We find it hard to find words, we are stunned and dismayed by the terror that this time has targeted our city and our country. We vehemently condemn this heinous and cowardly attack against innocent people. Our thoughts and sympathy go out to the bereaved families of the victims. We wish the injured a swift recovery. Special thanks go to the police and rescue workers at the scene who put their lives on the line to help people and prevent worse.

When terror touches down in one's own country, in the heart of Vienna, it is particularly difficult to find words. One might be faced with the temptation to lapse into resigned silence. But this is precisely the one thing we must not and will not do to those who are once again trying to spread fear and terror and divide our society.

We will not tire in our commitment to human dignity and human rights, to democracy, the rule of law and freedom of expression, and to ideological plurality. We will tirelessly raise our voices against hatred, incitement and violence, no matter what demented, savage mentality they spring from. With every attempt to destroy peace and cohesion in our society, we will be even more mindful of our values and even more committed to protecting and preserving them.

Let us stand firm together in solidarity and humanity against those who place themselves outside humanity!

Univ.-Prof. Mag. Dr. Zekirija Sejdini
Head of the Department