With a history rooted in Cold War-era ties between Communist Czechoslovakia and Việt Nam, the Vietnamese community in the Czech
In the heart of Warsaw, where the aroma of simmering Phở intermingles with the hearty scent of freshly made pierogi,
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With a history rooted in Cold War-era ties between Communist Czechoslovakia and Việt Nam, the Vietnamese community in the Czech Republic represents one of the most vibrant and dynamic immigrant groups in Central Europe. It has grown significantly since the 1950s, evolving from a small group of students and workers into a well-established minority.
Today, the Vietnamese are among the top three ethnic minorities in the Czech Republic, with an estimated population of over 69,000. Their presence is felt in bustling markets, nail salons, restaurants, and increasingly in professional and academic spheres.
This article draws on interviews with different members of the Vietnamese community in the Czech Republic. These stories provide a glimpse into the challenges, triumphs, and aspirations of the Vietnamese diaspora, showcasing their efforts to preserve their cultural identity while navigating the complexities of integration in a foreign land.
The Vietnamese presence in the Czech Republic traces its origins to the 1950s, when Czechoslovakia and Việt Nam established diplomatic and cooperative ties under their shared Communist ideologies.
“Việt Nam has been connected with the former Czechoslovakia since 1950, with a long tradition of mutual support, standing together through natural disasters and pandemics like COVID and floods,” said David Val, a Vietnamese descendant who now works in Prague.
During this period, Việt Nam sent students and workers to Czechoslovakia under bilateral agreements, fostering educational and labor exchanges. These early arrivals laid the foundation for the community, creating networks that facilitated the integration of subsequent generations.
The Velvet Revolution of 1989, which marked the end of Communist rule in Czechoslovakia, opened new opportunities for Vietnamese immigrants. Many, like Nguyễn Mai Phương’s family, arrived through scholarships or family reunification policies.
“After the war, because my family contributed to the Revolution, we were given a chance to study in the Czech Republic,” says Mai Phương, who now works in a restaurant.
This historical backdrop shaped the community’s early experiences, fostering a sense of resilience and gratitude for the opportunities afforded by their new home. The Vietnamese community then grew significantly in the post-Communist era, particularly as economic reforms in the Czech Republic created opportunities for entrepreneurship.
Vietnamese immigrants capitalized on their work ethic and adaptability, establishing small businesses such as grocery stores, restaurants, and nail salons that have become fixtures in Czech towns and cities. “The community contributed through work in various sectors, from retail to services, making life more convenient for Czechs with accessible shops and affordable services,” says Trần Vũ Vân Anh, who works as an account manager.
The decision to move to the Czech Republic was driven by a mix of economic, educational, and familial factors. For many, the promise of a better life, improved education, or economic stability was a key motivator.
Trang, a student who wishes to remain anonymous, came for higher education, drawn by the Czech Republic’s reputation for quality schooling. David Val was inspired by the country’s natural beauty and friendly people, explaining, “In my mind, I always thought this was a beautiful country with kind, friendly people who have goodwill toward the Vietnamese.”
For Ngô Quỳnh Lan, a nurse, the decision was practical: “My parents came first, then brought us to the Czech Republic. I arrived not knowing the language, but my classmates in a small town of 4,000 were kind and helped me.”
Others, like Mai Phương, were motivated by family expectations and economic prospects. “I don’t know my motivations,” she says, “maybe because my parents wanted me to come to Czechia.” They thought I could make more money than in Việt Nam, that the four years I spent in university over there were useless because it would be hard to find good jobs with good salaries after graduation.”
Her candid reflection underscores a common sentiment among some Vietnamese immigrants: the belief that opportunities abroad outweigh those at home, even if the transition is fraught with challenges.
Early impressions of the Czech Republic varied but often centered on cultural and environmental differences. Vân Anh recalls, “The environment and surroundings are very different from Việt Nam.” For Mai Phương, the cooler autumn weather stood out: “I came in the autumn, and the weather is cooler than Việt Nam.”
Quỳnh Lan remembers the initial struggle with unfamiliar food and a challenging adjustment period: “I wasn’t used to the food here; life was very tough at first, but things gradually got better.”
Vân Anh, who spent her early childhood in Việt Nam before moving to the Czech Republic at age 10, reflects on her dual identity: “As a child, I often wondered if I was Czech or Vietnamese. As an adult, I realized I don’t have to choose; both cultures are part of me.” Her early memories highlight the challenges of balancing two worlds, a theme that resonates across generations in the community.
Adapting to life in the Czech Republic has not been without obstacles. Language barriers emerged as a significant challenge for nearly all interviewees. David Val identifies obtaining legal residency as his greatest hurdle, alongside the effort to master Czech: “The biggest challenge was securing residency in the Czech Republic. There are many difficulties, but I overcame them by working hard, just like anywhere else.”
Trang echoes this, citing “language barriers, a lack of friends, and difficulty finding a job” as key obstacles. Her solution was proactive: “Study the language well to integrate and make friends. Learn skills that the market demands to find jobs, even if they don’t match your abilities or interests.”
Mai Phương’s experience highlights deeper emotional struggles. She describes a profound sense of isolation: “My life changed a lot. I’m much lonelier. Even with friends, everyone is busy, working 10-13 hours a day with only one day off a week.”
“We often say that ‘Europe is not a rosy dream,” says Mai Phương highlighting the disillusionment some face when the realities of immigrant life clash with expectations.
Discrimination also surfaced as a challenge. Mai Phương notes instances of being “looked down upon,” while also cautioning against intra-community exploitation: “Not all Vietnamese in Czechia will be good to you. You think they’ll understand because you’re in the same situation, far from home? No, some will take advantage and exploit your labor.”
Vân Anh, who works in social services, witnessed similar struggles among newcomers: “Many face difficulties adapting and integrating. My parents’ generation worked long hours with little time off, and the future was uncertain.”
Despite these challenges, the interviewees demonstrated resilience.
Quỳnh Lan adapted to her new environment with the support of kind classmates, while Vân Anh overcame barriers by embracing the freedom to pursue academic interests without censorship. She credits supportive teachers and her own determination to learn Czech, which helped her bridge her dual identities.
Maintaining Vietnamese traditions in the Czech Republic is a priority for many, though time constraints and busy lives often pose challenges. David Val talks about teaching his children about their roots: “I always remind my children to honor their ancestors and origins, to learn without forgetting their roots.”
Trang focuses on preserving the Vietnamese language and developing personal character: “I maintain Vietnamese and expand my worldview and experiences.” Vân Anh keeps it simple, noting, “We eat rice and speak our mother tongue.”
For Mai Phương, cultural preservation is more sporadic due to her demanding work schedule: “I try to cook at least one Vietnamese dish [everyday], but I’m too busy. In my first year, I kept traditions for special occasions like Tết or Trung Thu (Mid-Autumn Festival), but now I don’t have time.”
Quỳnh Lan’s family maintains traditions through shared meals: “We cook and gather to eat together.”
Vân Anh is more deliberate, incorporating Vietnamese culture into daily life and community events: “I cook traditional dishes, speak Vietnamese with my family, and teach my children their cultural values. I participate in Tết and Trung Thu events to connect with the community and help younger generations understand their traditions.”
Participation in Vietnamese cultural activities, such as festivals or language classes, is relatively rare for most interviewees, occurring “once a year or less.” However, community events like Tết celebrations or cultural festivals provide opportunities to reconnect with their heritage.
David Val mentions an annual multicultural event, “Planet Color Day,” where Vietnamese culture is showcased alongside other nationalities. Vân Anh actively engages in these events to ensure traditions are passed down, emphasizing the importance of language: “Preserving the Vietnamese language is crucial so my children don’t feel like strangers when visiting Việt Nam.”
The interviewees also highlighted significant differences between life in Việt Nam and the Czech Republic, both socially and professionally. David Val notes cultural distinctions: “Living anywhere involves cultural differences. Living in this country or another teaches you to integrate, gain knowledge, and to love the country and its people.”
Trang points out that the Czech environment fosters open-mindedness among youth, though family expectations remain stricter: “The Czech environment allows young people’s ideas to be more open, though family education is stricter than among Vietnamese. Children often help with household and business tasks.”
Vân Anh says that “building a career in Czech society demands more, but success brings more development opportunities. Within the Vietnamese community, it’s easier to succeed by following Vietnamese ways, but it can limit personal growth and keep you confined within Vietnamese culture.”
She elaborates on social differences: “In the Czech Republic, people value individuality and privacy, while in Việt Nam, community and family ties are strong.” She also notes professional contrasts: “The Czech work environment is professional with clear benefits and conditions, while Việt Nam’s work pressure is higher, though more flexible.”
Quỳnh Lan highlights greater independence for children in the Czech Republic: “Here, children are more independent, not pressured or forced to study.”
The Vietnamese community’s contributions to Czech society are multifaceted, spanning economic, cultural, and social domains. David Val’s business in food and household goods reflects the entrepreneurial spirit that has made Vietnamese-run shops a staple in Czech communities.
“Vietnamese-run supermarkets and restaurants provide convenient, affordable services, often in remote areas,” says Vân Anh. “Second- and third-generation Vietnamese are entering diverse professions, bringing cultural diversity and new perspectives.”
Culturally, the community enriches Czech society through festivals, food, and art. Events like Tết and Trung Thu introduce Czechs to Vietnamese traditions, fostering mutual understanding.
Socially, individuals like Vân Anh contribute through work in social services, helping newcomers integrate and supporting those in need. “Many in the community engage in social initiatives,” she says, “helping new arrivals and those facing difficulties, making Czech society more diverse and humane.”
The interviewees’ answers on Việt Nam’s political situation and the Czech Republic’s support for democracy in Việt Nam reveal a spectrum of opinions.
David Val defends Việt Nam’s single-party system, arguing it ensures stability and prosperity: “Việt Nam is politically stable, with everyone having enough food and clothing, education, and support during crises. No other party has cared for the people like the Communist Party, eliminating poverty and homelessness.”
In contrast, Trang appreciates the Czech Republic’s democratic freedoms, which have shaped her perspective: “The Czech Republic’s freedom and democracy helped me understand Việt Nam’s totalitarian regime, giving me the courage to speak out for justice and condemn evil.”
Vân Anh values academic freedom in the Czech Republic: “It gives me the freedom to explore everything under the light of truth without censorship.”
Mai Phương sees progress in Việt Nam’s economy and tourism: “Việt Nam’s politics are changing, but the economy is developing rapidly, and tourism is gaining global attention.”
Quỳnh Lan, however, notes discrepancies between Việt Nam’s laws and reality: “The political situation, laws, and reality are far apart and inconsistent.”
Regarding the Czech Republic’s support for democracy and political pluralism in Việt Nam, opinions diverge. David Val is skeptical of multiparty systems, citing instability in other countries: “A single party or multiple parties don’t matter if the people and country are unstable.”
Trang supports the Czech stance but notes its lack of explicit focus on Việt Nam: “The community should actively support democratic movements in Việt Nam and participate in Czech elections to promote democracy and human rights.”
Shared history and values play a crucial role in maintaining the Vietnamese community’s cohesion. David Val highlights the long-standing ties between Việt Nam and the former Czechoslovakia, which fostered mutual support and resilience.
Trang credits early Vietnamese pioneers for paving the way: “The first Vietnamese built the foundation for today’s community, making it easier for later generations to learn the language and adapt.”
Vân Anh succinctly states, “Without history, there would be no us today.” Mai Phương emphasizes familial and ancestral values: “Unity and strong ties to ancestors keep us together.” Quỳnh Lan underscores shared cultural pride: “We love our country, our flag, our family, our appearance—the color of our skin, eyes, and hair.”
Vân Anh also sees the community’s strength in its ability to balance tradition and integration: “The community’s initiatives, like cultural events and social support, help preserve our identity while contributing to Czech society.”
The younger generation’s role in preserving Vietnamese identity while adapting to Czech life is a source of hope and pride. David Val notes their participation in multicultural events, while Trang observes, “They speak Vietnamese and normalize Vietnamese topics in Czech society.”
Vân Anh praises their efforts to maintain traditions: “The younger generation preserves history, culture, language, arts, festivals, and customs, connecting them to their roots and community.”
Mai Phương reflects personally: “I respect history and always remember I’m Vietnamese.” Quỳnh Lan sees young people learning Vietnamese and helping with family tasks, while Vân Anh hopes they will continue integrating while staying connected to their heritage: “I expect the younger generations to receive education, understand their roots, and contribute positively to both communities, becoming bridges of diversity and creativity.”
David Val hopes for continued cultural pride and integration, while Trang envisions a community that supports democratic values. Vân Anh and Mai Phương focus on personal and economic stability, while Quỳnh Lan values the peaceful, safe environment.
Vân Anh even articulates a vision of harmony: “I hope the community continues to thrive, preserving its cultural identity while integrating deeply into Czech society. I want young people to be confident, educated, and proud of their roots, contributing to both communities.”
Through entrepreneurship, education, and cultural exchange, Vietnamese people contribute significantly to Czech society while preserving the traditions that define them. The stories of different people reflect the diversity of experiences within the community, each marked by challenges, triumphs, and a shared commitment to their roots. As the community looks to the future, the younger generation stands poised to carry forward this legacy, blending Vietnamese heritage with Czech modernity to create a brighter, more inclusive tomorrow.
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