School spokesman Resnik: Hate has failed – community remains strong!”

School spokesman Resnik: Hate has failed – community remains strong!”

On June 10, 2025, a tragic shooting spree occurred at BORG Dreierschützengasse in Graz, in which a total of eleven people died, including nine students and a teacher. The perpetrator also took his own life. The 18-year-old student representative Ennio Resnik addressed the public in an emotional video message and painted a picture of pain, loss and sadness. Resnik reported on his personal losses and appealed to the community to stick together during this difficult time. “He wanted us to be afraid, to hate, to fall apart - but he failed,” said Resnik in clear words, emphasizing the central message that love is stronger than hate, like [oe24.at].

In his Instagram video, Resnik called for compassion and solidarity. He also thanked the security forces and rescue personnel for their “almost superhuman performance” in the crisis situation. “The world and politicians have to wake up so that something like this never, ever happens again,” said Resnik. He wished his condolences to the relatives of the victims and expressed the need to view all people as “the light of the world”, regardless of religion, origin or political opinion, as heute.at also notes.

Prevention and safety in schools

The shooting has reignited a discussion about safety in schools and the need for prevention measures. Germany already has comprehensive measures in place to prevent school massacres, including emergency plans and special training for teachers. These preventative strategies could serve as an example for increasing school safety in Austria. The difference in gun law is also significant: While Germany tightened the rules after serious tragedies, in Austria the hurdles for legally purchasing guns are relatively low. You only need to be at least 18 years old, without the need for a psychological report, as telepolis.de states.

In recent years, experts in Austria have identified an increased need for improved prevention measures. Programs to combat bullying, such as KiVa, provide positive approaches that should be implemented across the board. This also includes internal school teams of experts who can help with risk assessment. Technical security measures, such as silent alarm systems and video surveillance, can increase students' subjective feeling of security, but do not replace the need for an open school culture in which students, parents and teachers look out for each other and can provide early support.

The goal must be to minimize risks through consistent prevention work and a culture of looking. Ennio Resnik's appeal to society and politics reminds us that a strong community and cohesion are the right answers to hatred and violence.