(Minghui.org) On May 9, 2026, Austrian Falun Dafa practitioners gathered at Herbert von Karajan Platz—located next to the renowned Vienna State Opera (Wiener Staatsoper)—to celebrate World Falun Dafa Day and the birthday of their revered Master Li Hongzhi.
The Vienna State Opera is not only one of the world’s premier opera houses, but also a celebrated landmark in Vienna. The event attracted numerous tourists from around the globe, who paused to watch the festivities. Practitioners also performed beautiful music live at the site.
On May 9, 2026, Austrian Falun Dafa practitioners celebrated World Falun Dafa Day and the birthday of their Master at Herbert von Karajan Square, located next to the renowned Vienna State Opera
People at the event site learn about Falun Gong.
Austrian Politicians Issue Statements Celebrating Falun Dafa Day
At the event, participants read aloud statements issued by Austrian politicians in observance of World Falun Dafa Day.
Member of Parliament Petra Bayr
Member of Parliament Petra Bayr stated:
“The values you emphasize today—Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance—are far more than merely personal beliefs. They are universal principles for all of humanity and should serve as the cornerstone of all peaceful coexistence. In the current climate of global political tension, advocating for mutual respect and non-violent coexistence is more important than ever before.
My political stance has always been that human rights are indivisible. No individual should ever face discrimination, persecution, or mistreatment on account of their worldview or the peaceful lifestyle associated with it. As early as 2006, I submitted a parliamentary inquiry to the Austrian National Council regarding the then-widely known and appalling issue of organ harvesting from Falun Gong practitioners in China. It is deeply disturbing that, to this day, we are still compelled to discuss grave human rights violations, torture, and transnational repression.
For me, one thing is clear: the protection of personal safety and the right of citizens to freely practice their faith without persecution are non-negotiable. When a state tramples on individual rights, the international community must take action and speak out on behalf of the victims.”
Member of Parliament Christian Schandor
Member of Parliament Christian Schandor issued a statement regarding the 2026 World Falun Dafa Day: “May 13th—a day that nourishes the spirit and brings inner peace: World Falun Dafa Day! This is a wonderful opportunity for us to join together in celebrating the universal values of Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance. These principles empower people across the globe, bringing them strength, inner peace, and joy. May this day inspire us all to face the world with a tranquil heart. Happy World Falun Dafa Day to everyone!”
The Public Welcomes Falun Dafa and Embraces Truth-Compassion-Forbearance
Ms. Annarella Roura Sanchez from Spain was drawn to the event. After learning about Falun Dafa, she said, “What you are doing here is so valuable! This is truly worth exploring further!” She mentioned that she had visited China before, as she is the director of a ballet school in Portugal and had traveled there to participate in ballet performances.
“Ancient Chinese culture is truly beautiful!” she said. Her daughter, Margarita Fernandez, is a dancer with the Vienna State Opera, and her other daughter also dances in Paris. The practitioner introduced Shen Yun to Mrs. Sanchez and her husband and showed them a promotional video. They were deeply moved, immediately jotted down Shen Yun’s official website, and decided that they would definitely attend this extraordinary performance of authentic classical Chinese dance at the next opportunity.
A couple from southern England showed great interest in the Falun Gong exercises demonstrated by the practitioners, telling them that they themselves had been practicing regular meditation for a long time. The woman remarked that she could personally sense how her own goodness—and a heart filled with compassion—had the power to influence others. Consequently, after learning about the persecution suffered by Falun Dafa practitioners, she expressed her belief that the goodness of well-cultivated practitioners could transform those who were about to persecute them.
A young woman from mainland China, currently pursuing a PhD in London, had just concluded a work conference in Vienna earlier that day. While at the event site, she learned a great deal about Falun Dafa.
She remarked that having come overseas to study on her own while still in high school, she was able to personally experience the stark contrast between the two distinct societal forms shaped by democratic and authoritarian systems. Although her parents had endured life under a harsh authoritarian regime, she firmly believes that the younger generation will undoubtedly usher in an era of freedom of belief and democracy. Upon parting, she extended her sincere best wishes to the Falun Dafa practitioners.
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