Brits Avoid Countries with Low English Proficiency, Study Reveals

New research highlights the travel preferences of British holidaymakers, revealing a tendency to avoid countries where English is not widely spoken. A study conducted by language school EF Education First identified the ten countries with the lowest levels of English proficiency, which could significantly influence British travel decisions.

The EF English Proficiency Index evaluated 116 countries based on the results of over 2.1 million EF Standard English Tests. Countries were awarded scores of up to 800 points, with the Netherlands leading the list at a score of 636. Following closely were Norway at 610 and Singapore at 609. In contrast, Yemen emerged as the nation with the most significant challenges in English proficiency, scoring just 394 points.

According to the study, the low scores reflect not only language skills but also indicate the popularity of English in these regions. Higher English proficiency is often linked to increased human capital, global innovation, and productivity. Despite these findings, EF reported a concerning trend; in 2024, 60 percent of countries scored lower compared to the previous year, indicating a decline in global interest in developing English language skills.

The importance of English proficiency is evident among British travellers. A recent YouGov poll revealed that only 20 percent of the UK population speaks a second language fluently, while 18 percent expressed no desire to learn one. Reasons for this sentiment included a belief that “English is the only language you need” and a lack of perceived necessity to learn other languages.

The travel writer Caterina Hrysomallis cautioned against the expectation that English should be the primary means of communication while abroad. In an interview with Lonely Planet, she stated, “Making absolutely no effort to learn another country’s language while travelling has the potential to create greater divisions.”

Here are the ten countries identified as having low English proficiency, along with relevant travel advice:

Countries with Low English Proficiency

10. Iraq – Scoring 414 points, Iraq faces travel restrictions due to escalating tensions. The UK Foreign Office advises against all travel in most areas, permitting only essential travel to select regions, including Baghdad.

9. Benin – This West African nation scored 413 points. While known for its vibrant culture and natural beauty, the Foreign Office warns against travel near the northern border due to risks of terrorism and kidnappings.

8. Tajikistan – With a score of 412, Tajikistan is a popular destination for hikers. The Foreign Office has no travel warnings, though they caution that borders can close unexpectedly.

7. Angola – Scoring 409 points, Angola has stringent visa requirements that limit tourism. Visitors must obtain a visa valid for just 30 days within a 60-day issuance period.

6. Cambodia – Despite its low proficiency score of 408, Cambodia attracts backpackers with its rich history and friendly atmosphere. The Foreign Office has no significant travel warnings for the country.

5. Libya – Libya, with a score of 405, remains unstable due to ongoing political conflict. The Foreign Office advises against travel, allowing only essential trips to specific cities.

4. Rwanda – Scoring 401, Rwanda is considered relatively safe for travel, although warnings exist regarding regions near the Democratic Republic of the Congo due to recent conflicts.

3. Côte d’Ivoire – This country received a score of 399. While generally safe, the Foreign Office has issued warnings for areas bordering Mali and Burkina Faso due to threats of terrorism.

2. Somalia – Somalia’s ongoing civil war and high crime rates have made it highly unsafe for foreign visitors, with the Foreign Office advising against all travel except for essential trips in limited regions.

1. Yemen – Scoring 394, Yemen faces severe humanitarian crises exacerbated by civil unrest. The Foreign Office categorically warns against any travel to the country.

As British holidaymakers consider their travel options, the influence of language on their choices is clear. The decline in global English proficiency may prompt a reevaluation of travel plans, urging potential travellers to consider the linguistic landscape of their intended destinations.