To highlight the importance of language learning, Duolingo is challenging Westminster MPs and peers to learn a language in 2025 and compete to be the first ever Westminster Language champion. Starting on January 1st and running to the end of March, the three best performing individuals will win a share of £20,000 for a charity of their choosing, with the winner crowned Duolingo's Language Champion for 2025 at an event in Parliament in April.

Yesterday, at the House of Lords, Duolingo revealed that only 13% of MPs from the House of Commons speak a foreign language fluently, a 35% decrease in the last 20 years, according to new research conducted by Savanta on behalf of Duolingo to tie in with the launch of this first ever Westminster Language Challenge.

Despite this decline, there appears to be a strong appetite for change, with nearly three-quarters (74%) of MPs saying they would study another language if they had the time and opportunity. The findings come at a crucial time when 69% of parliamentarians believe speaking a second language is important, and more than two-thirds (68%) acknowledge their Westminster colleagues have a poor international reputation for foreign language skills.

The research reveals French remains the most widely spoken foreign language among MPs, with 27% claiming fluency, followed by Punjabi (26%) and Spanish (24%). This represents a notable shift from 2004 when Latin outranked both Italian and Spanish in parliamentary language capabilities.

The survey found that while 11% of MPs are currently learning a new language, the vast majority (79%) are not engaged in any language learning activities. Among those who have attempted to learn a language in the past three years, digital tools have emerged as the preferred method, with a third (33%) using language learning apps, followed by group classes (15%) and self-study resources (11%).

CIOL Vice-President Baroness Coussins, Co-Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Modern Languages, emphasised the importance of linguistic diversity in modern diplomacy:

"In today's interconnected world, we cannot simply rely on others to speak English. In fact, only 6% of the world’s population are native English speakers. Our parliament needs to lead by example in breaking down barriers and engaging meaningfully with global partners in their own languages."

Looking ahead, Spanish (34%) and French (29%) top the list of languages MPs would like to learn, followed by Italian (20%) and German (19%). The importance of learning languages was highlighted in a 2021 Ofsted study, which emphasised how acquiring additional languages helps broaden cultural perspectives and combat insularity.

Michael Lynas (pictured above) UK Country Director at Duolingo, warned that the parliamentary picture reflects a broader national challenge:

“The decline in MPs' language skills mirrors a concerning trend we're seeing across education. As we see language departments closing at universities and fewer A-level language students, it's more critical than ever that we stop relying solely on others to speak English. We need to reverse the decline at every level, from Parliament to the playground."

John Worne added:

"The findings highlight that meaningful international engagement doesn't always require complete fluency. Even basic language skills can transform diplomatic relationships and show respect for other cultures. What matters is the willingness to try and the commitment to understanding others in their own linguistic context."

Michael Lynas closed by saying:

"While it’s a shame to see that fewer MPs speak another language, it’s encouraging that the vast majority of parliamentarians recognise that language learning is important and want to improve their language skills."

John Worne was also interviewed on Radio Five Live by Matt Chorley, regarding the Duolingo research. To see the original Duolingo LinkedIn post and listen to the interview there, click on the image below.  

The 2024 research was carried out online by Savanta Market Research among a representative sample of 100 MPs. The 2004 study was carried out by the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education (Niace) among a sample of 112 MPs. The 2004 study showed that 20% of MPs were fluent in a second language.