The importance of learning English in a globalised world

Abstract

In the 21st century, English has emerged as a global communication tool, serving as a universal medium in various fields such as science, technology, business, and culture. According to the British Council, over 1.5 billion people worldwide study English as a second language, and more than 80% of scientific publications are written in English (Graddol, 2006). This linguistic dominance places new demands on individuals’ language skills as well as on educational and professional institutions. In contemporary academic practice, English serves as the lingua franca of the scientific community. Hyland (2015) notes that approximately 98% of publications in the natural sciences appear in English-language journals. This trend requires scientists, regardless of their country of origin, to master professional English terminology. Additionally, participating in international conferences, grant programs, and scientific collaborations is nearly impossible without proficiency in English.