Perhaps the most recent and significant example of English gaining prominence over French in the Arab World is in Lebanon. Although such a shift must be viewed in terms of the conflict of religion resulting civil wear, it is also relevant that Tunisia and Lebanon possess certain common traits. U.S. Ambassador Parker (1987: 53) writes,
Both countries are the smallest in their respective regions both have limited natural resources, both have catered to Mediterranean tourism with considerable success
and both are marked by a practical approach, trying to avoid letting ideology get in the way of making a living, but not always succeeding. The gradual shift from French to English in Tunisia and indeed in all of North Africa will not be as profound as in Lebanon; however, study of English language policy and planning in countries such as Lebanon should provide important lessons as Tunisia makes decisions concerning its linguistic future. In addition, research should focus on varieties of English spoken in the Arab world.
