The Importance of Learning Languages in Switzerland
The Psychological Dimensions of Integration
Switzerland is not just a country with four official languages, but also a linguistically complex geography where every canton maintains its own dialect. For newcomers, this circumstance presents the first and most challenging test for successful integration.
From High German to the Bernese Dialect: An Integration Experience
It was the year 2015, and the German language requirement was under discussion in Bern. I initially considered my knowledge of Italian an advantage in a country with four official languages. Due to concerns about work and livelihood, I postponed learning German. However, I soon realized it was impossible to communicate in the streets and in social settings using Italian.
I took immediate action, got organized, and started learning High German (Hochdeutsch). Although I quickly began to understand Hochdeutsch, the language I learned was not immediately useful in my social circle and when dealing with people for work. This was because of the local Bernese Dialect (Bärndütsch). The inability to understand the person in front of me caused me anxiety and a loss of self-confidence. I constantly had to ask: “Excuse me, could you please speak High German?” Most people reacted politely, but those who said, “You live in Bern!” undermined my morale.
I now know that the integration process is not a technical registration; it is a psychological balance.
Switzerland’s Communication Layers: The Separation of High German and Dialect
The first confusion you encounter in the German-speaking part of Switzerland is the existence of two fundamental communication layers:
1. High German (Hochdeutsch / Schriftdeutsch)
This is the written, official, and bureaucratic language. School books, laws, and all official correspondence are in this language. It is the language that must be fundamentally learned to manage vital and legal processes.
2. Swiss German (Schweizerdeutsch)
This is a dialect group (Mundart) belonging to the spoken language. It is the sole language of daily life, friendly circles, and informal communication. It differs from Hochdeutsch in grammar and vocabulary. True social acceptance begins with understanding these dialects.
The Diversity and Groups of Swiss German Dialects
Swiss German (Schwiizerdütsch) belongs to the Alemannic language family and shows a very rich diversity due to geographical and cultural differences. These dialects are divided into three main geographical and linguistic groups:
A. High Alemannic (Hochalemannisch)
This group is the most widespread and central dialect group in German-speaking Switzerland. It covers most cantons with high economic and population density. Examples include:
- Zurich German (Züritüütsch): The dialect most frequently heard due to the financial centre.
- Bernese German (Bärndütsch): Often known for having a softer melody.
B. Highest Alemannic (Höchstalemannisch)
This dialect group is spoken in geographically isolated, mountainous regions near the Alps. This isolation has allowed the language to preserve its older features, making it difficult for even other Swiss people to understand.
- Walliser German (Wallisertiitsch): The most typical example and is considered one of the most conservative dialects of the Germanic languages.
C. Low Alemannic (Niederalemannisch)
These dialects are generally found in regions near the borders of Germany and France and show similarities with the dialects of neighboring countries.
Basel German (Baseldeutsch): Specific to this region and known for its closeness to the Badisch dialects in Germany.ion und bekannt für seine Nähe zu den Badischen Dialekten in Deutschland.
The Foundations of Successful Integration: The Rule of Language and Respect
In my experience, learning the language and settling in Switzerland, regardless of your reason for entry (asylum, marriage, or work), relies on two fundamental rules:
1. Respect (Achtung)
I am speaking of respect for everything that belongs here: from a plant to your neighbor, to a public official. In this way, you will feel good about yourself and easily earn the respect of the people.
2. Language
If you want to maintain your self-respect, you should at least know enough of the language to express yourself and your concerns. I am not talking about achieving C1/C2 levels here. In a country where many free courses are encouraged by the state, and with the support of modern technology, it is possible to solve the language problem quickly.
When you take language and respect as your foundation, integration will follow naturally.
