For a linguistic policy and law adapted to the ambitions and realities of the DR Congo

Abstract

The Independent State of Congo was, in King Leopold II’s understanding, created for the interest of civilization and the interest of Belgium. This double interest oriented the territory’s economic, social, cultural and language policy even after its annexation by Belgium. The language policy was based on the rights of both Belgians and Congolese and on the use of French and Dutch beside Congolese languages. After independence, the Congolese national leadership paradoxically opted for the generalization and intensification of education in French to the detriment of local languages. Sixty-three years later, should a new policy and language legislation adapted to the country’s ambitions and realities be considered?