What does the term “intercultural competence” mean?
Intercultural competence means being able to reflect on one’s own behavior and that of others, thereby developing and applying appropriate strategies for action and conflict resolution. It encompasses both skills and abilities as well as knowledge. Training programs on intercultural competence are designed to foster these aspects. This includes, for example, teaching language that is sensitive to discrimination and behaviors that avoid discrimination. In this way, the manifestations and effects of discrimination are highlighted. Situations from everyday professional life are discussed, and strategies for resolving them are developed.
A central focus of the training is to foster a respectful attitude toward diversity among participants. The goal is for participants to gain greater confidence in professional situations. The training is designed to enhance individuals’ communication, decision-making, and conflict resolution skills. At the same time, by identifying mechanisms of exclusion and raising awareness of discrimination, the training aims to promote equal opportunity and full participation for all.
Training programs designed to develop intercultural competence can be part of a company’s or organization’s diversity management strategy.