Leopold Figl commemoration – Nehammer speech: “Believe in this Austria”

What do Leopold Figl and Karl Nehammer have in common? Both born in Vienna, both socialized in Lower Austria. Both Chancellors in times of crisis. And of course the ÖVP.

Nehammer seized the 120th birthday of Figl, who died in 1965, as an opportunity to commemorate the famous predecessor in a ceremony. And to borrow big words in difficult times, both of which probably had or must endure. Although no one will dispute that the situation immediately after the Second World War, in 1945, was much more difficult than it is now. In addition, Figl had to survive concentration camps during the Nazi era.

Yet the current crises are the worst since the time of Fig.

“We are now being warned to take a stance like never before,” Nehammer told the auditorium, which was also attended by Figl’s daughter, Anneliese, and numerous government representatives, including Interior Minister Gerhard Karner and Defense Minister. Claudia Tanner. Johanna Mikl-Leitner was also in the Federal Chancellery to commemorate her predecessor as governor. All named after the ÖVP Lower Austria.

“Don’t confuse cause and effect”
Nehammer went into detail about the work and development of Figl. On his ordeal. And drew the bow to today. There are plenty of hardships. And challenges. People would live in a time of fear and threat, but should not confuse “cause and effect”. The populists would do that, threatening our freedom and democracy, Nehammer warned regarding EU sanctions against Russia, which are sharply criticized by right-wing parties.

After the world war there was a phase of uncertainty, but ultimately also a success story. Resurrection, economic boom, Austria for the first time without turbulent times. The Cold War remained cold. The neutral country at the intersection of the rival blocs. People didn’t learn to deal with real crises.

The Austrians would live in times of crisis of new dimensions, Nehammer said. After three years of pandemic, the war came. Something that “we could not have imagined has become reality”.

Crises have many consequences and consequences, they “always show weaknesses. The war has shown that we are dependent in an unbearable way”. But Austria needs to develop strengths from its weaknesses and free itself from dependence on Russia and develop energy security.

Figl under torture and without perspective
Nehammer repeatedly referred to Figl, who was a great role model for him, Nehammer, who “still proved himself as a person even in the worst crisis.”

Nehammer related an episode: When Figl, who was on death row at the regional court in Vienna, was to be released shortly before the end of the war, he did not immediately accept this release. He demanded that his fellow inmates be released and given a pass.

“He was tortured, he almost died, in reality he had no future prospects. And when there was an opportunity to leave the place, he stood up for others too.”

Against false stories
In times of fear and uncertainty, it is important to remain calm, make decisions and seek solutions. You have to develop a defensive attitude, said the trained soldier. The opponents of democracy must be brought to their knees. “We have to show an advantage.” And that requires trust.

In fact, it will need all this to survive the current crises. Figl and Co. had even more basic concerns to deal with. Fundamental-existential. When the occupying power left Austria for an uncertain future, Foreign Minister Figl uttered his historic phrase: “Austria is free.”