Austria’s new government not ‘the usual suspects’

A cabinet shakeup has given Austria a new State Secretary for Integration. The conservative-and-social democrat coalition appointments are aimed at rejuvenating both parties’ fitness in voters’ eyes. The next elections are due by 2013.

But critics said Sebastian Kurz is just a baby. In fact, he is 24. He said: “I am as energetic as I am young.” His supporters said: “give him a chance to prove himself.”

His job promoting integration will include relations with minorities and immigrant workers. Kurz comes into the post after heading the ÖVP’s youth branch. He campaigned for votes in night clubs last year. One of the slogans was: “Black is cool.” His party got the worst regional score in Vienna for decades. Kurz is still a student, in law school.

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