Far-Right Bucking (but Not Wrecking) the System
Ian Buruma, Bard College | November 4, 2008
Right-wing victory in Austria is not a revival of Nazism but a reinforcement of democracy. ++ Unchecked fears of nationalism and overly sensitive cultural policies prevented Europeans from properly dealing with the cultural overhaul of recent decades, resulting in a backlash of resentment. ++ Austrian populists do not condone violence and want to bring “fresh air” to their stagnant, elitist coalitions. ++ They have shown their faith in the democratic system and their legitimate, if distasteful, concerns should be taken seriously.
Tags: | Austria |
Heinz-Christian Strache |
Jörg Haider |
parliamentary elections |
coalitions |
democracy |
integration |