Christmas: Political Appeals for Confidence
"One must never lose courage and confidence," said Van der Bellen in the ORF program "Light into Darkness". Stocker recalled the time after the end of the war 80 years ago. When people had little, their belief in the future kept them going. Today, we are much better off. "We must not lose faith in the future."
In view of the world situation, Van der Bellen finds the skepticism of many Austrians regarding the future quite understandable. However, an advantage of age is: "You have experienced a lot." It may take some time, there are budget problems ("yes, we know") - but in other countries, it is much worse. "So: One should not be too excited, we will manage it."
Stocker, in turn, emphasized the cohesion of people that still exists today. The task of politics is to convey confidence and optimism. "And we see, the numbers are getting better, the lowest point has been passed."
Still much to do in inclusion
Vice Chancellor Andreas Babler (SPÖ) and Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger (NEOS) referred to the efforts regarding the inclusion of disabled people in light of "Light into Darkness" despite repeated criticism from the UN towards Austria. "Inclusion is one of the most important priorities we have," said Babler. Huge projects are planned in areas where there is still work to be done. Additional funds will also be allocated for this.
Meinl-Reisinger saw inclusion as a societal mandate. "And I know that we have a lot of room for improvement here." For example, bureaucratic and digital hurdles are high, and social assistance needs to be reformed. A one-stop-shop principle is needed here - her State Secretary Josef Schellhorn (NEOS) will address this.
National Council President Walter Rosenkranz (FPÖ) did commit to inclusion - but in the school sector, with the addition that there are also children and parents who prefer special schools over inclusive offerings. There must be freedom of choice here. Green Party leader Leonore Gewessler, on the other hand, believes that accessibility and inclusion are not yet complete. The government will be reminded of this repeatedly from the opposition.
(APA/Red)
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