As a Lower Austrian festival with an international orientation, it is with great irritation and concern that we take note of the new government agreement between the ÖVP and the FPÖ in Lower Austria. Parts of the working agreement between ÖVP and FPÖ are in clear contradiction to our political and moral convictions. Therefore, more than ever, it is important for us to reaffirm that hostility towards people, German chauvinism, and any form of discrimination have no place at our festival and in our programme. Diverse societies need – especially against the background of ecological and other crises – cultural places for the gathering of the diverse, where not only aesthetic experiences can be made, but also sustainable ideas of justice and freedom can be developed. We therefore want to and will continue to give a voice and a forum to all those who advocate the expansion of democratic living conditions in a complex world.