Lecture and panel discussion on the current occasion Niki Glattauer: Dealing with Death: Between Self-Determination and Responsibility
The Rotary Club Gastein invites you on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at 6:00 PM to the Wiener Saal of the Hotel de l'Europe Bad Gastein for an event that addresses a difficult, but highly relevant and widely discussed topic: Dying as an Ethical Challenge.
Assisted suicide is increasingly understood as an expression of personal freedom – but is it really? The lecture invites a rethinking of societal and personal approaches to dying. Using the example of the well-known journalist, author, and teacher Niki Glattauer, who chose assisted suicide, the question is raised whether this decision was truly an act of self-determination or whether it also points to deeper societal and existential tensions. The goal is to encourage an open, honest, and human engagement with dying.
The impulse lecture will be held by Professor Dr. Reinhard Lenzhofer, who will present ethical and societal perspectives.
About Prof. Dr. Reinhard Lenzhofer: Prof. Dr. Reinhard Lenzhofer was the head of the Internal Department for 29 years and also served as the medical director of the Kardinal Schwarzenberg Hospital in Schwarzach for 10 years. His work as a physician was characterized by a deep Christian attitude and a strong commitment to the dignity of life.
Following the lecture, distinguished experts will also discuss: Priv.Doz.Dr. Heinrich Thaler, palliative care physician and member of the ethics committee, and Mag. Thomas Russegger, lawyer. Both bring extensive experience from medicine, ethics, and patient representation. The moderation will be conducted by Dr. Doris Fuschlberger.
After the panel discussion, there will be an opportunity for questions and contributions from the audience – the Rotary Club Gastein explicitly invites dialogue. The aim of the evening is not to pass judgment but to engage in an open conversation about responsibility, dignity, and the boundaries of public representation.
Admission is free, voluntary donations will be used for regional social projects of the Rotary Club Gastein.
