Never again: EFA calls on the EU to ensure a proper investigation of the massive police raid on Slovenian minority antifascist camp in Austria
The European Union must take action to protect minority groups from rights violations in its member countries
On July 27, an antifascist camp of the Slovenian minority was the target of a massive police raid in Carinthia, Austria. This operation has deeply shaken the Slovenian community in Carinthia and raised serious concerns about the disproportionate use of force against a minority group.
According to the Društvo/Peršman Association, which runs the Peršman Memorial and Museum where the camp took place, Austrian police arrived with seven vehicles, over 30 armed officers, a helicopter, drones, and a police dog unit. Over the course of several hours, they identified multiple attendees and conducted house searches without judicial authorization.
Adding to the outrage, the operation coincided with the 80th anniversary of the Nazi massacre of ethnic Slovenians at the very site where the Peršman Memorial and Museum stands today.
Minority group targeted
The European Free Alliance is deeply concerned about this incident. We stand for a European Union where diversity is valued and the rights of minorities are respected. This police operation represents a clear violation of minority rights and a biased approach by the state towards its own citizens.
Enotna Lista, EFA’s member party representing the Slovenian minority in Carinthia, is monitoring the situation. Its chairman, Gabriel Hribar, said: “Such a massive operation on Sunday requires planning and is therefore a targeted action with enormous potential to bring unrest back to our country”.
EFA President Lorena López de Lacalle agrees: “The Slovenian community in Austria greatly suffered under Nazism. In the 21st century, the EU cannot tolerate acts of violence against minorities — especially when they originate from the state. Democracy must be constantly nurtured and developed”, she emphasised.
It is imperative to address this issue at its root and to ensure that such an attack on a minority group never happens again. An investigation is necessary to clarify what happened and to hold those responsible for the operation accountable.
While this investigation formally lies in the hands of Austria, the European Union must oversee the process and guarantee the protection of minorities across Europe. EFA calls on the EU to take responsibility for this matter and take the necessary steps to ensure that such an attack is never repeated.
