In 1970, Androsch was named the youngest finance minister in the Republic to date by the SPÖ Chancellor Bruno Kreisky at the time and was promoted to Vice-Chancellor a few years later. He was considered the obvious successor to Kreisky until the two politicians fell out. Androsch left politics at the beginning of 1981 after 14 years as a member of the National Council and first became director of the Creditanstalt (CA).
In 1988 he was forced to resign from the bank after his last conviction for giving false witness statements. He then began his career as an industrialist, particularly with circuit board manufacturer AT&S and in the austrian salt mines. In addition, he became an increasingly vocal voice for further research and education in Austria and remained a vocal critic of domestic politics - regardless of party affiliation.
Condolences from all parties
the cry for Androsch cuts across all party lines.“androch was very accomplished as a manager and entrepreneur. In recent years he has been a tireless advocate for school and education policy reforms. Hannes Androsch showed his presence until his last breath. He was a personality who will be missed. “I am very saddened by his sudden death,” said Federation President Alexander Van der Bellen.
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Hannes Androsch is dead
“Austria is mourning Hannes Androsch. He was finance minister for many years and was very political throughout his life and also a very successful entrepreneur. I will miss the conversations and exchanging ideas with him! Rest in peace!” wrote Chancellor Karl Nehammer (ÖVP).
The presidium of the national Council sent condolences in a joint broadcast. ”The death of Hannes Androsch is a great loss for Austria,” said National Council President Walter Rosenkranz (FPÖ).
Thanks from the FPÖ,SPÖ,Greens and NEOS
“With Hannes Androsch,Austria is losing a personality who had a decisive influence on our republic,” said FPÖ leader Herbert Kickl. Apart from different political views, Androsch was a “personality of great knowlege and expertise” and a “political pragmatist” who did not shy away from criticism even “when it affected his own political homeland.” This is also what distinguished the great Austrian Hannes Androsch.”
“As Finance Minister Bruno Kreisky, Hannes Androsch greatly shaped
“As finance minister in challenging times, he proved that social thinking and economic pragmatism need not be compromised,” said Green Party leader Werner Kogler, calling Androsch “one of the brightest minds with a lasting impact on our country, both. politically and economically.”
“I am very sorry that Hannes Androsch died. Until the end, he always had the future of Austria in mind. Whether it was education, research or infrastructure: he was looking forward. I will miss his advice,” said NEOS manager Beate Meinl-Reisinger.
“Wonderful Austria”
Thanks also from the state governors. “Hannes Androsch was a great Austrian who, as a Styrian by choice, did an amazing amount for our country,” said outgoing Styrian governor Christopher Drexler (ÖVP), referring to Androsch’s commitment to Salinen Austria AG and AT&S. “His economic success was particularly successful in obtaining and creating many jobs in the Green Mark,” Styrian FPÖ leader Mario Kunasek said in tribute to the deceased.
“Hannes Androsch was amazing. He will be missed in this republic,” said the governor of Lower Austria, Johanna Mikl-Leitner (ÖVP). ”His commitment to social justice, education and equal opportunities will not be forgotten and will have an impact for generations,” said Carinthia Governor Peter Kaiser (SPÖ).
Burgenland Governor Hans Peter Doskozil (SPÖ) explained: “In particular, his initiatives to promote science and research as well as his commitment to a strong and sustainable Austria will not be forgotten.” one of the outstanding political personalities of the Second Republic”, said the Governor of Upper austria Thomas Stelzer (ÖVP).
“Positively shaped society”
Androsch was also honored by business and industry. “With his foresight, drive and passion, he has had a positive impact and has shaped not only the economy, but also society,” said Harald Mahrer, President of the Austrian Chamber of Commerce (WKO), and Karlheinz Kopf, Secretary General of the Foundations. WKO (both ÖVP) . AT&S is losing its chairman and “much more than that,” the company said.AT&S thanked Androsch: ”His work is both a foundation and a guide for the future.”
“It is with great respect that we bid farewell to an extraordinary person, politician and entrepreneur. He knew how to intelligently combine economic and social interests,” said the Industry Association (IV). “As a fighter for education and research in Austria, he recognized early on that the competitiveness of our country depends on the qualities of its people.” The Austrian Workers’ Samaritan Association (ASBÖ), of which Androsch was honorary president, wrote that androsch’s work had a significant impact in many areas and left deep traces.
What were the key accomplishments of Hannes Androsch during his tenure as Austria’s finance minister?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Political Historian Dr. Clara Weiss
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Weiss. We are here to discuss the legacy of Hannes Androsch, the former finance minister and a significant figure in Austrian politics and business, who recently passed away.What stands out to you the moast about Androsch’s career?
Dr. Clara Weiss: Thank you for having me. Hannes Androsch was indeed a pivotal figure in Austrian history. Appointed the youngest finance minister at just 29, he brought a fresh perspective to fiscal policies during a transformative era in Austria. His rise as Vice-Chancellor and his close association with Chancellor Bruno Kreisky made him a prominent leader, and many saw him as the natural successor to Kreisky until thier eventual fallout.
Time.news Editor: That fallout certainly marked a turning point in his career. Can you describe the impact of their relationship on Androsch’s political trajectory?
Dr.Clara Weiss: Absolutely.their disagreement not only altered Androsch’s political landscape but also reshaped the dynamics of the SPÖ party. While he left politics in 1981 after a notable 14 years as a member of the National Council, he continued to influence the economic sector as the director of Creditanstalt. His journey shows just how intertwined political and financial sectors can be in shaping a country’s future.
Time.news Editor: After his time in politics, Androsch faced challenges in the corporate world, especially with his resignation from Creditanstalt due to legal issues. How did this affect his public image?
Dr. Clara Weiss: That’s a complex aspect of his legacy. His resignation in 1988 due to false witness statements certainly tarnished his reputation. However, what’s remarkable is how he managed to transition from these difficulties into a successful career as an industrialist, particularly with companies like AT&S and in the mining sector. This resilience showcased his ability to reinvent himself, even lending his voice to critically important issues like education and research in Austria later in life.
Time.news Editor: He evolved into quite an advocate for educational reforms. What did Androsch contribute to this area, and why is it significant?
Dr. clara Weiss: Androsch understood that education is the backbone of any society. His advocacy for educational reforms and further research reflected his belief in equipping future generations with the necessary tools to thrive. His influence spanned across party lines, demonstrating that his commitment to improvement was transcendent of political affiliation. This kind of non-partisan approach to critical issues is increasingly rare and valuable in today’s political landscape.
Time.news editor: It’s touching to see such a bipartisan outpouring of condolence messages following his passing, including from prominent figures like Chancellor Karl Nehammer and Federation President Alexander Van der Bellen. How illustrative is this of his impact beyond politics?
Dr. Clara Weiss: It speaks volumes about Androsch’s legacy. The admiration he commanded from leaders of various parties indicates that his contributions were recognized and valued not only in terms of political strategy but also for his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to societal betterment.In a time of polarization, his ability to unite people around common goals is a testament to his character and the respect he earned.
Time.news Editor: In reflecting on Androsch’s life,what lessons do you think future leaders can take from his experiences?
Dr. clara Weiss: Ther are several crucial lessons. First, resilience in the face of challenges is paramount. Androsch’s ability to pivot from politics to successful industrial ventures demonstrates that setbacks do not have to define one’s career. Secondly, the importance of education and advocacy for youth development can considerably shape societal progress, a lesson that remains relevant in today’s discussions about future workforce needs. lastly, his commitment to dialogue across party lines reminds us that collaboration is key in governance and societal improvement.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Weiss,for your insights into hannes Androsch’s profound influence on Austrian society. His legacy will surely continue to inspire future generations.
Dr. Clara Weiss: Thank you for the engaging discussion. Indeed, Androsch’s life is a rich source of lessons that we can all learn from as we navigate political, economic, and social landscapes today.