FPÖ in criticism: Abwerzger deletes controversial videos after allegation of racism

FPÖ in criticism: Abwerzger deletes controversial videos after allegation of racism

Tirol, Österreich - The Tyrolean FPÖ is faced with massive criticism after the publication of a controversial video. In the said clip, in which FPÖ boss Markus Abwerzger can be seen with a cardboard crown of a well-known fast food company, the topic of deportations of illegal migrants is addressed in a humorous way. But the connection to a virally common video from the right -wing extremist scene, which addresses violence against black people, ensures considerable controversy. The online medium "Campus A" reports that the clip should allude to the viral "Burger King Guy on Plane", which many find problematic.

criticism of several pages

The statements of Abwerzger, who abatters the allegations as an exaggeration and indicates that he has no knowledge of the original video, encounter resistance. Dominik Oberhofer, state spokesman for Neos, sees allusions to right -wing extremist conspiracy theories in the content of the videos. He refers to a fictitious secret association called "Vril" and expresses concerns about problematic comments on social media.

ÖVP state captain Anton Mattle also speaks up and is disappointed with Abwerzger's approach. Mattle criticized the application of "extremely American methods" in politics and remembers the clear distancing of his party from the FPÖ before the state election in 2022. Since then he has chosen a coalition with the SPÖ, which further fueled the political tensions.

since 2013, Abwerzger has been running the Tyrolean FPÖ and was able to achieve 18.84 percent of the vote in the last election, which meant second place. However, the current situation raises questions about the party strategy, especially in an age in which social media play a central role in political communication.

The role of social media in politics

These incidents are in the greater context of political communication, which is strongly shaped by social media. In a hybrid media system in which citizens, politicians and journalists interact, social media have made it possible for political actors to reach a wide audience without traditional mass media. According to the Federal Center for Political Education, more and more citizens are using social platforms to consume news. Younger voters in particular are addressed by direct digital channels.

In addition, these media have brought new demands on political communication, since parties and institutions have to operate active community management in order to interact with users and to moderate problematic comments. Challenges such as data protection, hate speech and polarization are omnipresent and require a strategic procedure.

Overall, the Tyrolean FPÖ is in a difficult situation, and dealing with social media will be crucial to regain trust in the party and to strengthen responsibility in political communication. The developments of the coming days could be crucial for the party strategy and its public perception.