1. "Hmong" is a linguistic and ethnic umbrella term:
* There are several distinct Hmongic languages, such as Hmong (also known as White Hmong), Green Hmong, and Mong.
* These languages are spoken across a large geographic area, and their prevalence can vary within a single country.
2. "Speak" can mean different things:
* Native speakers: Those who use Hmong as their first language.
* Second-language speakers: People who learned Hmong as a second language.
* Language maintenance: Some Hmong communities maintain the language despite migration, while others may have transitioned to other languages.
3. Data Collection Challenges:
* Census data may not be accurate or consistent in capturing Hmong language use.
* The diaspora has dispersed Hmong communities across the globe, making it difficult to track their language use.
However, here are some countries where Hmong languages are spoken:
* Southeast Asia:
* Laos: Hmong is a major ethnic group in Laos and is recognized as an official language.
* Vietnam: Hmong is spoken by a significant population in Vietnam, primarily in the mountainous regions.
* Thailand: Hmong is spoken by a sizable community in northern Thailand, mainly in the mountainous regions.
* Myanmar (Burma): Hmong is spoken by a smaller community in the northern regions of Myanmar.
* China: Hmong languages are spoken by a large population in southern China, primarily in the provinces of Guangxi, Guizhou, and Yunnan.
* Other Countries:
* United States: There is a large Hmong diaspora in the United States, particularly in the Midwest and California.
* France: Hmong communities exist in France, primarily due to migration from Laos.
* Australia: There is a growing Hmong community in Australia.
* Canada: Hmong communities are present in Canada, particularly in the provinces of British Columbia and Ontario.
In conclusion, while it is difficult to definitively state how many countries "speak" Hmong, it is evident that Hmong languages are spoken across a significant geographical area, primarily in Southeast Asia and East Asia, and by diaspora communities around the world.