First elected Green head of state is a historic moment
Responding to news that former Green Party leader Alexander Van der Bellen has won Austria's presidential election, Ross Greer MSP, Europe spokesperson for the Scottish Greens, said:
"The world’s first elected Green head of state is a historic moment and the Scottish Greens send congratulations to Alexander Van der Bellen and to the Austrian Greens. This incredibly close election shows how important it is for progressive voices to push back against the dangerous far-right forces who have used the refugee crisis to whip up hatred.
"Defeat for Norbert Hofer of the Freedom Party shows that pro-EU forces can defeat those who stir up hostility to free movement of people and to the diverse communities who have made Europe their homes. Compassion for others and a determination to keep the peace are European values we should all strive to protect."