People who are learning a language are rarely familiarized with non-verbal features of communication, e.g. body language. Traditional (foreign) language didactics concentrated more on teaching structures, vocabulary, pronunciation, writing and conversation. And even in more modern approaches gestures, facial expressions, distance, ways of looking at somebody or perception of time and place etc. are only marginally considered. Without non-verbal communication, however, it is difficult to have a conversation.

That is why, especially in border regions with more frequent encounters, it is worth taking a look at non-verbal communication 'norms' and their role in (intercultural) communication, and raising awareness of this aspect.

But let’s not forget that social distance and understanding of space are dynamic and changeable: Remember that during the Corona pandemic, for example, cultural rules were adapted: keeping distance, avoiding physical contact and wearing masks became the ‘new normal’. After the Corona pandemic, rules slightly changed again, allowing, for example, physical contact, like handshakes. Hence, social distancing can be seen as an indicator that cultural rules are adaptive, fluid, evolving within and across societies.

Have you noticed that already in the EU we can see differences in how much distance interlocutors from different countries automatically keep from each other in a conversation, adapting unconsciously to some socially transmitted 'norms' that vary from one country and/or border region to another. As a general observation, it can be said that people from Scandinavia keep the biggest distance within the EU, they mostly prefer to shake hands to say hello, for example. Spaniards, Italians and Greeks get the closest in conversations, they often tend to kiss cheeks.

Here’s a look at an example from the Polish-Czech border region

In Polish-Czech contacts there are no great differences in understanding of space. Both, Poles and Czechs tend to keep a moderate distance during conversation and meetings, but it would be a huge indiscretion to shorten it in professional relations unless it is clearly suggested. In public spaces such as in the elevator or public transportation, Polish people try to keep their distance and – unless it is absolutely necessary – not to touch other passengers. Excessive proximity is perceived as impolite and it may be a disruption during communication.