The Scottish Languages Bill has officially become law, marking a historic step in protecting and promoting Scotland’s native tongues.
The legislation, which follows Royal Assent, comes two decades after the Gaelic Language Act and is the first time the Scots language has received support in law.
Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes, herself a Gaelic speaker, described the moment as deeply significant for Scotland’s cultural identity and future.
“As a Gaelic speaker, I am incredibly proud that our landmark Scottish Languages Bill has become law,” she said.
“The Act will strengthen the rights of parents to ask for a Gaelic school to be established in their area, ensure that more qualifications are available in Gaelic and introduce targets on the number of people speaking and learning Gaelic.”
The Bill also commits the Scottish Government to promote Scots, reflecting its importance as a living language across communities.
To accelerate growth, an additional £5.7 million will be invested this year to promote Gaelic and Scots.
That funding will also help sustain Gaelic‑speaking communities, encouraging more people to live and work in the areas where the language is still widely spoken.
The legislation is being hailed as a landmark in Scotland’s cultural story, one that recognises the heritage of its languages and the role they play in shaping identity for future generations.
