Life in every
language.

We are a global community of local organizations that walk alongside minority language communities to help them use their languages to flourish.

Global Mission. Local Approach.

We share one mission, but our work looks different in each place, shaped by the goals and realities of the communities we serve.

Why Language?

Because language connects us to what matters most.

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Over 1.5 billion people don’t have Scripture in their language – or what they need to use and apply it.

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Over 750 million people can’t read or write in their own language.

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Non-dominant language communities struggle to access the resources they need to make informed decisions about their wellbeing.

Stories & News

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    News

    CCIH 2026

    While health and wellbeing are vital to daily life and community flourishing, nearly 30% of the world’s population cannot access…

    June 16, 2026

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    Stories

    A Voice for the Wala

    One man journeys from translator to national leader in the South Pacific. When Matthew Wale heard, in early 2002, that…

    June 3, 2026

    Solomon Islands

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    News

    SIL-PNG Celebrates 70 Years

    “In a land of more than 800 languages, your work has helped give voice to our people in their own…

    May 23, 2026

    Papua New Guinea

Our Impact

Founded in 1934 with two students.
Today, our impact involves:

4,213
staff & Volunteers
1,572
Language Communities
119
Countries

Where We Work

We are a global community rooted in local realities. Our activities in each place are guided by the cultures, priorities, and partnerships of the people we serve.

Explore the unique expressions of SIL across each region.

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“The freedom to use our own languages provides an opportunity to unlock our full potential to succeed in education, thrive in society and encounter God in the deepest ways imaginable.”

DR. Johnstone ndunde, SIL Global Executive Director