Universal Periodic Review

Implement measures to ensure sufficient qualified interpretation services (including sign language and support in simple language)

Proponent:

Remarks to progress by Liga (last modified Dec 31, 2024):

In Austria, there have been ongoing efforts to promote gender-inclusive language and the provision of interpreting services for a number of years. The use of gender-equitable language is supported at various levels, both in the administration and in the public sector. One key initiative is the Linguistic Equality Programme, which is enshrined in the legislative guidelines. The aim is to prevent discrimination on the basis of gender and to make all genders linguistically visible. In the area of interpreting services, active attention is paid to ensuring that these are also available for people with special needs, such as sign language. There are legal requirements that sign language interpreting services must be guaranteed in many areas of public life, for example in court proceedings or in administration. In addition, the provision of information in plain language is also supported in order to enable people with learning difficulties or other barriers to access important information. Overall, Austria has taken concrete steps to promote both gender-inclusive language and barrier-free communication in society.