They could have left the languages in the same place where it was before. Now it requires extra input and mental effort to find the languages section. This is definitely a step backwards.
Not complaining about the design of the new languages section, but the layout is just completely terrible and useless.
I would regularly wow people by showing them the language feature existed. It was obfuscated in the old layout and now it's readily available without any additional clicks. Yes, my eyes have to scan to the side now, but to call it "completely terrible and useless" is ridiculous. More users will discover this feature now that it's been moved and made visible.
I have to disagree with you there. Previously, I had to click on the tiny strip before I could see the languages. Now it is available right away.
For a new visitor, this is infinitely better because it is clearly labeled. For returning users, the only hurdle is getting used to the new location (which is made easy by the clear heading).
You could argue that project languages are more important than the contributors and should be placed above that content. Regardless, it is clearly a step forward.
Not complaining about the design of the new languages section, but the layout is just completely terrible and useless.