On 23rd April, The United Nations English Language Day and Spanish Language Day are celebrated together. Every year the UN’s Department of Global Communication celebrates the English and Spanish Language. In aid to promote the use of these official languages and to promote multilingualism across the globe through the adoption of these official languages.

As a result, society has gained many talented English and Spanish-speaking individuals; from playwrights to English voiceover artists and Spanish voice-over.

But why are these vastly different languages celebrated on the same day?  By coincidence or providence?

The UN celebrates English Language day for many reasons. First and foremost, English language day marks the birth and death anniversary of the famous playwright William Shakespeare. Shakespeare was perhaps one of the finest masters of literary creation, bringing the World the joys of tragic romances such as Romeo and Juliet and comedies such as A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Unsurprisingly, Spanish Language Day is celebrated by reading the works of Cervantes, such as The Little Gypsy Girls or The dialogue of the Dogs. This not only promotes a renewed love for Spanish literature but also helps to encourage individuals across the globe to acquaint themselves with a diverse range of literary talent.

Secondly, the UN celebrates English language day in an attempt to promote the English Language Programme among the staff of the secretariat. Although this may seem like a beaurecratic endeavor, it is aimed at improving the proficiency of Government officials and enhancing communications between nations.  

Finally, the UN celebrates English language day in an attempt to educate people across the globe about the diverse history, culture, and achievements of those associated with the language.  From Chaucer to Kipling, there have been many renowned English literature legends and English Language Day can help to bring the works of such talented individuals into the limelight.  Likewise, Spanish language day attempts to celebrate the diversity of the Spanish multilingualism, culture, and traditions, be it in the form of poetry appreciation or a renewed interest in Spanish festivals.

However, the UN celebrates many other languages over the course of the year. In fact, the UN doctrines the use of 6 official languages; English, Spanish Arabic. Chinese, French and Russian. The purpose of the UN’s language days is to celebrate multilingualism and cultural diversity as well as to promote equal use of all six official languages and harmonious communication throughout the Organization.

The UN believes that promoting tolerance and multilingualism ensures effective and increased participation in the UN’s work, as well as greater effectiveness, better outcomes, and more involvement of nations across the globe.

The UN’s multilingualism efforts ultimately hope to promote understanding of their goals and actions and enhance individual understanding across the globe.

But how can individuals and businesses help to promote multilingualism?

Through language learning, translation, and localization of course! Voice Talent Online, a professional-quality assured end-to-end voice over and audio localization service provider can help you to reach out to individuals across the globe, supporting you in your own praise-worthy personal multilingualism efforts.