Austrian Newspaper Uses Emojis to Interview EU Election Candidates, Including Neos' Helmut Brandstätter

In the run-up to the June 9 EU election, Austrian newspaper Kleine Zeitung has taken a unique approach by publishing 'Ohne Worte' (Without Words) emoji-interviews with EU election candidates. Among those interviewed is Helmut Brandstätter from the Neos party.

The emoji-interviews aim to convey candidates' views and positions through the use of emojis rather than words. This innovative method offers a fresh perspective on political communication, especially in the context of a significant election.

The EU election, taking place across 27 countries, is expected to see varying outcomes, with right and far-right parties projected to make gains in several regions. In Austria, the far-right opposition Freedom Party (FPÖ) is leading the polls, with 27% of Austrians indicating they will vote for the party.

The governing conservative People's Party (ÖVP) has condemned a poster by the FPÖ as Russian propaganda. Political analyst Thomas Hofer notes that the Eurosceptic FPÖ has historically struggled to mobilize its supporters for EU elections, but this time they are leading the polls.

Why this matters: The use of emoji-interviews in political journalism has the potential to engage a broader audience and simplify complex political messages, making it a significant innovation in the field. The outcome of the EU election will have far-reaching implications for the future direction of Austrian and European politics, and the creative approach to communication may influence the way political candidates connect with voters.

Meanwhile, the Green Party is facing challenges in Austria after questions arose about its lead candidate, Lena Schilling, a 23-year-old climate activist. The political scene in Austria is thus marked by a mix of established and emerging parties vying for influence.

The European Parliament election is a significant event, with 361 seats needed for an absolute majority. Various institutes, including Europe Elects, Der Föderalist, and Politico Europe, have been presenting seat projections and popular vote estimates throughout the legislative period.

In Austria, the projected turnout for the election is 66%, according to an OGM poll for the 'Kurier' newspaper. This would be the highest turnout since the first EU parliament election in Austria in 1996.

The Kleine Zeitung's emoji-interviews have attracted attention for their creative approach to political journalism. By using emojis, the newspaper aims to engage a broader audience and simplify complex political messages.

Austria prepares for the upcoming EU election, with innovative methods of communication, such as the emoji-interviews, highlighting the evolving nature of political engagement. The results of the election will provide insights into the national mood and the future direction of Austrian and European politics.

Key Takeaways

• Austrian newspaper Kleine Zeitung publishes emoji-interviews with EU election candidates.
• Far-right Freedom Party (FPÖ) leads polls in Austria with 27% of votes.
• EU election outcome will have far-reaching implications for Austrian and European politics.
• Projected turnout for EU election in Austria is 66%, highest since 1996.
• Emoji-interviews aim to engage broader audience and simplify complex political messages.