Vienna – ESI at Falter Summer Talks: “How do we save democracy?”

6 August 2024
Falter Podcast
Photo: Falter

ESI’s Gerald Knaus was invited to speak at the Falter “Summer Talks” on “How do we save democracy?”

The talk took place on an open-air stage in the main courtyard of the Museum Quarter in Vienna and was also recorded as a podcast.

Podcast: Falter Radio

 

Falter Podcast
Photo: Falter

Gerald addressed the diminishing prospects for peace in Europe amidst the rise of right-wing and populist movements. He discussed Europe’s potential role as a mediator between the hostile stances of the USA, Russia, and China, focusing on the geopolitical landscape shaped by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and its influence on certain EU and non-EU states. He also described Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s strategy of destabilising the EU.

Gerald further examined current migration challenges, including the failed UK migration plan, the EU refugee pact, and the recent migration debate in the US, particularly in the context of a possible Trump administration.

He discussed the difficulties facing European migration policy and proposed practical, humane solutions. Gerald criticised the reliance on deterrence and inadequate agreements with third countries, advocating instead for the establishment of legal migration pathways and enhanced cooperation with countries of origin and transit. He underscored the importance of upholding human rights and international law in effectively managing migration.

Gerald was interviewed by Falter journalists Raimund Löw and Barbara Tóth.

Raimund Löw, Gerald Knaus, Barbara Tóth
Raimund Löw, Gerald Knaus and Barbara Tóth. Photo: Falter