English or German: choosing the language of your event

For an international event in Germany, choosing a language can look like a straightforward decision. In practice, it affects who feels able to participate and how comfortably a conversation develops.

Look beyond a list of nationalities.

Nationality alone does not tell you how comfortable someone will feel in a particular language. A person may use English every day at work but prefer German for a nuanced discussion. Another may understand German well but feel less confident asking a question.

Ask about the audience’s working languages, the terminology involved and the kind of participation you want. Listening to a keynote and contributing to a workshop place different demands on people.

Choose a shared route through the programme.

One main language can give an event a clear thread. Other languages can still have a meaningful place: an interview, a welcome or a short exchange with a local guest.

If the event genuinely serves distinct language groups, interpretation or separate sessions may offer a better experience. Think through those choices early enough for the production and hosting teams to plan around them.

Consider the moments where people have to respond.

Audience questions, group exercises and informal interviews often reveal the difference between understanding a language and feeling able to use it. Make the options clear before people are put on the spot.

A bilingual moderator can support that conversation. They still need a shared plan with the organiser: which language to use, when to summarise and where professional interpretation is needed.

Keep the practical details aligned.

Slides, invitations, signage and speaker introductions should support the language choice. Agree who will check terminology and provide translations. Brief guests on the audience and give them a realistic sense of the format.

The best language plan is one people hardly have to think about on the day. It lets their attention stay with the ideas, the speakers and one another.

Planning a bilingual event or panel? Let’s talk about your plans ↗