Former Austrian Federal President Heinz Fischer recently presented a monumental five-volume collection of his speeches, solidifying his extensive political legacy for future generations. The significant event took place before a full house at the historic Schönbrunn Palace Theater.
This newly published collection, titled “Politics Needs a Conscience—Speeches 1971–2025”, offers deep insights into Fischer’s expansive political career. It represents a powerful appeal for principled, context-driven politics. The SPÖ Federal Education Department and the Vienna Education Academy co-hosted this important evening.
Czernin Verlag published this impressive work. It documents 832 speeches across more than 4,500 pages, all contained within five distinct volumes in a slipcase. This comprehensive selection spans Fischer’s entire career, beginning with his early days as a National Council member in the 1970s.
Moreover, the collection covers his time as Minister of Science and President of the National Council. It also includes his two terms as Federal President and the subsequent years after leaving office. The volumes thoughtfully reflect pivotal moments, such as the Kreisky era reforms, the end of the Cold War, and the evolution of Austrian memory policy.
During a discussion moderated by historian Flavio Schily, Fischer spoke with former Federal Minister Hilde Hawlicek. He specifically stressed the need to evaluate political statements within their historical context. “It is important to always view these speeches within their political and social context at the time,” he explained. This crucial interplay between occasion and social setting transforms the collection into a valuable document of contemporary history.
Hawlicek, for her part, reminisced about her long-standing personal bond with Fischer. They shared a close friendship well before their time in top-level politics. Beyond their hard political work, a wealth of personal memories unites them. Fischer also warmly thanked his wife, Margit Fischer, for her decades of unwavering support.
The hosts of this political education event underlined the significance of such a living history lesson. Gerhard Schmid, Chair of the SPÖ Federal Education Committee, highlighted that political education thrives on direct dialogue. Therefore, engaging with one’s own history and sharing experiences with younger generations are essential. Wolfgang Markytan, Executive Director of the SPÖ Federal Education Department, similarly emphasized that history becomes most tangible when eyewitnesses share their stories firsthand.
Following the engaging panel discussion, numerous visitors seized the opportunity for personal conversations. Many took photos and had their freshly printed volumes personally signed by the former Federal President. This gathering underscored the enduring impact of Heinz Fischer’s political legacy on Austrian society.
