US officially recognises English as state language

US President Donald Trump signed an executive order officially establishing English as the state language. Until now, the country had no official language.

What does the new executive order change?

The document does not prohibit the use of other languages in public services, but it repeals support for citizens with insufficient command of English. This means that previously available language adaptation programmes, translations of official documents, and interpreter services for migrants may be scaled back.

Historical context

The United States has long maintained neutrality on the language issue, not favouring any particular language. Although English has traditionally been used in government and public institutions, it had no formal status. The adoption of this executive order changes that arrangement, which may provoke a wide public response.

Consequences for society

Experts are already expressing concern about the possible consequences of such a decision. The cancellation of support for non-English-speaking residents may complicate the adaptation process for millions of migrants living in the country. Trump’s political opponents call this step discriminatory, arguing that it will affect vulnerable groups of the population.