The Austrian broadcaster ORF Niederösterreich has canceled its planned discussion on the COVID-19 pandemic after two key participants withdrew.

The event, part of the "Ein Ort am Wort" series, aimed to reflect on the pandemic's "facts and errors" five years on.

However, the inclusion of Martin Rutter, a prominent COVID skeptic and protest leader, sparked backlash.

Virologist Norbert Nowotny and intensivist Christoph Hörmann refused to participate, citing concerns over providing a platform for misinformation.

ORF defended its decision to invite Rutter, emphasizing the importance of hearing all perspectives.

Yet, the absence of alternative experts led to the event's cancellation.

Critics argue the controversy highlights ongoing societal divisions over pandemic measures.