VP Gruber on Political Ash Wednesday: “Responsibility instead of populism!”

2024-02-14 22:48:53

Over 1,000 ÖVP Carinthia guests heard clear answers to the challenges of our time from Gruber, Guttenberg and Nehammer. The focus was on face-to-face discussions.

Klagenfurt (OTS) – Today over 1,000 guests gathered in the Klagenfurt exhibition hall to discuss clear answers to the burning issues of our time together with the Carinthian People’s Party. As in previous years, the focus was on constructive discussions on current topics instead of loud attacks. The event emphasized respectful exchange and debate on equal terms in order to show perspectives and get young people interested in politics.

Deputy Governor Martin Gruber, regional party chairman of the Carinthian People’s Party, emphasized the need to oppose populism from the left and right. “We are experiencing a time in which the populists on the political fringes are becoming louder and stronger,” said Gruber. Against the background of immense challenges – regional, national and global – this is a danger to the cohesion and stability in our society. Only through “responsibility instead of populism” could Austria and Carinthia emerge stronger from these times of upheaval, said Gruber in his opening speech: “Responsibility in politics, individual responsibility for each individual and responsible economic activity in the interests of the next generations.” The political center is allowed to do this Do not give in to pressure from the right and left. “Responsible politics does not drive a wedge into society and does not sow anger,” emphasized Gruber. But he also appealed to the responsibility of each individual to combat the mood of crisis. “Don’t just wait at home and hope that the government will sort things out, but get up and do something!”

With regard to the EU elections, he called for a more decisive economic policy in Brussels: “We regulate and bureaucratize and are suddenly no longer world market leaders, but world champions in weakening our own economy!” Gruber traced how Europe was in danger of losing competitiveness . With every decision, Europe must first strengthen its own economic and industrial location instead of moralizing. But the responsibility to defend one’s own values was also discussed by the Carinthian LH deputy. It is important to become aware of your own strengths again. “Our foundation of values is such a strength,” said Gruber, who asked the audience to take a stand and take a stand. Especially in a year of directional decisions, it is important to “advocate for a middle-of-the-road policy.”

Before the 2024 elections – in addition to the Chamber of Labor elections, also the European elections and the National Council elections – Federal Chancellor Karl Nehammer underlined in his speech the successful management of the crises of recent years. “In 2024 we will continue to do everything we can to support Austrians and work for the people in our country,” explained Nehammer. “When I look at the political landscape in Europe, but especially in Austria, I notice that the tone is becoming increasingly harsh. However, that is not my understanding of political culture. Therefore, my motto as Chancellor is not us against others, but together for Austria. We need more honesty in political debate in the future. That also means speaking truths that are also uncomfortable – especially at the European level.”

As guest of honor, the former German Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Technology and for Defense, Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg, looked at current developments in Europe and beyond. Under the title “Europe in a world of upheaval – crisis-ridden or opportunity-driven”, he emphasized the need to take responsibility and seize opportunities in times of change. “Europe is facing major challenges, but also enormous opportunities. It is up to us how we shape these and which path we take,” said zu Guttenberg in his speech.

The Carinthian People’s Party’s Political Ash Wednesday was traditionally dedicated to current social issues and discussions against the background of the party’s values and basic attitude. The event once again demonstrated the unity and cohesion of the People’s Party as well as its commitment to responsible politics at the center of society.