Maria Kalesnikava opens Salzburg Festival with a plea for democracy

The 106th Salzburg Festival officially opened this Sunday with a powerful address from Belarusian dissident Maria Kalesnikava, who called for civic responsibility in democracy. Kalesnikava, a prominent figure in Belarus's opposition, spent five years in prison before being released and expelled from her country in December 2025.

Speaking at the festival's inauguration, which was broadcast by Austrian public broadcaster ORF, the 44-year-old flutist stressed the critical importance of never succumbing to hatred or fear. "To speak is a right, to listen is a responsibility," she declared, adding that democracy is threatened not only when speech is suppressed but also when no one is willing to listen.

Kalesnikava, now living in exile in Berlin, reflected on her personal journey, noting that her musical background was a significant advantage. "Perhaps my greatest fortune was being a musician, because where words no longer exist, music remained for me," she shared. Her activism and musicality have become intertwined in her fight for democratic values.

The festival's artistic program commenced last Friday with classical theater and music events, which will continue through August 30. The official opening ceremony was attended by numerous dignitaries, including the Federal President of Austria, Alexander Van der Bellen. Under the motto 'The Birth of Time and the Power of the Heart,' this year's festival presents a comprehensive program of 208 performances spanning music, opera, and theater.