«The English language is nobody's special property. It is the property of the imagination: it is the property of the language itself.»

Derek Walcott (b. 1930),
West Indian Poet

News

Current  term:
8 Sept - 28 Nov 2008
Exams: 1-5 December

Next term:
5 January - 27 March 2009
Exams: 30 March - 3 April 

Welcome

It is estimated that there are more than 300 million native English speakers, and at least another 400 million who use English as a second or foreign language. It is also estimated that about 90% of all spoken English is between non-native speakers. English is the language of science, aviation, computing, diplomacy, and tourism. It is listed as the official or co-official language of over 45 countries, from Antigua to Zimbabwe. 

The English Language Programme is pleased to offer a wide variety of courses to help United Nations staff and Permanent Mission diplomats improve their English skills. Our classes are also a break from the workday routine, a place where you can meet colleagues from every part of the United Nations family and exchange ideas in an enjoyable setting.

To find out more about general policies of the Language and Communications Programme (LCP) including eligibility to take language classes and registration details, please visit the LCP website.

©United Nations, 2006.