Catalan as a Language of Belonging: Motivation and Identity Development Among International University Students

The central role of the Catalan language in shaping local identity is widely acknowledged in Catalan society. However, a significant research gap persists regarding the unique motivations and identity-negotiation processes of the growing cohort of international university students. For this diverse group, learning Catalan is not an inevitable choice but a complex decision-making process. This case study employs semi-structured interviews and thematic and narrative analysis to reveal how international students’ motivations to learn Catalan evolve from pragmatic needs to deeper identity investments. 7 international students (n = 7) are involved from different countries, with Catalan proficiency ranging from A1 to B2, engaging in Catalan language learning classes at Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV). Based on their personal narratives, research examines how this process shapes their self-identity and sense of belonging. The study result reveals that students' engagement with Catalan will synergize with their local community and international education experiences, fostering a sense of belonging through emotional reciprocity, cultural respect, and active social participation. It also offers practical insights for refining inclusive policies and language development within international universities in Spain.