Mask of Concern

Although anti-Semitism is present in all social classes in Austria, it is traditionally represented especially strongly in the right-wing political camp where it helps form an identity-creating element.   
At the latest since the severe international reactions during the Waldheim affair and the FPÖ’s first participation in the government, the traditional anti-Semitic attitude of the right turned out to be an obstacle to their sharing of power. 

Segments within Austrian politics reacted to this with pragmatic flexibility.
At least superficially there were changes in rules related to what one could say, and an increased pro-Israel attitude in Austrian foreign policy, which previously, since Bruno Kreisky, had been more pro-Palestinian.

Political observers ultimately realized that this change was motivated by power politics rather than corresponding to a genuine change of attitude.

Numerous affairs and provocations that point to the old anti-Semitic convictions and the multiple connections of FPÖ members to right-wing extremists confirm the unbelievable again and again.

A mask of concern is put on towards fellow citizens in Austria who are Jewish, and towards historical responsibility, but above all, towards the international public.

The illusory—the inauthentic—the lie—admittedly, a phenomenon throughout the world today, shapes appearances.