Distinguished guests from politics, science, and business accepted Sylvia Freygner’s invitation to the Novomatic Forum to discuss the question: “How can the integration project succeed?”
Key Note by Sebastian Kurz, Secretary of State for Integration
In his address, Sebastian Kurz emphasized the importance of early language education and the integration of migrants into society. He highlighted the need to foster a “sense of togetherness” to enable “social harmony.”
“Multilingualism is an asset” | Dr. Heinz Fassmann
Moderated by Mercedes Echerer, the panel discussion featured Mag. Alev Korun (Member of the National Council), Ute Bock, Dr. Heinz Fassmann (Chairman of the Expert Council for Integration, Ministry of the Interior), and Dr. Franz Küberl (President of Caritas Austria). The panel agreed that while a person’s migration background—often even into the third generation—still takes precedence, the focus should shift to “Who are you?” rather than “Where are you from?”
“Integration is complete when no one talks about it anymore” | Ali Mahlodji
During the second discussion round, Ali Mahlodji (CEO and founder of the online platform Whatchado), Dr. Brigitte Wolf (Director of ORF Vienna), Mag. Franz Wolf-Maier (Managing Director of the Austrian Integration Fund), and Dr. Roland Singer (CEO of ASSA Objektservice GmbH) concluded that true integration occurs only when it is no longer a topic of discussion.
“Whoever saves a life, saves the entire world” | Mag. Ulla Konrad
In her opening remarks, Sylvia Freygner announced a partnership with Mag. Ulla Konrad | CONCORDIA Social Projects. DER SALON will take on sponsorship of the Casa Nusia in Pirita, Moldova, providing a home for 18 children.
