Germans and the Question of Citizenship: Is an Overseas-Born German-Speaking Individual Considered 'German' or a 'Foreigner'?
When it comes to the question of whether someone who was born outside Germany but lives and speaks German there is considered 'German' or 'foreigner', the answer varies significantly among individuals and contexts. Most Germans often consider such individuals as 'German', but the perception can be nuanced and influenced by various factors.
Multifaceted Perception Among Germans
Most Germans do not typically question an individual's German identity based on birthplace, especially in everyday scenarios. However, in specific contexts such as official matters, personal relationships, or discussions on cultural and national identity, the line can become more blurred. Some Germans may view someone born outside Germany as 'German' due to their fluent German language skills and cultural assimilation, whereas others might be more cautious, questioning their deep-rooted connection to German culture and history.
Individual Differences in Definition
The perception of 'Germanness' varies greatly among Germans. Some individuals may have a strong emotional attachment to this identity, while others might find it a mild curiosity. Rarely do Germans expect uniformity in such a large and diverse group. For instance, Germans struggle with questions regarding the best beer in the world, let alone more complex issues about cultural and national identity.
A Personal Perspective
My husband and I, both German nationals, exemplify the complexities of this perception. We were born and raised in Germany until our early thirties. Our children, though born in Germany or Thailand, consider themselves German, and they are considered so by German society due to their German passports and parents. This emphasizes that the perception of German identity is not solely based on birthplace.
Language as a Key Factor
While birthplace is not the primary consideration, language proficiency plays a significant role. For foreigners moving to Germany, fluency in German is crucial. If one can pass as German, they are often not asked about their place of birth. This linguistic fluency can help individuals integrate more smoothly, reducing any labels of 'foreigner'.
Region-Specific Perceptions
Regional contexts can further complicate this perception. For instance, many Berliners refer to “Suebians” (Südafrikaner) or “Schwaben” (Suddeutsche) when someone is originally from some “somewhere south” of Germany. This highlights that the emphasis is often on the non-locality rather than the specific place of origin.
Stereotypes and Discrimination
Unfortunately, some contexts highlight negative stereotypes. When minorities, particularly those who have naturalized, complain about discrimination, some may lump all non-‘white Christian’ Germans into a narrow definition of 'Germans'. Notably, this term is often used to describe a specific demographic that aligns with stereotypes about what is considered 'authentic German'.
Conclusion: A Complex Yet Fluid Identity
Overall, the perception of whether someone born outside Germany but speaking and living in Germany is 'German' or a 'foreigner' is not uniform. It is a fluid identity, shaped by a blend of cultural, linguistic, and regional factors. While most Germans do not often question this identity, the nuances reveal the complexities of national and cultural identity in a diverse and expansive society like Germany.
Keywords: German citizenship, citizenship in Germany, cultural identity in Germany