Millstätter Economic Discussions 2025 Kick Off Successfully
The 2025 Millstätter Economic Discussions commenced with great success, gathering approximately 400 participants to explore the future of responsibility culture. Among the contributors were notable figures including former ministers and business leaders, who shared insights on the necessity of collaborative action in politics, business, and society.
During the opening, State Secretary Alexander Pröll emphasized the importance of active participation, stating that taking responsibility is crucial, especially in challenging times. He highlighted that the responsibility for the economic landscape cannot be delegated and that everyone must contribute to ensure stability and shape the future.
Kärnten's Economic Councilor Sebastian Schuschnig echoed these sentiments, stating that embracing responsibility is often not popular but is critical for success. He pointed out that responsibility for the economic environment is essential at multiple levels, including governmental, economic, corporate, and media, while stressing the need for individual accountability.
Former German Minister Andreas Scheuer addressed the need for Europe to enhance its strengths and diversify export markets, urging against bureaucratic obstacles. He asserted that Europe has untapped potential if collective responsibility for economic and security matters is embraced.
Christoph Neumayer, Secretary General of the Industrialists' Association, called for a renewed focus on future challenges and a healthy sense of individual responsibility, warning against a mindset of dependency on state support, especially given the current economic and security challenges.
Matthias Strolz discussed the relationship between entrepreneurial freedom and social responsibility, asserting that entrepreneurs must recognize their role in shaping the larger community. He underlined the need for balance between freedom and responsibility to avoid chaos and burdens.
Natalie Harsdorf, Director General of the Federal Competition Authority, highlighted the importance of fair competition for economic success, noting that a lack of competition leads to higher costs that must be avoided.
Matthias Ehrhardt, founder of the Authoris Leadership Institute, pointed out the necessity of clarifying what responsibility means in leadership, emphasizing the need for strong leaders to navigate the changing economic landscape.
Former Chancellor Alfred Gusenbauer discussed the correlation between economic resilience and political responsibility, advocating for a 'solidarity-based high-performance society' as a framework for future discussions.
National Council President Wolfgang Sobotka emphasized that trust is foundational to a free and just society and that individual trust in state institutions is essential for personal and communal development.
Elisabeth Zehetner, State Secretary in the Ministry of Economy, spoke on the importance of collective efforts to achieve economic, social, and sustainable goals, stressing that responsibility starts with the individual and extends to government levels. She noted that a robust economy requires affordable energy, security of supply, and price stability.
As the discussions progressed, various panels addressed themes including the relationship between health and economic success, with experts asserting that the digitalization of healthcare could enhance individual responsibilities and overall system efficiency.
The Millstätter Economic Discussions will continue with in-depth talks and conclude with a concert and networking event, reinforcing its role as a platform for integrating economic, social, and political considerations.