Universal Periodic Review

Guarantee financial protection against female poverty, especially for single mothers and their children and women with disabilities

Proponent:

Remarks to progress by Liga (last modified Apr 1, 2025):

In Austria, the risk of poverty among women, especially single mothers and women with disabilities, has increased at an alarming rate. These groups are often affected by financial crises, particularly as a result of the pandemic and the rising cost of living. According to Caritas and other organisations, poverty among women is structural and is exacerbated by factors such as inadequate labour market opportunities and the gender pay gap. Caritas is therefore calling for comprehensive financial protection measures, including living wages and pensions. In practice, single mothers struggle to survive, as they often have only low wages and inadequate social benefits. This problem is exacerbated by rising housing and energy costs. Women, especially single parents, are increasingly dependent on state support to secure their livelihood. Political initiatives to combat this poverty include calls for higher social benefits and targeted support measures for women in precarious living situations. However, there remains an urgent need to strengthen financial safety nets and improve the quality of life of affected women in the long term.   As part of the Government Plan 2025-2029, the federal government is pursuing this goal through close cooperation with all stakeholders (see Government Plan 2ß025-2029: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/die-bundesregierung/regierungsdokumente.html).