Language Demographics of Brussels
Brussels, the capital of Belgium and the European Union, is a bilingual city with a rich cultural tapestry. However, the linguistic landscape is predominantly influenced by the historical and social dynamics of the region.

Dominance of French
- Approximately **80% of the population** in Brussels speaks **French** as their primary language.
- This predominance is due to historical factors where French has been the language of the elite and administration in Belgium.

Historical Context
- Brussels was historically a Dutch-speaking region, but over time, the influence of French grew, particularly in urban settings.
- The **French Revolution** and subsequent political developments led to the rise of French as the language of power, further marginalizing Dutch in the capital.

Current Language Policy
- Belgium is officially bilingual, with both French and Dutch recognized at the federal level.
- However, in practical terms, the **French-speaking community** has a significant presence in Brussels, which is reflected in public services, education, and media.

Minority Languages
- While French is the dominant language, Dutch is spoken by a substantial minority, making up about **20%** of the population.
- German and Latin have minimal presence in the daily life of Brussels, with German being recognized in specific communities and Latin being a historical language of academia and the Church.
In conclusion, the linguistic predominance of French in Brussels is shaped by historical, social, and political factors, making it the primary language for the majority of its inhabitants.