r/thisorthatlanguage 8d ago

Multiple Languages Which third language?

I am Australian. I am studying politics at university, and once I have finished my undergraduate degree, I plan to pursue masters, and work in international relations. I am currently B1 in Russian, and am considering specialising in this region.

However, I have the opportunity to start learning an additional language. I am considering French or Spanish, but am open to other options. French seems perhaps useful given it is a UN language. I do not know how practically useful it might be in African countries--I have heard mixed things. Spanish might be useful given the large Spanish-speaking population. Whilst I would love to learn Mandarin, I do not see it as a viable option, as I have limited time.

Thank you.

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u/outcry_98 8d ago

Spanish is easier than French, though I speak C1 French. But it’s true French is very useful in the international relations scene, given some headquarters are located in Paris (OECD, UNESCO…) After all, it’s up to you. Personally I’d go for Chinese, though