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Patrick Andrews

Language in Belgium

Thursday, 19 Dec 2024, 21:06
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I have been to the Flemish/Dutch speaking parts of Belgium and have been aware that many people there prefer speaking English to non Dutch speakers rather than French.  However, I was surprised by this story in today’s Guardian 

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/dec/19/train-conductors-bilingual-morning-greeting-raises-hackles-in-belgium

I suspect there would be less of an issue if the conductor had used English rather than French but it is good that the railway company seems to be supporting him and making the point that making all passengers welcome is beneficial.
Tags: Belgium, multilingualism, French, Dutch, l161
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Patrick Andrews

A backlash against EMI?

Tuesday, 20 June 2023, 18:43
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There is an interesting report in today’s Guardian of moves against the “Englishing” of degrees in the Netherlands 

https://www.theguardian.com/education/2023/jun/20/netherlands-seeks-curbs-on-english-language-university-courses?CMP=Share_iOSApp_Other

It is revealing that the government want international students to learn “basic” Dutch so that they will be more likely to stay and add to the dynamism of the Dutch economy - quite a contrast to the xenophobic attitude of the current UK government.  In fact, the learning of Dutch should also help the students to integrate and have a better experience even if their studies are through the medium of English.
Tags: EMI, l161, integration, the Netherlands, Dutch, language and economics
Permalink 2 comments (latest comment by Patrick Andrews, Monday, 16 Oct 2023, 10:40)
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