Local leaders in Austria and Germany focus on community service

In Austria, Renate Habetler, the mayor of Bernstein in Burgenland, continues her municipal duties despite living with BOOP, a rare inflammatory lung disease. Since her diagnosis, she has required a portable oxygen device to leave her home. Habetler has expressed her determination to remain in office and continue her work, emphasizing the importance of not withdrawing from society due to illness.

In Germany, the Tirschenreuth district hosted a networking event for mayors and newly appointed youth officers to mark the start of the 2026–2032 term. Led by District Administrator Hubert Schicker and municipal youth worker Theresia Kunz, the workshop focused on developing youth-friendly communities and improving local structures for youth work through a collaborative approach.