Barriers to French language use in the Canadian Armed Forces

Abstract

LAY SUMMARY Despite the official language status of French in Canada, there are barriers that may limit its use in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). This article discusses academic literature on second language learning, group relations, and motivation to describe the dynamics underlying these barriers and provide recommendations to mitigate them. In particular, the concept of ethnolinguistic vitality is discussed to differentiate between minority and majority groups in terms of how second languages are acquired and used. In addition, Communication Accommodation Theory explains how elements of CAF culture — namely, prioritizing operations, team cohesion, and adhering to a chain of command structure — may contribute to Francophone members sensing they are less able than their Anglophone counterparts to use their language of choice in the workplace. Lastly, drawing on Self-Determination Theory, the incentivizing of official language learning is discussed regarding its potential impact on second language proficiency, willingness to use a second language, and continuation of learning. Insights for leadership and second language training approaches are also provided.