It is one of the charmingly contemplative rituals of Austrian domestic politics, as Claus Pándi aptly writes: the Federal President’s speech. In earlier times of grand coalitions, it was usually harmless to worry; the older rulers were alternately grandfather of the nation and lay priest. The tone has not really changed with Alexander Van der Bellen either; the speeches have become more humorous than those of Heinz Fischer or Thomas Klestil. Or else?
Multiple serious crises for people and society? Horrible inflation? Economic recession? War in Eastern Europe? A government coalition consisting of two parties that do not trust the population or each other? Or the surveys showing that the FPÖ has been clearly in first place for months? Um.
Source: Krone
I am George Kunkel, an author working for Today Times Live. I specialize in opinion pieces and cover stories that are both informative and thought-provoking – helping to shape public discourse on key issues. My work is regularly featured across the network’s many platforms, including print media and social media.
