The exhibition entitled “Otto von Habsburg – Life and Legacy” opened on 13 December 2024 at the European School in Karlsruhe (Europäische Schule), an institution of the European Union. In his opening speech, László Munkácsy, the recently appointed Hungarian Director of the school of more than 900 students, welcomed the strong presence of the European idea and praised the excellent cooperation between the organizers. He said that their school was attended by children from almost all EU countries, most of whose parents worked in institutions of the Union. He also stated that, building on the success of the project, the school would offer the opportunity to organise similar events in the future to every country holding the Presidency of the Council.
Conducted by Ms Sarolta Hugelmann, the school’s orchestra first played the anthem of the European Union, and later on, they performed several musical interludes to the great delight of the large audience. The choirmaster explained that the exhibition on the life of our namesake and his tireless struggle for the European idea had been the inspiration for dedicated activities for the children: they worked together to trace the various turning points in the life of Otto von Habsburg, using sources to become better informed about him, his work and his family. One student gave an account of the projects on the occasion of the opening ceremony.
Bernd Posselt, a former close associate of Otto von Habsburg and former Member of the European Parliament, had sent a message, as he was unable to attend the event in person. The representative of the CSU Presidency for relations with Central and Eastern Europe detailed the crucial role of Otto in the years of regime change and the accession process of the countries in the region.
Tom Høyen, former Director of the Europäische Schule – previously Denmark’s EU Minister and a Member of the European Parliament – gave a detailed presentation on Otto von Habsburg’s struggle to further the cause of European integration.
Dr. Dezső B. Szabó gave an introduction on behalf of the Liszt Institute. The cultural diplomat expressed his great appreciation for the fact that the institute he leaded had found a new partner in the school and assured that the cooperation would continue. He considered it crucial to reach young European citizens, to raise their awareness of Hungary and to acquaint them with Hungarian culture. He then shared his personal experiences with the audience: how he had met Otto von Habsburg, and come into contact with the Pan-European Movement and its youth group, which at the time had been led by Bernd Posselt and one of Otto’s daughters, Walburga Habsburg Douglas. In conclusion, he thanked Gergely Prőhle and our Foundation for placing the exhibition at their disposal.
Dr. Dezső B. Szabó Head of the Liszt Institute Stuttgart
