The Netherlands Has World’s Best Non-Native English Speakers in 2024
Country ranks #1 in the EF English Proficiency Index for the sixth year in a row
The Netherlands continues to hold the No. 1 position in the EF English Proficiency Index 2024, the sixth time it has ranked first place since 2011. Based on data from more than 2 million test-takers, the Netherlands tops the global ranking of 113 countries.
The English language skills of the Dutch are an asset in the global marketplace
Maintaining their leading position, the Dutch have secured the top spot for the sixth consecutive time in the EF EPI. The Netherlands has consistently held a high position since the index began in 2011. The annual ranking is the most extensive English proficiency study globally.
The Netherlands scored 636 in this year’s EF EPI giving the country a ‘very high proficiency’ ranking. Following the Netherlands in the ranking are Norway, Singapore, Sweden and Croatia – the top five non-native English speaking populations in the world.
Countries falling within this category have citizens proficient in using nuanced and contextually appropriate English in social settings. They can comprehend advanced English texts and effectively negotiate contracts with native English speakers.
English fluency is a key success factor for international business in the Netherlands
The Netherlands’ thriving international business climate owes much to its exceptional English proficiency, as highlighted in this year’s EF EPI results. As the dominant language for cross-border information exchange, English plays a key role in attracting international talent, creating lasting innovation, and ensuring seamless communication to boost productivity. By minimizing language barriers, the Netherlands enables a diverse work environment that is conducive to international collaboration, innovation, and entrepreneurship. This not only heightens competitiveness, it makes the Netherlands an attractive place to live for internationals.
Sources: Amsterdam in Business and EF EPI
27 November 2024