Democracy on the brink? Dr. Franz Fischler sounds the alarm
- 30.05.2025
- General
Dr. Franz Fischler at the Management Forum at the FH Kufstein Tirol on strengthening the political center in Europe. Moderation: Prof. (FH) Dr. Peter Dietrich.
On April 23, 2025, a lecture by Dr. Franz Fischler took place at the FH Kufstein Tirol as part of the Management Forum. Under the title If you want a liberal democracy, you have to strengthen the political center, the former EU Commissioner shed light on the current challenges facing democratic societies.
Dr. Franz Fischler, former Austrian Federal Minister of Agriculture and Forestry (1989-1994) and EU Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development and Fisheries from 1995 to 2004, is considered to have a profound knowledge of European institutions and political processes. His many years of experience in national and European offices have also shaped his differentiated analysis of the current political situation in Europe.
POLITICAL CENTER AND A EUROPEAN NARRATIVE
Fischler made it clear that the political center is increasingly losing strength. This is not just a narrowing average, but a space that is losing substance politically and socially. This development is dangerous for representative democracy, in which regularly elected representatives assume responsibility for a certain period of time. Support for this middle ground is crumbling - a challenge that must be met with reforms and new political narratives.
Dr. Volker Steindl, President of the Lions Club Kufstein; Dr. Franz Fischler; moderator Prof. (FH) Dr. Peter Dietrich; FH founder Prof. KommR Walter J. Mayr, MBA (from left to right).
In this context, Dr. Fischler called for a new European narrative: Europe should be the most liveable continent in the world - without leaving anyone behind. This is based on the comprehensive human rights and fundamental values enshrined in the EU. The Union stands for the rule of law, democracy, social responsibility, cultural diversity and scientific progress. This power of the center urgently needs to be strengthened - both internally and externally.
DO NOT UNDERESTIMATE SOCIAL MEDIA AND YOUNG PEOPLE
Another key topic was the political use of social media. Fischler emphasized the enormous importance of these platforms for shaping political opinion and criticized the fact that many parties had completely failed in this area. Their appearances are outdated, not very appealing and do not exploit the potential of social media.
Europe can be the most liveable continent in the world - but only if we protect liberal democracy and leave no one behind.
Dr. Franz Fischler
At the same time, he contradicted the frequently expressed assumption that young people are no longer interested in politics. This statement is wrong - the interest is definitely there, but is often not taken seriously or picked up by politicians.
The lecture was followed by a lively discussion. Students and guests addressed questions about dealing with populism, the role of social media and the future of the EU.
RELEVANCE FOR THE FH KUFSTEIN TIROL
This topic is of central importance for the international business and communication-oriented degree programs at FH Kufstein Tirol. Democracy, the rule of law and social stability form the basis for sustainable economic activity and responsible leadership. The evening was moderated by Prof. (FH) Dr. Peter Dietrich, who also led the subsequent Q&A session.
APPEAL AT THE END
Dr. Fischler concluded his speech with a clear appeal: “Europe can be the most liveable continent in the world - but only if we protect liberal democracy and leave no one behind.”
Links:
- Management Forum Kufstein | Event series
- Dr. Othmar Karas on the pressure on Europe | News