Fritz Edlinger: A life's work for peace and understanding in Austria

Fritz Edlinger: A life's work for peace and understanding in Austria

Laimgrubengasse 10, 1060 Wien, Österreich - The loss of Fritz Edlinger, an estimated thought leader of social democracy, hits high waves. On December 4, 2024, Edlinger died at the age of 76, and the SPÖ federal formation is deeply affected. Gerhard Schmid, the chairman of the SPÖ federal formation, describes Edlinger as a "indispensable bridge builder between cultures", especially at a time when dialogue and communication in conflict-rich regions such as the Middle East are essential. His passion for peace and social justice leaves a large gap in Austria's political education and peace work, as Schmid emphasizes. His role as a long-time general secretary of the Society for Austrian-Arabic relationships was formative for the creation of a platform for fair political discourses.

a life in the sign of Engagement

Edlinger was the Federal Chairman of the Young Generation from 1980 to 1984 and presented an important part of the social democratic workers' movement throughout his life. Wolfgang Markytan, Managing Director of the SPÖ federal formation, remembers Edlinger's tireless work in organizing conferences and his clear positions against war and imperialism. "His commitment was not only theoretical, but he lived it in each of his projects," emphasizes Markytan, emphasizing the extensive discourses on peace and democracy that Edlinger played a key role in shaping. Due to his death, the political landscape in Austria has not only become poorer, but also for a mentor and friend of many colleagues.

The importance of Edlinger's work extends beyond the borders of Austria. His magazine "International" offered a platform for different perspectives and tried to make complex global relationships understandable, which has essential relevance in a time of growing populism and simplifying. These merits in the area of ​​dialogue and the Enlightenment are now considered by many as valuable lessons and Inspiration how to solve conflicts through communication and understanding, mostly rounded off with an impressive attitude that became clear in his writings, also reports Amazon.de .