Why Is English the Official Language of the European Union?
England, a part of Great Britain, is not a member of the European Union (EU). However, English is one of the official languages of the EU, a fact that might lead one to question its origins and significance.
Geographical Quirks of Great Britain
Great Britain is an island composed of England, Scotland, and Wales. This archipelago in the Northern Atlantic is a geographical feature and, as such, it is not a member of anything. The importance of this fact is merely academic; practically, it affects the understanding of political and linguistic structures within Europe.
The choice of English as an official language of the EU is primarily based on its widespread usage across different regions and its status as an international language. Despite the fact that countries like Ireland and Malta have English as an official language, it does not mean that English originated from or belongs solely to these places.
English as an International Standard
English is not merely a language used in a particular country; it is recognized as the International language. This can be seen in various global contexts, such as international travel and business, where English facilitates communication among people from different linguistic backgrounds.
A Journey Through Europe
During a trip to Croatia, I observed firsthand how the use of English transcends national borders. While traveling with my wife, we found ourselves on a beach where a children's entertainer used English to communicate with children from different European countries. Similarly, in a large hotel in the capital of Croatia, all signs, including emergency instructions, were in English.
Our career as a traveling professional involved frequent trips around the world. It became increasingly apparent that English was a practical choice for communication in various European countries. On a one-week car tour, we often encountered a mix of languages, but English was the one common language that worked across different countries.
A Personal Experience
One memorable occasion was when I arrived at a steel works in Italy to install a machine. The manager was upset because the company had sent an English-speaking individual who did not speak Italian. In response, I highlighted my extensive experience working with clients in multiple countries and pointed out the company's language policy stipulating that all employees must be proficient in English. This policy is stringent, recognizing the international nature of its business.
Conclusion
English is more than just the official language of a country; it is a lingua franca used widely around the globe. This feature makes it a practical choice for communication among people from different linguistic backgrounds, including throughout Europe. Whether through personal experiences or professional encounters, the importance of English as an international language is evident in its widespread usage in various cultural and linguistic contexts.
My final thought as we prepare for a ferry to France and a drive through Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany, is that English is the common thread that connects these diverse linguistic backgrounds. This journey, with its mix of six languages in one day, only reinforces the importance of English as a universal language.
It is indeed remarkable how one language can unite people across different cultures and countries, demonstrating the power of English as a United Nations' language in a diverse world.