The Globalisation Of French
French today is considered a top lingua franca and is the official language of 32 states and governments, that connects 321 million speakers worldwide, opening doors to global economic and cultural exchanges. Through influences in international diplomacy, business and the arts, the French language has enormous world-wide influence and is currently one of the six official languages of the United Nations.
Diplomatic Influences
Between the 17th and 19th centuries, France established multiple colonies around the world, transforming the local indigenous languages and culture of a number of nations in Africa, the Caribbean and South Pacific. During the earlier part of this period, French emerged as a language of diplomacy in Europe. Influences from the national court and individuals such as Napoleon Bonaparte helped establish it as the language medium for international agreements, including the Treaty of Versailles that ended the first world war.
Emerging Markets
Africa is a current emerging market with large economic potential, which has led to an elevated use of the French language within global business and trade. It is the primary language in regional economic organisations such as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) which promotes economic integration and collaboration. The Canadian province of Quebec, on the other hand, has increased the use of the language in the conducting of investments and trade through its significant economic influence in North America within the areas of technology and aerospace.
The Cultural Influences Of French
National culture has also played a vital role in the promotion of the language worldwide; literary influences such as the work of the author Victor Hugo, fashion brands such as Luis Vuitton and the popularity of the country’s cuisine have added to the allure and captivation of language and culture.
Films showcasing French dialogue have gained large attention at the Cannes Film Festival, while TV shows such as Lupin are watched globally through streaming channels, helping to introduce the country’s media to a global audience. Musicians such as Daft Punk often include French lyrics and influences that help increase exposure and appeal.
Current Challenges
Despite the popularity of French, English is still considered the dominant global lingua franca, and continues to prevail in international business settings and within media and technology. Its own regional dialects, variations and language hybridisation also pose a threat to French standardisation. The use of English words, especially in French business settings such as ‘email’ and ‘big data’, are an ongoing cause for concern for the Académie Français, which is fighting to retain the purity of the language.
If you are interested in studying French, Oxford Home Schooling offer the chance to do so at IGCSE and A level level, linked below. You can also Contact Us for more information directly.
Gavin Crewe is a regular contributor of informative articles to Oxford Home Schooling.
