Where Is French Spoken? Full List of French-Speaking Countries

French is one of the most popular languages in the world. It is not only spoken in France but also in many other countries. French is an official language in more than 25 countries and is spoken by over 300 million people. It is used in Africa, Europe, North America, and even in some parts of Asia and the Pacific.

In this article, we will look at the countries where people speak French. We will divide them into continents and explain a little about each.

1. Europe

France

Of course, the number one French-speaking country is France. It is where the French language started. Almost everyone in France speaks French. It is their main language in school, at work, and at home.

Belgium

Belgium is next to France. People here speak three main languages: Dutch, French, and German. In the southern part of Belgium, called Wallonia, many people speak French.

Switzerland

In Switzerland, people speak four languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. The western part of the country speaks French. Cities like Geneva and Lausanne use French the most.

Luxembourg

Luxembourg is a small country in Europe. People speak three languages: Luxembourgish, German, and French. French is often used in government, education, and the law.

Monaco

Monaco is a very small country on the Mediterranean coast. It is known for its wealth and beautiful views. French is the official language here.

2. Africa

Africa has the most French-speaking countries in the world. This is because many African countries were once colonies of France or Belgium. Today, they still use French for education, business, and government.

West Africa

• Senegal

• Ivory Coast (Côte d’Ivoire)

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• Mali

• Burkina Faso

• Benin

• Togo

• Niger
  In these countries, French is often used as the official language. Many people also speak local languages.

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Central Africa

• Chad

• Central African Republic

• Cameroon

• Gabon

• Republic of the Congo

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• Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)
  French is very important in Central Africa. In the DRC, which is the largest French-speaking country in the world by population, French is used in schools and the media.

North Africa

• Algeria

• Morocco

• Tunisia
  These countries speak Arabic as their main language, but many people also speak French. French is used in business and higher education.

Other African Countries

• Madagascar

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• Djibouti

• Comoros

• Seychelles

• Rwanda

• Burundi

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These countries also use French in many areas of life.

3. North America

Canada

Canada has two official languages: English and French. French is mainly spoken in the province of Quebec, where cities like Montreal and Quebec City are located. Some people in parts of Ontario and New Brunswick also speak French.

Haiti

Haiti is a small country in the Caribbean. People speak Haitian Creole and French. French is the official language, used in schools and by the government.

4. South America

French Guiana

French Guiana is not an independent country. It is part of France, even though it is in South America. People here speak French as the official language.

5. Asia

Lebanon

In Lebanon, the main language is Arabic, but many people speak French too. French is used in schools, universities, and business.

Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos

These countries were once part of French Indochina. Today, fewer people speak French, but it is still taught in some schools and used in business or tourism.

6. Oceania (Pacific Islands)

Vanuatu

Vanuatu is a small island country. People here speak Bislama, English, and French.

New Caledonia

This is a French territory in the Pacific. People speak French as the main language.

French Polynesia

Like New Caledonia, French Polynesia is also a French territory. French is the official language.

See>>> Full List of English-Speaking African Countries and Their Capitals

Why Do So Many Countries Speak French?

Many countries speak French today because of colonial history. In the past, France and Belgium controlled many countries around the world. When these countries became independent, they continued to use French. It helped people from different tribes and regions communicate with each other. French is also used because it is one of the official languages of the United Nations (UN) and other international organizations.

What Is the Francophonie?

The Francophonie is a group of countries where French is spoken. It is also an organization that helps support the French language around the world. There are over 80 members and observers in the Francophonie.

Why Is Learning French Important?

Learning French can help you:

• Travel to many countries

• Get better job opportunities

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• Study in foreign universities

• Enjoy French culture, music, movies, and food

French is one of the top international languages. It is used in law, fashion, cooking, diplomacy, and more.

Conclusion

French is more than just the language of France. It is spoken on five continents. From Africa to Europe, from Canada to small islands in the Pacific, millions of people speak French every day. Whether you want to travel, study, or work, speaking French can be a great skill.

If you are thinking about learning a new language, French is a good choice.