Did you know that Spanish is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world?
There are more than 400 million native speakers of Spanish. Speaking Spanish opens many business opportunities in Spain and in many Spanish-speaking countries and it can strengthen the bonds with existing Spanish business clients. If you are thinking of studying or getting a job abroad, having Spanish on your CV as a second language will be hugely beneficial to your professional career. Or, just if you are interested in Spanish culture and you would like to improve the knowledge of the language.
Spanish is one of the six official languages of the United Nations. It is also used as an official language by the European Union, the Organization of American States, the Union of South American Nations, the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States, the African Union and many other international organizations.
All of the nations and territories that have Spanish as their majority language are: Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Equatorial Guinea, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Puerto Rico, Spain, Uruguay and Venezuela.
Moreover, there are other nations that have minority populations of Spanish-speaking residents. The United States has the largest population of Spanish-speaking residents among these nations. About 25% of the total population – or over 50 million – speak Spanish.
Furthermore, Andorra, Belize and Gibraltar also have large populations of Spanish-speaking residents.
Spanish has also influenced creole languages spoken in areas around the world. Papiamento, which is based on Spanish, is spoken in Aruba, the Caribbean Netherlands and Curacao. Chavacano or chabacano is another Spanish-based creole language that is spoken throughout parts of the Philippines by over 600,000 people.
What other reasons could there be to learn Spanish?
- To increase global understanding,
- To improve employment potential,
- To increase native language ability,
- To sharpen cognitive and life skills,
- To improve chances of entry to University,
- To appreciate international literature, music, and film,
- To make travel more feasible and enjoyable,
- To expand study-abroad options,
- To get an exciting job abroad,
- To increase understanding of oneself and one’s own culture,
- To make lifelong friends,
- To meet the love of your life