English instruction - requires educational rather than economic/ideological rationale

Hans DeWit summarizes the important discussion about English instruction around the world. His summary indicates that advocating for local/national language isn't just coming from conservative nationalist-oriented perspectives but includes those who are pushing for educational rationale for English instruction. For example, a statement by Dutch educators says that decisions on English instruction should be made on "content-based arguments and not on economic or ideological grounds, such as the recruitment of international students or progress in international rankings." The statement went on to link language of instruction to goals of preparing students for career and service to society.

Looking at language proficiency from the multi-lingual perspective, European universities require students to learn at least one language other than their first language in order to graduate, resulting in fluidity and opportunity throughout Europe.