ETHNOGENESIS, LINGUISTIC CHARACTERISTICS, AND CULTURAL INTERACTIONS OF CERTAIN ETHNIC GROUPS IN AFGHANISTAN

Abstract

This article analyzes the ethnic formation, linguistic characteristics, and cultural interactions of certain ethnic groups living in Afghanistan—namely the Elkhani, Fergana-origin groups, Kazakhs, Tatars, Mirzoyis, Aimaqs, Hazaras, Turkmens, and Jogi communities. The study examines the ethnogenesis of these groups in connection with Turkic-Mongol elements, patterns of bilingualism, and changes in language use and ethnic identity depending on the region of residence. It also highlights the influence of the education system, marital relations, and the social environment on ethnic identification. The article contributes to a better understanding of ethnic and linguistic processes within Afghanistan’s multiethnic society.