Dear Colleagues,

Asia represents one of the most linguistically diverse and complex regions in the world, characterized by a rich tapestry of language families, isolates, and contact zones. As globalization and digital connectivity continue to reshape how we communicate, the study of Asian languages—both in their structural distinctiveness and their social interplay—has never been more vital.

We are pleased to announce a new Topical Collection titled “Encyclopedia of Asian Languages and Multilingualism”, which aims to provide a comprehensive platform for documenting and analyzing the languages of Asia, while placing a strong emphasis on the dynamics of bilingualism and multilingualism that define the region.

We invite scholars to submit encyclopedic entries or reviews (rather than original research work). We are particularly interested in contributions that address, but are not limited to, the following themes:

• Descriptive Linguistics: Structural analyses (phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics) of specific Asian languages and dialects.
• Multilingual Practices: Code-switching, translanguaging, and language mixing in Asian contexts.
• Language Acquisition: First and second language acquisition of Asian languages, including heritage language learning.
• Sociolinguistics and Policy: Language planning, education policy, and the status of minority or endangered languages in Asia.
• Language Contact: Historical and contemporary contact-induced changes between Asian languages or between Asian and non-Asian languages.

This collection seeks to bridge the gap between linguistic description and the sociolinguistic realities of multilingual usage. We welcome contributions focusing on any region of Asia (East, Southeast, South, Central, North, or West) and diasporic communities worldwide.

We request that, prior to submitting a manuscript, interested authors initially submit a proposed title and an abstract of 200–300 words summarizing their intended contribution, to be sent to the Collection Editors, Pui Yiu Szeto (pyszeto@gmail.com) and Chingduang Yurayong (chingduang.yurayong@helsinki.fi), and to the Encyclopedia Editorial Office (encyclopedia@mdpi.com). Abstracts will be reviewed by the Collection Editors to ensure they fit properly within the scope of the Topical Collection. Full manuscripts will undergo single-blind peer review.

We look forward to receiving your contributions.

Dr. Pui Yiu Szeto
Dr. Chingduang Yurayong
Collection Editors