List of countries and territories where French is an official language facts for kids

French is a beautiful language spoken by millions of people around the world! It's an official language in many countries, meaning it's used by the government, in schools, and for daily life. This article will show you where French is spoken and how important it is globally.

     Places where French is the main language spoken by most people.      Places where French is an official language, but not the main language for most people.      Places where French is an important second language, but not official.

Countries Where French is the Only Official Language

In these countries, French is the only official language used by the government and for public services.

Regions Where French is the Only Official Language (Not Countries)

These are parts of countries where French is the only official language.

• Geneva, Switzerland
• Jura, Switzerland
• Neuchâtel, Switzerland
• Quebec, Canada
• Vaud, Switzerland
• Valais, Switzerland

Countries Where French is One of Several Official Languages

In many countries, French is one of a few official languages. This means it's used alongside other languages.

A map showing countries where French is an official language.

Regions and States Where French is Co-Official

These are regions or states within countries where French is an official language, along with others.

Places Where French is Recognized, But Not Official

Even if French isn't an official language, it's still important in some places. It might be used in schools or for certain legal things.

• Lebanon
• Mauritius
• Louisiana, United States
• Maine, United States

French in International Organizations

The flag of the Francophonie flying at the Parliament of Canada in Ottawa.

French is an official language in many important international groups. This means it's used for meetings, documents, and communication. Often, it's used with English. Some of these groups include:

• Francophonie (an organization of French-speaking countries)
• United Nations
• International Olympic Committee
• European Union
• African Union
• NATO
• World Trade Organization
• Council of Europe

Countries with French as an Official Language and Their Populations

This table shows the total number of people living in countries where French is an official language. Remember, this is the total population, not just the number of French speakers. In many of these countries, most people speak other languages too.

Dependent Territories Where French is Official

These are territories that are part of or linked to other countries, where French is an official language.

Note: Places like Réunion, Guadeloupe, Martinique, French Guiana, and Mayotte are considered full parts of France (overseas departments and regions), so they are not on this list. Also, in the U.S. states of Louisiana and Maine, French is not officially official, but it's recognized and used in law, government, and business. This means state services and public schools can use French.

Places Where French is Important, But Not Official

In these countries, French isn't an official language. However, it's still widely used in government, business, and schools. It also has a big influence on the local culture.

See also

In Spanish: Anexo:Países donde el francés es idioma oficial para niños

• Geographical distribution of French speakers
• Francophonie
• List of international organisations which have French as an official language