After ten years, Michael Landau (63) is stepping down as Caritas President Austria. The priest talks to Conny Bischofberger about the background of his decision, successes and mistakes, his relationship with those in power and a polarized society.
At “Carla” on Vienna’s Mittersteig there is, as always, a lot of activity during the weekend. Michael Landau sits at the wooden table of the small cash register, behind him visitors to the Caritas second-hand warehouse carry their treasures from the 4,000 square meter hall. There is a stack of paper with handwritten notes on the table in front of him. “I always think about what I want to say,” he laughs. His spokesperson Martin Gantner quickly arranges the coffee, and then the circle is complete. Exactly ten years ago I conducted the first interview with the new Caritas President Austria, and now we are starting the last one in this role.
“Kron”:Mr. Landau, why did you choose this specific location for our conversation?
Michael Landau: Because the “Carla Mittersteig” is one of our oldest institutions and always reminds me of the impressive development of Caritas. When I started 28 years ago, there were perhaps several dozen people we helped to get back on their feet – with clothes, crockery or furniture. Today there are several hundred. And in all our labor market projects, we have supported many thousands of people since then so that they can find perspective in their lives again.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
