Teaching Chinese as a Foreign Language in Nordic Countries: An Overview

This introductory chapter provides an overview of the Chinese as a foreign language (CFL) teaching, learning and research in the Nordic region. The increasing economic, political and cultural influence of China on the international stage has boosted the interests in CFL learning across Nordic countries in recent years. At the same time, however, the development of CFL education in this context faces notable challenges. This chapter begins with a general description of CFL teaching and learning as a bourgeoning research field. It proceeds to the language situations of Nordic countries and the historical development of Chinese studies in the region. Then it examines the current state of CFL teaching, learning, and research in Nordic countries, followed by an outline of the organization of this volume. This overview aims to provide readers with a general picture and nuanced understanding of CFL education in the region, offering insights into its historical trajectory, present status, ongoing challenges, and potential future directions.