Russian Language Journal
Author ORCID Identifier
Keywords
Security cooperation, Russian as a lingua franca, Russian language, career readiness
Abstract
As Slavic language programs seek to align their curricula with workforce needs, the role of Russian and other Slavic languages in military and government service presents unique challenges and opportunities. This paper examines how linguistic training, particularly in Russian, can be better structured for students at American universities and colleges who wish to pursue government and security-related careers. Drawing on 30 interviews with native and non-native Russian speakers serving in the U.S. Army, this study explores the implications of using Russian as a lingua franca for U.S. military cooperation with former Soviet states. Given the political sensitivities surrounding the Russian language, due to its association with Kremlin foreign policy, military personnel often face challenging dilemmas in cross-cultural communication. While local titular languages may be preferable, proficiency gaps necessitate continued reliance on Russian. This paper identifies strategies that military personnel have successfully employed to navigate these challenges and mitigate potential stigma. It further considers how these insights can inform the design of career-oriented language training programs in civilian academic institutions, ensuring that students preparing for government and security-related careers develop the linguistic and cultural competencies necessary for effective engagement in multilingual and multicultural environments.
Recommended Citation
Medford, D. (2026). Russian as a Lingua Franca in a Security Cooperation Context: Designing Career-Oriented Language Training Programs. Russian Language Journal, 76(1). https://doi.org/10.70163/2831-9737.1555
