To obtain the red-white-red citizenship, many criteria must first be met and then the formalities must be strictly observed when it is granted. Apparently the people in Lower Austria are particularly strict. A Ukrainian has now even had his citizenship revoked because he did not sing the national anthem.
The national anthem is sung in this country before the kick-off of our international football matches, but also on other official occasions and on national holidays. Although Marko Arnautovic and Co. are theoretically free to join in the singing, ‘singing the national anthem’ when the flags of the Republic of Austria and the respective federal state are visible is the law for obtaining citizenship. This is exactly what became fatal for a Ukrainian in Lower Austria. At the ceremonial awards ceremony in October he refused to sing along – now he has to live with the consequences.
The grant of Austrian citizenship is revoked by a decision of the Lower Austrian state government. As the “Krone” learned, the Ukrainian stated before the ceremony that he did not want to sing. Against his better judgement, the Ukrainian showed up at the ceremony. The state says all other requirements would have been met. In the government district of St. Pölten, strict adherence to citizenship laws continued.
“We will not be fooled. Anyone who refuses to identify with Austria only shows that he or she is not willing to accept the basic principles of our homeland,” said FPÖ state deputy Udo Landbauer, speaking of a provocation.
The decision of the responsible State Councilor Christoph Luisser (also FPÖ) to withdraw the award is “self-evident and legally binding” for him. “There are no compromises. Citizenship can be granted at the end of a successful integration process. This is not a must. Anyone who speaks out clearly against Austria simply does not understand it,” says Luisser.
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.
