Argentina leads the list of the best, with Chile behind. In Mexico, it is gaining ground among young people.
In Latin America, speaking English has always been considered more of a luxury than a necessity. However, the current reality shows that mastering this language is increasingly crucial, especially in academic and professional settings. Despite this, it’s not common to encounter people who speak English fluently in the region, reflecting a significant challenge these countries face.
According to the English Proficiency Index (EF EPI), Latin America performs below other regions globally, with an average score of 50.33, the lowest since 2017. This low level of English proficiency is due to various factors such as social and economic inequality, deficiencies in the education system, and the growth of the informal sector, among others. These circumstances make learning English difficult, as evidenced by the marked differences between countries in the region.
Argentina: The Best in Latin America
Argentina stands out as the country with the best English proficiency in the region, with a score of 57.58 on the EF EPI. This country offers a conducive environment for learning the language, particularly in regions like Pampeana and Patagónica. Buenos Aires, the capital, is the city with the highest level of English proficiency in all of Latin America. In terms of gender, Argentine women are the most proficient in the language, although both genders surpass the global average.
Chile: A Moderate and Steady Level
Chile ranks second in the region, although its score is significantly lower than Argentina’s, with a 52.02 on the EF EPI. The Central Region of Chile remains the best place to learn English in the country, with cities like Santiago, Concepción, and Viña del Mar leading in English proficiency. As in Argentina, Chilean men tend to have a better command of the language.
Mexico and Peru: Persistent Challenges
Mexico and Peru show similar difficulties in English education. Mexico ranks ninth in Latin America, with a score of 49.76, and has dropped 13 spots globally since 2017. In this country, Mexico City and Jalisco are the regions with the best English proficiency. In Peru, with a score of 49.32, the regions of Lima, La Libertad, and Arequipa show the best results, although the country continues to decline compared to previous years.
Colombia: A Notable Decline
Colombia, with a score of 48.90, ranks 11th in Latin America and has dropped 9 spots globally. The regions of Valle del Cauca, Santander, and Antioquia are the most notable in terms of English proficiency, with cities like Bogotá, Bucaramanga, Cali, and Medellín leading the way. In terms of gender, Colombia shows an almost identical proportion of men and women who speak English.
The Gender Gap and the Role of Young People
The gender gap has begun to emerge in recent years. At the regional level, men have an average score of 51.04 on the EF EPI, while women score 49.64. Despite this difference, women have shown a slight improvement compared to the previous year.
In terms of age, young people aged 21 to 25 are the most proficient in English, followed by the 18 to 20 age group. However, from the age of 30 onwards, English proficiency decreases significantly, highlighting a generational gap in language learning.
Conclusion: Opportunities and Challenges
Despite the challenges Latin America faces in English education, the growing proficiency among young people offers an opportunity to improve skills in this language. For those looking to advance in their careers or studies, learning English is becoming a necessity rather than an option. Taking advantage of resources such as online courses, music, reading, and apps can be key to improving language proficiency and, consequently, opportunities in an increasingly globalized world.