The UN's Use of Modern Standard Arabic: A Comprehensive Guide
Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) is the official language used by the United Nations (UN) and is widely used in professional settings, university education, and official communications throughout the Arab world. This article explores the significance of MSA in the UN's operations and its role in promoting uniformity and understanding across the Arab-speaking world.
What is Modern Standard Arabic?
Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) is a literary language that developed in the 19th century as a result of the need for a standardized form of written and spoken communication across the Arab world. It is based on Classical Arabic, which dates back to the 7th century, and incorporates elements of colloquial Arabic dialects but is not a true colloquial form. MSA is used in formal writing, university education, and official communications and media in Arab countries.
The UN's Adoption of MSA
The United Nations General Assembly adopted Modern Standard Arabic as the sixth official language of the organization on December 18, 1973. This date is now celebrated as the International Day of the Arabic Language to commemorate the significance of Arabic as a global language.
Importance of MSA in the Arab World
The adoption of MSA by the UN reflects its widespread use and recognition in the Arab world. MSA provides a degree of uniformity and clarity that enables speakers from different Arab countries to communicate effectively. For instance, someone from Yemen can more or less understand someone from Morocco, despite the differences in their dialects. This standardization is particularly important in official and professional settings where clear and unambiguous communication is crucial.
Challenges in Understanding Dialects
While MSA is understood across the Arab world, there are still significant challenges in understanding dialects. For example, a Moroccan accent can be difficult for some to comprehend. This is because dialects can be quite distinct, with differences in pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar. While MSA is a crucial tool for standardization, it remains important to be aware of these regional differences to communicate effectively in more casual or informal settings.
Conclusion
The use of Modern Standard Arabic by the United Nations underscores its significance as a unifying language in the Arab world and globally. Its adoption as an official language has helped to standardize communication and promote understanding among different Arab countries. While challenges remain, particularly in understanding regional dialects, MSA remains a valuable tool for clear and effective communication in official and professional contexts.