Business and Culture – part II

German speaking Culture Cluster

• An important key to understand German Speaking Cluster is to see the

influence of its cultural leaders: poets, novelists, musicians, philosophers
and architects.
• The Germanic Culture has played a huge role in inventing things and
processes (just to mention: Gutenberg, Einstein or Kepler). Part of the
long-standing Germanic culture had pursued its dominance and unity as
an empire was to take the time to research and develop new ways of
doing things.
Pragmatic and functionality does characterize German Cluster art and
literature and is unique from many other European expressions. German
Cluster composers have indeed written music that is bold, full of energy
and truly obsessed with perfectionism.
• German is the official language of six countries, all of which lie in central
and western Europe: Austria, Belgium, Germany, Liechtenstein,
Luxembourg and Switzerland all share a common territorial area, with
Germany at its center.
• German is the exclusive, official language just in Germany and Austria.
• Beside of the language these countries have a lot in common regarding
history, culture values and social norms.
• Despite relatively small size of this cluster, it has a huge economic
footprint in the global economy. It is strong, economic hub – countries in
the cluster have very close ties with each other and they also count
significantly in the foreign trade.
• They have also quite distinctive ways of business conduct – today it is
already widely recognized and in majority very much appreciated.
• The countries in this cluster are almost evenly split between Protestants
and Roman Catholic – with the exception of Austria, which is
predominantly Roman Catholic. On the whole the countries seem to
more strongly reflect a Protestant ethic.
Germany - Culture Traits
1. Geographical features – Germany (official name: Federal Republic of
Germany), is a country located in Central Europe. It is the second most
populus country in Europe and the most populous member state of EU.
Germany is situated between the Baltic and North seas to the north, and
the Alps mountains to the south; it covers an area of 357,022 square km,
with a population of over 83 million. Germany shares its borders with
nine countries – southern with Austria is the longest one (784 km). The
population density in Germany is 240 people per square km. The gender
split - 97.75 males per 100 females.
2. Language – German language is an official language of both: Germany
and Austria (also one of the official languages of Switzerland. German
belongs to the West Germanic group of the Indo-European language
family, along with English, Frisian, Dutch (Netherlandic, Flemish).
German is the native language of more than 90 million speakers and
thus ranks among the languages with the most native speakers
worldwide.
3. Religion – Christianity is the largest religion in Germany. It was
introduced to the area of modern Germany by 300 AD, while parts of
that area belonged to the Roman Empire and later, when Franks and
other Germanic tribes converted to Christianity from the fifth century
onwards. After the Reformation started by Martin Luther in the early
16th century, many people left the Catholic Church and became
Protestant, mainly Lutheran and Calvinist. Today around 54% of the
population are Christians - among them 51% members of the two large
Christian churches. 40% of German nation declare irreligion.
4. Education – The system varies throughout Germany because each Land
decides its own educational policies. Most children, however, first
attend Grundschule (primary or elementary school) for 4 years from the
age of 6 to 9. Germany's secondary education is separated into two
parts, lower and upper. The quality of German education is world-
renowned for a reason. It's well-organized and designed to be highly
accessible to all students allowing them to continue studying up to
university level regardless of a family's finances.
5. Economy - Germany is a highly developed social market economy. It has
the largest national economy in Europe, the fourth-largest by nominal
 GDP in the world. Germany has a social market economy characterized
by a highly qualified labor force, developed infrastructure, large capital
stock, very low level of corruption and a high level of innovation.
Leading industries: vehicle construction, electrical industry, engineering,
chemical industry and retail.
The most valuable brands: SAP (technology), Deutsche Telekom,
Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, VW, Adidas, Aldi, Lidl, Bosch, Siemens and
Allianz.

Average salary in 2024: 54 000 Euro annually/4 500 Euro monthly.

Average costs of living: Single person estimated monthly costs - 997.0€

without rent (average cost of rent – 1000-1500 € monthly).

Note: Today Germany is suffering a mild recession and output across the
whole of 2024 will be flat. The German economy continues facing headwinds
throughout 2024. In the first half of the year, it contracted by 0.2% compared
to the first half of the previous year. Weak domestic and foreign demand for
manufacturing goods, combined with high uncertainty, impacted investment in
equipment. (Bloomberg). Reasons: shutting down Nordstream – transition for
gas proved to be very costly – costs of living went up by 6-8% , VW scandal
(cheating US clients on polluting emission tests – costs approx. 4,5 billions of
USD and extreme reputation downsides).

6. Art: The culture of Germany has been shaped by major intellectual and
popular currents in Europe, both religious and secular. Historically,
Germany has been called “Das Land der Dichter und Denker” (the
country of poets and thinkers). German culture has been the pinnacle of
Europe for thousands of years. Germany has been the center for various
important phenomena such as the Migration Period, the Carolingian
Empire, Holy Roman Empire, the Medieval renaissances, the Printing
Revolution, Protestant reformation, Prussia, Romanticism, Weimar and
National Socialism.
In the field of music - Germany claims some of the most renowned classical
composers of the world, including Bach and Beethoven, who marked the
transition between the Classical and Romantic eras in Western classical music.
Other composers of the Austro-German tradition who achieved international
fame include Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Brahms, Wagner, Haydn, Schubert,
Händel, Schumann, Mendelssohn Bartholdy or Johann Strauss.

In the field of literature - German literature comprises the written works of the
German-speaking peoples of central Europe. It has shared the fate of German
politics and history: fragmentation and discontinuity. German authors that
were geniuses of their time and continue to inspire us today – just a few to
recognize: Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, Thomas Mann, Rainer Maria Rilke,
Hermann Hesse or Günter Wilhelm Grass.
German Philosophers (Thinkers): Some of the most famous philosophers were
born and lived in Germany, like Immanuel Kant, who played a central role in
the history of philosophy, and he was inspired by German philosopher
Schopenhauer and Nietzsche who spent their whole lives in Germany. On the
other hand the developers of the communist theory Marx and Engels were also
Germans.
7. Food – Germans drink a lot of beer, eat sausages and make bread of
different taste. That is not only a stereotype, but a true fact. It is estimated
that the average German consumes around 140 liters of beer per year.
Wurst, which means sausages in German, are an important part of the
German cuisine, which are made of pork, beef or veal and flavored
differently. As for bread, there is a long tradition of bread-baking of which
Germans take pride in.
8. Social norms – Be on time!. Don’t be more than a few minutes early and
definitely don’t be more than a few minutes late. “Ordnung muss sein!”
(There has to be an order!) You will hear that expression every day and it
reflects legendary German punctuality in business, commuting system as
well as in private life.
9. Traditions and values shared in common – Germany has an extensive
culture that spans among almost all of the nations that speak German like
Oktoberfest (hiccup) or Weihnachtsmarkt (Christmas market) in Bavaria,
Germany. In general – rules and policies are created to help reduce being
out of control. Orderliness is highly valued and awarded.
 German Speaking Cluster – Austria and Switzerland
Austria – culture traits
1. Geographical features – Austria is a predominantly mountainous country in
Central Europe, approximately between Germany, Italy and Hungary. The total
land area is 82,409 Km2; 57.3 % of the population is urban. Austria shares its
borders with six neighbors - the longest is the western border with Germany -
801 km. Current population is slightly over 9 million citizens. The gender split –
males: 48.8% and females: 51.2%. Population density - 109 per Km 2.
2. Language – German is the exclusive, official language Austria. In addition to
the German language, individual Austrian regions recognize languages of
various autonomous ethnic groups as official languages (like AustroBavarian).
Since Austria seeks to preserve its linguistic and cultural diversity these
linguistic minorities in Austria are legally protected.
3. Religion – Christianity is the predominant religion in Austria. At the 2001
census, 73.6% of the country's population was Catholic. In past few years the
number of Catholics has dropped significantly to 56.9% of the population.
Other major religions: Eastern Orthodox – 9%; Islam – 8%; Protestants – 3,5%.
4. Education – Austria is considered to have a very high quality of education.
The most famous and highest to be ranked is University of Vienna, medical and
technical universities related to the study of sciences are also highly recognized
worldwide. Austria has a free and public school system and nine years of
education are mandatory.
Schools offer a series of vocational-technical and university preparatory tracks
involving one to four additional years of education beyond the minimum
mandatory level.
5. Economy - The economy of Austria is a developed social market economy,
with the country being one of the fourteen richest in the world in terms of
GDP. Austria has historically been the main trading partner of Germany,
making its economy vulnerable to changes in the German economy. However,
since Austria became a member state of the European Union, it has gained
closer ties to other EU economies. Vienna was ranked the fifth richest region
within Europe, with its GDP reaching €38,632 per capita. It was trailing behind
London, Luxembourg and the Brussels-Capital Region.
Leading industries: food and luxury commodities, mechanical
engineering, steel construction, chemicals, vehicle manufacturing, tourism.
The most valuable brands: Raiffeisen Bank, OMV (oil and gas), Strabag SE
(constructions), Red Bull, Swarovski (jewelry).
6. Art: Music - Vienna the capital city of the second Republic of Austria had
long been an important center of musical innovation. Composers of the 18th
and 19th centuries were drawn to the city by the patronage of the nobility and
made Vienna the European the capital of classical music. The greatest
composers to be remembered: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Ludwig van
Beethoven and Johann Strauss, Jr.
Architecture: Austria is famous for its castles, palaces and buildings, among
other architectural works. Some of Austria's most famous castles include
Festung Hohensalzburg, Burg Hohenwerfen, Castle Liechtenstein and the
Schloß Artstetten. The Historic Centre of the City of Salzburg is listed as a
World Heritage Site.
7. Food – Austrian cuisine is derived from the cuisine of the Austro-Hungarian
Empire. In addition to native regional traditions it has been influenced above
all by Hungarian, Czech, Jewish and Italian cuisines, from which both dishes
and methods of food preparation have often been borrowed. Goulash is one
example of this. Austrian cuisine is known primarily in the rest of the world for
its pastries and sweets. The most popular dishes: Wiener schnitzel (veal coated
in breadcrumbs and fried), Selchfleisch (smoked meat) with sauerkraut and
dumplings, Apfelstrudel (strudel pastry filled with apples) and Sachertorte
(cake of two layers of chocolate cake with apricot jam in the middle).
8. Social norms – Greetings are formal. A quick, firm handshake is the
traditional greeting. Maintain eye contact during the greeting. Some Austrian
men, particularly those who are older, may kiss the hand of a female.
9. Traditions and values shared in common – Austrian customs and traditions
vary according to the region you’re in. Not everyone in Austria walks around in
Lederhosen (close fitting bodice combined with an apron in a different color),
although various traditions and celebrations are an integral part of Austria. Yet,
go outside of the main cities such as Vienna, Graz or Salzburg and the country
becomes fairly rural, with small communities, which traditionally were and are
resistant to cultural change.
For more: https://allthingsaustria.com/austrian-customs-and-traditions/
Switzerland – culture traits
1. Geographical features – Switzerland is located in Western Europe, to
the east of France and to the north of Italy. It is known for its mountain
landscapes and small mountain villages. The topography of Switzerland
is varied but it is mainly mountainous with the Alps in the south and the
Jura Mountains in the northwest.
Country has an area of 41,285 square km. Switzerland has a population of 8,85
million. It shares borders with five other countries – the longest is southern
border with Italy (734 km). The population density in Switzerland is 219 per
square km. Gender split: male to female ratio for Switzerland was 98.46 males
per 100 females.
2. Language: The four national languages of Switzerland are German, French,
Italian and Romansh. German, French and Italian maintain equal status as
official languages at the national level.
3. Religion: The constitution guarantees freedom of faith and conscience, as
part of the legislation there is the penal code, which prohibits discrimination
against any religion or its members. Religion in Switzerland is predominantly
Christianity, adhered to by 61.2% of resident population 15 years and older, of
whom 33.8% were Catholics, 21.8% were Swiss Protestants, and 5.6% were
followers of other Christian denominations.
4. Education: The education system of Switzerland is largely decentralized.
Country is split for 26 cantons, which are overseen by the State Secretariat for
Education, Research and Innovation (SERI). However, each canton creates and
implements its own standards, which can be detrimental for families moving
from one region of the nation to another. The basic structure of the Swiss
education system is as follows: upper secondary level education – vocational
education and training (VET), baccalaureate schools and upper-secondary
specialized schools; tertiary level education – professional training, university.

5. Economy: The economy of Switzerland is one of the world's most advanced,

free-market and most competitive. By international standards public debt in
Switzerland is low and the country has a competitive tax system.

Note: Approximately 74% of Swiss GDP is generated by the services sector and
25% by industry. The agricultural sector contributes less than 1%. The EU is
Switzerland's main trading partner. Around 66% of Swiss imports are from the
EU, while 43% of Swiss exports are to EU countries. Switzerland has the lowest
VAT rate in Europe. VAT is payable on most goods and services. A reduced rate
of 3.7% is levied on accommodation services, while a 2.5% VAT rate applies to
basic necessities.
Small-and medium-sized enterprises are the mainstay of the
export-oriented Swiss economy. Switzerland has the second highest per capita
GDP in the world (USD 86,850 based on IMF statistics).
Leading industries: financial services, precision manufacturing, metals,
pharmaceuticals, chemicals, electronics. In fact Switzerland is most famous in
the world for its chocolates, Swiss cheeses, army knives and watches.
Most popular brands: Credit Suisse, ABB (machinery), Nescafe, Nestle, Lindt,
Rolex, Omega, Swatch, Victorinox (knives).
6. Art: Thanks to its location at the crossroads of three major European
cultures (German, French and Italian), Switzerland has a rich and varied arts
and culture scene. This situation is also a reason why the country’s artists tend
to be outward-looking and incorporate influences from other countries in their
work. Nowadays, all mountain areas of Switzerland have a strong skiing and
mountaineering culture and are associated with folk arts such as the alphorn
and yodeling. There is virtually no other country on earth with as many
museums per head of the population as Switzerland. There are also numerous
galleries and auctions as well as international and regional fairs to delight the
hearts of art enthusiasts from all over the world.
7. Food: Swiss cuisine is influenced by French, German and Northern Italian
cuisine, as well as by the history of Switzerland as a primarily agricultural
country. As a result, many traditional Swiss dishes tend to be relatively plain
and are made from basic ingredients, such as potatoes and Swiss cheese. Well-
known Swiss dishes include raclette and fondue (molten cheese eaten with
bread or potatoes), rösti (fried grated potatoes), muesli (an oatmeal breakfast
dish) and Zürcher Geschnetzeltes (veal and
mushrooms on a cream sauce).
8. Social norms: Swiss people love their niceness and you should respect that.
Anywhere you go, even if it’s to the grocery store you visit weekly, be sure to
greet everyone with Salü, Hoi, Grüetzi, or Ciao, depending on what part of the
country you’re in. The Swiss consider this polite. Swiss respect discretion and
privacy and strangers are not usually expected to talk to each other. However,
when it comes to friendliness, the same rules do not apply.
As universal etiquette: respect other people time (leave party at midnight as
the latest moment), avoid littering and being noisy.
9. The Swiss universal values: cleanliness, honesty, hard work and material
possessions (the last can raise some controversies – respect it but You may
have different opinion). Motto: "Unity, yes; Uniformity, no." They are very
proud of their environment and have a long tradition of freedom. They value
sobriety, thrift, tolerance, punctuality and a sense of responsibility.
German Speaking Cluster – Business Tips
• To succeed You need to demonstrate efficiency and punctuality
• Be straightforward and direct
• Regarding business conduct – try to keep promises with Yours best efforts
• Learn the rules – from the culture organization to their recycling habits - and
follow them
• Remember: “Dienst ist Dienst und Schnaps ist Schnaps!” - “Work is work and
play (drink) is a play!.” This is one of the most important distinction in German
speaking business culture.
Eastern European Cluster - Poland
• In the early Middle Ages, Poland’s small principalities and townships
were subjugated by successive waves of invaders, from Germans and
Balts to Mongols. In the mid-1500s, united Poland was the largest state
in Europe and perhaps the continent’s most powerful nation.
• Yet two and a half centuries later, during the Partitions of Poland (1772–
1918), it disappeared, parceled out among the contending empires of
Russia, Prussia, and Austria.
• Even at a time of national crisis, however, Polish culture remained
strong; indeed, it even flourished, if sometimes far from home. Polish
revolutionary ideals, carried by Kazimierz Pułaski and Tadeusz
Kościuszko, informed those of the American Revolution. The Polish
constitution of 1791, the oldest in Europe, in turn incorporated ideals of
the American and French revolutions. Poles later settled in great
numbers – mostly in the United States, Brazil, Argentina and carried
their culture with them.
• Restored as a nation in 1918 but ravaged by two world wars, Poland
suffered tremendously throughout the course of the 20th century.
World War II was particularly damaging (nearly six millions of Poles lost
their lives), as Poland’s historically strong Jewish population (10-15% of
total) was almost wholly annihilated in the Holocaust.
• In the late 1970s, beginning in the shipyards of Gdańsk those workers
formed a nationwide movement called Solidarity (Solidarność). Despite
the arrest of Solidarity’s leadership, its newspapers kept publishing,
spreading its values throughout the country. In May 1989 the Polish
government fell, along with communist regimes throughout eastern
Europe, beginning Poland’s rapid transformation into a democracy.

POLAND – CULTURAL TRAITS

1. Geographical features – Poland as country of central is located at a
geographic crossroads that links the forested lands of northwestern
Europe to the sea lanes of the Atlantic Ocean and the fertile plains of the
Eurasian frontier. Now bounded by seven nations (Germany, Czech
Republic, Slovakia, Ukraine, Belarus, Lithuania and Russia). Polish
 territory It is divided into 16 administrative provinces called
voivodeships, covering an area of 312,696 km2.
• The total population of Poland is almost 37 millions of people. The
population density of Poland - 127.5 people per square kilometer, the
gender split - women are accounted for nearly 52 percent of the total
population, while men accounted for 48 percent.
2. Language - is a West Slavic language of the Lechitic group. It is spoken
primarily in Poland and serves as the native language of the Poles. There
are over 50 million Polish speakers around the world.
3. Religion - Predominant Religious Beliefs In Poland by population: 1.
Catholic Church - ca. 34 millions (Poland is one of the most Catholic
countries in the world); 2. Polish Autocephalous Orthodox Church – ca.
550 000; 3. Jehovah's Witnesses – ca. 130 000.
4. Economy - Poland is a developed market, it has the sixth largest
economy in the European Union by nominal GDP and the fifth largest by
GDP. Poland has seen the largest increase in GDP per capita (more than
100%) both among the former Eastern Bloc countries and compared to
the EU-15 (around 45%). It has had uninterrupted economic growth
since 1992.
5. Polish economy is consider as very well-diversified and it has proven to
be one of the most resilient in the European Union (EU). The largest
component of its economy is the service sector (62.3.%), followed
by industry (34.2%) and agriculture (3.5%). Polish leading brands: PKN
Orlen (oil), PGNiG (gas), PGE (energy), PZU (insurance), KGHM (copper
and silver); PKO Bank Polski (financing), LOT (airlines).

6. Education system - Constitution of the Republic of Poland (Art. 70)

grants the right to education to all and, at the same time, provides for
the obligation to continue education until the age of 18. The system of
education in Poland allows for 22 years of continuous, uninterrupted
schooling. Primary school usually starts at seven years old. Following
changes introduced by act "Law on School Education" primary school
was extended to 8 years. The recent results of PISA (Program for
International Student Assessment) surveys show that Poland is currently
 at the forefront of EU countries in terms of pupils’ achievements in
reading, mathematics and science.
7. Art - Polish art has often reflected European trends while maintaining its
unique character. The Kraków school of history painting developed by Jan
Matejko produced monumental portrayals of significant events and
customs throughout Polish history. He is referred to as the "national
painter" of Poland. Later - (XIX/XX century) - The Młoda Polska movement
witnessed the birth of modern Polish art and engaged in a great deal of
formal experimentation led by Jacek Malczewski or Stanisław Wyspiański.
Artists of the twentieth-century Avant-Garde represented various schools
– with the most famous today Tamara de Lempicka who was a Polish artist
creating Art Déco paintings. After II WW Polish School of Poster has been
created and is being consider as one of the most famous in the world. Also
Małgorzata Abakanowicz with her sculptures achieved worldwide
recognition.

8. Food – Polish cuisine has evolved over the centuries to become very
eclectic due to Poland's history and it shares many similarities with other
regional variations. Polish cuisine is rich in meat, especially pork, chicken
and game, in addition to a wide range of vegetables, mushrooms and
herbs. It is also characteristic in its use of various kinds of noodles as well
as cereals and grains. In general, Polish cuisine is hearty and heavy in its
use of butter, cream, eggs and extensive seasoning. The traditional
dishes are often demanding in preparation. Many Poles allow
themselves a generous amount of time to serve and enjoy their festive
meals, especially Christmas Eve supper (“Wigilia”) on December 24 or
Easter breakfast. Most popular dishes: bigos, pierogi, żurek and rosół.
8. Social norms – Poles are consider to be warm and hospitable. Guests
are welcomed with Polish credo: “Postaw się, zastaw się!” (“All we have
at home must be shared with honorable Guest!”. When meeting
someone they shake hands firmly, smile and maintain direct eye contact.
Friends often are to embrace; they may also kiss each other on each
cheek (in Poland three times is the norm ).
 9. Traditions and values shared in common – many Polish traditions and
customs have been well preserved and maintained. Many traditions are
tied with religious occasions. Many of them are related with battles (most
of them lost...) and war heroes. For more please read about unusual
Polish customs:
https://theculturetrip.com/europe/poland/articles/the-10-most-unusual-
traditions-in-poland/

Eastern European Cluster - Ukraine

• During the Middle Ages, the area was a key centre of East Slavic culture
under Kievan Rus', which was ultimately destroyed by the Mongol invasion in
the 13th century. Over the next 600 years, the area was contested, divided and
ruled by external powers, including the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth, the
Austrian Empire, the Ottoman Empire, and the Tsardom of Russia.
• The 19th century saw the growth of Ukrainian nationalism, particularly in
Galicia, then part of Austria-Hungary. In the aftermath of the Russian
Revolution a Ukrainian national movement re-emerged and the Ukrainian
People's Republic was formed in 1917. This short-lived state was forcibly
reconstituted into the Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic, which became a
founding member of the Soviet Union (USSR) in 1922.
From 1932 to 1933 the Holodomor killed millions of Ukrainians. In 1939,
Western Ukraine was annexed from Poland by the USSR.
• In 2013, mass protests and demonstrations known as the Euromaidan
erupted, escalating into the Revolution of Dignity that led to the establishment
of a new government. These events led to Russia annexing Crimea and a war in
Donbas against Russian-backed separatists, culminating in a Russian invasion in
February 2022.
• Before the Russian invasion Ukraine was consider as one of the poorest
countries in Europe and suffered from widespread corruption.
Ukraine – culture traits
1. Geographical features – Ukraine is a country in Eastern Europe. It is the
second largest country in Europe after Russia, which borders it to the east and
north-east. Ukraine also shares borders with Belarus to the north; Poland,
Slovakia, Hungary to the west; Romania and to the south and has a coastline
along the Sea of Azov and the Black Sea. It covers about 600,000 km2 with a
population of about 40 million. The population density of Ukraine is 75 people
per square km, the gender split - 86.33 males per 100 females.

Note: Ukraine's population has declined by an estimated 10 million since 2014

and by an estimated eight million since the beginning of the full-scale Kremlin’s
invasion in 2022.

2. Language – Ukrainian is a fusional, nominative-accusative, satellite framed

language. Is estimated that there are about 30 million speakers of Ukrainian in
Ukraine, where it is an official language. The largest Ukrainian language
diaspora live in Brazil – around 500 000 people.
3. Religion – The dominant religion is Eastern Orthodoxy - 65.4%.
4. Economy – In 2019, the World Bank reported that economic growth was
solid at 3.2%, led by a good agricultural harvest and
sectors dependent on domestic consumption. However, in 2020
GDP collapsed by 4.4% due to COVID-19 pandemic. Due to the
2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine, the country's economy could shrink up to
35%, according to IMF.
Leading industries: coal, electric power, ferrous and nonferrous metals,
machinery and transport equipment, chemicals, agriculture and food
processing.
5. Natural Wealth: Ukraine belongs to the leading mineral-raw countries (fifth
in the world) of the world with a wide range of minerals. This country holds
one of the leading places in the reserves and extraction of: iron, manganese,
titanium-zirconium ores, non-metalic raw materials.
Coal, oil and natural gas, iron and manganese ores, native sulfur, rock and
potassium salts, non-metallic building materials, mineral waters have the
greatest economic importance.
Note: Almost two-thirds of the Ukraine is exceptionally fertile agricultural land
- „The World Bread Basket”. The main crops in the region are wheat, barley
and corn.
6. Education system - Ukrainian educational system. The Ukrainian educational
system is organized into five levels: preschool, primary, secondary, upper
secondary and postgraduate education. After reforms in 2017 schools receive
50% of their funding from the city budget and 50% from the national
government budget.
7. Art – Traditional Ukrainian folk crafts include decorative painting, egg
decorating (pysanky), embroidery, pottery, textile weaving, wicker weaving
and woodworking. Different regions in Ukraine are known for particular styles
and designs.
8. Food – Ukraine is famous for its cultural diversity. This country has also
gained global popularity for its diversified cuisine. Ukrainian food is famous
everywhere in the world today due to its delicious tastes, traditional styles and
of course, unique ways to serve guests. Major ingredients of the diets which
Ukrainians prefer are millet, rye and wheat. They have been harvesting such
foodstuffs since several centuries. The most popular dishes are: borsch, paska,
varenyky, potato pancakes or kapusniak.

9. Social norms – Warm hospitality, hard work, resilience and strong sense of
national identity.

Asian “Tigers” Cluster – Japan

• The selection was done for the purpose of this course. I have chosen two
strong economies and cultures already known as “Asian Tigers” - Japan
and South Korea (same term is used for: Singapore, Taiwan and Hong
Kong). I added Vietnam as the “emerging Tiger”.
• Since 1960s Asia, the largest and most populous of the continents, has
become richer faster than any other region of the world. Japan’s and
 South Korea’s economies were among those, which have been fueled by
exports and rapid industrialization.
• We are witnessing in Vietnam a significant shift from a centrally planned
to a market economy. This country is going from one of the poorest in
the world into a lower middle-income country. Vietnam now is one of
the most dynamic emerging countries in East Asia region.

Japan – culture traits

1. Geography - is an island country comprising a stratovolcanic archipelago
over 3,000 km (1,900 mi) along East Asia's Pacific coast. It consists of
6,852 islands. The 5 main islands are Hokkaido, Honshu, Kyushu, Shikoku
and Okinawa. The territory covers 377,975.26 km 2. Japan is located in
the northwestern Ring of Fire on multiple tectonic plates.
Ethnically very homogeneous population of Japan exceed 126
million of people. Notice: Greater Tokyo Area is the most populous
metropolitan area in the world, with more than 37.393 million
residents.
Average density is 333,4 people per square km.
The gender split - 95.41 males per 100 females.
2. Language - Japanese is an East Asian language spoken by about 128
million people, primarily in Japan, where it is the national language.
3. Religion - The main religions in Japan are Buddhism (69.8%) and Shinto
(70.4%). Most Japanese people identify as members of both faiths,
which are based on Confucius (Chinese philosopher) religious pillars.

4. Economy - The economy of Japan is a highly developed free-market

economy. It is the third-largest in the world by nominal GDP and the
fourth-largest by purchasing power parity. Japan in 2020 was the world's
fourth-largest importer and the fourth-largest exporter – due to specific
geographical location (islands country) Japan is always heavily
depending on the international trade sector.
 Leading industries: shipbuilding, automobiles and motorbikes, consumer
electronics, computers, semiconductors, petrochemicals,
pharmaceuticals, bioindustry, textiles, processed foods. Most
recognizable brands: NTT (telecom provider), Toyota, Nissan, Honda,
Mitsubishi, Subaru, Suzuki, Yamaha, Bridgestone, Sony, Panasonic,
Canon, Fuji, Asic, Kikkoman and Shiseido.
6. Education system - Education in Japan is centralized and managed by the
Japanese Ministry of Education. It is highly valued and is viewed as an
important means of social and economic mobility. This can be seen in the level
of educational performance and attainment. Japan is consistently one of the
highest performing nations in mathematics, science and reading literacy
among the countries OECD.
The primarily consists of six-year elementary schools, three-year junior high
schools and three-year high schools, followed by a two-or-three-year junior
colleges or a four-year colleges. Note: in Japan it’s less taboo to enroll in
institutes specialising in agricultural, industrial or technical training. Testing
-specifically entrance exams - is its own world in Japan. Students wishing to
move up into high schools or universities, must pass extremely grueling
entrance exams.
7. Art - The highly refined traditional arts of Japan include such forms as the
tea ceremony, calligraphy, ikebana (flower arranging) and gardening, as
well as architecture, painting, and sculpture. The performing arts are
distinguished by their blending of music, dance, and drama, rooted in
different eras of the past. Japan's aesthetic conceptions, deriving from
diverse cultural traditions, have been formative in the production of
unique art forms - particularly celebrated for its ceramics—it has one of
the oldest pottery practices in the world.
There are several artists whom we may consider as the Japanese
influencers such as: Yoko Ono (John Lennon’s wife) is a peace activist,
conceptual artist and avantgarde musician; Hayao Miyazaki - one of the
most prominent filmmakers and manga artists in the history of animated
films; Akira Kurosawa – movie director widely considered one of the most
influential and important filmmakers of all time and Haruki Murakami -
praised by many as the writer to be define as "the world's greatest living
 novelists". His books were translated into 50 languages and selling millions
of copies.
8. Food – Japanese cuisine encompasses the regional and traditional foods
of Japan, which have developed through centuries of political, economic,
and social changes. The traditional cuisine of Japan (Japanese: washoku)
is based on rice with miso soup and other dishes; there is an emphasis
on seasonal ingredients. Side dishes often consist of fish, pickled
vegetables, and vegetables cooked in broth. Seafood is common, often
grilled, but also served raw as sashimi or in sushi.
9. Social behavior norms - some of the core values are thinking of others,
doing your best, not giving up, respecting your elders, knowing your role, and
working in a group (collectivism). These concepts are taught explicitly and
implicitly from nursery school into the working world.
Notice: uniquely in Japan social hierarchies play an extremely important role,
often influencing social behavior and communication. People tend to be highly
attentive to the social status and relation of the person they are speaking with,
as this dictates the honorific expressions and levels of respectful speech used
in Japanese conversation. This is why one of the most obvious social
conventions is the bow. Everyone bows when they say hello, goodbye, thank
you or sorry. Bowing is a term of respect, remorse, gratitude and greeting. The
other Japanese “show the respect” custom is taking off shoes when entering
someone's house.
10. Traditions and values shared in common
Japan is a conformist society where harmony, mutual respect and group
consensus are valued. Other values such as collectiveness, diligence and conflict
avoidance are actually the results of the need for social harmony. Japanese
religion also has an influence on common Japanese values.
Asian Tigers – South Korea

• Notice: North and South Korea are the two countries divided despite the
same historical and family roots, traditions or habits. The boundary,
which splits these two nations, goes alongside the 38th Earth parallel
(Korean Demilitarized Zone). This border is often being described as “the
line between the Hell and the Heaven”.
• South Korea is the lucky one here – but they have earned it. Nowadays
this country is considered as one of the strongest world’s economy with
the life “dream level” to be achieved just by few.
• South Korea today is the subject of admiration by many – right after the
domestic Korean War – this country in 60’s of the XX century was one of
the poorest in the world. This economic growth has been often
described as the “Miracle on the Han River”.

Sout Korea – culture traits

1. Geography - is located on the southern part of the Korean Peninsula
below the 38th parallel of latitude. It has coastlines along the Sea of
Japan and the Yellow Sea. South Korea's topography consists mainly of
hills and mountains but there are large coastal plains in the western and
southern parts of the country. The area is 100,363 km2. The population is
about 52 million people and about 25 million people (nearly half of the
population) live in the Seoul Capital Area. The density is 510.96 people
per square kilometer. The gender split in South Korea is almost equal -
100.24 males per 100 females.
2. Language - There is one official language spoken in South Korea, with
five different dialects. Seoul dialect is the standard version that is used in
speeches and used on news reports. Korean is an East Asian language
spoken by about 80 million people, mainly in both Koreas.
3. Religion - Religion in South Korea is diverse. A slight majority of South
Koreans have no religion. Buddhism (around 30%) and Christianity
(around 18%) are the dominant confessions among those who affiliate
with a formal religion. Buddhism and Confucianism are the most
influential religions in the lives of the South Korean people.
4. Economy - The economy of South Korea is a highly developed mixed
economy dominated by family-owned conglomerates called chaebols. By
nominal GDP, it has the 10th largest in the world. This Asian Tiger
became a leading worldwide producer of ships, including oil
supertankers and oil-drilling platforms. Other most important sectors:
electronics, automobiles, construction, armaments and tourism.
The leading brands: Samsung Electronics, Hyundai/KIA, Korea Electric Power
Corporation (KEPCO), LG and skin care products.
5. Education system – by some measures, South Korea is the most
educated country in the world. According to the Organization for
Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), 70% of 24- to 35-year-
olds in the nation have completed some form of tertiary education—the
highest percentage worldwide. For details:
https://wenr.wes.org/2018/10/education-in-south-korea
6. Art – Koreas cultures were for many centuries heavily influenced by
Chinese and Japanese societies and habits. Strong, “independent”
Korean art direction has appeared In the mid-1970's and is called
“Dansaekhwa” (monochrome paintings). Today Korea’s vibrant cultural
legacy comprising: music, art, literature, dance, architecture, clothing
and cuisine, offers a delightful combination of tradition and modernity.
In the past decade Korean culture has gained global recognition - many
of its young talents have appeared on the world’s most prestigious
music stages and dance competitions, while its literary works are being
translated into many different languages for millions of readers.
Note: Just to recall a few - released in 2012, Gangnam Style quickly rose
in popularity and went on to became worldwide phenomenon. Few years
later K-pop as the genre music reached first No. 1 on the Billboard Hot
100 in the South Korea music history. In 2019 “Parasite” - South Korean
black comedy thriller became the first South Korean film to win the Palme
d'Or and later won four Oscar Awards.
6. Food – South Korean cuisine reflects a complex interaction of the
natural environment and different cultural trends. Is based on rice,
vegetables, seafood and meats. Traditional Korean meals are named for
the number of side dishes, which may vary by province. Dishes are served
with cooked short-grain rice and accompany with famous salad “kimchi”
- salted and fermented vegetables. Commonly used ingredients include:
sesame oil, bean and chili paste, salt, garlic, ginger and pepper.
7. Social behavior norms - Korean values include age hierarchy, obedience to
family, hard work and proper decorum among family members - even in the
modern world. It is important to wait to be introduced at social gatherings.
Bowing is a traditional way of greeting.
8. Traditions and values shared in common
Korea is greatly influenced by the Chinese and Japanese cultures. This
influence can be seen by Confucianism, which established many traditions that
can be seen in modern Korea today. These traditions include the ethical code
of conduct in social life and showing respect to the elders and family.
According to traditional Korean belief, the spirits of the departed do not leave
the earth for several generations; thus, deceased parents and grandparents
are still considered part of the family. Ancestral rites are performed to honor
them on death anniversaries and on major holidays.

Asian “Emerging Tiger” - Vietnam

• Vietnam regarding economy status is today consider as one of the most

dynamic emerging countries in East Asia region.
• The fascinating culture of Vietnam is one of the oldest in Southeast Asia,
with the Bronze Age culture considered to be one of its most important
progenitors for its ancient history.
• Vietnamese culture was heavily influenced by Chinese culture due to the
1000 years of Northern rule. It means, that Vietnam is often considered
to be part of the East Asian cultural sphere.

1. Geography - is located on the eastern margin of the Indochinese

peninsula and occupies about 331,211.6 square kilometers, has the
coastline of 3,260 km and an access for Gulf of Tonkin, Gulf of Thailand,
and Pacific Ocean. In 2023 population is projected to exceed 100
millions of inhabitants with density of 308 people per square kilometer
of land area. The gender split in Vietnam is almost equal - 49.41 million
females and 49.1 million males.
2. Language - Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) is an Austroasiatic language that
originated in Vietnam, where it is the national and official language.
Spoken natively by an estimated 95 million people.
3. Religion - The majority of Vietnamese (73,2%) do not follow any
organized religion, instead participating in one or more practices of folk
religions, such as venerating ancestors, or praying to deities. The
Vietnamese folk religion has Confucian elements, and it is often
considered as Confucianism. The second is Buddhism – 12,2%, third –
Catholicism – 6,9%.
4. Economy - The economy of Vietnam is believed to become one of the
fastest growing emerging markets in the world by 2020 with a GDP of
$436 billion. The economy of Vietnam is mainly reliant on foreign direct
investments in order to promote growth; is playing an increasingly
important role in international trade and the global supply chain.
Leading industries: information technologies, agriculture and food
processing, tourism, garments, textiles, shoes, coal, construction
materials: steel and cement, chemical fertilizers.
Leading brands – locally: Viettel Telecom; garments and textiles to be
most exported products.
5. Education system - Education in Vietnam is a state-run system of public
and private education run by the Ministry of Education and Training. It is
divided into five levels: preschool, primary school, secondary school,
high school, and higher education. Formal education consists of twelve
years of basic education.
6. Art - Part of the East Asian cultural sphere, Vietnamese culture has
certain characteristic features including ancestor veneration and
worship, respect for community and family values, manual labor and
religious belief. Important cultural symbols include 4 holy animals:
Dragons, Turtles, Phoenix, Unicorn. One of the most popular forms of art
are the silk paintings typically depicted the countryside, pagodas,
landscapes, scenes of everyday life and historical events.
7. Food – Vietnamese cuisine features a combination of five fundamental
tastes in overall meals. Each Vietnamese dish has a distinctive flavor
which reflects one or more of these elements. Traditional Vietnamese
cooking has often been characterized with using fresh ingredients, not
 much use of dairy nor oil, interesting textures and the use of herbs and
vegetables. This cuisine is often symbolized with fish sauce, which is the
most commonly used and iconic condiment in Vietnamese cooking.
6. Social behavior norms - The Vietnamese people value humility, restraint and
modesty. Dishes are prepared less with an appearance in mind but are served
family-style to bring everyone together after a long day of work. The usual
gesture to call people over — open hand, palm up — is considered rude in
Vietnam. To show respect, point your palm face down instead. And you also
shouldn't call someone over when they're older than you.
7. Traditions and values shared in common
Vietnamese traditions emphasize the importance of family and community. Its
core values, which embrace the principles of Confucianism: harmony, duty,
honor, respect, education and allegiance to the family.
African Culture Cluster

• Africa for the past few years is being described by increasing quantity of
Business & Culture experts as continent of Human Hope.
• We may agree with these assumptions under condition of being aware
of very difficult and often cruel history of the entire continent, present
geopolitical and social tensions and the future, which is promising but
also in many spheres pretty much uncertain.
• But there is more and more of the Hope for this continent – the cradle
of human civilizations. After centuries of colonialism – the ruthless
exploitation of African people and natural resources – vast majority of
African countries are now independent.
• This is the time when the best developed countries should pay back their
debts. United States, Great Britain, France, Germany, Portugal, Italy or
Belgium were the ones, which accumulated the inconceivable wealth
coming from the suffering of the indigenous Africans.
• The time for Africa has come – time for independent nations, which
must be provided with: fair and honest business cooperation, with the
protection of their culture heritage, with educational and health care
support.
 • Sustainable development of the African continent is the vital subject for
the entire human kind. This continent will still experience many
geopolitical, climate change and social problems.
• We all need Africa – with its young, energetic and better educated
citizens, we need African sun to be converted into renewable power
plants, we need its rich mineral resources to be exploit in the honest
way, we need last pieces of well preserved nature. This reasonably
stabile continent is to be consider as the “civilization game changer” and
there are no doubts – we need Africa pretty much the same way like we
did before.

Africa – culture traits

1. Geographical features – today there are 54 countries (official UN

members). Africa's total land area is approximately 30,365,000 square
km. The largest territory has Algeria - 2,381,741 km2. Africa has eight
major physical regions: Sahara, Sahel, Ethiopian Highlands, the savanna,
Swahili Coast, the rain forest, African Great Lakes and Southern Africa.
The dominant geopolitical feature of Africa is split into:
Northern Africa - (Magreb countries: Algeria, Libya,
Mauritania, Morocco and Tunisia) and "sub-Saharan" classification to 46
of Africa's 55 countries (excluding Djibouti, SADR, Somalia and Sudan).The
current population of Africa is 1,5 billion of people (17,5% of the global
population). The biggest population – Nigeria with almost 200 millions of
citizens. UN predicts, that with the highest birth rate worldwide (according to
World Bank Top 10 Countries with the Highest Fertility Rates are African –
Niger is first with 6,8 births per woman), Africa is expected to exceed 2 billion
people in the next 30 years.
The population density in Africa is 45 per Km2. Mauritius has the highest
population density level in Africa with some 627 inhabitants per square
kilometer.
The gender split – 999 males per 1000 females.

Note: Sustainable development of the African continent is the vital subject for
the human kind. This continent is already experiencing many geopolitical,
climate change and social problems. Africa is highly vulnerable to the
impacts of climate change, with rising temperatures, changing rainfall
patterns, and extreme weather events affecting various regions, impacting
ecosystems and livelihoods, increasing water scarcity and contributing to
desertification.

2. Languages – Most languages spoken in Africa belong to one of three

large language families: Afroasiatic, Nilo-Saharan and Niger–Congo.
3. Religion and beliefs – Although the majority of Africans are adherents of
Christianity or Islam, African people often combine the practice of their
traditional belief with the practice of Abrahamic religions. The two
Abrahamic religions are widespread across Africa, though mostly
concentrated in different areas. Abrahamic religions are widespread
throughout Africa. They have both spread and replaced indigenous
African religions but are often adapted to African cultural contexts and
belief systems. Is estimated, that Christians formed 45% of the
continent's population, with Muslims forming 40%.
No single body of religious beliefs and practices can be identified as African. It
is possible, however, to identify similarities in worldviews and ritual processes
across geographic and ethnic boundaries. In general - religions in Africa hold
that there is one God - the Creator of a dynamic universe.
4. Education – The challenges that the education system of the Africa
Continent faces is lecturers’ weaknesses, government failures, weak
practical background, hindrances from institutions, learning
environment, crises, non-patriotism and sentimentalism. In many
countries first come an access to education. Globally there are around
67 million children out of school - 43% of whom live in Africa. Many of
these children live in conflict areas or ‘fragile’ states and many more live
in rural areas. In Sub Saharan Africa every year 10 million children drop
out of primary school.
 5. Economy - The economy of Africa consists of trade, industry, agriculture
and human resources. As of 2013 Africa was the world's fastest-growing
continent at 5.6% a year and GDP is expected to rise by an average of
over 6% a year between 2013 and 2023. Several international business
observers have also named Africa as the future economic “growth
engine” of the world — with expanding trade, English language skills
(official in many Sub-Saharan countries), improving literacy and
education, availability of splendid resources, still cheaper but constantly
better educated labor force.
Leading industries: agriculture, oil and gas, financing, mobiles,
solar energy, waste recycling, tourism.
The most valuable brands:
https://african.business/dossiers/africas-top-brands/
6. Art: African Art has many characteristics, some of which include creative
expressionism over realism, the prevalence of images and sculpture of
the human figure, larger focus on sculpture rather than painting,
abstract themes and representations, melding visual and performance
arts (such as in the case of masks). Many African artworks were (and
continue to be) created to serve a social, religious, or political function.
In its original setting, an artifact may have different uses and embody a
variety of meanings. These uses may change over time.
7. Food – Traditional Africa food is organic plant-based with little meat and
fish often added for flavor. These are unrefined natural food - 90% or
more of African foods are organic. These foods are often grown behind
the house at subsistence level, helped by the tropical weather, which
means that different varieties of vegetables, fruits, cereals, tubers, nuts,
and grains are grown all year round. Processed food is unknown to many
on the continent. Most are gluten-free, unrefined natural foods,
including whole grains, legumes, roots and tubers with variety of fruits,
seeds, nuts and vegetables. These plant-based food are usually the focal
point of almost every meal and not meat, fish or poultry.
The most popular dishes:
https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/africa-food-dishes/index.html
 8. Social norms/Traditions and values

• Regarding social norms and traditions Africa is a place full of

contradictions and complexity. Majority of African cultures have in
common the dark experience of colonization and enslavement. However
they have also very similar – mostly positive and unifying - approach
toward other man and the nature.
• Last surveys claim, that 90 percent of Africans are proud of their origin
and consider themselves as quite successful and thriving. Let’s
understand this for now and future – today not everyone in Africa is
starving and wishing they could get off their continent.
• Majority of African people are striving to make their own mark on global
scenes of business and culture.

For more please watch: https://migrationology.com/african-cultural-values-

travel-africa-17/
Business Tips

• African welcome the huge waves of foreign investors – it means that

strong relationships are vital for doing business there.
• Strong must mean fair and mutually beneficial. African countries suffer
from very inventive scam industry, that makes a living out of promising
naive entrepreneurs “unimaginable” profits.
• Do not forget about sense of humor – it is highly appreciated even while
negotiating deals worthy millions of dollars. It is quite common to refer
in the exaggerated way to your African business partner as the: “Your
Majesty”; “King of the tribe” or “Dignified Prince”.
• Target African clients using not just international platforms (Linkedin or
Twitter) but the local as well: Eskimi, Mxit or Bandeka.
• Financing is always a big issue in Africa – national banks are not always
fast enough or reliable. Seek the support from NGOs and microcredit
institutions.
• Your chances for opening the business are much higher when You will
present the clear benefits for local communities.
Latin America Culture Cluster

• The Latin America cluster has nations that share a distinct Latin culture
(Catholicism, Roman law heritage, Iberian colonial past, Spanish or
Portuguese languages) and includes 17 countries: Argentina, Bolivia,
Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala,
Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, the Dominican
Republic and Uruguay.
• The first use of the term “Latin America” can be traced back to the
1850s in the writings of Michel Chevalier (1806–1879), who employed
the term as a way to differentiate the “Latin” peoples from the “Anglo-
Saxon” peoples of the Americas, using language to create a geographic
distinction.
• Latin America has a rich and diverse history of indigenous cultures,
European colonization, African slavery and global immigration that
makes it complex and difficult to describe its people with a single ethnic
category or identifier.
• Latin America is known for its rich culture that consists of food, dance
and literature. It is also known for its vast natural resources.
Latin America – culture traits
1. Geographical features - There are many physical features throughout
the region of Latin America. In northern Mexico, deserts and the Sierra
Madre mountain range lay north of the Equator. Much of Central and
South America has a tropical climate because they are closer to the
Equator. Rainforests and rivers such as the Amazon compose the eastern
reaches of South America, while the Andes Mountains lay to the west.
Southern Latin America has flat, grassy plains such as the Pampas and
rocky regions such as Patagonia.
Territory size : 20,111,457 km2
Population: 672 000 000
With over 200 million people, Brazil is the most populated country of
that region. Brazil is followed by Columbia with 50 million people,
 Argentina with 44 million people and Peru and Venezuela both with 31
million people.

Gender split: The female population slightly exceeded the male population.
Approximately 334.28 million women lived in this region, around 51 percent of
the total population.
Population density: 31 people per km2
2. Language: Spanish is the most spoken language of South America with
Portuguese as a very close second. Other official languages with
substantial number of speakers are: Aymara in Bolivia and Peru. Guaraní in
Bolivia and Paraguay.
2. Economy: Latin America's economy is composed of two main economic
sectors: agriculture and mining. Latin America is very rich with gold and silver,
as well as energy resources, such as oil and natural gas. In addition, the region
is rich in agricultural and forest resources, such as timber. Beyond copper and
lithium, Latin America has significant potential in graphite, nickel, manganese
and rare earth elements production.
Note that with the tropical and temperate climates of Latin America
makes it ideal for growing a variety of agricultural products. Latin
American countries are major exporters of: soybeans, pork, maize, poultry,
animal feed, sugar, coffee and fruits and vegetables.
Brazil and Mexico were the countries with the largest gross domestic product
(GDP) in Latin America and the Caribbean. Brazil's GDP reached an estimated
value of 1.6 trillion U.S. dollars, whereas Mexico's amounted to almost 1.3
trillion U.S. dollars.
Brands: read more on https://www.spanish.academy/blog/15-most-valuable-
latin-american-companies/
4. Religion: 76.2% Christianity; 18% No religion; 5.8% Other
5. Education: The region has made great progress in educational coverage;
almost all children attend primary school and access to secondary education
has increased considerably. Many Latin American countries have constitutional
frameworks that guarantee free higher education in public universities.
6. Art: Latin American art is full of diversity, culture and traditions and is
known for the hospitality and happiness of its people.
Art of this region combines artistic expression of South America, Central
America, the Caribbean and Mexico, as well as Latin Americans living in other
regions.
Amazing Literature: The world discovered this fact in the 1960s and 70s, when
a literary explosion from Latin American authors took the world by storm. “The
Boom” put Latin America in the international literary spotlight.
Read more: https://www.spanish.academy/blog/top-10-most-remarkable-
latin-american-authors-of-all-time/
7. Social norms/Traditions and values
Latin American cultures are described as collectivist, higher in hierarchy and
embeddedness and lower in intellectual autonomy compared to Western
European cultures. This region is considered culturally homogeneous, with
exceptions in Bolivia and Peru.
The family is an integral part of Latin American culture. Families are oftentimes
large, and in some places it is not uncommon to find multiple generations in
the same household.
Dance (samba, rumba, cha cha, tango or salsa) is an important part of Latin
American culture, as it is used to express joy and bring people together. It is a
way for people to communicate, celebrate and connect with each other.
Dancing is a form of communication and it is often used to tell stories and
express emotions.

• In Latin culture, people respect and admire authority figures—including

doctors, lawyers, military officers and business executives—for the
positions they hold.
• Latin American countries to be among the highest on measures of
positive emotional expression.
Business Tips for Latin America – check the link below:
business tips - Latin America