In a conversation with Katia Wagner, European Minister Karoline Edtstadler (ÖVP) surprised with an unusual move. She is sure that this proposal will be “rejected”, but Edtstadler is sure: “Without a physical barrier it will not work.” When asked what such a “physical barrier” is, Edtstadler explains: “A fence, a wall – call it is what you want”…
The minister also finds clear words about the Schengen veto. The “no” does not apply to the two countries involved, Romania and Bulgaria, but to a “system that does not work”. The Union must finally “get down to business” and it has succeeded with the right of veto. Because: “Now Austria is finally being heard and taken seriously”, says Karoline Edtstadler.
Will Austria still agree to the “special summit”?
Andreas Mölzer, a long-time FPÖ MEP, does not believe Austria’s “refusal” will change the “migration problem”. While it may have been a “wake-up call” for the European Commission, he also attributed a “domestic political component” to the ÖVP. With this “signal policy” they try to “reactivate the old recipe for success of the migration issue”. Mölzer predicts that there could be a “special summit” in the new year, including smaller migration measures, and that Austria would eventually also abandon its “blockade stance” and agree to it.
Migration researcher: ‘Dublin agreement is dead’
Not even renowned migration researcher Judith Kohlenberger believes the Austrian veto has any effect on immigration. In any case, migration figures are currently falling again – albeit due to seasonal effects. Although she is sure that the Dublin agreement is “dead” and that the system is not working, one should rather argue for “fair and solidarity-based distribution” and legal escape routes.
“Pitsche-Patschi” photos with Orban, harshness towards Romania and Bulgaria
For domestic political journalist Ida Metzger, “the action” has a “misconception” with the Schengen veto. It is unclear why they are saying no to Romania and Bulgaria joining Schengen, when the chancellor has been photographed several times with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban with “pitch-potchi hands” on several occasions in recent months. Orban laughs himself off and sends refugees to Austria. “Actually, you should be much stricter with Orban if you do the same with Bulgaria and Romania,” says the political expert.
Minister: ‘Tactics are not necessary, migration figures speak for themselves’
Minister Edtstadler assures that the “good personal relations” with Orban do not detract from a “solid political discussion”. In any case, she denies any tactics with the migration issue. “I don’t have to be tactical, the migration figures speak for themselves,” explains the minister for Europe.
“Katia Wagner – the talk” can be seen every Wednesday at 8:15 PM on krone.tv and at 11:00 PM on ntv Austria. Tune in and join the discussion!
In the show of the same name, Katia Wagner discusses socio-political issues affecting Austria every Wednesday with guests from politics and society.
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
