Belgium is a tiny kingdom in the very center of Europe. It is loved by millions of tourists from all over the globe, including from Russia. Here, various cultures, antiquity and modern urban life are miraculously combined, and people are distinguished by hospitality and courtesy. What language is spoken in Belgium? What is the best explanation for the citizens to understand the tourists? What sights to see and what to try in national cuisine? Such questions are most often occupied by travelers seeking to visit this small but interesting state.
Most numerous languages
So, let’s clarify which language in Belgium is state and generally recognized. Most often, the local population speaks the southern dialect of the Dutch language (Flemish). It is spoken by more than 5 and a half million people living mainly in the northern part of the country, the Flanders region and a little in the central district. French is also used for everyday speech, it is the main language for 4 and a half million citizens. Especially often, its melodic sound can be found in the capital region of the European kingdom and in the south.
German dialect in annexed territories
What is the smallest official language in Belgium? The answer is simple: German. It received its distribution on a small territory of lands that became part of the country after the end of the First World War. For communication, it is used by no more than 70 thousand people living on the border with the Federal Republic of Germany, mainly ethnic Germans. In total, about 10 million people live in Belgium, many of them use both Dutch and French dialects in everyday life.
Historical background of the development of the European kingdom
In order to understand what language is spoken in Belgium and why it has so historically developed, it will take a little excursion into the past. In 1830, a rebellion broke out in the Netherlands, which led to a revolution and the emergence of a new, independent kingdom. Two large ethnic groups formed on its lands : Walloons (French roots) and Flemings (Dutch roots), respectively, a linguistic division appeared. Each national group aspired to domination, autonomy in the fields of culture, statehood and law. At the end of the 20th century, the language issue was repeatedly resolved at the highest level. The constitution of the country was amended on the importance of various dialects. This happened three times, in 1971, 1980, 1993, some controversial issues are still being raised.
What is the reason for Belgian diversity
You can find out the answer to the question of what language is spoken in Belgium by looking into an even more distant past. So, in different eras, the territories of the modern kingdom were ruled by a variety of rulers. The country was led by the Romans, the conquerors from Spain, Napoleon and many other newcomers. Thanks to this "vinaigrette" in Belgium, a complex national, linguistic, cultural and religious structure has developed, which today is finally beginning to exist in harmony and understanding. However, 10 years ago in the kingdom a significant number of controversial issues arose. So, for negotiating at the highest level or court hearings, it is necessary to determine in advance the language in which they will be held, which, you see, is quite problematic.
What language, except for the state, is spoken in Belgium
When viewing the main attractions, tourists will also need the English language, although it is not the state language, it is quite common among the local population. If you need to explain in the store or order a meal in the restaurant, most likely, they will understand you and will help you to make the right choice. Despite the complexity of the culture, Belgium is a rather conservative country, so you should not expect that the local residents will begin to explain to visitors in Russian or Chinese, it is better to prepare.
About statistics and immigration
In order to make the answer to the question of what language spoken in Belgium more clear, a dry statistical reference is required. So:
- 85% of the country's inhabitants know Dutch (or its dialect);
- 32% of the country's inhabitants speak French.
From this information we can conclude that many locals are equally good at bilingual, but prefer to choose one as the main one, guided by their personal considerations.
Many of our fellow citizens come to this European state not only to study the local culture, but also to find a new job. The developed economic system, the headquarters of the European Union, NATO and a number of other significant world organizations - all this is Belgium. The official language, or rather, its diversity, will quickly join the ranks of the local people and achieve success in business.