The European security architecture has changed since the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine. He also shaped the new neutrality debate. Austria must reposition itself, according to experts.
“Europe and therefore Austria must reconsider their security. A neutrality debate alone does not go far enough,” says former commander of the armed forces, Günter Höfler. Not least with a view to the war in Europe, he advocates a broad discussion of Austrian security policy. “The current doctrine dates from 2013 and is outdated.” It still refers to Russia as a partner. In addition, the consequences of the Cold War are no longer decisive and Austria’s accession to the EU, including the obligation to provide aid, also plays a role.
“What role does Austria want to play?“
“We need to think about what security policy goals we have and what strategies we will use to achieve them. Austria must ask itself how it positions itself in terms of security policy in Europe and what role it wants to play. This requires an impartial debate,” emphasizes Höfler.
According to the expert, the correct conclusions must be drawn from the changed threat situation. Concretely, that means thinking about how to expand national military defense in terms of structures and procurement. “The security of Austria is closely linked to the security of Europe. That is why we have to ask ourselves what contribution we want to make to the security and defense of Europe,” explains former commander Höfler.
New neutrality debate
Irmgard Griss sees it that way too. The ex-OGH president is one of the well-known to have started a neutrality debate. Of the parties, only NEOS is open to it. The ÖVP insists on neutrality, but still leads the discussion about it. This was recently made clear by European Minister Karoline Edtstadler at ORF. Neutrality creates identity.
In fact, neutrality brought Austria freedom and prosperity. It was a compromise between Western and Eastern powers that made our country the site of disarmament treaties. Now in the Russian offensive war against Ukraine, the time for a neutrality debate is not optimal. Perpetual neutrality enjoys broad popular support.
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.
