages. The structure became more organized: training sessions in the mornings and collective projects in the afternoons. Representation from Latin American and African languages grew significantly.
❖ 2021 | Hybrid Format (e-GA)
Due to the pandemic, in-person and online formats were combined. Innovative digital content was created, and awards were given to the best audiovisual productions made specifically for HIGA.
❖ 2023 | Greater Diversity
75 participants gathered, representing 55 minoritized languages. The digital platform HIGA Plaza was launched, and collaborative project spaces were created. Creative workshops and participatory activities in defense of minoritized languages became central.
❖ 2025 | HIGA 2025 (In Progress)
This edition will take place in Vitoria-Gasteiz from July 14 to 18. Over 400 applications were received, representing 190 languages. 75 participants were selected, representing more than 55 different languages. This will be the most diverse edition in HIGA’s history.
❖ Looking Ahead: HIGA Plaza and Beyond
HIGA is not just a one-time gathering. A digital platform — HIGA Plaza — is being developed to ensure ongoing connections between participants, access to linguistic resources, and continuity of shared projects.
In addition, active partnerships have been established with UNESCO, Wikimedia, EITB, TV3, and other international organizations, all with the goal of supporting the revitalization of minoritized languages.
Location and legal form
❖ Registered Address (for official registration purposes)
Fray Zacarías Martínez kalea 9-6, 2.d, 01001 Gasteiz (Araba, Euskal Herria)
❖ No Physical Office
HIGA does not have a permanent physical office or a fixed space of its own. As a non-profit association, its main activities are based in Vitoria-Gasteiz, where the biennial gathering is organized.
❖ Registration
NIF: G19910041 · RNA: Section 1 – Natioonal No.: 629745
❖ Legal Status
Non-profit association