It is suggested that despite its simplicity, neutrality, and practical nature, Esperanto is at risk of extinction because of the growing dominance of English as an international language. It is further proposed that in order to assure its maintenance, Esperantists must federate into a state with political autonomy. The first section of the document examines risks to less commonly spoken languages and their cultures, particularly in Europe, and the encroachment of English and other common modern languages. Problems associated with these language shifts are discussed, especially ways in which English is poorly suited as a universal lingua franca. The second section advances an argument for a politically-based alternative to the spread of English, arguing that Esperanto is the only language ready for the role of universal lingua franca, has a substantial body literary and scientific texts, and has a flexibility unequalled by other existing languages. The third part outlines a short-term linguistic strategy to advance the role of Esperanto. An addendum to the paper is provided specifically for Europeans. (MSE)