On 27 April 1945, in the midst of the turmoil of the last days of the war, history was made in Vienna: With the proclamation of the Second Republic of... En savoir plus
L'histoire
27 April 1945 – Austria’s new beginning: freedom and responsibility
On 27 April 1945, in the midst of the turmoil of the last days of the war, history was made in Vienna: With the proclamation of the Second Republic of Austria and the declaration of state independence, a new chapter began for our country – a chapter characterised by freedom, peace and a commitment to the values of humanity. After seven catastrophic years of National Socialist rule, war and suffering, a small group of courageous men and women took the initiative. Under the leadership of Karl Renner, representatives of the democratic parties – ÖVP, SPÖ and KPÖ – united to form the Provisional State Government. Their message was clear and unmistakable: Austria is alive – and it is determined to re-emerge as a free, democratic state.
In the Declaration of Independence of 27 April 1945, not only was the “Anschluss” to Hitler’s Germany declared null and void. A solemn promise was also made: Never again should human dignity, freedom and justice be so severely violated. Austria saw itself as the first victim of National Socialist aggression and at the same time acknowledged its responsibility for its own history.
Especially for a humanitarian organisation like the Lazarus Union, which is dedicated to helping the weak and promoting peace, this day has a deep meaning. It reminds us that freedom is not a gift, but a mission: a mission to defend and live those values that are the foundation of a peaceful society – solidarity, tolerance and respect for human rights.
Today, 80 years later, 27 April is not only a day of remembrance, but also a day of obligation. Since 1945, Austria has made its way as a democratic constitutional state with great responsibility in the international community. The Lazarus Union is proud to be part of this path – through its work for humanity, international understanding and social justice.
History teaches us:
Only those who learn from the past can shape the future freely and humanely.
