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🇦🇹 Austria /Elections & Politics

Heide Schmidt: 'Democracy is an attitude, not just rules'

From Der Standard · () German

Translated from German, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • Heide Schmidt emphasizes that democracy requires more than just rules; it demands a specific attitude or stance.
  • Schmidt, whose Liberales Forum merged with the Neos in 2014, discussed loyalty and conscience following Veit Dengler's exclusion from the Neos.
  • She highlighted the inherent difficulties in practicing liberal politics, particularly concerning adherence to principles and internal party dynamics.

Democracy is not merely a system of regulations but a fundamental 'attitude,' stated Heide Schmidt, a prominent figure in Austrian liberal politics. Schmidt, whose Liberales Forum party merged with the liberal Neos in 2014, articulated this view in the wake of Veit Dengler's expulsion from the Neos.

Her comments underscore the importance of loyalty and conscience within political parties, particularly those identifying as liberal. The situation involving Dengler's exclusion appears to have prompted Schmidt to reflect on the deeper ethical and principled underpinnings required for liberal politics to function effectively.

Schmidt acknowledged the significant challenges inherent in pursuing liberal politics. This suggests a recognition that maintaining ideological purity, fostering internal cohesion, and navigating the practicalities of political life can be a complex and demanding endeavor, especially when core principles are tested.

Democracy consists not only of rules. It is an attitude.

— Heide SchmidtExplaining her view on the essence of democracy.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Der Standard in German. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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