avatarMallick Speaks

Summary

Making friends in Germany can be challenging for foreigners due to language barriers, cultural differences, and preconceived notions about German sociability, but it is possible through active participation in social activities, learning the language, and integrating into the society.

Abstract

The article discusses the difficulties foreigners face in making friends in Germany, primarily due to a lack of German language proficiency. It suggests that the challenge is not insurmountable, especially for students who have ample opportunities to meet people through university life, clubs, and events. The article refutes the stereotype that Germans are unfriendly, attributing this view to cultural misunderstandings rather than outright dislike. Personal anecdotes are shared about a son-in-law and daughter who successfully integrated into German society by learning the language and embracing the culture, despite their different cultural and religious backgrounds. The article emphasizes the importance of not imposing one's own cultural or religious beliefs on others and suggests that behaving as "common men and women" is key to integrating into German society.

Opinions

  • The author believes that the perception of Germans as unfriendly is an overgeneralization.
  • It is noted that Germans have a different approach to socializing, which may be misunderstood by foreigners as a lack of openness.
  • The author's family members have had positive experiences making friends in Germany by learning the language and engaging with the local community.
  • The article criticizes some Muslims for adopting overly pious behaviors upon arriving in Germany and suggests they should focus on integration rather than preaching.
  • Integration into German society is seen as crucial for foreigners, which involves behaving like ordinary citizens and forming relationships with neighbors and colleagues.

Why is it hard to make friends in Germany?

It can be hard for foreigners to make friends in Germany. A large number of people who visit Germany do not know the language. Because of this problem, they face difficulties in starting a conversation with German people.

The town of Hallstatt is famous for its salt production and subterranean salt lake.

It won’t be hard if you come as a student. because student life offers opportunities to meet classmates , professors, and other participants in activities. As we all know, universities offer a very vibrant social scene. There are different types of clubs. You can join one of these clubs to interact with people. Universities also organize different types of events. At these events, you meet people who share your passion and curiosity. These events also give you opportunities to practice your German skills as well.

Some YouTube videos and surveys give the impression that Germans are not friendly people. They are not open to foreigners. I think it is an overgeneralization. In my opinion, there are some factors that make it difficult for foreigners to befriend Germans. I will not say it is outright disliked.

I think Germans have a different approach to socializing than foreigners who have come from different backgrounds. Foreigners think their approach strange and term it lack of openness.

My son-in-law and daughter have been living in Munich, Germany, for many years. Both of them have learned the German language, and they have established good relations with their German friends, colleagues, and families. My son-in-law came as student.

They came from a very different culture and religion than the Germans. As they have made Germany their home. They did not allow their cultural differences to be an impediment to building relations with Germans.

I visited Germany in March 2023. Before going to Germany, I brushed up on my German. I had learned German when I was working with AEG Telefunken. I read German papers and learned about German politics and culture. This helped me start a conversation with people during my stay in Munich.

Unfortunately, most Muslims develop strange behaviors. When they are in their countries. They are not very religious. The moment they landed in Germany, they started behaving like pious Muslims and looked down upon Germans.

I think they must not do so. They have landed in Germany for a better future and life. They are not there to preach Islam.

They should behave like common men and women. They should make friends with their neighbors and office colleagues. Only this way can they integrate into German society

Germany
Immigration
German Immigration
German Culture
German Language
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