World Arabic Language Day

This week, on December 18th, we celebrated World Arabic Language Day, as designated by
the United Nations Education Scientific and Cultural Organisation
(UNESCO).

It marks the importance of the Arabic language as the 6th
official language of the United Nations, spoken by over 400 million
people worldwide. Holding a World Arabic language day recognises the
contribution Arabic language and culture has made to many areas of
life.

Some Arabic words  have made their way into the English
language.  For example the word ‘algebra’ stems from the Arabi
‘al-jabr’ meaning ‘restoration’ or ‘completion’.

Each year a particular theme is explored and this year’s theme is
titled ‘Arabic Language: A bridge between civilisations’.  Eighteen
artists were commissioned to produce artwork on this theme and their
creations are on display around the perimeter of the UNESCO
headquarters in Paris.