Canada Official Languages Survey shows sustained public support

The 2026 Official Languages Follow-up Survey, released by Commissioner Kelly Burke, indicates that official bilingualism remains a strong and enduring value across Canada despite recent political and economic turbulence.

According to the findings, 89% of respondents support the objectives of the Official Languages Act, a figure consistent with previous surveys conducted in 2016 and 2021. Support is widespread across linguistic groups; while 90% of bilingual Canadians support the Act, over 80% of monolingual Canadians also express support.

Key findings include: - 94% of Canadians expect federal government services to be offered in both official languages. - Over 80% believe the Prime Minister and political leaders should be bilingual and address the public in both languages, particularly during crises. - There is strong public interest in language learning, with over 80% of respondents agreeing that more measures should be taken to help youth master both French and English.

In Ontario, support for the Act's objectives reached 91% among telephone respondents, an increase from 87% in 2021. The most common reason cited for supporting the legislation is its recognition of Canada’s history, status, and culture as a bilingual nation.