English as a second language - Which EU country speaks it best?
The Dutch have been named the world's best English-speaking foreign language speakers for the seventh time in a row, according to a new study, even though their skills are set to decline by 2024.
According to the EF English Proficiency Index report, the Netherlands' global score has dropped by 12 points compared to last year, but the country continues to hold the top spot. Croatia and Austria, both part of the European bloc, complete the top three, with their scores increasing by 10 and 16 points since 2024.
In total, 12 EU countries rank in the "very high" proficiency category, which means using appropriate language in social situations, reading advanced texts and negotiating contracts with native English speakers.
On the other hand, Italy, Cyprus and France have the lowest scores in the EU, ranking in the average proficiency category. Five countries in the bloc, including Lithuania and Spain, are at this level, where speakers are described as able to take part in professional meetings, understand song lyrics and write professional emails on familiar topics.
The 2025 index is based on test results from 2.2 million adults in 123 countries and regions. English was the most widely studied foreign language in general and vocational secondary education in the EU in 2023, with 96% and 80.1% of students attending lessons, respectively, according to Eurostat.
Although the language is widespread in schools, gaps in skills and between demographic groups still remain. Reading and listening are the strongest skills in every EU country, compared to speaking and writing.
The study also noted a gender gap: from 2014 to 2025, English proficiency increased by 40 points for men and 20 points for women. Young people’s language skills remain lower than before the COVID-19 pandemic, and in 2025 more countries saw further declines than improvements. Over the past decade, only the 18–20 age group in Europe has seen a sustained decline in English proficiency.
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