MONTREAL — French language complaints in Quebec have reached an all-time high, driven largely by ongoing friction over the use of English in retail and digital communications across the Montreal area.
According to annual data released by the Office québécois de la langue française (OQLF), the province’s language watchdog received a record 11,125 complaints between April 1, 2025, and March 31, 2026. This marks a seven percent increase over the previous fiscal year and represents a steady, multi-year upward trend.
“The constant increase in the number of complaints in the last few years is an indication of Quebecers’ growing concern when it comes to their right to work, be informed and receive services in French,” the OQLF stated in a release accompanying the figures.
The data highlights a distinct geographical concentration, with 51 percent of all complaints originating from businesses operating within the Montreal region. The remaining cases were spread across Laval, Montérégie, Outaouais, and the Capitale-Nationale region around Quebec City.
The OQLF provided a statistical breakdown of the most frequent citizen grievances:
- Language of Service (35%): Consumers unable to interact or receive service in French at commercial establishments.
- Business Communications (33%): Corporate messaging, websites, and social media platforms failing to prioritize or include French text.
- Commercial Signage (16%): Public-facing storefront signs violating provincial language laws.
- Product Labeling (6%): Packaging lacking appropriate French descriptions.
- Language at Work (5%): Employees reporting issues regarding their right to work in French.
The rising numbers come amid heightened public awareness and tighter enforcement of provincial language statutes. The OQLF noted that it continues to investigate the claims to ensure commercial compliance across the province.
