The Salesian project was the winner in the Youth Engagement category and was dedicated to encouraging young people to participate in political life, regardless of whether or not they had yet reached voting age.
Through interviews conducted in front of a so-called greenscreen for digital processing, the young people shared their personal experiences, opinions and perceptions of democracy and politics. They included young people from youth centres, residential care facilities for children and young people, as well as displaced Ukrainians.
The videos produced were then edited and compiled in such a way that only the participants’ clothing and body language remained visible. The videos were then shared on social media and via partner organisations to promote dialogue on this topic and thus encourage reflection and exchange among peers and with adults. The project concluded with a closing party, during which the films were screened and a debate took place between young people and figures from the political world.
Salesian work with volunteers among young people
The official speech at the award ceremony was delivered by Thomas Zobernig, Director of the “Sale für Alle” Youth Centre at the “Salesianum” in Vienna. He presented the work of the centre, which is mainly attended by children from low-income families and those with a migrant background, where meaningful use of free time, support with learning, and the development of their talents and abilities are promoted.
“This work is only possible thanks to the commitment of numerous volunteers,” said Zobernig, who also emphasised how working together fosters identity and community, provided that volunteers are also involved in decision-making.
The Florian Kuntner Award
The Florian Kuntner Award is presented every two years around the anniversary (30 March) of Viennese Auxiliary Bishop Florian Kuntner, known for his resolute and consistent commitment to peace and global solidarity. Born on 22 March 1933 in Kirchberg am Wechsel and ordained a priest in 1957, Kuntner was consecrated bishop in 1977 by the then Metropolitan Archbishop of Vienna, Cardinal Franz König.
As Episcopal Vicar “for all matters relating to mission and development aid in the Archdiocese of Vienna”, head of mission and development aid within the Austrian Bishops’ Conference, and National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies (Missio), Bishop Kuntner was particularly committed to promoting global justice and partnership relations with the Churches of the Global South. Following one of his many journeys undertaken to express, through personal encounters, solidarity with the Churches of developing countries, he passed away in 1994, aged just 61, due to a tropical disease; his remains now rest in the canons’ crypt in St Stephen’s Cathedral in Vienna.
The award in his memory reached its twelfth edition in 2026 and is presented by the Diocesan Commission for Global Ecclesial Collaboration and Development Cooperation of the Archdiocese of Vienna.
