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State anthem dispute: Styria becomes a political issue of symbolism!
The FPÖ and ÖVP dominate the state parliament, while the opposition is against enshrining the Styrian anthem in the constitution.
State anthem dispute: Styria becomes a political issue of symbolism!
The dispute over the anchoring of the Styrian state anthem in the state constitution is in full swing. Loud Small newspaper Although there is a majority in the 48-member state parliament with 17 representatives from the FPÖ and 13 from the ÖVP, this is not enough for a constitutional change. This is viewed particularly critically by the opposition, which consists of the SPÖ with 10, the Greens with 3, the NEOS with 3 and the KPÖ with 2 MPs and is clearly against the planning.
A central point of contention are lines of text in the anthem that refer to the Austro-Hungarian monarchy and mention rivers that today belong to Slovenia. In a clear sign of its rejection, the SPÖ staged a protest at the Radlpass border crossing with Slovenia to emphasize the importance of good relations between Slovenia and Styria. Max Lercher from the SPÖ criticized both the FPÖ and the ÖVP for “symbolic politics” that potentially endanger cooperation.
Positions of the parties
The different political parties have taken a clear position on the issue. While the FPÖ describes the SPÖ as part of a “left-wing united front” and criticizes their attitude to the anthem, Marco Triller from the FPÖ explains that the SPÖ is disrespectful towards the homeland. Hannes Schwarz from the SPÖ also expresses constitutional concerns about the planned provision.
The Greens reject both the negotiations about the enshrinement of the anthem and a proposed gender clause. NEOS boss Niko Swatek was critical of symbolic politics and spoke out in favor of key reforms in areas such as education and health. The KPÖ is also clearly positioning itself against the state anthem and the gender clause, which further hardens the fronts in the state parliament.
Effects on the Constitution
The situation raises questions about the role and meaning of state constitutions. These regulate political decision-making and secure the rights of citizens. They define the organization and functioning of a federal state and determine how the government is formed. The separation of powers between the executive, legislative and judicial branches is also important. As the Study smarter As explained, state constitutions can be changed through constitutionally amending laws, often with a qualified majority in the state parliament.
The situation in Styria in particular shows how political symbolism can take a back seat to serious issues. This dynamic will be crucial both in today's political landscape and in terms of future reforms.