AJC Applauds Firm EU Stance on Racist Austrian Party

American Jewish Committee
Tuesday, 1 February 2000

The American Jewish Committee today commended the European Union for its firm stance against Austria's Freedom Party.

"We applaud the decision of the EU member states to terminate political contacts with Austria in the event of the Freedom Party's inclusion in the next government," AJC President Bruce M. Ramer and Executive Director David A. Harris wrote in a letter to Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Guterres. Portugal is the current president of the 15-member EU.

"The EU's forthright and principled response on a matter of great importance to defenders of human rights and tolerance everywhere is deeply appreciated," the AJC said.

Following Austria's national elections last fall, AJC urged Austria's political leaders to exclude the Freedom Party, led by Joerg Haider, from negotiations to form a coalition government.

"In no nation should a racist party be given sanctuary – and encouragement – at the seat of power in a governing coalition," said Mr. Harris.

In their letter to the EU sent today, Messrs. Harris and Ramer agreed with the EU "assessment that the Freedom Party's ideology does not comport with the basic values that unite democratic forces across national boundaries."

They also commended the EU for vigorously opposing, through democratic means, individuals and institutions that threaten those values.

For more information, or to contact American Jewish Committee, see their website at: www.ajc.org