Austria Could See First Far-Right Government Since WWII

Muschicraft, a Vienna-based brewery, has launched what it claims to be the world's first feminist beer, challenging misogynistic laws in over 50 countries. The pale ale, which features a vulva on its label, aims to combat stereotypes about gender and beer consumption. According to Sophie Tschannett, the creator and a Viennese artist, the idea originated during a bike ride along the Danube five years ago, when a friend expressed frustration over being overlooked for a project due to her gender. Muschicraft's beer, brewed with local ingredients and boasting a 5.2% alcohol content, seeks to break the gendered norms prevalent in the beer industry, which Tschannett argues is predominantly male-driven. The brewery also allocates a portion of its profits to feminist organizations in Austria. In November 2023, a collaboration with the Berlin brewery Vagabund led to the creation of "the most illegal beer." This special label was inspired by the need to highlight ongoing gender inequality, with Tschannett revealing that various laws prohibiting women from engaging in alcohol production or night shifts were intentionally violated during its production. Among these absurd regulations is an obscure Wyoming law in the U.S. that restricts women from being within five feet of a bar while drinking. Despite its provocative branding, which aims to normalize the vulva and confront sexism, the reaction has been mixed. Tschannett emphasizes that creating a powerful statement was necessary to challenge societal taboos. The brewery's initiative has sparked discussions about gender representation in the beverage industry and aims to encourage inclusivity among all consumers.

A recent survey has revealed alarming statistics regarding Holocaust awareness and fears of its potential repetition in both Europe and the United States. Eighty years after the liberation of Auschwitz and the conclusion of World War II, many young adults exhibit a troubling lack of knowledge about this significant historical event. In Austria, one in seven young adults reported never having heard of the Holocaust. Similarly troubling findings emerge from the United States, where nearly half of respondents could not name a single concentration camp. The survey indicated that a substantial portion of the population remains unaware that approximately six million Jews were murdered during this genocide. The findings underscore a pervasive concern among respondents about the possibility of a Holocaust-like occurrence in the future. According to the survey, more than 75% of Americans expressed this fear, while 62% of participants from both Austria and Germany echoed similar sentiments. The results serve as a stark reminder of the importance of Holocaust education and awareness to prevent history from repeating itself.

Muschicraft, a Vienna-based brewery, has unveiled what it claims to be the world's first feminist beer, challenging gender norms within the brewing industry. The product, a pale ale with a label depicting a vulva, confronts misogynistic laws in over 50 countries, including Russia, India, Italy, and the United States, where regulations restrict women's involvement in alcohol production and distribution. Founded by Sophie Tschannett, an artist and social worker, Muschicraft aims to create beer that resonates with all genders. Tschannett's inspiration came from her experiences discussing gender inequality with friends while biking along the Danube River. She noted that the beer market has traditionally been dominated by men, leading her to explore the idea of crafting a brand that embraces inclusivity. The ale features local ingredients and boasts a refreshing taste with notes of melon and grapefruit, making it a product designed for diverse consumers. A portion of the profits supports feminist initiatives, benefiting organizations such as Autonome Österreichische Frauenhäuser, which aids women in crisis. In collaboration with the Berlin brewery Vagabund, Tschannett has launched "The most illegal beer," which violates specific laws aimed at restricting women’s roles in the industry. One notable infraction involves a Wyoming law that prohibits women from being within five feet of a bar while drinking. Tschannett emphasizes that breaking these outdated laws serves to highlight ongoing gender inequalities. Muschicraft’s provocative branding has sparked controversy, with some individuals finding the imagery offensive. Tschannett argues that the label’s intention is to normalize the vulva as a body part devoid of shame or stigma. She believes in the necessity of bold statements to foster awareness around important social issues. By producing a beer that blends feminist ideology with local craftsmanship, Muschicraft hopes to redefine perceptions of both women and beer drinkers in a traditionally male-dominated industry.