Language connects us, breaks down barriers, and builds bridges across cultures. Yet, according to new research commissioned by Duolingo, the linguistic diversity of the UK Parliament has changed significantly. Just 13% of MPs in the House of Commons now speak a foreign language fluently—a 35% drop from 20 years ago.
And yet there’s a clear appetite for change: nearly three-quarters (74%) of MPs said they’d study another language if they had the time and opportunity. To address this and highlight the importance of language learning, we’re excited to launch the Westminster Language Challenge—a unique initiative encouraging MPs and Peers, to take up language learning and showcase the power of multilingualism.
Why does Parliament need a language reboot?
Our research highlights the reality of Parliament’s language skills, but also reveals a strong desire for improvement. While 69% of parliamentarians believe speaking a second language is important, more than two-thirds acknowledge Westminster’s poor international reputation for foreign language skills.
French remains the most widely spoken foreign language among MPs (27%), followed by Punjabi (26%) and Spanish (24%). Looking to the future, Spanish (34%) and French (29%) are the top languages MPs want to learn, with Italian and German close behind.
Baroness Coussins, Co-Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Modern Languages, reinforced the need for linguistic diversity in diplomacy: "In today's interconnected world, we cannot simply rely on others to speak English. Our Parliament needs to lead by example, breaking down barriers and engaging meaningfully with global partners in their own languages."
The Westminster Language Challenge: a call to action
Starting on January 1, 2025, MP and Peers will be able to compete in the Westminster Language Challenge, running until the end of March. The stakes are high: the top three performers will win a share of £20,000 to donate to a charity of their choice, with the overall winner crowned Duolingo’s Westminster Language Champion at an event in Parliament in April.
This initiative isn’t just about competition—it’s about fostering connections, celebrating linguistic diversity, and inspiring a broader cultural appreciation across the UK. As John Warne, CEO of the Chartered Institute of Linguistics, points out you don’t need to be fluent: “Meaningful international engagement doesn't always require complete fluency. Even basic language skills can transform diplomatic relationships and show respect for other cultures. What matters is the willingness to try and the commitment to understanding others in their own linguistic context."
Rise to the challenge!
The Westminster Language Challenge comes at a critical time for the UK. Michael Lynas, Duolingo’s UK Country Director, notes that Parliament’s linguistic decline mirrors broader national trends: “As we see language departments closing at universities and fewer students taking A-level languages, it’s critical to reverse this decline.”
If you’re passionate about language learning, we invite you to sign up for the Westminster Language Challenge! Together, we can lead the way in championing multilingualism and celebrating the value of cultural exchange. Let’s make 2025 the year Parliament falls in love with languages—and show the world that language learning is more alive than ever.
📸 See the full album from our event in London here!