Will English replace French in Morocco?

More than two-thirds of young Moroccans believe English is set to replace French as Morocco's primary foreign language within 5 years. 74% believe the shift to English will benefit the country's ambitions to become an international business and tourism hub.

Will Morocco switch to English?

English is expected to become Morocco's primary foreign language in the next five years, as well as the foreign language most widely spoken among youth. Young people are strongly in favour of the switch from French to English, a move they see as beneficial to both the country as a whole and young people themselves.

Is French declining in Morocco?

However, attachment to the French language is disintegrating among some Moroccans, especially the youngest. A study of the British Council published in the spring of 2021 reveals that a majority of young people would be in favor of replacing French with English.

Is it OK to speak French in Morocco?

Despite the legacy of colonialism, according to Rouchdy, "French is still widely appreciated by both the ruling elite and the general public." Ennaji said "most Moroccans know that Standard Arabic does not meet all their societal needs and that a European language is necessary for the transfer of ideas and technology, ...

Is French or English more common in Morocco?

According to a 2012 study by the Government of Spain, 98% of Moroccans spoke Moroccan Arabic, 63% spoke French, 26% Berber, 14% spoke English, and 10% spoke Spanish.

The decline of the French language: resisting a colonial history

Is English understood in Morocco?

English is an emerging language in Morocco, especially in the larger cities, where English speakers abound. You will find people with a good level of English working at museums, tourism companies, hotels (mid-range and above) and tourist-oriented restaurants.

Why do so many French people go to Morocco?

The observatory office said that Morocco's weather and its diversity are the key factors in attracting French tourists. The data shows that 23% of French tourists come to Morocco after googling the North African country and its tourism. Others, who represent 21% are inspired by their previous experience in Morocco.

Should I learn French or Arabic for Morocco?

Yes, you can, if you have local friends ready to help you. Yet, If you want to immerse yourself in Moroccan life, you should learn Moroccan Arabic (known as Darija). Or, like me, try to master French. French is one of the most used languages in Morocco, next to the official ones standard Arabic and Tamazight.

Do they teach French in Morocco schools?

In school, children are taught through Arabic although they don't use it outside the classroom. When they get to university, lessons switch to French, the language of the urban elite and the country's former colonial masters.

Can you live in Morocco without knowing Arabic?

Moroccan people are friendly even if you not speak any of those languages, but of course they are happy if you can speak theirs language. Most people will understand Darija/Moroccan Arabic.

Can Moroccans live in France?

Europe. Moroccans are one of the largest migrant populations in Europe, with the Moroccan diaspora community living in France estimated at 1,146,000, Spain 766,000, Italy 487,000, the Netherlands 363,000, Belgium 298,000 and Germany 127,000.

How many French citizens live in Morocco?

Among these types of migrants, the French community stands out in Morocco. The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs estimates that there are about 41,129 French citizens registered as permanent residents in Morocco. This number would place the French as one of the largest migrant groups in Morocco.

Why is Morocco French not Spanish?

In 1956, when France ended its protectorate over Morocco, Spain discontinued the protectorate and retroceded the territory to the newly independent kingdom, while retaining the plazas de soberanía which were part of Spain prior to the colonial period, Cape Juby, Ifni, and other colonies (such as Spanish Sahara) outside ...

What is the future of English in Morocco?

The study found that “English is expected to become Morocco's primary foreign language in the next five years, as well as the foreign language most widely spoken among youth.” That conclusion originated from 85% of respondents expecting growth in the number of Morocco's English-speaking youth.

Is Marrakech English friendly?

While there generally isn't a problem with finding English-speaking locals in major tourist and commercial areas such as Marrakech, Fez, Rabat, Tangier and Casablanca, don't expect this in less-visited parts of the country and remote areas.

Can an American move to Morocco?

As a U.S. citizen, you plan to stay in Morocco for more than 90 days, you will need a residence permit (carte sejour) from the immigration office. There are a number of ways you can apply for a residency permit in Morocco, whether you're a student, married to a Moroccan, employee or pensioner.

Where is French not often used in Morocco?

English is only common in touristy cities like Marrakech and Casablanca, while French and Arabic are seen in smaller cities like Rabat and El Jadida. Moroccan food is heavily influenced by Arabic, Berber, and French traditions.

Has Morocco ever been a French colony?

By the Treaty of Fez of 1912, France imposed a protectorate over Morocco and spent the next two decades taking control of the country. Morocco becomes a French protectorate.

What do Moroccans call Morocco?

Name of Morocco

Morocco's modern official Arabic name al-Mamlakah al-Maghribiyyah (المملكة المغربية) may best be translated as 'The Kingdom of the Western Place'.

What is harder French or Arabic?

You gain vital language skills when you learn Arabic. It is easier to learn French or Spanish and these languages will allow you to travel or work in various countries, especially in Europe. However, you have more competition because there are more learners and speakers of these languages.

How do you say hello in Morocco?

Moroccans will say “salaam alykum” (hello) to everyone, even in large gatherings and they'll ask about your health and the wellbeing of your family and children.

When did Morocco stop being French?

Morocco formally achieved its independence from France on March 2, 1956.

What percentage of Moroccans live in France?

Moroccans are the second-largest non-EU nationality present in France, with 755,400 people, or 18.4% of the total immigrant population.

Why are there so many Moroccans in Paris?

The Paris metropolitan area has a large Maghrebi population, in part as a result of French colonial ties to that region.

What do Moroccans think of the English?

82% of respondents have positive associations with English. 65% of young Moroccans regard English as important, 62% feel the same about Arabic and 47% about French.