A few days before the national holiday (October 26), the ‘Engaged Neutrality Initiative’ called on the federal government to use neutrality ‘for a committed peace policy’. Austria must stick to its values and show initiative in foreign policy.
The country could thus increasingly participate in UN peace missions, political scientist Heinz Gärtner said on Monday. The former general and head of such missions, Günther Greindl, agreed: “Blue helmets as neutral third parties are necessary for mediation.” Austria’s neutrality reduces the risk of becoming embroiled in war. However, she still demands that the federal army be adequately equipped.
Former ambassador: ‘You can’t always mediate’
Former Ambassador Gabriele Matzner emphasized the importance of humanitarian foreign policy, such as negotiations on visa facilitation and the release of hostages and prisoners of war. “You cannot always mediate, but you can hold on to your political will.”
Former ÖVP State Councilor Wendelin Ettmayer spoke on Monday about the relationship between neutrality and morality. Emotions should not cloud rational thinking. “Neutrality means more security and stability.”
In any case, the initiative “clearly rejects” NATO accession, but it can envision a European security alliance. For former Minister of Social Affairs Erwin Buchinger (SPÖ), neutrality is “compatible with the EU, they fit together well”. Contributions to peace are also contractually agreed. In the current wars in Israel and Ukraine, the focus should be on ceasefire and peace negotiations.
In recent months, several parties have repeatedly called on Austria to play a more active role in peace mediation (see video above).
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.
