English Language Day
April 23rd was marked as the English Language Day by the United Nations to promote multilingualism and linguistic balance.
About
The English Language Day is marked on April 23rd every year. The day was selected to coincide with the birth and death anniversary of William Shakespeare. The English Language Day is observed to promote linguistic balance and multilingualism. It is to improve the English of the staff of UN and its mission.
William Shakespeare
William Shakespeare was a noted English poet, actor and playwright. Also called the ‘Bard of Avon’, he is considered as the national poet of England. He is noted for many of his works including Hamlet, Macbeth, Othello, King Lear, etc.
Official Languages of UN
The United Nations has 6 official languages- Arabic, Chinese (Mandarin Chinese), English (British English), French, Russian and Spanish (Castilian Spanish). These languages are used in the UN meetings and official documents. The UN Interpretation Service simultaneously interprets from one official language to the other 5 at meetings.
