However, based on various sources, here's a general idea:
* Around 5% of the world's population speaks Spanish as a native language. This means about 400 million people worldwide.
* Adding in those who speak Spanish as a second language, the total number of speakers rises significantly. This could bring the total percentage to around 7% or higher.
It's important to remember:
* Language usage is constantly evolving. Population growth, migration, and language policies influence the number of speakers.
* Defining "Spanish speaker" can be complex. Does it include those who speak different dialects or have limited proficiency?
* Data collection can be challenging. Accurately counting speakers across diverse countries and regions is difficult.
Therefore, while it's impossible to provide a definitive answer, the percentage of Spanish speakers in the world is likely in the range of 5-7%, with the potential for higher figures when including non-native speakers.