This stunning visualization breaks down all the major world languages, based on their total native speakers and country of origin.
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2. Language forecast
At this point in time, English is the lingua franca – adopted as a common language among speakers with different mother tongues. However, this status might soon be fuzzier as demographic trends continue.
The rise of China is an obvious one to consider. As China continues to increase its economic might and influence, its languages will proliferate as well.
At the same time, 26 African countries are projected to double their current size, many of which speak French as a first language. One study by investment bank Natixis suggests that Africa’s growth may well bring French to the forefront – making it the most-spoken language by 2050.
Could French provide a certain je ne sais quoi that no other world language can quite replace?
Dus Frans en Spaans meer aandacht geven in het onderwijs?
Regeren is vooruitzien :)
Deze factsheet bevat nog meer interessante informatie; zo blijkt Spaan wereldwijd de 2e taal te zijn en niet het Engels !