SPÖ mourns Peter Kostelka: A fighter for social justice

SPÖ mourns Peter Kostelka: A fighter for social justice

On April 16, 2025, Peter Kostelka, the former president of the Austrian Pensioners Association, died at the age of 74. He was an important politician in the Austrian Social Democratic Party (SPÖ) and left behind an impressive career that spanned several decades. As a doctor of law, Kostelka dedicated his life to politics, especially the SPÖ, and was particularly active in Vienna. With his work he has had a significant impact on social policy in Austria.

Kostelka began his academic career at the University of World Trade in Vienna before studying law at the University of Vienna from 1968 to 1972 and receiving his doctorate in 1972. Early in his political career, he served in the Vranitzky III government as State Secretary in the Federal Chancellery and took on various roles in the following years, including the role of chairman of the SPÖ parliamentary club in the National Council from 1994 to 2000. After his time in parliament, he worked for over a decade in the Ombudsman's Office, where he campaigned for social justice, before taking over the leadership in 2018 of the pensioners' association took over.

Career and recognition

Peter Kostelka's political career is not only characterized by many offices, but also by his tireless work for the social needs of pensioners. Vienna's mayor Michael Ludwig described him as a "convinced social democrat and tireless fighter for social justice." Carinthia's governor Peter Kaiser also praised him as a political figure with sensitivity and a sense of justice. Monika Kemperle, the ÖGB senior manager, described him as a “reliable voice for solidarity and humanity”, while FSG boss Josef Muchitsch emphasized his commitment to the well-being of pensioners.

Peter's extensive commitment to social justice is evident in the various positions he has held over the years. From 2001 to 2013 he was an ombudsman, where he dealt with social, transport and health policy issues. From 2009 he was also general secretary of the International Ombudsman Institute and was actively involved in the Austrian Study Center for Peace and Conflict Resolution.

Political structures and careers

The careers of politicians like Kostelka provide information about the political structures in Austria. A study conducted by sociologists at the University of Graz analyzes the careers of political elites in Austria using bioinformatics. It examines how career paths have developed since 1950 and which institutional connections are important for advancement in politics. The research shows that there have been significant changes in the party structure, but the recruitment systems for top politicians have remained largely constant.

Throughout his career, Peter Kostelka embodied the principles of social justice and compassion. He leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire Austria's political landscape in the future.