The United Nations has chosen 20th March every year as the International French Language Day. The UN’s Department of Public Information in 2010 celebrated multilingualism and cultural diversity.
What is the History of International French Language Day?
20th March was selected as the International French Language Day because it coincides with the 40th Anniversary of the International Organization of La Francophonie. La Francophonie’s members shared a common tongue and the humanist values promoted by the French Language.
What is the Importance of the French Language all over the World?
French is spoken in more than 25 countries and is one of the primary romance languages all across the globe. It is the only language that has many dialects. The French language has 275 million people speaking fluently in a language influenced by their culture all over the world. French has also remained a language of great philosophers and scientists such as Descartes, Pierre, and Marie Curie. Also, the French language has the most extensive international network of cultural institutes, which help promote linguistic diversity in the world.
How do we celebrate International French Language Day?
The First-ever celebrations of the French Language took place on 20th March 2011 as it coincided with the 40th Anniversary of the International Organization of La Francophonie group. The world body’s New York Headquarters presented documentation and information in the French language on this day. The “UN in action” documentary series was made available in the French Language.
La Francophonie has adopted a charter that includes the following four missions to promote the French language all across the world:
- To Promote the French language and cultural and linguistic diversity.
- To promote peace, democracy, and human rights.
- To support education, training higher education, and scientific research.
- To expand cooperation for sustainable development.
The United Nations always had the belief that language has the power to change cultural and social attitudes; the use of inclusive language is an excellent way to promote gender inequality and combat prejudices.
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