Austria

Re “Specter of Nazi Hate in Austria,” editorial, Feb. 1: Seventy-three percent of Austrian voters did not cast their ballot for Joerg Haider’s party. Of those who did, the majority did not vote for this party because of anti-foreigner sentiments. Austria is a stable, civil and successful democracy. It has always pursued an outstanding humanitarian policy. These pillars of the Austrian postwar existence will not change.

Concerns voiced in Austria and abroad about Haider’s party are being taken very seriously. Stating that Austria would deserve a pariah status, as your editorial has done, does not do justice to Austria’s postwar record nor is it a fair assessment of what Austria and the vast majority of Austrians stand for.

WERNER BRANDSTETTER

Consul General of Austria, L.A.