Austria is about to change: Nazi names of streets soon?

Erfahren Sie, wie Braunau am Inn mit der Umbenennung von Straßen, die noch NS-Namen tragen, voranschreitet und welche Herausforderungen bestehen.
Find out how Braunau am Inn is progressing with the renaming of streets that still wear Nazi names and what challenges exist. (Symbolbild/ANAGAT)

Austria is about to change: Nazi names of streets soon?

There are still numerous streets in Austria that have names from the time of National Socialism. This could change now, because the discussion about a renaming process is increasingly gaining driving. More and more people and organizations in different regions are calling for a review of the past and a re -evaluation of street names that are reminiscent of the dark history of the country.

Current reports, such as that of Spiegel show that cities like Linz and Graz have already taken the first steps in this direction. While some municipalities are already working actively on the renaming their streets, the question remains how quickly and extensively this process will progress nationwide. The initiatives receive support from various civil society groups that are committed to better historical awareness.

demands for clarity and transparency

The discussion is not only about the street names themselves, but also about transparency in the decision -making process. There are different opinions among the citizens about dealing with this topic. Some demand a clear guideline that determines how to deal with the still flourishing Nazi names. The call for a uniform regulation becomes louder to avoid arbitrariness and inconsistency.

But the topic is not only discussed in the cities. Sensitivity to historical names also seems to grow in smaller communities. Approaches are already emerging here that should enable a renaming through intensive citizen participation. A review of the former Nazi names is to be ensured that the story is not forgotten.

a step in the right direction?

These developments are a sign that Austria also deals with its history and does not shy away from dealing with difficult topics. While the process will certainly take time, many hope that positive changes will soon become visible. The pressure of civil society could take on a key function. The signature collections, petitions and other initiatives show that many are strongly committed to a new perspective on the street names.

How it will continue in the future remains to be seen. There are currently many questions open and there is a desire for a broad debate that should include all instances. If it is up to the citizens, the time would now be active and to free the streets from the shadow of history. The way to work is still long, but it could be a piece of brighter with any renaming.

We keep you up to date for more information on the topic. You are also welcome to be the relevant report at Read SPIEGEL

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OrtBraunau am Inn, Österreich
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