A social media post from Austria’s governing Austrian People’s Party (ÖVP) has ignited a political firestorm for its anti-Muslim content. The post, suggesting that “two-thirds of people find it difficult to live alongside Muslims,” has been condemned by politicians across the spectrum, prompting apologies and accusations of deepening social divisions.
Finance Minister Apologizes to Muslim Communities
The backlash was swift and direct. Finance Minister Markus Marterbauer of the coalition partner Social Democratic Party (SPÖ) issued a clear apology. “Austrians of Bosnian origin have for decades worked in hospitals, trade and industry and are an integral part of this country,” he stated. “I apologize. This is not who we are.”
Opposition Leaders Decry Divisive Rhetoric
Opposition party leaders strongly criticized the ÖVP’s post. Yannick Shetty of the liberal NEOS party described the message as “fundamentally wrong and politically clumsy,” warning that portraying all Muslims as suspect only fuels societal rifts. Similarly, Leonore Gewessler, leader of The Greens, stated the message was unbecoming of the chancellor’s party, adding, “It is shameful that people who have lived, worked and contributed to our society for decades are forced to read something like this.”