Dutch, a major language? A matter of measurement

Abstract

In this article we want to explore the status of the Dutch language. Is Dutch an important language, a ‘major’ one? How do we measure the importance of a language? Is this about the number of native speakers? Or are there other parameters that have to be taken into account? We can check the global influence of a language, the number of translations made, and the presence on the internet, amongst other elements. Ethnologue and UNESCO have developed a classification system to measure the importance and vitality of a language. Whether languages continue to be dynamic is also related to their digital power. In this article we will expand on the status of Dutch and the power of the Dutch digital language infrastructure.