Why is language such an important factor in how people live their daily lives in federations? How does language impact on how people interact with governance systems and each other in federal and multilevel countries? In the first part of our two part mini-series on language policy and federalism, we explore language and its relationship to identity, community, and the state. And we delve in to the complex issue of language dynamics in Canada, India and South Africa. Joining us on this episode: Leslie Seidle, Public Policy Consultant and Senior Advisor, Forum of Federations Asha Sarangi, Professor of Political Science, Jawaharlal Nehru University Linda Cardinal, Assistant Vice Rector Research, Université de l’Ontario français Miranda Huron, Director of Indigenous Affairs and Education, Capilano University Michelle Maziwisa, Programme Manager, Human Rights and Democratisation in Africa Master's Programme, Centre for Human Rights, University of Pretoria The Forum’s compendium on language policy in federal and devolved countries will be out soon! Stay tuned to forumfed.org and our social media channels for more info. If you're looking for more cutting-edge multilevel governance content, check out our Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube channels. Don’t forget to stay in touch! Send us your thoughts on this and other episodes as well as ideas for future topics you’d like to hear discussed to podcast@forumfed.org. Hosted by Jamie Thomas and Liam Whittington. Written and produced by Liam Whittington.