This theme issue of "Bildung und Wissenschaft" explains the importance of multilingualism in today's world, focusing on foreign language instruction in Germany. It examines the following issues: "Multilingualism in a Changing World"; "The Significance of Foreign Languages for Germany"; "Foreign Languages in Schools: The System--A Few Basic Facts"; "The Hamburg Agreement"; "Exchanges and Encounters"; "Foreign Languages and 'Bildung'"; "Guidelines: The Official and Secret Curriculum"; "New Approaches to Foreign Language Teaching"; "The Expectations of the Customers"; "Foreign Language Teaching in Vocational Schools"; "Bilingual Curricula and Bilingual Lessons"; "An Early Start"; "Teacher Training"; "Further Training for Teachers"; "Multilingualism and the Position of English"; "EU Programmes: Their Impact on Foreign Language Teaching"; "Correction and Assessment: Grades, Examinations, and Control of Standards"; and "In Conclusion." (SM)