Scandal in the theater of youth: grievances and abuse of power uncovered!

Scandal in the theater of youth: grievances and abuse of power uncovered!

A shocking scandal currently shakes the cultural scene of Vienna: As the FPÖ Vienna reports, the SPÖ cultural councilor Veronica Kaup-Hasler had known for years of serious allegations against the long-time director of the Theater of Youth, Thomas Birkmeir, but did not take any measures. Massive complaints were already presented to the city in 2021, including reports on a "system of fear and abuse of power". Employees complained of offensive comments and psychological pressure. LAbg. Stefan Berger from the FPÖ criticizes that, despite the alarming evidence, Kaup-Hasler preferred to look away in order not to endanger the "red-green cartel" in the Vienna cultural scene, as in the report by OTS means.

landslide allegations and reactions

The allegations against the Theater der Jugend are not isolated, but are part of a major problem in the Vienna cultural landscape. After further reports on toxic working conditions and problematic leadership cultures, such as the Josefstadt, the FPÖ calls for a comprehensive information and independent examination of the employment relationships in the Viennese cultural institutions. Berger emphasizes that millions of taxpayers' money flow into these companies without a serious supervision, while the city administration is watching. "The city of Vienna has to be aware of its responsibility and no longer close the eyes of the problems in their department," he said.

In this context, the comprehensive memberships and committees in the Vienna municipal council are also pointed out, as is documented on meinordimst . The current and historical memberships of Kaup-Hasler are listed there and illustrate their key role in administration. While subsidizing cultural companies continues to happen without consequences for misconduct, transparency and control are urgently needed to improve the working conditions of the employees. The FPÖ therefore calls for an end to the cover -up and a rethink in Viennese cultural policy.