The EF English Proficiency Index 2023 survey by EF Education First reveals that Slovakia has the highest level of English proficiency among its residents, particularly in Košice. The Banská Bystrica and Trenčín Regions have the worst English proficiency.
The Dutch lead the ranking, followed by Singapore and Austria. Slovakia is among the countries with high English proficiency, with young people aged 21 to 25 speaking the best. However, Slovaks have worsened compared to the previous two years, with Poles and Hungarians faring better. English proficiency is improving among men but declining among women, possibly due to educational system biases or unequal treatment.
The gender gap is not uniform worldwide, with men and women at the same level or approaching the same level in 63 countries. English proficiency in East Asia has been decreasing for four consecutive years, with a faster decline in Japan and China this year.
Since the fall of communism in 1989, English language proficiency has significantly increased in Central Eastern Europe (CEE), bringing about several positive impacts on economic growth and integration into the global economy. The end of communist regimes facilitated greater exposure to Western influences, including English language education. As CEE countries transitioned to market economies, the demand for English proficiency surged due to increased international business interactions, foreign investments, and integration into global markets.
The rise of English as a lingua franca in business and technology further accelerated the emphasis on English language education. Educational reforms and the expansion of language programs became key priorities in many CEE countries, ensuring that the workforce could communicate effectively in the language of international commerce.
English proficiency has become a key skill for CEE professionals, enhancing their ability to engage in global business networks, attract foreign investments, and participate in international trade. This linguistic shift has facilitated smoother collaborations with multinational corporations and improved access to global markets, contributing to economic growth. The growth of the information technology sector in CEE has been particularly influenced by English proficiency. English is the dominant language in the tech industry, and as CEE countries embraced opportunities in software development, IT services, and outsourcing, a workforce proficient in English became a crucial asset. This has attracted foreign investments and positioned CEE as a competitive destination for IT outsourcing.
English proficiency has also played a role in the growth of the tourism industry. With an increasing number of tourists from English-speaking countries, such as the United Kingdom and the United States, proficiency in English has become essential for the hospitality sector. This has not only contributed to economic growth but has also enhanced cultural exchange and understanding.
Moreover, English proficiency has opened doors to international educational opportunities for the youth in CEE. Many students pursue higher education in English-speaking countries, bringing back valuable skills and experiences that contribute to the region’s intellectual capital and innovation.
As English continues to be a vital skill in the 21st-century workforce, the emphasis on language education remains crucial for sustaining and enhancing economic development in the region.
