World Portuguese Language Day

Description :

The Portuguese language is the most widely spoken in the southern hemisphere. Also, this language is one of the most widespread languages in the world, and more than 265 million speakers are spread all over the continents. At present, Portuguese is a major language of international communication and a language with a strong geographical projection in the world.

The Community of Portuguese-speaking Countries (CPLP) is an intergovernmental organization. Since 2000, it has been in official partnership with UNESCO (The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization). Also, it was officially established on May 05th, 2009, which brings together peoples with the Portuguese language as one of the foundations of their specific identity. This organization was established to celebrate the Portuguese language and Lusophone cultures. In 2019, UNESCO's General Conference decided to proclaim May 5th of each year as "World Portuguese Language Day" during their 40th session. This was the first time this honor was given by them to an unofficial UNESCO language.

The Portuguese language influenced other languages in the world. Also, Portuguese speakers affected to the first wave of globalization. People who speak this language are called lusophones, and the majority of Lusophones live in Brazil. Nine countries including Brazil, Angola, Cabo Verde, Equatorial Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Mozambique, Portugal, Sao Tome & Principe, and Timor-Leste announced Portuguese as the official language.

Every year on May 5th, World Portuguese Language Day indicates the important role of the Portuguese language to preserve human civilization and culture.

Category : Cultural