Local novels that paint a picture of idyll in South Tyrol need to be rewritten. Because the idyll is a relic of days gone by. An increasingly present migrant crime that is causing unrest among the population, while the voice of reason is drowned by accusations of racism and political correctness, is the new reality.
The last state elections shine a bright light on the grievances that the SVP overlooked during its long reign. The loss of political credit is not just a signal of political change, but a cry for a new order, for security and for foresight that goes beyond reactive intervention. The strong performance of South Tyrolean Freedom in the state elections confirms it: the issue of security is burning under the nails of South Tyroleans.
Failure in prevention
The lax handling of prevention measures always leaves those responsible one step behind the events. A raid here, a raid there – it’s a game of cat and mouse. The failure to implement preventative security strategies is not just a strategic misstep, it is a fundamental failure to serve citizens whose security needs are ignored. The best example of this is Bolzano: After the shocking attack on the owner of the wine shop “1000 e un vino”, plans are being made to cordon off the inner courtyard between the chamber of commerce and the city theater. Although it has long been known that this inner courtyard is a playground for criminals. The actions are reminiscent of the proverbial closing of the barn door after the horses have already bolted.
The leniency towards anti-Israel hate slogans and Islamist propaganda in Bolzano is an alarming symptom of a larger disease: tolerance of extremism. It reveals a dangerous indifference to the principles of freedom and respect that should be anchored in South Tyrol’s society.
Necessary message: Integration, or go home!
The political leadership of South Tyrol, as well as the Italian central government, are in the pillory. The Italian government has announced a tough course against migration flows with great words, but no action has been taken. Italy’s failures, the lack of European solidarity and the failure of an effective migration policy are placing a disproportionate burden on South Tyrol.
The need for a new approach to migration policy at European level is obvious, but it is the new state government that must act immediately. It must stand up for the interests of its citizens and make it clear: anyone who is not prepared to fit into society and contribute to the common good has forfeited their place in South Tyrol. It is a clear message that must echo both in South Tyrol, in the halls of Rome and the corridors of Brussels.
New state government will be judged on the issue of security
The task facing the next South Tyrolean state government is monumental: it must be able to restore and maintain security. Its legitimacy and effectiveness will be measured by whether it succeeds in rebuilding citizens’ trust in a safe and secure homeland. If this fails, South Tyrol’s reputation as a safe haven will become a bitter irony, a lost legend in the mountains.
2023-11-11 19:53:57
#Security #idyll #illusion
