Francophonie Chief warns of decline in French language despite growing speakers: Video
Secretary General of the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF), Louise Mushikiwabo has raised concerns about the global regression of the French language, despite an increasing number of speakers, particularly in Africa.
Speaking ahead of the 19th Francophonie Summit in France, she highlighted the paradox that while the French language is losing ground in international organisations, especially in Europe, its speakers are growing due to Africa’s youthful population.
"The influence of the Francophone bloc is real on a global scale," Mushikiwabo said, noting that the OIF now includes 88 member states and governments, including entities like Quebec and Wallonia.
However, to maintain and enhance the French language's impact, she stressed the need for greater investment in education. "Many countries are asking us to create teaching programs, but teaching the language is costly. I'll be discussing this with heads of state in the coming days," she said in a discussion with the AFP.
With a total budget of €67 million for all Francophone countries, €28 million of which comes from France, the task is daunting. Mushikiwabo's comments come as France hosts dozens of heads of state and government for the first Francophonie Summit in the country in 33 years.
The event is being held against a backdrop of global crises and is one of several high-profile international events in France this year, alongside the 80th anniversary of D-Day, the Paris Olympics, and the reopening of Notre-Dame Cathedral.
