Multilingualism on France 24

France 24 boasts itself as a truly multilingual channel. Not only does it broadcast is 3 languages (French, English and Arabic), but it creates original content in all three languages, which mirror each other at certain times. The French-German channel Arte creates original content in two languages, but only broadcasts one show at any given time: if the show is in German, it will air in German in Germany, and in German subtitled in French, in France. And the other way around. France 24, on the other hand, will produce the same type of show multiple times in multiple languages, and will air the shows at the same time.

For example, on Tuesday, February 3, between 14:30 and 15:00 PST, one who would watch the English channel of France 24 would witness an interview show called “The Debate”. The interviewer was a native English speaker. Around the interview table where two interviewees, seemingly native English speakers. The theme of the debate was “Can we avoid protectionism.” At the exact same time, on the French channel, the program was an interview show called “Le Débat”. The interviewer as a native French speaker. The interview table, and the set generally, were the exact same as those of “The Debate.” Two native French speakers served as interviewees, and were debating the topic “Le protectionnisme, un mal necessaire?”, i.e. “is protectionism a necessary evil.” The show were therefore essentially the same, but produced twice in two different original languages. At the same moment, the Arabic channel broadcasted the French show, in the original French language, without dubbing or subtitles. It is unclear why the Arabic channel did not have its own show. Maybe it is because of lack of resources. Maybe it is because France 24, as a proponent of French values, wants to maintain the influence of the French language on the Arab world.

This situation does not seem to take place at all times, however. For example, On Feburary 5 at 12:45 PST, the French and Arabic channels broadcasted a live interview of French President Sarkozy, while the British channel was broadcasting a taped talk show. This seems to indicate that France 24, in general, does not translate material.

I will keep browsing the 3 channels every time I check out a program on France 24, to establish a pattern regarding multilingualism.