The possibility of the neo-nazi Haider becoming part of the Austrian
government is one that social scientists, particularly those of us who live
and work in Europe, cannot afford to ignore. Of course we must work in close
collaboration with our Austrian colleagues but I believe that we should be
considering very seriously whether we should refuse to attend meetings held
in Austria if Haidar comes to office. In addition where meetings are
already planned we should consider what we should and can do, can for
example we relocate them in another country without neo-nazi's in the
government? We know that the European Union is extremely concerned about
this probable development, and it may be they would be be willing to assist
relocation. Letting international social science meetings take place as if
nothing important had happened offers a silent form of legitimation.
Visiting Research Professor in Sociology, City University
4 LLOYD SQUARE
London WC1X 9BA
Tel +44.(0)171.713.1709
Fax +44 (0)171.833.2563
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