Seven Reasons for Studying the German Language
• Spread: As a first or second language of approximately 125 million people, German ranks among the most significant languages in the world. In Europe, German is the mother tongue of over 100 million people; in seven European countries – Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Belgium, Luxembourg, Italy, and Liechtenstein – it is the sole or regional official language.
• German is the second most widely used language on the Internet.
• As a mother tongue, German holds by a large margin the first place in the European Union: Whoever speaks German can communicate with 18% of EU citizens in their mother tongue. In total, 32% of all EU citizens speak German. In the European Parliament, German-speaking deputies form the largest group. German is an official language of the EU and, together with English and French, is the most important working language.
• Language of Science: Germany is the most preferred place of study for Bulgarian students, as in pleasant and culturally diverse university cities one can obtain education of the highest level.
• Language of Culture: The German language is attractive also from a cultural perspective. As one of the greatest European cultural languages, it provides direct access to renowned writers (Goethe, Kafka), philosophers (Kant, Nietzsche), scientists (Einstein, Freud), and artists (Bach, Beethoven). But also German films, operas, musical and theatrical works can be watched and listened to in the original.
• Language of Economics: German-speaking countries have the highest gross domestic product in Europe. Knowledge of the German language is important for the labor market, as Bulgaria is an important and attractive destination for German investors. Over 2,300 German companies have already established themselves in Bulgaria.
• Bulgaria is an attractive destination for German tourists. And in this regard, German is important not only for promoting mutual understanding, but knowledge of the German language is also a great advantage for the tourism industry.