Zazaki, spoken by over 5 million people in regions such as Bingöl, Elazığ, Siverek, Diyarbakır, and Tunceli in Turkey, faces serious challenges that threaten its existence. Classified as an endangered language by UNESCO, Zazaki stands out with its rich cultural heritage. In an effort to reverse this alarming trend, the Ma’z êst group has emerged as a significant actor in the preservation of this unique language and cultural heritage.

The current status of Zazaki: Zazaki belongs to the Indo-European language family and falls under the Iranian language branch. It plays an important role in the cultural identity of Kurdish communities in Turkey. However, despite its rich historical and cultural significance, Zazaki faces many challenges. Factors such as the increasing influence of Turkish, migration of younger generations to urban areas, and neglect in language policies contribute to the decline of Zazaki.

Recognition by UNESCO: The concerning situation of Zazaki has caught the attention of UNESCO, and the language has been classified as an endangered language. This international recognition highlights the urgency of taking swift action to preserve and revitalize Zazaki. It is crucial to address this important issue with increased awareness and support initiatives aimed at preserving this valuable language.

The role of Ma’z êst: Ma’z êst plays a critical role in the fight for the preservation of Zazaki. Established in 2020 by Tari Hola and a group of volunteer friends, Ma’z êst aims to preserve Zazaki through cultural and educational projects. The group regularly publishes Zazaki magazines and provides a wide range of content focusing on literature, history, science, economics, current events, and politics. Through these efforts, Ma’z êst contributes to the revitalization and promotion of the Zazaki language.