Where is the Dutch Spoken Around the World?

Dutch, also known as Nederlands, is a West Germanic language that is primarily spoken in the Netherlands. However, it is also spoken as a second language by people in various countries around the world. In this article, we will explore where Dutch is spoken, what country speaks it, and the countries where it is used as a second language.

What Country Speaks Dutch?

The primary country where Dutch is spoken is the Netherlands. The official language of the country is Dutch, and it is used for all official communications, including government, education, and media. The vast majority of the population in the Netherlands speaks Dutch, making it the main language of the country.

Where Do They Speak Dutch?

Dutch is not just limited to the Netherlands, as it is also spoken in other countries where it serves as a second language. Some of these countries include:

• Belgium: In the Belgian provinces of Flanders and Brussels, Dutch is an official language and is widely spoken by the population.

• Suriname: Dutch is an official language in Suriname, a country in South America that was once a Dutch colony.

• South Africa: There is a small community of Dutch-speaking people in South Africa, primarily those of Afrikaner descent.

• Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten: These are three island territories in the Caribbean that are part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Dutch is an official language in all three territories.

Where Do People Speak Dutch?

In addition to the countries mentioned above, Dutch is also spoken by expatriates, tourists, and international students around the world. Dutch is one of the 23 official languages of the European Union, which means that it is used for official purposes in EU institutions and is recognized as a language of the EU. This makes it possible for Dutch-speaking people to travel, study, or work in other EU countries and still be able to communicate in their native language.

What Countries Speak Dutch?

To summarize, Dutch is primarily spoken in the Netherlands and is also used as a second language in:

• Belgium
• Suriname
• South Africa
• Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten

In addition, Dutch is recognized as an official language of the European Union and is spoken by expatriates, tourists, and international students around the world.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dutch is a West Germanic language that is primarily spoken in the Netherlands and is also used as a second language in various countries around the world. Whether it is used as the official language of a country or as a language of communication among expatriates, tourists, and international students, Dutch is an important and widely-used language in the world today.

So, if you're planning to travel to the Netherlands or any of the countries where Dutch is spoken, or if you're interested in learning a new language, consider taking the time to learn Dutch. You'll have the opportunity to communicate with people from different countries and to broaden your understanding of the world.