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Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen used his 2026 New Year’s address to urge citizens to embrace what he called a “European patriotism,” warning against the growing tendency to disparage the European Union and stressing the need for Austria to remain capable of reform.
Speaking against the backdrop of an increasingly unstable global environment, Van der Bellen emphasized that Europe remains “a place many people envy,” and cautioned that it must not be talked down. Belief in the European project, he said, is essential for the continent’s future.
“Europe Is Our Place in the World”
In his televised speech, broadcast Thursday evening on ORF, the president highlighted the importance of unity within the EU. He warned that external powers seek to divide Europe “in order to dominate it economically and politically,” describing such efforts as “imperial in nature.” Smaller states, he argued, are far easier to influence than a union of more than 450 million people.
Europe, he insisted, must chart its own course. Van der Bellen said the EU can demonstrate to the world that there are alternatives to both the “law of the strongest” and purely profit‑driven systems. A European path, he noted, is one that respects the rule of law, individual freedom, gender equality, and social responsibility—ensuring that no one is left to face hunger or homelessness.
EU Strength as a Response to Global Power Plays
Van der Bellen also called for greater European independence in key strategic areas. To reduce vulnerability to “the arbitrariness of foreign governments,” Europe must secure its own energy supply, strengthen its digital capabilities, and develop sovereign defense structures.
“The European Union is one of the world’s largest economic powers,” he said. “It is time to recognize our own strength and understand the negotiating power we possess.”
He added that Europe could serve as a model for peaceful coexistence worldwide. “The European stars continue to shine,” he said, “offering guidance when darkness falls elsewhere.”
Call for Domestic Reform and Compromise
Turning to Austria, Van der Bellen stressed the need for reforms at home. For these to succeed, he said, citizens and political actors alike must accept that “no one holds the truth alone.” Compromise, he argued, is not a weakness but a national strength.
“The good compromise is an Austrian cultural asset,” he said, describing it as a long‑standing quality that should be preserved, especially in changing times.
FPÖ Criticizes Speech as “Missing the Point”
The Freedom Party (FPÖ) sharply rejected the president’s message. FPÖ General Secretary Michael Schnedlitz accused Van der Bellen of ignoring the hardships faced by Austrians and retreating into “dream worlds.” In a written statement, Schnedlitz described the address as a “complete failure to address the real issues.”
- Hector Pascua with reports from APA/picture: orf.at
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