The Vietnamese Community in Germany: A Journey of Preserving Identity

From migrants to Vietnamese-German citizens

The Vietnamese community in Germany has a history of over 50 years, from contract workers of the East German era to boat refugee families, and now a new wave of migrants including professionals and students.

Today, an estimated 200,000 Vietnamese people live in Germany, with large communities concentrated in Berlin, Hamburg, and Frankfurt.

Keeping the cultural flame alive

The greatest challenge faced by the second and third generations is the question of identity: "Am I German or Vietnamese?" Community organizations, temples, and especially Vietnamese language classes play a pivotal role in helping the younger generation answer this question: "I am both."

The role of language education

Many Vietnamese parents in Germany share that the moment their child can independently chat with grandparents in Vietnam is the most moving moment in their bilingual parenting journey. Vietnamese is not just a skill — it is a gift parents give their children.