On October 22, SOCIETY publisher Gertrud Tauchhammer invited to the presentation of the book „Die Kraft der Mitte“ („The Power of the Center“) by Franz Fischler, former Federal Minister for Agriculture and Forestry, European Union’s Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development and Fisheries and President of the European Forum Alpbach. At the Club Rooms of ÖGAVN (Österreichische Gesellschaft für Außenpolitik und die Vereinten Nationen) at Stallburg/Hofburg, Gertrud Tauchhammer and moderator of the evening, Adrian Hollaender, welcomed the guests before Franz Fischler gave a short introduction into his book. Then, Bettina Stimeder, Chief Executive Editor at Red Bull Media House, lead an interesting and informative conversation with the author, who emphasized that „a functioning democracy can only exist if it is supported by the center“. Furthermore, he highlighted the importance of compromise in politics: „Being able to reach compromises is the highest art of exercising democracy“. He also gave interesting insights into his career path, which – in 1995, when Austria became a member of the EU – led him to Brussels, where he worked as EU’s Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development and Fisheries. He remembered the ten years he spent working for the EU as the „most exciting years of my life“.
After a round of audience questions, the guests had the chance to let their copy be signed personally by Franz Fischler.
Special thanks to ÖGAVN for providing the rooms and drinks and to R express for the delicious petits fours.
To read more about the life and work of Franz Fischler, get his book „Die Kraft der Mitte“. (ecowing)