The recently released EPI showed interesting changes in English language proficiency in non-English-speaking countries. Ukraine has made a noticeable step forward, moving up in the rankings, while popular European countries such as France and Italy have worsened their positions. Find out more about which countries traditionally remain the leaders

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English has long been a universal tool for communicating around the world, especially for tourists. Knowledge of English opens doors to new opportunities, promotes international understanding, and facilitates the resolution of issues abroad.

In particular, the annual English Proficiency Index (EPI), which assesses the level of English language proficiency in non-English-speaking countries, has released this year's data from 116 different countries.

English Proficiency Index 2024: how do countries compete in English?

Ukraine is on the rise

In this year's ranking, Ukraine has made a noticeable step forward, rising from 45th to 40th position. This achievement demonstrates a gradual improvement in the level of English proficiency among Ukrainians: the country's average score increased from 530 to 535.

However, this improvement was not enough to move up to the second category (high competence), and Ukraine still remains in the third category (intermediate competence).

Leaders of the rating

The 2024 ranking was led by countries that traditionally demonstrate the highest level of English proficiency:

• The Netherlands is once again in first place with 636 points.

• Norway moved up from fifth place to second with 610 points.

• Singapore slightly lost ground, moving from second to third place with 609 points.

Sweden, Croatia, Portugal, Denmark, Greece, and Austria are also in the category of countries with very high competence.

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Problems in popular tourist destinations

Spain, Italy, and France, despite their tourist attractions, show significant difficulties with English. This year, France dropped from 43rd to 49th place, Italy from 35th to 46th, and Spain lost one position to 36th place. All of these countries remain in the third category, as does Ukraine.

Outsiders of the ranking

The situation with the English language remains critical in some countries:

• Yemen took the last place, 116th, in the ranking.

• Somalia and Côte d'Ivoire share the penultimate position.

This indicates an urgent need to invest in language education in these regions.

The results of the English Proficiency Index 2024 demonstrate how English proficiency depends on educational standards and cultural priorities in countries. For Ukraine, this ranking is an indicator of positive changes, although there is still room for improvement. On the other hand, the fall of France, Italy, and Spain in the ranking reminds us that popularity among tourists does not always go hand in hand with language accessibility.

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