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This UPR tool reflects the global recommendations made to Austria by all countries world-wide during the Universial Priodic Review process (UPR) at the UN Human Rights Council and their current status of implementation. The League coordinates a significant part of Austrian civil society in the UPR process. 

The recommendations can be filtered in the menu below by human rights topics, SDGs, proponent states etc. also a search function is available. 

 

We welcome your comments and suggestions at upr@liga.or.at.

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Progress: In progress

Strengthen its efforts to effectively combat advocacy of racial or religious hatred, including by bringing those responsible to justice

Proponent:

Azerbaijan


Republic of Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan


Republic of Azerbaijan

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

Around 30,000 police officers throughout Austria were prepared for this task by completing e-learning seminars and receiving training as multipliers. The police now work on the basis of a victim-centred approach, actively listening to the victims and investigating consistently to ensure appropriate prosecution. These measures are designed to help tackle bias crime and improve safety for all citizens. With the systematic recording of hate crimes motivated by prejudice and the publication of statistics on hate crimes recorded by the police, a first important step has been taken to make hate crimes visible. It is important to observe the extent to which the views of the police and victim protection organisations or community organisations agree on whether an incident should be classified as a hate crime or not. These observations are an important basis for the reliability of the statistics now collected on hate crimes (Report of the Federal Ministry of the Interior on „Hate Crime“ in Austria 2021: https://www.bmi.gv.at/408/Projekt/files/218_2021_Hate_Crime_Bericht_2021_GESAMT_V20220510_barrierefrei.pdf).
In addition, relevant amendments to criminal legislation have been introduced to improve the handling of hate crimes. The amendments to the Criminal Code (StGB) and the Code of Criminal Procedure (StPO) contain new regulations to combat hate crime more effectively and to strengthen the rights of victims. It is important to regularly review and adapt these legal changes in order to meet current challenges. A large number of measures have been taken since 2021 to combat all forms of antisemitism. A central coordination centre for the topic of anti-Semitism has been set up at the Federal Chancellery and a national strategy against anti-Semitism has been published (see https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/dam/jcr:8bd2975f-0483-4e74-abd9-d66446195d7c/antisemitismusstrategie.pdf). Even though the position has now been downgraded to a department in the Policy Section, it still exists in principle.   Two implementation reports are available (for 2021 and 2022). For the education sector, a strategy paper on the „Prevention of antisemitism through education“ was developed in 2022, which contains recommendations for the implementation of the National Strategy against Antisemitism for the Austrian education administration and teacher training institutions (see: https://oead.at/fileadmin/Dokumente/oead.at/KIM/Downloadcenter/OeAD_E.AT_Strategiepapier_FIN_01.pdf). These recommendations were discussed at the symposium on „Preventing antisemitism through education“ in September 2022. In 2022, the National Forum against Antisemitism was also established to pool knowledge, combat antisemitism and promote Jewish life in Austria. The body is made up of representatives from the federal government, the provinces, municipalities, social partners, academia, religious communities, Jewish museums and civil society. A working group on the documentation of anti-Semitic incidents was also established with the aim of learning from the experiences of other organisations that already document racist, anti-Semitic, etc. incidents. The aim is to learn from the experiences of other organisations already documenting racist, anti-Semitic incidents in order to set up an anti-Semitism documentation centre that meets current requirements.   Parliament also commissioned a study on anti-Semitism in Austria, which was presented in April 2023 (see https://www.parlament.gv.at/dokument/fachinfos/publikationen/Langbericht-Antisemitismus-2022-Oesterreichweite-Ergebnisse.pdf). While there are political strategies against anti-Semitism, there is no comparable approach to anti-Muslim racism. Instead, measures are taken that lead to prejudgements of people perceived as Muslim. The establishment of the Documentation Centre for Political Islam and Operation Luxor reinforce a general suspicion of Muslims and lead to people withdrawing from social discourse, a reduction in diversity of opinion and restrictions on participation. Freedom of opinion, freedom of the press, freedom of religion and freedom of assembly can be restricted on the basis of membership of a particular group, which has a negative impact on basic democratic principles (website of the Federal Chancellery – Documentation Centre for Political Islam: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/nachrichten-der-bundesregierung/2020/integrationsministerin-raab-dokumentationsstelle-politischer-islam-nimmt-arbeit-auf.html). Regarding hate speech on the internet, the Hate on the Net Act was introduced to help victims of online hate, including group-focused misanthropy (HiNBG see: https://www.ris.bka.gv.at/Dokumente/BgblAuth/BGBLA_2020_I_148/BGBLA_2020_I_148.html). 

Progress: In progress

Strengthen the fight against the commission or incitement of acts of racial or religious hatred

Proponent:

Togo


Republic of Togo

Togo


Republic of Togo

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

A large number of measures have been taken since 2021 to combat all forms of antisemitism. A central coordination centre for the topic of anti-Semitism has been set up at the Federal Chancellery and a national strategy against anti-Semitism has been published (see https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/dam/jcr:8bd2975f-0483-4e74-abd9-d66446195d7c/antisemitismusstrategie.pdf). Even though the position has now been downgraded to a department in the Policy Section, it still exists in principle.   Two implementation reports are available (for 2021 and 2022). For the education sector, a strategy paper on the „Prevention of antisemitism through education“ was developed in 2022, which contains recommendations for the implementation of the National Strategy against Antisemitism for the Austrian education administration and teacher training institutions (see: https://oead.at/fileadmin/Dokumente/oead.at/KIM/Downloadcenter/OeAD_E.AT_Strategiepapier_FIN_01.pdf). These recommendations were discussed at the symposium on „Preventing antisemitism through education“ in September 2022. In 2022, the National Forum against Antisemitism was also established to pool knowledge, combat antisemitism and promote Jewish life in Austria. The body is made up of representatives from the federal government, the provinces, municipalities, social partners, academia, religious communities, Jewish museums and civil society. A working group on the documentation of anti-Semitic incidents was also established with the aim of learning from the experiences of other organisations that already document racist, anti-Semitic, etc. incidents. The aim is to learn from the experiences of other organisations already documenting racist, anti-Semitic incidents in order to set up an anti-Semitism documentation centre that meets current requirements.   Parliament also commissioned a study on anti-Semitism in Austria, which was presented in April 2023 (see https://www.parlament.gv.at/dokument/fachinfos/publikationen/Langbericht-Antisemitismus-2022-Oesterreichweite-Ergebnisse.pdf). While there are political strategies against anti-Semitism, there is no comparable approach to anti-Muslim racism. Instead, measures are taken that lead to prejudgements of people perceived as Muslim. The establishment of the Documentation Centre for Political Islam and Operation Luxor reinforce a general suspicion of Muslims and lead to people withdrawing from social discourse, a reduction in diversity of opinion and restrictions on participation. Freedom of opinion, freedom of the press, freedom of religion and freedom of assembly can be restricted on the basis of membership of a particular group, which has a negative impact on basic democratic principles (website of the Federal Chancellery – Documentation Centre for Political Islam: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/nachrichten-der-bundesregierung/2020/integrationsministerin-raab-dokumentationsstelle-politischer-islam-nimmt-arbeit-auf.html). Regarding hate speech on the internet, the Hate on the Net Act was introduced to help victims of online hate, including group-focused misanthropy (HiNBG see: https://www.ris.bka.gv.at/Dokumente/BgblAuth/BGBLA_2020_I_148/BGBLA_2020_I_148.html). 

Progress: In progress

Continue efforts made in the framework of combating discrimination and hate speech against foreigners, minorities, and immigrants

Proponent:

Tunisia


Tunisian Republic

Tunisia


Tunisian Republic

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

The 2020 EU Action Plan against Racism calls on the member states to draw up National Action Plans against Racism by the end of 2022. In Austria, the Federal Minister for Women, Family, Integration and Media in the Federal Chancellery is responsible for drawing up the National Action Plan against Racism and Discrimination. This National Action Plan is also anchored in the current government programme (EU Action Plan against Racism 2020: https://ec.europa.eu/migrant-integration/library-document/union-equality-eu-anti-racism-action-plan-2020-2025_en). Austria has also referred to the planned National Action Plan against Racism in various other recommendations regarding the implementation and promotion of measures to combat racism, discrimination, xenophobia and intolerance. This shows its particular importance. Contrary to this assurance and contrary to the agreement in the last government programme, no national action plan to combat racism was adopted and no significant other programmes in the area of anti-racism work were implemented, with the exception of the area of anti-Semitism.   While there are political strategies against anti-Semitism, there is no comparable approach to anti-Muslim racism. Instead, measures are taken that lead to prejudgements of people perceived as Muslim. The establishment of the Documentation Centre for Political Islam and Operation Luxor reinforce a general suspicion of Muslims and lead to people withdrawing from social discourse, a reduction in diversity of opinion and restrictions on participation. Freedom of opinion, freedom of the press, freedom of religion and freedom of assembly can be restricted on the basis of membership of a particular group, which has a negative impact on basic democratic principles (Website of the Federal Chancellery – Documentation Centre for Political Islam: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/nachrichten-der-bundesregierung/2020/integrationsministerin-raab-dokumentationsstelle-politischer-islam-nimmt-arbeit-auf.html). Austria should step up its efforts to combat discrimination and hate speech against ethnic minorities, immigrants and refugees. It is crucial to provide additional resources for the prosecution of hate crimes while strengthening prevention. This applies in particular to combating discrimination against Muslims, Roma, people of African descent, refugees and migrants. The promotion of awareness campaigns and cooperation with civil society organisations are important elements in promoting an inclusive and tolerant society.   In recent years, there has been a tightening of immigration policy in Austria and an increasing harshness towards asylum seekers. This is reflected in legislative changes aimed at making access to asylum more difficult and facilitating the deportation of rejected asylum seekers. Another problem is the treatment of asylum seekers during the asylum procedure and in reception centres. There are currently reports of overcrowded accommodation, inadequate medical care and a lack of integration into the education system.  In 2021, funding for ethnic groups in Austria was significantly increased, with funding now totalling almost 8 million euros. New laws were also adopted to combat hate speech on the internet and violent hate crimes (ACFC/OP/V(2023)002, 5th Review Report of the Advisory Committee for the Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities of the Secretariat of the Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities of the Council of Europe: https://rm.coe.int/5th-op-austria-de-full-version/1680ace87b). Nevertheless, challenges remain, particularly in the area of minority language teaching and with regard to mutual respect and intercultural dialogue in society. In Austria, the Framework Convention is implemented and monitored by a dialogue platform in which government representatives, civil society organisations and experts from science and research work together. This dialogue process is crucial for compliance with the provisions of the Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities (further information on the website of the Federal Chancellery: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/themen/volksgruppen/roma-strategie.html).  Austria has launched programmes and initiatives to promote tolerance and integration. Nevertheless, reports of discrimination and hate speech continue to emerge, suggesting that further action is needed to address these issues. There is a need for continuous monitoring and improvement to ensure that efforts to combat hate speech and discrimination are effective and that the communities affected are sufficiently protected. 

Progress: No progress

Devote additional resources to prosecute hate crimes and prevent discrimination, including against Muslims, Roma, refugees and migrants, and persons of African origin

Proponent:

USA


United States of America

USA


United States of America

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

It should be noted that in Austria, both the development and implementation of measures to combat discrimination have been driven forward in close cooperation with various civil society organisations. However, it must be noted that the public discourse often focuses on so-called „immigrant anti-Semitism“ and thus accuses people with migration experience from Turkey and Arabic-speaking countries in particular of anti-Semitism across the board. However, there is a lack of clear responsibility at federal level to combat anti-Black racism, anti-Muslim racism and racism in general. Few concrete measures have been taken so far. There is a lack of targeted awareness-raising measures that address discrimination against people with disabilities and limited abilities as well as aspects of self-empowerment and human rights. The Federal Ministry of the Interior has published the situation report „Hate Crime 2022“ (see Hate Crime 2022 Report: The core results, p.10: https://www.bmi.gv.at/bmi_documents/3042.pdf). It shows an increase in offences motivated by prejudice, with 5,865 cases reported. These offences mainly concern ideology, national/ethnic origin and religion. One third of the offences reported were violations of the Prohibition Act. Interior Minister Karner emphasised the importance of prevention, especially among young people, in order to recognise and combat extremist tendencies at an early stage. Measures to sensitise and train the police have been intensified. On a positive note, it should be emphasised that the Federal Ministry of the Interior has integrated the systematic recording of prejudiced motives in intentional criminal offences into police work as part of an EU project. For this purpose, the category „Hate crime“ was introduced in the police logging programme (PAD) as a separate „Motive“ tab with the title „Prejudice motives (hate crime) according to victim groups“. The recorded data is transmitted to the justice system via a separate interface: Electronic Legal Transactions (ERV) and subjected to quality assurance by the Federal Ministry of the Interior. In 2022, the Report of the Federal Ministry of the Interior on „Hate Crime“ in Austria – Annual Report 2021 was published for the first time. In the period from January to December 2021, 5,464 offences motivated by prejudice were recorded by the police (Report of the Federal Ministry of the Interior on „Hate Crime“ in Austria 2021: here). With the systematic recording of hate crimes motivated by prejudice and the publication of statistics on hate crimes recorded by the police, a first important step has been taken to make hate crimes visible. It is important to observe the extent to which the views of the police and victim protection organisations or community organisations agree on whether an incident should be classified as a hate crime or not. These observations are an important basis for the reliability of the statistics on hate crimes that are now being collected. ECRI has also emphasised that politicians should take a firm stance against racist hate speech and that political parties should introduce codes of conduct that prohibit the use of hate speech. So far, these recommendations have gone unheeded.   As part of a European mapping project on hate crimes, work is being done on a victim-centred referral system for affected people. In Austria, ZARA is working on this project together with CEJI. Other civil society organisations, the Ombud for Equal Treatment, the Federal Ministry of the Interior and the Federal Ministry of Justice are also involved (project homepage: http://scan-project.eu/). Further measures are needed to create a victim-centred, easily accessible referral system for people affected by hate crimes that protects them from (re)traumatisation and re-victimisation. In particular, the police, social workers, teachers, the judiciary, etc. must be further sensitised in order to quickly recognise hate crimes and refer those affected to the right places. Such a referral system should make it easier for those affected by hate crimes to gain access to support and criminal prosecution of the perpetrators. The publication of data by the judiciary is important in order to gain an insight into how many of the reported hate crimes are followed up and what can be learned from them for prevention measures (a detailed catalogue of recommendations is available at: https://standup-project.eu/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/A4_policy_brief_standUP_DE.pdf). While there are political strategies against anti-Semitism, there is no comparable approach to anti-Muslim racism. Instead, measures are taken that lead to prejudgements of people perceived as Muslim. The establishment of the Documentation Centre for Political Islam and Operation Luxor reinforce a general suspicion of Muslims and lead to people withdrawing from social discourse, a reduction in diversity of opinion and restrictions on participation. Freedom of opinion, freedom of the press, freedom of religion and freedom of assembly can be restricted on the basis of membership of a particular group, which has a negative impact on basic democratic principles (Website of the Federal Chancellery – Documentation Centre for Political Islam: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/nachrichten-der-bundesregierung/2020/integrationsministerin-raab-dokumentationsstelle-politischer-islam-nimmt-arbeit-auf.html). Austria should step up its efforts to combat discrimination and hate speech against ethnic minorities, immigrants and refugees. It is crucial to provide additional resources for the prosecution of hate crimes while strengthening prevention. This applies in particular to combating discrimination against Muslims, Roma, people of African descent, refugees and migrants. The promotion of awareness campaigns and cooperation with civil society organisations are important elements in promoting an inclusive and tolerant society.   Anti-Muslim racism is a worrying and growing phenomenon in Austria. According to the Anti-Muslim Racism Report 2023 by the Documentation Centre Austria, a total of 1522 cases were reported, a record high since the beginning of the survey. Two thirds of these incidents took place online, while the rest occurred in the real world, including discrimination in public spaces, such as verbal insults and physical assaults. Women, especially those wearing headscarves, are particularly affected.
In the education sector, incidents such as insulting comments from classmates or threats from school administrators towards praying Muslim pupils have been documented. The spread of hate online is particularly problematic, accounting for almost 90 per cent of reported online incidents. Experts warn that these incidents are deepening social divisions and threatening social cohesion (see documentary Report 2023: https://dokustelle.at/reports/dokustelle-report-2023). In an open letter to the Austrian federal government, civil society calls for the introduction of the criminal offence of „political Islam“ to be dropped. The reason for this is the lack of scientific uniformity in the definition of this term, which could allow it to be used indiscriminately. The concern is that this could lead to generalised suspicions and executive measures against Muslims. The organisation also appeals for protection against discrimination and the preservation of religious freedom by ensuring that state authorities allow all communities to practise their religion freely and equally. It also emphasises that deradicalisation and counter-terrorism strategies must respect the rights of Muslim women to protection from discrimination and freedom of expression. Finally, it calls for religious practices and clothing not to be used as indicators of radicalisation and for surveillance not to be carried out on the basis of membership of Islam or Muslim organisations in order to avoid blanket criminalisation.    In 2023, the Documentation Centre Austria documented a total of 1522 racist attacks against Muslim
and persons perceived as Muslim. This figure is made up of cases that were reported offline and cases that were recorded as part of intensified online monitoring. However, the organisation emphasises that the actual number of attacks is likely to be higher; {Hassverbrechen-Migrant:innen} In recent years, there has been a tightening of immigration policy in Austria and an increasing harshness towards asylum seekers. This is reflected in legislative changes aimed at making access to asylum more difficult and facilitating the deportation of rejected asylum seekers. Another problem is the treatment of asylum seekers during the asylum procedure and in reception centres. There are currently reports of overcrowded accommodation, inadequate medical care and a lack of integration into the education system. In Austria, Roma and Sinti:cze continue to be severely affected by discrimination, particularly in areas such as education, work, health and housing. The national strategy for the inclusion of Roma was updated in 2021, but a study continues to reveal prejudice and structural disadvantages. One problem is „underreporting“, as many of those affected do not report discrimination out of fear or bad experiences. The Ombud for Equal Treatment is trying to combat this by providing legal advice and networking with civil society organisations (see study on the evaluation of the national strategy for the inclusion of Roma in Austria (Sensiro)): https://sensiroprojekt.univie.ac.at/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/SENSIRO_Endbericht.pdf).  {Diskriminierung-Afrikanischer Herkunft}

Progress: No progress

Step up measures to combat discrimination, xenophobia and hate crimes against Muslims and other minorities, including migrants

Proponent:

Bangladesh


People's Republic of Bangladesh

Bangladesh


People's Republic of Bangladesh

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

While there are political strategies against anti-Semitism, there is no comparable approach to anti-Muslim racism. Instead, measures are taken that lead to prejudgements of people perceived as Muslim. The establishment of the Documentation Centre for Political Islam and Operation Luxor reinforce a general suspicion of Muslims and lead to people withdrawing from social discourse, a reduction in diversity of opinion and restrictions on participation. Freedom of opinion, freedom of the press, freedom of religion and freedom of assembly can be restricted on the basis of membership of a particular group, which has a negative impact on basic democratic principles (Website of the Federal Chancellery – Documentation Centre for Political Islam: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/nachrichten-der-bundesregierung/2020/integrationsministerin-raab-dokumentationsstelle-politischer-islam-nimmt-arbeit-auf.html). Austria should step up its efforts to combat discrimination and hate speech against ethnic minorities, immigrants and refugees. It is crucial to provide additional resources for the prosecution of hate crimes while strengthening prevention. This applies in particular to combating discrimination against Muslims, Roma, people of African descent, refugees and migrants. The promotion of awareness campaigns and cooperation with civil society organisations are important elements in promoting an inclusive and tolerant society.  Anti-Muslim racism is a worrying and growing phenomenon in Austria. According to the Anti-Muslim Racism Report 2023 by the Documentation Centre Austria, a total of 1522 cases were reported, a record high since the beginning of the survey. Two thirds of these incidents took place online, while the rest occurred in the real world, including discrimination in public spaces, such as verbal insults and physical assaults. Women, especially those wearing headscarves, are particularly affected.
In the education sector, incidents such as insulting comments from classmates or threats from school administrators towards praying Muslim pupils have been documented. The spread of hate online is particularly problematic, accounting for almost 90 per cent of reported online incidents. Experts warn that these incidents are deepening social divisions and threatening social cohesion (see documentary Report 2023: https://dokustelle.at/reports/dokustelle-report-2023). In an open letter to the Austrian federal government, civil society calls for the introduction of the criminal offence of „political Islam“ to be dropped. The reason for this is the lack of scientific uniformity in the definition of this term, which could allow it to be used indiscriminately. The concern is that this could lead to generalised suspicions and executive measures against Muslims. The organisation also appeals for protection against discrimination and the preservation of religious freedom by ensuring that state authorities allow all communities to practise their religion freely and equally. It also emphasises that deradicalisation and counter-terrorism strategies must respect the rights of Muslim women to protection from discrimination and freedom of expression. Finally, it calls for religious practices and clothing not to be used as indicators of radicalisation and for surveillance not to be carried out on the basis of membership of Islam or Muslim organisations in order to avoid blanket criminalisation.    In 2023, the Documentation Centre Austria documented a total of 1522 racist attacks against Muslim
and persons perceived as Muslim. This figure is made up of cases that were reported offline and cases that were recorded as part of intensified online monitoring. However, the organisation emphasises that the actual number of attacks is likely to be higher; There is a lack of political strategy, particularly with regard to anti-Muslim racism. Instead, measures are taken that lead to prejudgement of people perceived as Muslim. According to a study by the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRAU), many migrants reported everyday experiences of discrimination and xenophobia. Data from the organisation ZARA- Zivilcourage und Antirassismus Arbeit documented around 1,300 racist incidents in 2023, which represents a decrease compared to previous years, but still shows a high level (see Zara Racism Report 2023, Data and Analyses, page 10ff: https://assets.zara.or.at/media/rassismusreport/ZARA_RassismusReport_2023_DE.pdf).
Particularly alarming was an increase in active case reports of more than 100% compared to 2022, with the months of May, October, November and December standing out in particular. These increases correlated with national and global developments, including political events and media coverage of Muslim communities;
In 2022, 1,080 right-wing extremist offences were registered in Austria, with a significant proportion of these offences motivated by xenophobia. These incidents include both physical violence and damage to property specifically targeting migrants (see statistics on the number of right-wing offences in Austria, 2023: https://de.statista.com/statistik/daten/studie/881250/umfrage/rechte-straftaten-in-oesterreich-nach-bereichen/). With the systematic recording of hate crimes motivated by prejudice and the publication of statistics on hate crimes recorded by the police, a first important step has been taken to make hate crimes visible. It is important to observe the extent to which the views of the police and victim protection organisations or community organisations agree on whether an incident should be classified as a hate crime or not. These observations are an important basis for the reliability of the statistics on hate crimes that are now being collected. The 2020 EU Action Plan against Racism calls on the member states to draw up National Action Plans against Racism by the end of 2022. In Austria, the Federal Minister for Women, Family, Integration and Media in the Federal Chancellery is responsible for drawing up the National Action Plan against Racism and Discrimination. This National Action Plan is also anchored in the current government programme (EU Action Plan against Racism 2020: https://ec.europa.eu/migrant-integration/library-document/union-equality-eu-anti-racism-action-plan-2020-2025_en). Austria has also referred to the planned National Action Plan against Racism in various other recommendations regarding the implementation and promotion of measures to combat racism, discrimination, xenophobia and intolerance. This shows its particular importance. Contrary to this assurance and contrary to the agreement in the last government programme, no national action plan to combat racism was adopted and no significant other programmes in the area of anti-racism work were implemented, with the exception of the area of anti-Semitism.  {Minderheiten-Disrkiminierung}

Progress: In progress

Intensify efforts to combat hate speech and racial discrimination

Proponent:

Belarus


Republic of Belarus

Belarus


Republic of Belarus

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

The 2020 EU Action Plan against Racism calls on the member states to draw up National Action Plans against Racism by the end of 2022. In Austria, the Federal Minister for Women, Family, Integration and Media in the Federal Chancellery is responsible for drawing up the National Action Plan against Racism and Discrimination. This National Action Plan is also anchored in the current government programme (EU Action Plan against Racism 2020: https://ec.europa.eu/migrant-integration/library-document/union-equality-eu-anti-racism-action-plan-2020-2025_en). Austria has also referred to the planned National Action Plan against Racism in various other recommendations regarding the implementation and promotion of measures to combat racism, discrimination, xenophobia and intolerance. This shows its particular importance. Contrary to this assurance and contrary to the agreement in the last government programme, no national action plan to combat racism was adopted and no significant other programmes in the area of anti-racism work were implemented, with the exception of the area of anti-Semitism.   Racism remains a serious social problem in Austria. The latest report by SOS Mitmensch and other studies show that racist discrimination and hate crimes are on the rise. Anti-Muslim racism in particular has increased in recent years, partly fuelled by political rhetoric and campaigns targeting Muslim communities. Anti-Muslim hate crimes are common and are often supported by certain political groups. In 2023, the Documentation Centre on Islamophobia and Anti-Muslim Racism recorded a total of 1522 racist attacks against Muslims and people perceived to be Muslim. Compared to the previous year, 263 more cases were reported to us offline, which represents an increase of over 100 per cent of active case reports. The report shows a striking increase in case reports from the education sector. See report: here).
Austria has various laws in place to combat racism, including the Prohibition Act and the Equal Treatment Act. However, these legal frameworks are not always applied consistently, leading to calls for stronger policy measures and more rigorous enforcement of existing laws. Education and awareness-raising measures are also crucial to raise awareness of racial discrimination in the population and bring about long-term change (see SOS-Mitmensch report: https://www.sosmitmensch.at/site/momagazin/alleausgaben/7/article/395.html&ts=1720702499859).
ZARA’s report for the year 2023 provides a comprehensive overview of the extent and various forms of racism in Austria. A total of 1302 reports were documented and processed, almost 60% of which concerned online racism. This underlines the importance of digital platforms as a place for racist incidents, which can often be documented and reported using simple screenshots. The public sphere and the goods/services sector were particularly affected, with 58.2% and 15.9% of reports respectively. State authorities and institutions were involved in 11% of cases, while racist incidents in the police were only formally complained about in 4 out of 58 cases. In most of the other cases, those affected sought support from ZARA through counselling sessions and legal advice. A significant number (almost 78%) of reports came from witnesses, while 22% were submitted by those directly affected. The report also criticises the lack of implementation of a National Action Plan against Racism in Austria, although the need for structural change and combating institutional racism is obvious. There are still challenges in dealing with racism in Austria and the need for social support and structural changes to effectively address these issues (see Racism Report 2023, March 2024 edition: https://assets.zara.or.at/media/rassismusreport/ZARA_RassismusReport_2023_DE.pdf).  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). According to the ZARA Racism Report 2023, people with migration experience, especially from African or Asian countries, are disproportionately affected by discrimination. This discrimination manifests itself in various areas of life, including the labour market, education and access to public services (see ZARA Report 2023: https://assets.zara.or.at/media/rassismusreport/ZARA_RassismusReport_2023_DE.pdf). The ECRI report by the Ombud for Equal Treatment emphasises that despite progress in the legal framework to combat discrimination, practical implementation is often inadequate. To meet these challenges, comprehensive measures are needed to promote equal treatment and combat racism. This includes both political initiatives and social efforts to raise awareness and education.  It should be noted that in Austria, both the development and implementation of measures to combat discrimination have been driven forward in close cooperation with various civil society organisations. However, it must be noted that the public discourse often focuses on so-called „immigrant anti-Semitism“ and thus accuses people with migration experience from Turkey and Arabic-speaking countries in particular of anti-Semitism across the board. However, there is a lack of clear responsibility at federal level to combat anti-Black racism, anti-Muslim racism and racism in general. Few concrete measures have been taken so far. There is a lack of targeted awareness-raising measures that address discrimination against people with disabilities and limited abilities as well as aspects of self-empowerment and human rights.  Regarding hate speech on the internet, the Hate on the Net Act was introduced to help victims of online hate, including group-focused misanthropy (HiNBG see: here). Another positive development is that the Federal Ministry of the Interior has integrated the systematic recording of prejudicial motives in intentional criminal offences into police work as part of an EU project. For this purpose, the category „Hate crime“ was introduced in the police logging programme (PAD) as a separate „Motive“ tab with the title „Prejudice motives (hate crime) according to victim groups“. The recorded data is transmitted to the justice system via a separate interface: Electronic Legal Transactions (ERV) and subjected to quality assurance by the Federal Ministry of the Interior. Around 30,000 police officers throughout Austria have been prepared for this task by completing e-learning seminars and receiving training as multipliers. The police now work on the basis of a victim-centred approach, actively listening to those affected and investigating consistently to ensure appropriate prosecution. These measures are designed to help tackle bias crime and improve safety for all citizens.
 In the Government Plan 2025-2029, the Federal Government plans to set up a National Action Plan against Hate Crime with the aim of taking targeted action against hate crime (see Government Plan 2025-2029: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/die-bundesregierung/regierungsdokumente.html).

Progress: In progress

Promptly investigate, prosecute and sanction all forms of racism and hate crimes in accordance with the law, including by ensuring that the prosecution and the police have adequate tools and skills

Proponent:

Zambia


Republic of Zambia

Zambia


Republic of Zambia

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

In Austria, there are reports of racist police checks in which people are discriminated against on the basis of their ethnic origin or skin colour. According to the Amnesty Annual Report 2022, such practices have been documented time and again in police work, which places a particular burden on the communities affected. The Styrian Anti-Discrimination Agency confirms that racial profiling violates the ban on discrimination and must be urgently reformed in order to protect the rights of all citizens (Amnesty International Annual Report: https://www.amnesty.de/informieren/amnesty-report/oesterreich-2022). In Austria, there is still a need to strengthen measures to combat racial discrimination and racial profiling. This requires not only a clear condemnation of such practices, but also the implementation of accountability measures for those who commit, aid and abet or cover up racial discrimination. Promoting transparency, education and training for law enforcement agencies and strengthening the rights of victims are crucial steps to combat racial discrimination and racial profiling. Measures should be taken to hold people who practise racial discrimination and racial profiling accountable (Racism Report 2022 by ZARA- Civil Courage and Anti-Racism Work as PDF: https://assets.zara.or.at/media/rassismusreport/ZARA-Rassismus_Report_2022.pdf). Around 30,000 police officers throughout Austria were prepared for this task by completing e-learning seminars and receiving training as multipliers. The police now work on the basis of a victim-centred approach, actively listening to the victims and investigating consistently to ensure appropriate prosecution. These measures are designed to help tackle bias crime and improve safety for all citizens. With the systematic recording of hate crimes motivated by prejudice and the publication of statistics on hate crimes recorded by the police, a first important step has been taken to make hate crimes visible. It is important to observe the extent to which the views of the police and victim protection organisations or community organisations agree on whether an incident should be classified as a hate crime or not. These observations are an important basis for the reliability of the statistics now collected on hate crimes (Report of the Federal Ministry of the Interior on „Hate Crime“ in Austria 2021: https://www.bmi.gv.at/408/Projekt/files/218_2021_Hate_Crime_Bericht_2021_GESAMT_V20220510_barrierefrei.pdf).
In addition, relevant amendments to criminal legislation have been introduced to improve the handling of hate crimes. The amendments to the Criminal Code (StGB) and the Code of Criminal Procedure (StPO) contain new regulations to combat hate crime more effectively and to strengthen the rights of victims. It is important to regularly review and adapt these legal changes in order to meet current challenges.  {Hassverbrechen-Strafrecht}

Progress: In progress

Step up efforts to combat the commission or incitement to commit acts of racial or religious hatred

Proponent:

Burkina Faso


Burkina Faso

Burkina Faso


Burkina Faso

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

According to the ZARA Racism Report 2023, people with migration experience, especially from African or Asian countries, are disproportionately affected by discrimination. This discrimination manifests itself in various areas of life, including the labour market, education and access to public services (see ZARA Report 2023: https://assets.zara.or.at/media/rassismusreport/ZARA_RassismusReport_2023_DE.pdf). The ECRI report by the Ombud for Equal Treatment emphasises that despite progress in the legal framework to combat discrimination, practical implementation is often inadequate. To meet these challenges, comprehensive measures are needed to promote equal treatment and combat racism. This includes both political initiatives and social efforts to raise awareness and education. A large number of measures have been taken since 2021 to combat all forms of antisemitism. A central coordination centre for the topic of anti-Semitism has been set up at the Federal Chancellery and a national strategy against anti-Semitism has been published (see https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/dam/jcr:8bd2975f-0483-4e74-abd9-d66446195d7c/antisemitismusstrategie.pdf). Even though the position has now been downgraded to a department in the Policy Section, it still exists in principle.   Two implementation reports are available (for 2021 and 2022). For the education sector, a strategy paper on the „Prevention of antisemitism through education“ was developed in 2022, which contains recommendations for the implementation of the National Strategy against Antisemitism for the Austrian education administration and teacher training institutions (see: https://oead.at/fileadmin/Dokumente/oead.at/KIM/Downloadcenter/OeAD_E.AT_Strategiepapier_FIN_01.pdf). These recommendations were discussed at the symposium on „Preventing antisemitism through education“ in September 2022. In 2022, the National Forum against Antisemitism was also established to pool knowledge, combat antisemitism and promote Jewish life in Austria. The body is made up of representatives from the federal government, the provinces, municipalities, social partners, academia, religious communities, Jewish museums and civil society. A working group on the documentation of anti-Semitic incidents was also established with the aim of learning from the experiences of other organisations that already document racist, anti-Semitic, etc. incidents. The aim is to learn from the experiences of other organisations already documenting racist, anti-Semitic incidents in order to set up an anti-Semitism documentation centre that meets current requirements.   Parliament also commissioned a study on anti-Semitism in Austria, which was presented in April 2023 (see https://www.parlament.gv.at/dokument/fachinfos/publikationen/Langbericht-Antisemitismus-2022-Oesterreichweite-Ergebnisse.pdf). While there are political strategies against anti-Semitism, there is no comparable approach to anti-Muslim racism. Instead, measures are taken that lead to prejudgements of people perceived as Muslim. The establishment of the Documentation Centre for Political Islam and Operation Luxor reinforce a general suspicion of Muslims and lead to people withdrawing from social discourse, a reduction in diversity of opinion and restrictions on participation. Freedom of opinion, freedom of the press, freedom of religion and freedom of assembly can be restricted on the basis of membership of a particular group, which has a negative impact on basic democratic principles (website of the Federal Chancellery – Documentation Centre for Political Islam: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/nachrichten-der-bundesregierung/2020/integrationsministerin-raab-dokumentationsstelle-politischer-islam-nimmt-arbeit-auf.html). Regarding hate speech on the internet, the Hate on the Net Act was introduced to help victims of online hate, including group-focused misanthropy (HiNBG see: https://www.ris.bka.gv.at/Dokumente/BgblAuth/BGBLA_2020_I_148/BGBLA_2020_I_148.html). 

Progress: No progress

Prosecute all cases of hate crimes and attacks against refugee and asylum-seekers, while strengthening efforts to combat racial or religious hatred, including through ensuring justice and adoption of a national action plan

Proponent:

Afghanistan


Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Afghanistan


Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

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

The 2020 EU Action Plan against Racism calls on the member states to draw up National Action Plans against Racism by the end of 2022. In Austria, the Federal Minister for Women, Family, Integration and Media in the Federal Chancellery is responsible for drawing up the National Action Plan against Racism and Discrimination. This National Action Plan is also anchored in the current government programme (EU Action Plan against Racism 2020: https://ec.europa.eu/migrant-integration/library-document/union-equality-eu-anti-racism-action-plan-2020-2025_en). Austria has also referred to the planned National Action Plan against Racism in various other recommendations regarding the implementation and promotion of measures to combat racism, discrimination, xenophobia and intolerance. This shows its particular importance. Contrary to this assurance and contrary to the agreement in the last government programme, no national action plan to combat racism was adopted and no significant other programmes in the area of anti-racism work were implemented, with the exception of the area of anti-Semitism.   The systematic recording of offences motivated by prejudice and the publication of corresponding statistics are decisive steps towards making hate crimes visible. It is important to analyse the extent to which the views of the police and victim protection organisations coincide in order to ensure the reliability of these statistics. An effective referral system for victims of hate crime needs to be developed to facilitate access to support and prosecution, with a focus on raising awareness among different actors such as police and social workers. These observations are an important basis for the reliability of the hate crime statistics that are now being collected. Despite this progress, there are still challenges, particularly in the area of sensitisation and documentation. The bias motive aspect is often not sufficiently taken into account in criminal prosecution, which means that many victims are unable to exercise their special rights under the EU Victims‘ Rights Directive. In order to counteract this, organisations such as ZARA and WEISSE RING are calling for the police to use special forms to record prejudicial motives in reports and for courts to take prejudicial motives into account throughout criminal proceedings. The prosecution of hate crime shows that a significant proportion of perpetrators are young and male. This is particularly noticeable in the case of anti-Semitic offences. In contrast, the proportion of foreign suspects is higher for anti-Christian and anti-Muslim offences. It is crucial that cooperation between law enforcement authorities and civil society organisations is strengthened in order to improve victim protection and counter hate crimes more effectively (see reporting and statement on the Hate Crime Report 2022 by Weisser Ring: https://www.weisser-ring.at/hasskriminalitaet-sichtbar-machen/). There is a lack of political strategies, especially against anti-Muslim racism. Instead, measures are taken that lead to prejudgements of people perceived as Muslim. The establishment of the Documentation Centre for Political Islam and Operation Luxor reinforce a general suspicion of Muslims and lead to people withdrawing from social discourse, a reduction in diversity of opinion and restrictions on participation. Freedom of opinion, freedom of the press, freedom of religion and freedom of assembly can be restricted on the basis of membership of a particular group, which has a negative impact on basic democratic principles (Website of the Federal Chancellery – Documentation Centre for Political Islam: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/nachrichten-der-bundesregierung/2020/integrationsministerin-raab-dokumentationsstelle-politischer-islam-nimmt-arbeit-auf.html). A large number of measures have been taken since 2021 to combat all forms of antisemitism. A central coordination centre for the topic of anti-Semitism has been set up at the Federal Chancellery and a national strategy against anti-Semitism has been published (see https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/dam/jcr:8bd2975f-0483-4e74-abd9-d66446195d7c/antisemitismusstrategie.pdf). Even though the position has now been downgraded to a department in the Policy Section, it still exists in principle.   Two implementation reports are available (for 2021 and 2022). For the education sector, a strategy paper on the „Prevention of antisemitism through education“ was developed in 2022, which contains recommendations for the implementation of the National Strategy against Antisemitism for the Austrian education administration and teacher training institutions (see: https://oead.at/fileadmin/Dokumente/oead.at/KIM/Downloadcenter/OeAD_E.AT_Strategiepapier_FIN_01.pdf). These recommendations were discussed at the symposium on „Preventing antisemitism through education“ in September 2022. In 2022, the National Forum against Antisemitism was also established to pool knowledge, combat antisemitism and promote Jewish life in Austria. The body is made up of representatives from the federal government, the provinces, municipalities, social partners, academia, religious communities, Jewish museums and civil society. A working group on the documentation of anti-Semitic incidents was also established with the aim of learning from the experiences of other organisations that already document racist, anti-Semitic, etc. incidents. The aim is to learn from the experiences of other organisations already documenting racist, anti-Semitic incidents in order to set up an anti-Semitism documentation centre that meets current requirements.   Parliament also commissioned a study on anti-Semitism in Austria, which was presented in April 2023 (see https://www.parlament.gv.at/dokument/fachinfos/publikationen/Langbericht-Antisemitismus-2022-Oesterreichweite-Ergebnisse.pdf). While there are political strategies against anti-Semitism, there is no comparable approach to anti-Muslim racism. Instead, measures are taken that lead to prejudgements of people perceived as Muslim. The establishment of the Documentation Centre for Political Islam and Operation Luxor reinforce a general suspicion of Muslims and lead to people withdrawing from social discourse, a reduction in diversity of opinion and restrictions on participation. Freedom of opinion, freedom of the press, freedom of religion and freedom of assembly can be restricted on the basis of membership of a particular group, which has a negative impact on basic democratic principles (website of the Federal Chancellery – Documentation Centre for Political Islam: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/nachrichten-der-bundesregierung/2020/integrationsministerin-raab-dokumentationsstelle-politischer-islam-nimmt-arbeit-auf.html). Regarding hate speech on the internet, the Hate on the Net Act was introduced to help victims of online hate, including group-focused misanthropy (HiNBG see: https://www.ris.bka.gv.at/Dokumente/BgblAuth/BGBLA_2020_I_148/BGBLA_2020_I_148.html).  A National Action Plan is crucial to ensure a structured approach to tackling crime. This plan should include clear guidelines for prosecution, victim protection and prevention, involving all relevant stakeholders to ensure justice and protection. 

Progress: In progress

Investigate and ensure accountability for all hate crimes based on religion, including through the Internet

Proponent:

Egypt


Arab Republic of Egypt

Egypt


Arab Republic of Egypt

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

The systematic recording of offences motivated by prejudice and the publication of corresponding statistics are decisive steps towards making hate crimes visible. It is important to analyse the extent to which the views of the police and victim protection organisations coincide in order to ensure the reliability of these statistics. An effective referral system for victims of hate crime needs to be developed to facilitate access to support and prosecution, with a focus on raising awareness among different actors such as police and social workers. These observations are an important basis for the reliability of the hate crime statistics that are now being collected. Despite this progress, there are still challenges, particularly in the area of sensitisation and documentation. The bias motive aspect is often not sufficiently taken into account in criminal prosecution, which means that many victims are unable to exercise their special rights under the EU Victims‘ Rights Directive. In order to counteract this, organisations such as ZARA and WEISSE RING are calling for the police to use special forms to record prejudicial motives in reports and for courts to take prejudicial motives into account throughout criminal proceedings. The prosecution of hate crime shows that a significant proportion of perpetrators are young and male. This is particularly noticeable in the case of anti-Semitic offences. In contrast, the proportion of foreign suspects is higher for anti-Christian and anti-Muslim offences. It is crucial that cooperation between law enforcement authorities and civil society organisations is strengthened in order to improve victim protection and counter hate crimes more effectively (see reporting and statement on the Hate Crime Report 2022 by Weisser Ring: https://www.weisser-ring.at/hasskriminalitaet-sichtbar-machen/). There is a lack of political strategies, especially against anti-Muslim racism. Instead, measures are taken that lead to prejudgements of people perceived as Muslim. The establishment of the Documentation Centre for Political Islam and Operation Luxor reinforce a general suspicion of Muslims and lead to people withdrawing from social discourse, a reduction in diversity of opinion and restrictions on participation. Freedom of opinion, freedom of the press, freedom of religion and freedom of assembly can be restricted on the basis of membership of a particular group, which has a negative impact on basic democratic principles (Website of the Federal Chancellery – Documentation Centre for Political Islam: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/nachrichten-der-bundesregierung/2020/integrationsministerin-raab-dokumentationsstelle-politischer-islam-nimmt-arbeit-auf.html). Regarding hate speech on the internet, the Hate on the Net Act was introduced to help victims of online hate, including group-focused misanthropy (HiNBG see: https://www.ris.bka.gv.at/Dokumente/BgblAuth/BGBLA_2020_I_148/BGBLA_2020_I_148.html). Another positive development is that the Federal Ministry of the Interior has integrated the systematic recording of prejudicial motives in intentional criminal offences into police work as part of an EU project. For this purpose, the category „Hate crime“ was introduced in the police logging programme (PAD) as a separate „Motive“ tab with the title „Prejudice motives (hate crime) according to victim groups“. The recorded data is transmitted to the justice system via a separate interface: Electronic Legal Transactions (ERV) and subjected to quality assurance by the Federal Ministry of the Interior. Around 30,000 police officers throughout Austria have been prepared for this task by completing e-learning seminars and receiving training as multipliers. The police now work on the basis of a victim-centred approach, actively listening to those affected and investigating consistently to ensure appropriate prosecution. These measures are designed to help tackle bias crimes and improve safety for all citizens.  A large number of measures have been taken since 2021 to combat all forms of antisemitism. A central coordination centre for the topic of anti-Semitism has been set up at the Federal Chancellery and a national strategy against anti-Semitism has been published (see https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/dam/jcr:8bd2975f-0483-4e74-abd9-d66446195d7c/antisemitismusstrategie.pdf). Even though the position has now been downgraded to a department in the Policy Section, it still exists in principle.   Two implementation reports are available (for 2021 and 2022). For the education sector, a strategy paper on the „Prevention of antisemitism through education“ was developed in 2022, which contains recommendations for the implementation of the National Strategy against Antisemitism for the Austrian education administration and teacher training institutions (see: https://oead.at/fileadmin/Dokumente/oead.at/KIM/Downloadcenter/OeAD_E.AT_Strategiepapier_FIN_01.pdf). These recommendations were discussed at the symposium on „Preventing antisemitism through education“ in September 2022. In 2022, the National Forum against Antisemitism was also established to pool knowledge, combat antisemitism and promote Jewish life in Austria. The body is made up of representatives from the federal government, the provinces, municipalities, social partners, academia, religious communities, Jewish museums and civil society. A working group on the documentation of anti-Semitic incidents was also established with the aim of learning from the experiences of other organisations that already document racist, anti-Semitic, etc. incidents. The aim is to learn from the experiences of other organisations already documenting racist, anti-Semitic incidents in order to set up an anti-Semitism documentation centre that meets current requirements.   Parliament also commissioned a study on anti-Semitism in Austria, which was presented in April 2023 (see https://www.parlament.gv.at/dokument/fachinfos/publikationen/Langbericht-Antisemitismus-2022-Oesterreichweite-Ergebnisse.pdf). While there are political strategies against anti-Semitism, there is no comparable approach to anti-Muslim racism. Instead, measures are taken that lead to prejudgements of people perceived as Muslim. The establishment of the Documentation Centre for Political Islam and Operation Luxor reinforce a general suspicion of Muslims and lead to people withdrawing from social discourse, a reduction in diversity of opinion and restrictions on participation. Freedom of opinion, freedom of the press, freedom of religion and freedom of assembly can be restricted on the basis of membership of a particular group, which has a negative impact on basic democratic principles (website of the Federal Chancellery – Documentation Centre for Political Islam: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/nachrichten-der-bundesregierung/2020/integrationsministerin-raab-dokumentationsstelle-politischer-islam-nimmt-arbeit-auf.html). Regarding hate speech on the internet, the Hate on the Net Act was introduced to help victims of online hate, including group-focused misanthropy (HiNBG see: https://www.ris.bka.gv.at/Dokumente/BgblAuth/BGBLA_2020_I_148/BGBLA_2020_I_148.html). 

Progress: In progress

Consider enacting a comprehensive legislation that provides full and effective protection against elimination of hate speech

Proponent:

Ghana


Republic of Ghana

Ghana


Republic of Ghana

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

Regarding hate speech on the internet, the Hate on the Net Act was introduced to help victims of online hate, including group-focused misanthropy (HiNBG see: here). Another positive development is that the Federal Ministry of the Interior has integrated the systematic recording of prejudicial motives in intentional criminal offences into police work as part of an EU project. For this purpose, the category „Hate crime“ was introduced in the police logging programme (PAD) as a separate „Motive“ tab with the title „Prejudice motives (hate crime) according to victim groups“. The recorded data is transmitted to the justice system via a separate interface: Electronic Legal Transactions (ERV) and subjected to quality assurance by the Federal Ministry of the Interior. Around 30,000 police officers throughout Austria have been prepared for this task by completing e-learning seminars and receiving training as multipliers. The police now work on the basis of a victim-centred approach, actively listening to those affected and investigating consistently to ensure appropriate prosecution. These measures are designed to help tackle bias crime and improve safety for all citizens.
 In the Government Plan 2025-2029, the Federal Government plans to set up a National Action Plan against Hate Crime with the aim of taking targeted action against hate crime (see Government Plan 2025-2029: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/die-bundesregierung/regierungsdokumente.html). An important aspect in the fight against racism is the balance between freedom of expression and combating hate speech. Austria protects freedom of expression, but hate speech that incites violence or discrimination is prosecuted by law. The Austrian government and the EU are working together to combat disinformation and hate speech without compromising freedom of expression (see statement by the Federal Chancellery: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/agenda/jugend/lebensqualitaet-und-miteinander/no-hate-speech.html). One initiative that is strongly committed to combating hate speech is the No Hate Speech Movement, which was founded in 2013 on the initiative of the Council of Europe. In addition, the National Committee was founded in 2016, which encourages and supports campaigns to raise awareness and combat hate online. In their statement, they call for Austria to take responsibility and draw up a national action plan against racism: a href=https://www.ots.at/presseaussendung/OTS_20230314_OTS0025/oesterreich-muss-seine-verantwortung-im-kampf-gegen-rassismus-wahrnehmen>here. 

Progress: In progress

Strengthen the efforts to combat hate speech, especially against minorities and migrants

Proponent:

Iraq


Republic of Iraq

Iraq


Republic of Iraq

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

Regarding hate speech on the internet, the Hate on the Net Act was introduced to help victims of online hate, including group-focused misanthropy (HiNBG see: here). Another positive development is that the Federal Ministry of the Interior has integrated the systematic recording of prejudicial motives in intentional criminal offences into police work as part of an EU project. For this purpose, the category „Hate crime“ was introduced in the police logging programme (PAD) as a separate „Motive“ tab with the title „Prejudice motives (hate crime) according to victim groups“. The recorded data is transmitted to the justice system via a separate interface: Electronic Legal Transactions (ERV) and subjected to quality assurance by the Federal Ministry of the Interior. Around 30,000 police officers throughout Austria have been prepared for this task by completing e-learning seminars and receiving training as multipliers. The police now work on the basis of a victim-centred approach, actively listening to those affected and investigating consistently to ensure appropriate prosecution. These measures are designed to help tackle bias crime and improve safety for all citizens.
 In the Government Plan 2025-2029, the Federal Government plans to set up a National Action Plan against Hate Crime with the aim of taking targeted action against hate crime (see Government Plan 2025-2029: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/die-bundesregierung/regierungsdokumente.html). The documentation of anti-Muslim attacks in Austria covers a variety of offences ranging from unequal treatment and insults to physical violence and vandalism. A particular focus was placed on online platforms, where a significant proportion of hate speech against Muslims is recorded, with the dissemination of hate comments accounting for the largest share at 87%. The attacks were documented in various categories of offences, including unequal treatment, insults, spreading hate, physical assaults and vandalism. Particular attention was also paid to online platforms, where the majority of hate speech against Muslims was recorded, with the spread of hate comments accounting for the largest share at 87%.The Documentation Centre Austria worked closely with various organisations, including the Initiative for a Non-Discriminatory Education System (IDB), the association ZARA – Zivilcourage & Anti-Rassismus-Arbeit and the Ombud for Equal Treatment (GAW), to document these cases and support measures against anti-Muslim racism (see Anti-Muslim Racism Report 2023: https://dokustelle.at/fileadmin/Dokuments/Reports/Report_2023/Dokustelle_OEsterreich_Report_2023_-_27.05.2024.pdf). Austria has launched programmes and initiatives to promote tolerance and integration. Nevertheless, reports of discrimination and hate speech continue to emerge, suggesting that further action is needed to address these issues. There is a need for continuous monitoring and improvement to ensure that efforts to combat hate speech and discrimination are effective and that the communities affected are sufficiently protected. 

Progress: In progress

To adopt steps to combat acts or advocacy of racial and religious hatred, including by bringing those responsible to justice and envisaging the adoption of a national action plan against racism

Proponent:

Jordan


Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan

Jordan


Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan

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

The 2020 EU Action Plan against Racism calls on the member states to draw up National Action Plans against Racism by the end of 2022. In Austria, the Federal Minister for Women, Family, Integration and Media in the Federal Chancellery is responsible for drawing up the National Action Plan against Racism and Discrimination. This National Action Plan is also anchored in the current government programme (EU Action Plan against Racism 2020: https://ec.europa.eu/migrant-integration/library-document/union-equality-eu-anti-racism-action-plan-2020-2025_en). Austria has also referred to the planned National Action Plan against Racism in various other recommendations regarding the implementation and promotion of measures to combat racism, discrimination, xenophobia and intolerance. This shows its particular importance. Contrary to this assurance and contrary to the agreement in the last government programme, no national action plan to combat racism was adopted and no significant other programmes in the area of anti-racism work were implemented, with the exception of the area of anti-Semitism.   Around 30,000 police officers throughout Austria were prepared for this task by completing e-learning seminars and receiving training as multipliers. The police now work on the basis of a victim-centred approach, actively listening to the victims and investigating consistently to ensure appropriate prosecution. These measures are designed to help tackle bias crime and improve safety for all citizens. With the systematic recording of hate crimes motivated by prejudice and the publication of statistics on hate crimes recorded by the police, a first important step has been taken to make hate crimes visible. It is important to observe the extent to which the views of the police and victim protection organisations or community organisations agree on whether an incident should be classified as a hate crime or not. These observations are an important basis for the reliability of the statistics now collected on hate crimes (Report of the Federal Ministry of the Interior on „Hate Crime“ in Austria 2021: https://www.bmi.gv.at/408/Projekt/files/218_2021_Hate_Crime_Bericht_2021_GESAMT_V20220510_barrierefrei.pdf).
In addition, relevant amendments to criminal legislation have been introduced to improve the handling of hate crimes. The amendments to the Criminal Code (StGB) and the Code of Criminal Procedure (StPO) contain new regulations to combat hate crime more effectively and to strengthen the rights of victims. It is important to regularly review and adapt these legal changes in order to meet current challenges. A large number of measures have been taken since 2021 to combat all forms of antisemitism. A central coordination centre for the topic of anti-Semitism has been set up at the Federal Chancellery and a national strategy against anti-Semitism has been published (see https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/dam/jcr:8bd2975f-0483-4e74-abd9-d66446195d7c/antisemitismusstrategie.pdf). Even though the position has now been downgraded to a department in the Policy Section, it still exists in principle.   Two implementation reports are available (for 2021 and 2022). For the education sector, a strategy paper on the „Prevention of antisemitism through education“ was developed in 2022, which contains recommendations for the implementation of the National Strategy against Antisemitism for the Austrian education administration and teacher training institutions (see: https://oead.at/fileadmin/Dokumente/oead.at/KIM/Downloadcenter/OeAD_E.AT_Strategiepapier_FIN_01.pdf). These recommendations were discussed at the symposium on „Preventing antisemitism through education“ in September 2022. In 2022, the National Forum against Antisemitism was also established to pool knowledge, combat antisemitism and promote Jewish life in Austria. The body is made up of representatives from the federal government, the provinces, municipalities, social partners, academia, religious communities, Jewish museums and civil society. A working group on the documentation of anti-Semitic incidents was also established with the aim of learning from the experiences of other organisations that already document racist, anti-Semitic, etc. incidents. The aim is to learn from the experiences of other organisations already documenting racist, anti-Semitic incidents in order to set up an anti-Semitism documentation centre that meets current requirements.   Parliament also commissioned a study on anti-Semitism in Austria, which was presented in April 2023 (see https://www.parlament.gv.at/dokument/fachinfos/publikationen/Langbericht-Antisemitismus-2022-Oesterreichweite-Ergebnisse.pdf). While there are political strategies against anti-Semitism, there is no comparable approach to anti-Muslim racism. Instead, measures are taken that lead to prejudgements of people perceived as Muslim. The establishment of the Documentation Centre for Political Islam and Operation Luxor reinforce a general suspicion of Muslims and lead to people withdrawing from social discourse, a reduction in diversity of opinion and restrictions on participation. Freedom of opinion, freedom of the press, freedom of religion and freedom of assembly can be restricted on the basis of membership of a particular group, which has a negative impact on basic democratic principles (website of the Federal Chancellery – Documentation Centre for Political Islam: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/nachrichten-der-bundesregierung/2020/integrationsministerin-raab-dokumentationsstelle-politischer-islam-nimmt-arbeit-auf.html). Regarding hate speech on the internet, the Hate on the Net Act was introduced to help victims of online hate, including group-focused misanthropy (HiNBG see: https://www.ris.bka.gv.at/Dokumente/BgblAuth/BGBLA_2020_I_148/BGBLA_2020_I_148.html). 

Progress: In progress

Continue efforts and continue taking measures to combat all forms of hate speech and racism

Proponent:

Libya


State of Libya

Libya


State of Libya

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

Regarding hate speech on the internet, the Hate on the Net Act was introduced to help victims of online hate, including group-focused misanthropy (HiNBG see: here). Another positive development is that the Federal Ministry of the Interior has integrated the systematic recording of prejudicial motives in intentional criminal offences into police work as part of an EU project. For this purpose, the category „Hate crime“ was introduced in the police logging programme (PAD) as a separate „Motive“ tab with the title „Prejudice motives (hate crime) according to victim groups“. The recorded data is transmitted to the justice system via a separate interface: Electronic Legal Transactions (ERV) and subjected to quality assurance by the Federal Ministry of the Interior. Around 30,000 police officers throughout Austria have been prepared for this task by completing e-learning seminars and receiving training as multipliers. The police now work on the basis of a victim-centred approach, actively listening to those affected and investigating consistently to ensure appropriate prosecution. These measures are designed to help tackle bias crime and improve safety for all citizens.
 In the Government Plan 2025-2029, the Federal Government plans to set up a National Action Plan against Hate Crime with the aim of taking targeted action against hate crime (see Government Plan 2025-2029: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/die-bundesregierung/regierungsdokumente.html). Racism remains a serious social problem in Austria. The latest report by SOS Mitmensch and other studies show that racist discrimination and hate crimes are on the rise. Anti-Muslim racism in particular has increased in recent years, partly fuelled by political rhetoric and campaigns targeting Muslim communities. Anti-Muslim hate crimes are common and are often supported by certain political groups. In 2023, the Documentation Centre on Islamophobia and Anti-Muslim Racism recorded a total of 1522 racist attacks against Muslims and people perceived to be Muslim. Compared to the previous year, 263 more cases were reported to us offline, which represents an increase of over 100 per cent of active case reports. The report shows a striking increase in case reports from the education sector. See report: here).
Austria has various laws in place to combat racism, including the Prohibition Act and the Equal Treatment Act. However, these legal frameworks are not always applied consistently, leading to calls for stronger policy measures and more rigorous enforcement of existing laws. Education and awareness-raising measures are also crucial to raise awareness of racial discrimination in the population and bring about long-term change (see SOS-Mitmensch report: https://www.sosmitmensch.at/site/momagazin/alleausgaben/7/article/395.html&ts=1720702499859).
ZARA’s report for the year 2023 provides a comprehensive overview of the extent and various forms of racism in Austria. A total of 1302 reports were documented and processed, almost 60% of which concerned online racism. This underlines the importance of digital platforms as a place for racist incidents, which can often be documented and reported using simple screenshots. The public sphere and the goods/services sector were particularly affected, with 58.2% and 15.9% of reports respectively. State authorities and institutions were involved in 11% of cases, while racist incidents in the police were only formally complained about in 4 out of 58 cases. In most of the other cases, those affected sought support from ZARA through counselling sessions and legal advice. A significant number (almost 78%) of reports came from witnesses, while 22% were submitted by those directly affected. The report also criticises the lack of implementation of a National Action Plan against Racism in Austria, although the need for structural change and combating institutional racism is obvious. There are still challenges in dealing with racism in Austria and the need for social support and structural changes to effectively address these issues (see Racism Report 2023, March 2024 edition: https://assets.zara.or.at/media/rassismusreport/ZARA_RassismusReport_2023_DE.pdf).  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).

Progress: In progress

Systematically investigate all forms of racism and hate crimes, prosecute and punish those responsible according to the law

Proponent:

Luxembourg


Grand Duchy of Luxembourg

Luxembourg


Grand Duchy of Luxembourg

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

According to the ZARA Racism Report 2023, people with migration experience, especially from African or Asian countries, are disproportionately affected by discrimination. This discrimination manifests itself in various areas of life, including the labour market, education and access to public services (see ZARA Report 2023: https://assets.zara.or.at/media/rassismusreport/ZARA_RassismusReport_2023_DE.pdf). The ECRI report by the Ombud for Equal Treatment emphasises that despite progress in the legal framework to combat discrimination, practical implementation is often inadequate. To meet these challenges, comprehensive measures are needed to promote equal treatment and combat racism. This includes both political initiatives and social efforts to raise awareness and education. Around 30,000 police officers throughout Austria were prepared for this task by completing e-learning seminars and receiving training as multipliers. The police now work on the basis of a victim-centred approach, actively listening to the victims and investigating consistently to ensure appropriate prosecution. These measures are designed to help tackle bias crime and improve safety for all citizens. With the systematic recording of hate crimes motivated by prejudice and the publication of statistics on hate crimes recorded by the police, a first important step has been taken to make hate crimes visible. It is important to observe the extent to which the views of the police and victim protection organisations or community organisations agree on whether an incident should be classified as a hate crime or not. These observations are an important basis for the reliability of the statistics now collected on hate crimes (Report of the Federal Ministry of the Interior on „Hate Crime“ in Austria 2021: https://www.bmi.gv.at/408/Projekt/files/218_2021_Hate_Crime_Bericht_2021_GESAMT_V20220510_barrierefrei.pdf).
In addition, relevant amendments to criminal legislation have been introduced to improve the handling of hate crimes. The amendments to the Criminal Code (StGB) and the Code of Criminal Procedure (StPO) contain new regulations to combat hate crime more effectively and to strengthen the rights of victims. It is important to regularly review and adapt these legal changes in order to meet current challenges. The systematic recording of offences motivated by prejudice and the publication of corresponding statistics are decisive steps towards making hate crimes visible. It is important to analyse the extent to which the views of the police and victim protection organisations coincide in order to ensure the reliability of these statistics. An effective referral system for victims of hate crime needs to be developed to facilitate access to support and prosecution, with a focus on raising awareness among different actors such as police and social workers. These observations are an important basis for the reliability of the hate crime statistics that are now being collected. Despite this progress, there are still challenges, particularly in the area of sensitisation and documentation. The bias motive aspect is often not sufficiently taken into account in criminal prosecution, which means that many victims are unable to exercise their special rights under the EU Victims‘ Rights Directive. In order to counteract this, organisations such as ZARA and WEISSE RING are calling for the police to use special forms to record prejudicial motives in reports and for courts to take prejudicial motives into account throughout criminal proceedings. The prosecution of hate crime shows that a significant proportion of perpetrators are young and male. This is particularly noticeable in the case of anti-Semitic offences. In contrast, the proportion of foreign suspects is higher for anti-Christian and anti-Muslim offences. It is crucial that cooperation between law enforcement authorities and civil society organisations is strengthened in order to improve victim protection and counter hate crimes more effectively (see reporting and statement on the Hate Crime Report 2022 by Weisser Ring: https://www.weisser-ring.at/hasskriminalitaet-sichtbar-machen/). There is a lack of political strategies, especially against anti-Muslim racism. Instead, measures are taken that lead to prejudgements of people perceived as Muslim. The establishment of the Documentation Centre for Political Islam and Operation Luxor reinforce a general suspicion of Muslims and lead to people withdrawing from social discourse, a reduction in diversity of opinion and restrictions on participation. Freedom of opinion, freedom of the press, freedom of religion and freedom of assembly can be restricted on the basis of membership of a particular group, which has a negative impact on basic democratic principles (Website of the Federal Chancellery – Documentation Centre for Political Islam: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/nachrichten-der-bundesregierung/2020/integrationsministerin-raab-dokumentationsstelle-politischer-islam-nimmt-arbeit-auf.html). 

Progress: In progress

Strengthen its systematic approach to prevent and combat hate speech and hate crimes, by following up on the recommendations of the European Commission against Racism and Intolerance (ECRI)

Proponent:

Norway


Kingdom of Norway

Norway


Kingdom of Norway

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

The Federal Ministry of the Interior has published the situation report „Hate Crime 2022“ (see Hate Crime 2022 Report: The core results, p.10: https://www.bmi.gv.at/bmi_documents/3042.pdf). It shows an increase in offences motivated by prejudice, with 5,865 cases reported. These offences mainly concern ideology, national/ethnic origin and religion. One third of the offences reported were violations of the Prohibition Act. Interior Minister Karner emphasised the importance of prevention, especially among young people, in order to recognise and combat extremist tendencies at an early stage. Measures to sensitise and train the police have been intensified. On a positive note, it should be emphasised that the Federal Ministry of the Interior has integrated the systematic recording of prejudiced motives in intentional criminal offences into police work as part of an EU project. For this purpose, the category „Hate crime“ was introduced in the police logging programme (PAD) as a separate „Motive“ tab with the title „Prejudice motives (hate crime) according to victim groups“. The recorded data is transmitted to the justice system via a separate interface: Electronic Legal Transactions (ERV) and subjected to quality assurance by the Federal Ministry of the Interior. In 2022, the Report of the Federal Ministry of the Interior on „Hate Crime“ in Austria – Annual Report 2021 was published for the first time. In the period from January to December 2021, 5,464 offences motivated by prejudice were recorded by the police (Report of the Federal Ministry of the Interior on „Hate Crime“ in Austria 2021: here). With the systematic recording of hate crimes motivated by prejudice and the publication of statistics on hate crimes recorded by the police, a first important step has been taken to make hate crimes visible. It is important to observe the extent to which the views of the police and victim protection organisations or community organisations agree on whether an incident should be classified as a hate crime or not. These observations are an important basis for the reliability of the statistics on hate crimes that are now being collected. ECRI has also emphasised that politicians should take a firm stance against racist hate speech and that political parties should introduce codes of conduct that prohibit the use of hate speech. So far, these recommendations have gone unheeded.   As part of a European mapping project on hate crimes, work is being done on a victim-centred referral system for affected people. In Austria, ZARA is working on this project together with CEJI. Other civil society organisations, the Ombud for Equal Treatment, the Federal Ministry of the Interior and the Federal Ministry of Justice are also involved (project homepage: http://scan-project.eu/). Further measures are needed to create a victim-centred, easily accessible referral system for people affected by hate crimes that protects them from (re)traumatisation and re-victimisation. In particular, the police, social workers, teachers, the judiciary, etc. must be further sensitised in order to quickly recognise hate crimes and refer those affected to the right places. Such a referral system should make it easier for those affected by hate crimes to gain access to support and criminal prosecution of the perpetrators. The publication of data by the judiciary is important in order to gain an insight into how many of the reported hate crimes are followed up and what can be learned from them for prevention measures (a detailed catalogue of recommendations is available at: https://standup-project.eu/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/A4_policy_brief_standUP_DE.pdf). Regarding hate speech on the internet, the Hate on the Net Act was introduced to help victims of online hate, including group-focused misanthropy (HiNBG see: here). Another positive development is that the Federal Ministry of the Interior has integrated the systematic recording of prejudicial motives in intentional criminal offences into police work as part of an EU project. For this purpose, the category „Hate crime“ was introduced in the police logging programme (PAD) as a separate „Motive“ tab with the title „Prejudice motives (hate crime) according to victim groups“. The recorded data is transmitted to the justice system via a separate interface: Electronic Legal Transactions (ERV) and subjected to quality assurance by the Federal Ministry of the Interior. Around 30,000 police officers throughout Austria have been prepared for this task by completing e-learning seminars and receiving training as multipliers. The police now work on the basis of a victim-centred approach, actively listening to those affected and investigating consistently to ensure appropriate prosecution. These measures are designed to help tackle bias crime and improve safety for all citizens.
 In the Government Plan 2025-2029, the Federal Government plans to set up a National Action Plan against Hate Crime with the aim of taking targeted action against hate crime (see Government Plan 2025-2029: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/die-bundesregierung/regierungsdokumente.html).

Progress: No progress

Take concrete steps to address the issue of hate speech against Muslims, especially by political figures

Proponent:

Pakistan


Islamic Republic of Pakistan

Pakistan


Islamic Republic of Pakistan

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

Freedom of expression, freedom of the press, freedom of religion and freedom of assembly can be restricted on the basis of membership of a particular group, which has a negative impact on fundamental democratic principles (Website of the Federal Chancellery – Documentation Centre for Political Islam: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/nachrichten-der-bundesregierung/2020/integrationsministerin-raab-dokumentationsstelle-politischer-islam-nimmt-arbeit-auf.html).   Regarding hate speech on the internet, the Hate on the Net Act was introduced to help victims of online hate, including group-focused misanthropy (HiNBG see: https://www.ris.bka.gv.at/Dokumente/BgblAuth/BGBLA_2020_I_148/BGBLA_2020_I_148.html). Another positive development is that the Federal Ministry of the Interior has integrated the systematic recording of prejudicial motives into police work as part of an EU project. For this purpose, the category „Hate crime“ was introduced in the police logging programme (PAD) as a separate „Motive“ tab with the title „Prejudice motives (hate crime) according to victim groups“. The recorded data is transmitted to the justice system via a separate interface: Electronic Legal Transactions (ERV) and subjected to quality assurance by the Federal Ministry of the Interior. Around 30,000 police officers throughout Austria have been prepared for this task by completing e-learning seminars and receiving training as multipliers. The police now work on the basis of a victim-centred approach, actively listening to those affected and investigating consistently to ensure appropriate prosecution. These measures are designed to help tackle bias crime and improve safety for all citizens. The Report of the Federal Ministry of the Interior on Hate Crime in Austria – Annual Report 2021 was published for the first time in 2022. In the period from January to December 2021, 5,464 offences motivated by prejudice were recorded by the police (Report of the Federal Ministry of the Interior on „Hate Crime“ in Austria 2021: https://www.bmi.gv.at/408/Projekt/files/218_2021_Hate_Crime_Bericht_2021_GESAMT_V20220510_barrierefrei.pdf). Regarding hate speech on the internet, the Hate on the Net Act was introduced to help victims of online hate, including group-focused misanthropy (HiNBG see: here). Another positive development is that the Federal Ministry of the Interior has integrated the systematic recording of prejudicial motives in intentional criminal offences into police work as part of an EU project. For this purpose, the category „Hate crime“ was introduced in the police logging programme (PAD) as a separate „Motive“ tab with the title „Prejudice motives (hate crime) according to victim groups“. The recorded data is transmitted to the justice system via a separate interface: Electronic Legal Transactions (ERV) and subjected to quality assurance by the Federal Ministry of the Interior. Around 30,000 police officers throughout Austria have been prepared for this task by completing e-learning seminars and receiving training as multipliers. The police now work on the basis of a victim-centred approach, actively listening to those affected and investigating consistently to ensure appropriate prosecution. These measures are designed to help tackle bias crime and improve safety for all citizens.
 In the Government Plan 2025-2029, the Federal Government plans to set up a National Action Plan against Hate Crime with the aim of taking targeted action against hate crime (see Government Plan 2025-2029: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/die-bundesregierung/regierungsdokumente.html).

Progress: No progress

Take concrete measures to combat incidents of ethnic or racially motivated violence and hatred, including against migrants and refugees

Proponent:

Portugal


Portuguese Republic

Portugal


Portuguese Republic

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

According to the ZARA Racism Report 2023, people with migration experience, especially from African or Asian countries, are disproportionately affected by discrimination. This discrimination manifests itself in various areas of life, including the labour market, education and access to public services (see ZARA Report 2023: https://assets.zara.or.at/media/rassismusreport/ZARA_RassismusReport_2023_DE.pdf). The ECRI report by the Ombud for Equal Treatment emphasises that despite progress in the legal framework to combat discrimination, practical implementation is often inadequate. To meet these challenges, comprehensive measures are needed to promote equal treatment and combat racism. This includes both political initiatives and social efforts to raise awareness and education. While there are political strategies against anti-Semitism, there is no comparable approach to anti-Muslim racism. Instead, measures are taken that lead to prejudgements of people perceived as Muslim. The establishment of the Documentation Centre for Political Islam and Operation Luxor reinforce a general suspicion of Muslims and lead to people withdrawing from social discourse, a reduction in diversity of opinion and restrictions on participation. Freedom of opinion, freedom of the press, freedom of religion and freedom of assembly can be restricted on the basis of membership of a particular group, which has a negative impact on basic democratic principles (Website of the Federal Chancellery – Documentation Centre for Political Islam: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/nachrichten-der-bundesregierung/2020/integrationsministerin-raab-dokumentationsstelle-politischer-islam-nimmt-arbeit-auf.html). Austria should step up its efforts to combat discrimination and hate speech against ethnic minorities, immigrants and refugees. It is crucial to provide additional resources for the prosecution of hate crimes while strengthening prevention. This applies in particular to combating discrimination against Muslims, Roma, people of African descent, refugees and migrants. The promotion of awareness campaigns and cooperation with civil society organisations are important elements in promoting an inclusive and tolerant society.  In recent years, there has been a tightening of immigration policy in Austria and an increasing harshness towards asylum seekers. This is reflected in legislative changes aimed at making access to asylum more difficult and facilitating the deportation of rejected asylum seekers. Another problem is the treatment of asylum seekers during the asylum procedure and in reception centres. There are currently reports of overcrowded accommodation, inadequate medical care and a lack of integration into the education system. 

Progress: No progress

Continue in its endeavour of combating acts or advocacy of racial or religious hatred, including by bringing those responsible to justice and envisaging the adoption of a national action plan against racism

Proponent:

Romania


Romania

Romania


Romania

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

The 2020 EU Action Plan against Racism calls on the member states to draw up National Action Plans against Racism by the end of 2022. In Austria, the Federal Minister for Women, Family, Integration and Media in the Federal Chancellery is responsible for drawing up the National Action Plan against Racism and Discrimination. This National Action Plan is also anchored in the current government programme (EU Action Plan against Racism 2020: https://ec.europa.eu/migrant-integration/library-document/union-equality-eu-anti-racism-action-plan-2020-2025_en). Austria has also referred to the planned National Action Plan against Racism in various other recommendations regarding the implementation and promotion of measures to combat racism, discrimination, xenophobia and intolerance. This shows its particular importance. Contrary to this assurance and contrary to the agreement in the last government programme, no national action plan to combat racism was adopted and no significant other programmes in the area of anti-racism work were implemented, with the exception of the area of anti-Semitism.   According to the ZARA Racism Report 2023, people with migration experience, especially from African or Asian countries, are disproportionately affected by discrimination. This discrimination manifests itself in various areas of life, including the labour market, education and access to public services (see ZARA Report 2023: https://assets.zara.or.at/media/rassismusreport/ZARA_RassismusReport_2023_DE.pdf). The ECRI report by the Ombud for Equal Treatment emphasises that despite progress in the legal framework to combat discrimination, practical implementation is often inadequate. To meet these challenges, comprehensive measures are needed to promote equal treatment and combat racism. This includes both political initiatives and social efforts to raise awareness and education.  Around 30,000 police officers throughout Austria were prepared for this task by completing e-learning seminars and receiving training as multipliers. The police now work on the basis of a victim-centred approach, actively listening to the victims and investigating consistently to ensure appropriate prosecution. These measures are designed to help tackle bias crime and improve safety for all citizens. With the systematic recording of hate crimes motivated by prejudice and the publication of statistics on hate crimes recorded by the police, a first important step has been taken to make hate crimes visible. It is important to observe the extent to which the views of the police and victim protection organisations or community organisations agree on whether an incident should be classified as a hate crime or not. These observations are an important basis for the reliability of the statistics now collected on hate crimes (Report of the Federal Ministry of the Interior on „Hate Crime“ in Austria 2021: https://www.bmi.gv.at/408/Projekt/files/218_2021_Hate_Crime_Bericht_2021_GESAMT_V20220510_barrierefrei.pdf).
In addition, relevant amendments to criminal legislation have been introduced to improve the handling of hate crimes. The amendments to the Criminal Code (StGB) and the Code of Criminal Procedure (StPO) contain new regulations to combat hate crime more effectively and to strengthen the rights of victims. It is important to regularly review and adapt these legal changes in order to meet current challenges. A large number of measures have been taken since 2021 to combat all forms of antisemitism. A central coordination centre for the topic of anti-Semitism has been set up at the Federal Chancellery and a national strategy against anti-Semitism has been published (see https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/dam/jcr:8bd2975f-0483-4e74-abd9-d66446195d7c/antisemitismusstrategie.pdf). Even though the position has now been downgraded to a department in the Policy Section, it still exists in principle.   Two implementation reports are available (for 2021 and 2022). For the education sector, a strategy paper on the „Prevention of antisemitism through education“ was developed in 2022, which contains recommendations for the implementation of the National Strategy against Antisemitism for the Austrian education administration and teacher training institutions (see: https://oead.at/fileadmin/Dokumente/oead.at/KIM/Downloadcenter/OeAD_E.AT_Strategiepapier_FIN_01.pdf). These recommendations were discussed at the symposium on „Preventing antisemitism through education“ in September 2022. In 2022, the National Forum against Antisemitism was also established to pool knowledge, combat antisemitism and promote Jewish life in Austria. The body is made up of representatives from the federal government, the provinces, municipalities, social partners, academia, religious communities, Jewish museums and civil society. A working group on the documentation of anti-Semitic incidents was also established with the aim of learning from the experiences of other organisations that already document racist, anti-Semitic, etc. incidents. The aim is to learn from the experiences of other organisations already documenting racist, anti-Semitic incidents in order to set up an anti-Semitism documentation centre that meets current requirements.   Parliament also commissioned a study on anti-Semitism in Austria, which was presented in April 2023 (see https://www.parlament.gv.at/dokument/fachinfos/publikationen/Langbericht-Antisemitismus-2022-Oesterreichweite-Ergebnisse.pdf). While there are political strategies against anti-Semitism, there is no comparable approach to anti-Muslim racism. Instead, measures are taken that lead to prejudgements of people perceived as Muslim. The establishment of the Documentation Centre for Political Islam and Operation Luxor reinforce a general suspicion of Muslims and lead to people withdrawing from social discourse, a reduction in diversity of opinion and restrictions on participation. Freedom of opinion, freedom of the press, freedom of religion and freedom of assembly can be restricted on the basis of membership of a particular group, which has a negative impact on basic democratic principles (website of the Federal Chancellery – Documentation Centre for Political Islam: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/nachrichten-der-bundesregierung/2020/integrationsministerin-raab-dokumentationsstelle-politischer-islam-nimmt-arbeit-auf.html). Regarding hate speech on the internet, the Hate on the Net Act was introduced to help victims of online hate, including group-focused misanthropy (HiNBG see: https://www.ris.bka.gv.at/Dokumente/BgblAuth/BGBLA_2020_I_148/BGBLA_2020_I_148.html). 

Progress: In progress

Strengthen efforts to tackle racism, xenophobia, anti-Semitic and anti-Islamic incidents, including through the disaggregation of hate crimes data

Proponent:

Australia


Australia

Australia


Australia

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

According to the ZARA Racism Report 2023, people with migration experience, especially from African or Asian countries, are disproportionately affected by discrimination. This discrimination manifests itself in various areas of life, including the labour market, education and access to public services (see ZARA Report 2023: https://assets.zara.or.at/media/rassismusreport/ZARA_RassismusReport_2023_DE.pdf). The ECRI report by the Ombud for Equal Treatment emphasises that despite progress in the legal framework to combat discrimination, practical implementation is often inadequate. To meet these challenges, comprehensive measures are needed to promote equal treatment and combat racism. This includes both political initiatives and social efforts to raise awareness and education.  Austria has not yet implemented some of the recommendations of the European Commission against Racism and Intolerance (ECRI) from the 2015 report „General Policy Recommendations No. 15 on Combating Hate Speech“. These include, in particular, the pending ratification of the „Additional Protocol to the Convention on Cybercrime“ and „Protocol No. 12 to the Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms“.
ECRI also emphasises that politicians should take a clear stance against racist hate speech and that political parties should introduce codes of conduct that prohibit the use of hate speech. These recommendations have not yet been heeded.  There are no clear responsibilities at federal level in Austria to combat anti-Black racism, anti-Muslim racism and racism in general, and hardly any effective measures have been taken. There is also a lack of targeted awareness-raising programmes that address discrimination against people with disabilities and limited abilities and address aspects of self-empowerment and human rights. The need to implement structural changes and preventive measures to effectively counteract discrimination is emphasised by various organisations and initiatives. It should be critically noted that the public discourse often focuses on so-called „immigrant anti-Semitism“ and thus accuses people with a history of migration from Turkey and Arabic-speaking countries in particular of anti-Semitism across the board. The Documentation and Advice Centre on Islamophobia and Anti-Muslim Racism (Dokustelle) plays a central role in this. This centre was founded in 2014 and systematically collects data on Islamophobic incidents, offers advice in several languages and carries out awareness-raising and educational measures (see the 2022 report of the Documentation Centre on Anti-Muslim Racism and Islamophobia: https://dokustelle.at/fileadmin/Dokuments/Reports/Report_2022/Dokustelle-Report-2022.pdf). The European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRAU) has updated its database on Islamophobia, which provides comprehensive information on hate crimes and hate speech against Muslims. In Austria, the database shows that Muslims continue to be the target of hate crimes and discrimination. The FRA reports a large number of incidents ranging from verbal abuse to physical violence. These incidents are also reflected in the Austrian statistics, which show an increasing number of reports and documented cases of Islamophobia (see Austrian database: https://fra.europa.eu/en/databases/anti-muslim-hatred/case-law?country%5B%5D=AT). A large number of measures have been taken since 2021 to combat all forms of antisemitism. A central coordination centre for the topic of anti-Semitism has been set up at the Federal Chancellery and a national strategy against anti-Semitism has been published (see https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/dam/jcr:8bd2975f-0483-4e74-abd9-d66446195d7c/antisemitismusstrategie.pdf). Even though the position has now been downgraded to a department in the Policy Section, it still exists in principle.   There are two implementation reports (for 2021 and 2022). For the education sector, a strategy paper on the „Prevention of antisemitism through education“ was developed in 2022, which contains recommendations for the implementation of the National Strategy against Antisemitism for the Austrian education administration and teacher training institutions (see: https://oead.at/fileadmin/Dokumente/oead.at/KIM/Downloadcenter/OeAD_E.AT_Strategiepapier_FIN_01.pdf). These recommendations were discussed at the symposium on „Preventing antisemitism through education“ in September 2022. In 2022, the National Forum against Antisemitism was also established to pool knowledge, combat antisemitism and promote Jewish life in Austria. The body is made up of representatives from the federal government, the provinces, municipalities, social partners, academia, religious communities, Jewish museums and civil society.   A working group on the documentation of anti-Semitic incidents has been established with the aim of learning from the experiences of other organisations that already document racist, anti-Semitic, etc. incidents. The aim is to learn from the experiences of other organisations already documenting racist, anti-Semitic, etc. incidents in order to set up an anti-Semitism documentation centre that meets current requirements.   Parliament also commissioned a study on anti-Semitism in Austria, which was presented in April 2023 (see https://www.parlament.gv.at/dokument/fachinfos/publikationen/Langbericht-Antisemitismus-2022-Oesterreichweite-Ergebnisse.pdf).   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).

Progress: No progress

Continue efforts to develop and strengthen the necessary legislative frameworks that address cross-sectoral environmental challenges, including climate change adaptation and mitigation frameworks, and ensure that women, children, persons with disabilities, and indigenous and local communities are meaningfully engaged in its implementation

Proponent:

Fiji


Republic of Fiji

Fiji


Republic of Fiji

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

A § 8 BMG Commission for dialogue processes between the administration and civil society was newly established in the BMK. This commission promotes the exchange between the administration (represented by the) and organised civil society (represented by the managing directors of Ökobüro and Umweltdachverband). However, a climate protection law and other tangible legal progress are still lacking, which is also clearly criticised by civil society (see e.g. on the website of the climate referendum: https://klimavolksbegehren.at/). On 23 February 2022, the European Commission published a draft directive on „Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence“ (CDSDD, see draft on the European Union website: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/DE/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:52022 PC 0071 from=EN). On 1 December 2022, the European Council agreed on its position and on 1 June 2023, the European Parliament will adopt its position, which will be followed by trilogue negotiations between the three institutions (Proposal for a Directive of the European Parliament and of the European Council on corporate due diligence in relation to sustainability and amending Directive (EU) 2019/1937 as PDF: https://data.consilium.europa.eu/doc/document/ST-15024-2022-REV-1/en/pdf). The Federal Ministry of Justice and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Economic Affairs have initiated a good consultation process following the publication of the Commission’s draft directive. The government should again fully involve stakeholders in the future implementation of the directive in Austria.
  It is to be welcomed that the Directive that has been adopted and entered into force includes civil liability and sanctions by public authorities. However, in order for the directive to effectively protect human rights and the environment along global supply chains, access to justice for those affected by rights violations needs to be improved. An important civil society initiative on this topic is „Human rights need laws“ (campaign by the organisation Netzwerk Soziale Verantwortung for a supply chain law in Austria and the EU: https://www.nesove.at/menschenrechte-brauchen-gesetze/).
  On 26 February 2025, the EU Commission presented a package which, according to the Commission, is intended to simplify sustainability rules. Proposed amendments concern the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), the EU Taxonomy and the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD). Although a mere simplification and reduction of redundant and overlapping reporting points was announced, a massive watering down of the CSDDD in important points is now proposed: The erosion of the risk-based approach, as the due diligence obligations would only extend to direct business partners* with a few exceptions; monitoring of due diligence measures would only be carried out every 5 years instead of annually as previously envisaged; deletion of an EU-wide harmonised regulation on civil liability; deletion of the turnover-related minimum maximum penalties for violations; deletion of the obligation to implement climate transition plans, deletion of the possibility of representative actions, etc. (see: here). 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). Austria has not had a specific climate protection law since 2020, after the previous law expired and was not renewed. Despite growing pressure from civil society initiatives and environmental organisations, there have been no significant reforms to date. Several climate lawsuits have been filed to persuade the government to adopt a more ambitious climate policy, including a prominent lawsuit filed by senior citizens. This lawsuit argues that the government’s inaction is jeopardising their rights to life and health. However, such lawsuits have often been dismissed or delayed without leading to a change in Austria’s climate policy direction. Austria is also part of the European climate legislation framework, the so-called Market Conformity Clause (MCC), and is therefore subject to certain EU regulations. However, these regulations have not yet led to a comprehensive national climate protection law. Initiatives such as Fridays for Future and other movements continue to call for tougher policies and concrete measures to achieve the climate targets.   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). The Climate Council, consisting of 100 people living in Austria, was set up by the Federal Ministry for Climate Action, Environment, Energy, Mobility, Innovation and Technology (BMK) on the occasion of the climate referendum. From January to June 2022, the Climate Council held several meetings and presented its recommendations (further information is available on the Climate Council’s website: https://klimarat.org/). However, no concrete legislative proposals resulted from the Climate Council’s activities.   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).

Progress: In progress

Establish an independent mechanism to investigate cases of ill-treatment and excessive use of force by law enforcement officials

Proponent:

Bahamas


Commonwealth of the Bahamas

Bahamas


Commonwealth of the Bahamas

Remarks to progress by Liga (last modified Nov 7, 2023):

Im März 2023 wurde der Vorschlag zur Änderung des Gesetzes über das Bundesamt zur Korruptionsprävention und Korruptionsbekämpfung präsentiert, welches im Juli 2023 vom Parlament beschlossen wurde (BGBl. I Nr. 107/2023). Dieser Vorschlag beinhaltet die Etablierung einer Ermittlungs- und Beschwerdestelle (EBS) für Misshandlungsvorwürfe durch die Polizei (Siehe: hier). Diese soll als eine eigene Organisationseinheit im Bundesamt zur Korruptionsprävention und Korruptionsbekämpfung angesiedelt sein. Die EBS soll interdisziplinär und multiprofessionell besetzt werden. Ebenso beinhaltet der Vorschlag die Einrichtung eines unabhängigen Beirats als qualitätssicherndes Beratungsgremium.

Grundsätzlich ist zu begrüßen, dass eine EBS eingerichtet werden soll. Ebenso zu begrüßen ist die Einrichtung eines Beirats als qualitätssicherndes Beratungsgremium sowie der Umstand, dass die EBS interdisziplinär und multiprofessionell besetzt werden soll. Allerdings wird, laut Stellungnahmen von zivilgesellschaftlichen Organisationen und der Wissenschaft, die Unabhängigkeit der EBS in diesem Gesetzesentwurf nicht als gegeben angesehen. Grund dafür ist, dass die Stelle im BAK angesiedelt sein wird, einer Einrichtung des Bundesministeriums für Inneres, welches – genauso wie die Polizei selbst – dem/ Bundesminister*in für Inneres weisungsunterworfen ist (siehe Stellungnahme: hier). Die Forderungen nach einer – völkerrechtlich gebotenen – unabhängigen Ermittlungs- und Beschwerdestelle werden mit diesem Entwurf nicht erfüllt (siehe zB Stellungnahme von Amnesty International: hier).

Progress: In progress

End excessive use of force, torture, ill-treatment by law enforcement agents

Proponent:

Venezuela


Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela

Venezuela


Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela

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

In Austria, there have been discussions for years about setting up an independent mechanism to investigate abuse and excessive use of force by law enforcement officers. Human rights organisations such as Amnesty International and the UN Committee against Torture criticise the fact that Austria does not have a truly independent mechanism for investigating police violence. So far, allegations have mostly been investigated internally or by the public prosecutor’s office, which is often considered insufficiently independent. In 2023, the Austrian government took steps to address this problem. Legislative initiatives have been discussed that provide for the establishment of an independent investigative body. These initiatives aim to increase independence and transparency in the investigation of allegations against law enforcement officials. The Austrian Minister of Justice and the Ministry of the Interior have agreed as part of the government’s work to present a draft for the establishment of such a mechanism. It is expected that this mechanism will be institutionally and operationally independent of the law enforcement authorities and the Ministry of the Interior.   Despite this progress, there are still concerns about the actual independence and effectiveness of the proposed mechanism. Critics argue that without sufficient powers and resources, the new mechanism will not be much more effective than the existing structures. It remains to be seen what the final legislative proposal will look like and whether it will be approved by parliament. Human rights groups and civil society organisations continue to push for swift and substantial reforms.  

Progress: In progress

Take further action against the use of force by the police

Proponent:

Bahrain


Kingdom of Bahrain

Bahrain


Kingdom of Bahrain

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

As the issue of police violence has recently come into focus in Austria, a proposal to amend the law on the Federal Office for the Prevention of and Fight against Corruption was presented in March 2023 and adopted by the Austrian Parliament in July 2023 (BGBl. I No. 107/2023). Amnesty International has called for the introduction of an identification requirement for police officers to enable effective investigations into police violence (Amnesty International report: https://www.amnesty.at/presse/amnesty-international-fordert-kennzeichnungspflicht-bei-polizei/). A further step was the presentation of the project „Police under National Socialism“ to reappraise the history of the police (1938-1945) (see project presentation „Police under National Socialism“: https://bmi.gv.at/news.aspx?id=315779304A4F57543645673D). These events illustrate the relevance and the discussion surrounding the topic of police violence in Austria. 

Progress: In progress

Improve law enforcement practice to investigate cases of torture, ill-treatment and other police misconduct

Proponent:

Belarus


Republic of Belarus

Belarus


Republic of Belarus

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

As the issue of police violence has recently come into focus in Austria, a proposal to amend the law on the Federal Office for the Prevention of and Fight against Corruption was presented in March 2023 and adopted by the Austrian Parliament in July 2023 (BGBl. I No. 107/2023). Amnesty International has called for the introduction of an identification requirement for police officers to enable effective investigations into police violence (Amnesty International report: https://www.amnesty.at/presse/amnesty-international-fordert-kennzeichnungspflicht-bei-polizei/). A further step was the presentation of the project „Police under National Socialism“ to reappraise the history of the police (1938-1945) (see project presentation „Police under National Socialism“: https://bmi.gv.at/news.aspx?id=315779304A4F57543645673D). These events illustrate the relevance and the discussion surrounding the topic of police violence in Austria. 

Progress: In progress

Establish an independent and effective mechanism to address allegations of misconduct and excess use of force by law enforcement officers

Proponent:

Canada


Canada

Canada


Canada

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

In Austria, there have been discussions for years about setting up an independent mechanism to investigate abuse and excessive use of force by law enforcement officers. Human rights organisations such as Amnesty International and the UN Committee against Torture criticise the fact that Austria does not have a truly independent mechanism for investigating police violence. So far, allegations have mostly been investigated internally or by the public prosecutor’s office, which is often considered insufficiently independent. In 2023, the Austrian government took steps to address this problem. Legislative initiatives have been discussed that provide for the establishment of an independent investigative body. These initiatives aim to increase independence and transparency in the investigation of allegations against law enforcement officials. The Austrian Minister of Justice and the Ministry of the Interior have agreed as part of the government’s work to present a draft for the establishment of such a mechanism. It is expected that this mechanism will be institutionally and operationally independent of the law enforcement authorities and the Ministry of the Interior.   Despite this progress, there are still concerns about the actual independence and effectiveness of the proposed mechanism. Critics argue that without sufficient powers and resources, the new mechanism will not be much more effective than the existing structures. It remains to be seen what the final legislative proposal will look like and whether it will be approved by parliament. Human rights groups and civil society organisations continue to push for swift and substantial reforms.  

Progress: In progress

Swiftly move forward with plans for the establishment of a strong independent police complaints authority

Proponent:

Denmark


Kingdom of Denmark

Denmark


Kingdom of Denmark

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

In March 2023, the proposal to amend the Act on the Federal Bureau of Anti-Corruption was presented, which was passed by Parliament in July 2023 (BGBl. I No. 107/2023). This proposal includes the establishment of an investigation and complaints office (EBM) for allegations of mistreatment by the police (see https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXVII/ME/254?selectedStage=100). This is to be established as a separate organisational unit within the Federal Office for the Prevention and Combating of Corruption. The EBM should be interdisciplinary and multi-professional. The proposal also includes the establishment of an independent advisory board as a quality-assuring advisory body.   In principle, the establishment of an EBM is to be welcomed. The establishment of an advisory board as a quality-assuring advisory body is also to be welcomed, as is the fact that the EBM is to be interdisciplinary and multi-professional. However, according to statements from civil society organisations and the scientific community, the independence of the EES is not considered to be given in this draft law. The reason for this is that the position will be located in the BAK, an institution of the Federal Ministry of the Interior, which – just like the police itself – is subject to the instructions of the Federal Minister of the Interior (see statement: https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXVII/ME/254?selectedStage=101). The demands for an independent investigation and complaints body – required under international law – are not met by this draft (see e.g. statement by Amnesty International: https://www.amnesty.at/news-events/polizeigewalt-ermittlungsstelle-im-ministerrat-einige-verbesserungen-im-geaenderten-gesetz-doch-unabhaengigkeit-weiterhin-nicht-sichergestellt/). 

Progress: In progress

Take measures to address allegations of excessive use of force and ill-treatment by police through the establishment of an independent and effective investigations and complaints mechanism

Proponent:

Ghana


Republic of Ghana

Ghana


Republic of Ghana

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

In March 2023, the proposal to amend the Act on the Federal Bureau of Anti-Corruption was presented, which was passed by Parliament in July 2023 (BGBl. I No. 107/2023). This proposal includes the establishment of an investigation and complaints office (EBM) for allegations of mistreatment by the police (see https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXVII/ME/254?selectedStage=100). This is to be established as a separate organisational unit within the Federal Office for the Prevention and Combating of Corruption. The EBM should be interdisciplinary and multi-professional. The proposal also includes the establishment of an independent advisory board as a quality-assuring advisory body.   In principle, the establishment of an EBM is to be welcomed. The establishment of an advisory board as a quality-assuring advisory body is also to be welcomed, as is the fact that the EBM is to be interdisciplinary and multi-professional. However, according to statements from civil society organisations and the scientific community, the independence of the EES is not considered to be given in this draft law. The reason for this is that the position will be located in the BAK, an institution of the Federal Ministry of the Interior, which – just like the police itself – is subject to the instructions of the Federal Minister of the Interior (see statement: https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXVII/ME/254?selectedStage=101). The demands for an independent investigation and complaints body – required under international law – are not met by this draft (see e.g. statement by Amnesty International: https://www.amnesty.at/news-events/polizeigewalt-ermittlungsstelle-im-ministerrat-einige-verbesserungen-im-geaenderten-gesetz-doch-unabhaengigkeit-weiterhin-nicht-sichergestellt/). 

Progress: In progress

Establish an independent and effective investigation mechanism to address allegations of torture, ill treatment and other forms of abuse by police forces and others

Proponent:

Iran


Islamic Republic of Iran

Iran


Islamic Republic of Iran

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

In March 2023, the proposal to amend the Act on the Federal Bureau of Anti-Corruption was presented, which was passed by Parliament in July 2023 (BGBl. I No. 107/2023). This proposal includes the establishment of an investigation and complaints office (EBM) for allegations of mistreatment by the police (see https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXVII/ME/254?selectedStage=100). This is to be established as a separate organisational unit within the Federal Office for the Prevention and Combating of Corruption. The EBM should be interdisciplinary and multi-professional. The proposal also includes the establishment of an independent advisory board as a quality-assuring advisory body.   In principle, the establishment of an EBM is to be welcomed. The establishment of an advisory board as a quality-assuring advisory body is also to be welcomed, as is the fact that the EBM is to be interdisciplinary and multi-professional. However, according to statements from civil society organisations and the scientific community, the independence of the EES is not considered to be given in this draft law. The reason for this is that the position will be located in the BAK, an institution of the Federal Ministry of the Interior, which – just like the police itself – is subject to the instructions of the Federal Minister of the Interior (see statement: https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXVII/ME/254?selectedStage=101). The demands for an independent investigation and complaints body – required under international law – are not met by this draft (see e.g. statement by Amnesty International: https://www.amnesty.at/news-events/polizeigewalt-ermittlungsstelle-im-ministerrat-einige-verbesserungen-im-geaenderten-gesetz-doch-unabhaengigkeit-weiterhin-nicht-sichergestellt/). 

Progress: In progress

Continue its efforts on the national investigation and complaints body for cases of alleged police misconduct, and to integrate human rights and anti-discrimination norms into police training courses

Proponent:

Australia


Australia

Australia


Australia

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

The current status in Austria shows that progress continues to be made with regard to the establishment of a state investigation and complaints office for cases of alleged police misconduct. There are ongoing discussions and recommendations to establish and effectively utilise this body. At the same time, it is emphasised that it is important to promote the integration of human rights and anti-discrimination norms into police training in order to strengthen respect for human rights and combat discrimination. In March 2023, the proposal to amend the Act on the Federal Bureau of Anti-Corruption was presented, which was passed by Parliament in July 2023 (BGBl. I No. 107/2023). This proposal includes the establishment of an investigation and complaints office (EBM) for allegations of mistreatment by the police (see https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXVII/ME/254?selectedStage=100). This is to be established as a separate organisational unit within the Federal Office for the Prevention and Combating of Corruption. The EBM should be interdisciplinary and multi-professional. The proposal also includes the establishment of an independent advisory board as a quality-assuring advisory body.   In principle, the establishment of an EBM is to be welcomed. The establishment of an advisory board as a quality-assuring advisory body is also to be welcomed, as is the fact that the EBM is to be interdisciplinary and multi-professional. However, according to statements from civil society organisations and the scientific community, the independence of the EES is not considered to be given in this draft law. The reason for this is that the position will be located in the BAK, an institution of the Federal Ministry of the Interior, which – just like the police itself – is subject to the instructions of the Federal Minister of the Interior (see statement: https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXVII/ME/254?selectedStage=101). The demands for an independent investigation and complaints body – required under international law – are not met by this draft (see e.g. statement by Amnesty International: https://www.amnesty.at/news-events/polizeigewalt-ermittlungsstelle-im-ministerrat-einige-verbesserungen-im-geaenderten-gesetz-doch-unabhaengigkeit-weiterhin-nicht-sichergestellt/). 

Progress: In progress

Continue working on the program to establish a national body to investigate and examine complaints related to unlawful acts of the police

Proponent:

Russia


Russian Federation

Russia


Russian Federation

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

In March 2023, the proposal to amend the Act on the Federal Bureau of Anti-Corruption was presented, which was passed by Parliament in July 2023 (BGBl. I No. 107/2023). This proposal includes the establishment of an investigation and complaints office (EBM) for allegations of mistreatment by the police (see https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXVII/ME/254?selectedStage=100). This is to be established as a separate organisational unit within the Federal Office for the Prevention and Combating of Corruption. The EBM should be interdisciplinary and multi-professional. The proposal also includes the establishment of an independent advisory board as a quality-assuring advisory body.   In principle, the establishment of an EBM is to be welcomed. The establishment of an advisory board as a quality-assuring advisory body is also to be welcomed, as is the fact that the EBM is to be interdisciplinary and multi-professional. However, according to statements from civil society organisations and the scientific community, the independence of the EES is not considered to be given in this draft law. The reason for this is that the position will be located in the BAK, an institution of the Federal Ministry of the Interior, which – just like the police itself – is subject to the instructions of the Federal Minister of the Interior (see statement: https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXVII/ME/254?selectedStage=101). The demands for an independent investigation and complaints body – required under international law – are not met by this draft (see e.g. statement by Amnesty International: https://www.amnesty.at/news-events/polizeigewalt-ermittlungsstelle-im-ministerrat-einige-verbesserungen-im-geaenderten-gesetz-doch-unabhaengigkeit-weiterhin-nicht-sichergestellt/). 

Progress: No progress

Keep up its efforts to prevent racial profiling by the police and continue to provide all law enforcement personnel with racial sensitivity training

Proponent:

Greece


Hellenic Republic

Greece


Hellenic Republic

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

In order to fulfil this recommendation, Austria should take concrete steps to ensure that those who practice racial discrimination and racial profiling are held accountable. This is an important step towards a fairer and more inclusive society (see Racism Report 2022 by ZARA- Zivilcourage und Antirassismusarbeit as PDF: here). This includes training for prospective judges and police officers as well as the integration of human rights education into the curricula of Austrian schools. The training of prison guards, including topics such as human rights and anti-discrimination, is carried out in consultation with the staff representatives (see Federal Law Gazette II No. 129/2011, Overall legal regulation for basic training for employees in pay group v1 in the prison service: https://www.ris.bka.gv.at/GeltendeFassung.wxe?Abfrage=Bundesnormen&Gesetzesnummer=20007252).   Although progress in human rights education is recognisable, it should be noted that there is still a considerable need for action. Positive approaches such as training for prospective judges and police officers and the integration of human rights education into curricula should be further strengthened. The mention of the training of judicial guards is commendable, but additional efforts are needed to achieve comprehensive social sensitisation.  In Austria, there are reports of racist police checks in which people are discriminated against on the basis of their ethnic origin or skin colour. According to the Amnesty Annual Report 2022, such practices have been documented time and again in police work, which places a particular burden on the communities affected. The Styrian Anti-Discrimination Agency confirms that racial profiling violates the ban on discrimination and must be urgently reformed in order to protect the rights of all citizens (Amnesty International Annual Report: https://www.amnesty.de/informieren/amnesty-report/oesterreich-2022).  In Austria, there is still a need to strengthen measures to combat racial discrimination and racial profiling. This requires not only a clear condemnation of such practices, but also the implementation of accountability measures for those who commit, aid and abet or cover up racial discrimination. Promoting transparency, education and training for law enforcement agencies and strengthening the rights of victims are crucial steps to combat racial discrimination and racial profiling. Measures should be taken to hold people who practise racial discrimination and racial profiling accountable (Racism Report 2022 by ZARA- Civil Courage and Anti-Racism Work as PDF: https://assets.zara.or.at/media/rassismusreport/ZARA-Rassismus_Report_2022.pdf). 

Progress: No progress

Make efforts to prohibit racial profiling by the police and continue to provide racism awareness training to all law enforcement officials

Proponent:

Angola


Republic of Angola

Angola


Republic of Angola

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

In order to fulfil this recommendation, Austria should take concrete steps to ensure that those who practice racial discrimination and racial profiling are held accountable. This is an important step towards a fairer and more inclusive society (see Racism Report 2022 by ZARA- Zivilcourage und Antirassismusarbeit as PDF: here). This includes training for prospective judges and police officers as well as the integration of human rights education into the curricula of Austrian schools. The training of prison guards, including topics such as human rights and anti-discrimination, is carried out in consultation with the staff representatives (see Federal Law Gazette II No. 129/2011, Overall legal regulation for basic training for employees in pay group v1 in the prison service: https://www.ris.bka.gv.at/GeltendeFassung.wxe?Abfrage=Bundesnormen&Gesetzesnummer=20007252).   Although progress in human rights education is recognisable, it should be noted that there is still a considerable need for action. Positive approaches such as training for prospective judges and police officers and the integration of human rights education into curricula should be further strengthened. The mention of the training of judicial guards is commendable, but additional efforts are needed to achieve comprehensive social sensitisation. In Austria, there are reports of racist police checks in which people are discriminated against on the basis of their ethnic origin or skin colour. According to the Amnesty Annual Report 2022, such practices have been documented time and again in police work, which places a particular burden on the communities affected. The Styrian Anti-Discrimination Agency confirms that racial profiling violates the ban on discrimination and must be urgently reformed in order to protect the rights of all citizens (Amnesty International Annual Report: https://www.amnesty.de/informieren/amnesty-report/oesterreich-2022). In Austria, there is still a need to strengthen measures to combat racial discrimination and racial profiling. This requires not only a clear condemnation of such practices, but also the implementation of accountability measures for those who commit, aid and abet or cover up racial discrimination. Promoting transparency, education and training for law enforcement agencies and strengthening the rights of victims are crucial steps to combat racial discrimination and racial profiling. Measures should be taken to hold people who practise racial discrimination and racial profiling accountable (Racism Report 2022 by ZARA- Civil Courage and Anti-Racism Work as PDF: https://assets.zara.or.at/media/rassismusreport/ZARA-Rassismus_Report_2022.pdf). 

Progress: No progress

Enhance sensitization and training programmes for law enforcement officials on human rights education, particularly on racial sensitivity

Proponent:

Pakistan


Islamic Republic of Pakistan

Pakistan


Islamic Republic of Pakistan

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

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Progress: Partial success

Continue combating terrorism and violent extremism

Proponent:

Lebanon


Lebanese Republic

Lebanon


Lebanese Republic

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

On 1 February 2022, Section 4(3a)(2) of the Ordinance of the Federal Minister of Justice of 16 June 1986 on the Implementation of the Public Prosecutor’s Office Act (DV-StAG) was amended in order to enshrine in law the establishment of special competences for terrorist criminal cases in public prosecutor’s offices with more than ten systematised posts (see DV-StAG: https://www.ris.bka.gv.at/eli/bgbl/1986/338/A1P4/NOR40241334). At the same time, Section 32 (5) of the Court Organisation Act (GOG) created the legal obligation to also introduce special jurisdiction for criminal terrorism cases at the regional courts. With the entry into force of the Counter-Terrorism Act (TeBG, Federal Law Gazette I No. 159/2021) on 1 September 2021 and 1 January 2022, additional measures were taken to combat terrorism (see: TeBG, Federal Law Gazette I No. 159/2021: https://www.ris.bka.gv.at/Dokumente/BgblAuth/BGBLA_2021_I_159/BGBLA_2021_I_159.html). The law contains comprehensive provisions that enable the authorities to take more effective action against terrorist and anti-state offences, genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes. The Criminal Records Act also introduced a separate labelling of such crimes (see MVAG, BGBI. I No. 223/2022: https://ris.bka.gv.at/Dokumente/BgblAuth/BGBLA_2022_I_223/BGBLA_2022_I_223.). The Coordination Unit for the Prevention of Extremism and Deradicalisation in Prisons aims to gain information and insights through closer cooperation with prisons, courts, public prosecutors‘ offices and authorities. It deals with risk assessments, the monitoring of external contacts, the definition of training and further education programmes, the implementation of inter-agency case discussions and the monitoring of measures and structures in the prison system. The target group is offenders convicted under the Prohibition Act or for terrorist offences or international crimes, as well as inmates suspected of radicalisation (see BMJ website: https://www.bmj.gv.at/themen/Strafvollzug/Koordinationsstelle-Extremismuspr%C3%A4vention-und-Deradikalisierung-(KED).html). A national action plan to combat right-wing extremism and prevent extremism and radicalisation may be planned, but has not been implemented. In 2018, an „Austrian Strategy for the Prevention of Extremism and Deradicalisation“ was adopted, which has led to changes in parts (see PDF: https://www.dsn.gv.at/501/files/Praevention/767_Strategie_Extremismuspraevention_und_Deradikalisierung_publikation_210x297mm_DE_WEB_20190115.pdf).   In general, it should be noted that comprehensive measures have been taken in this area. However, there is concern that the strong emphasis on combating extremism in security policy practice does not jeopardise other fundamental rights and freedoms. It should be noted that in recent years, the responsible members of government have repeatedly gone to great lengths to advertise specific large-scale actions against extremism (e.g. the media-famous Aktion Luxor), while in many of these cases the measures and investigations actually carried out did not stand up to subsequent judicial review for the most part.
  As part of the Government Plan 2025-2029, the Federal Government has set itself the goal of countering extremism with targeted measures and strengthening social resilience (see Government Plan 2025-2029: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/die-bundesregierung/regierungsdokumente.html).The website of the Directorate of State Security and Intelligence (DSN) presents current developments and measures in the area of „Preventing extremism and deradicalisation in Austria“ (see website: here). The focus is on the implementation of the „Austrian Action Plan for the Prevention of Extremism and Deradicalisation“, which was published in July 2023 (see NAP: https://www.dsn.gv.at/216/files/BNED_NAP_Deutsch_web_bf_20240527.pdf). The DSN emphasises the importance of coordinated cooperation between state authorities, educational institutions and civil society organisations in order to effectively counter extremist tendencies.   
An important aspect of current efforts is to raise awareness among the population and provide preventative educational programmes. The DSN also provides various resources and information to better educate professionals and the general public about the risks and signs of extremism. The aim is to increase security in Austria and counter extremist influences through early intervention and targeted deradicalisation programmes;
There are currently clear challenges in the prevention of extremism in Austria. The Extremism Advice Centre points out existing gaps, particularly in the accessibility and availability of prevention services for young people. There is a lack of sufficiently specialised contact points and long-term projects that address the diverse needs of different target groups. In addition, the „RE:WORK – Preventing extremism in schools“ project was launched to provide schools with more support in their prevention work. The project aims to train teachers and pupils in dealing with extremist tendencies and provide them with tools for effective prevention.
 
As part of the Government Plan 2025-2029, the Federal Government has set itself the goal of countering extremism with targeted measures and strengthening social resilience (see Government Plan 2025-2029: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/die-bundesregierung/regierungsdokumente.html). One of the current priorities in the fight against terrorism in Austria is the need for basic research. In November 2021, Interior Minister Karl Nehammer emphasised the importance of a deep understanding of radicalisation processes and the ideological motives behind terrorism for the development of effective prevention strategies. The research should help to improve targeted measures to prevent terrorist attacks and combat extremist networks.
In addition, the 5th Prevention Summit on Extremism and Terrorism was held in March 2024. The summit serves as a platform for the exchange of best practices and the development of new concepts for preventing extremism and terrorism.
Overall, these developments show that a comprehensive understanding and continuous exchange are essential elements for optimising security strategies in Austria and taking effective action against terrorism and extremism.
  As part of the Government Plan 2025-2029, the federal government has set itself the goal of countering extremism with targeted measures and strengthening social resilience (see Government Plan 2025-2029: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/die-bundesregierung/regierungsdokumente.html).In April 2021, the Office for the Protection of the Constitution reported an increasing threat from right-wing extremism in Austria. The 2021 constitutional protection report emphasises that right-wing extremist groups and individuals are increasingly spreading violent and extremist ideologies, particularly through their presence on the internet. These actors often use conspiracy theories and pseudo-scientific arguments to spread their messages (see the 2021 Report on the Protection of the Constitution, page 20ff: https://www.dsn.gv.at/501/files/VSB/VSB_2021_bf_012023.pdf).   In addition, a parliamentary question was submitted in June 2021, which emphasised the need to combat right-wing extremism in Austria more effectively. The answers to this enquiry made it clear that, in addition to monitoring and criminal prosecution, preventative measures are also essential. These include increased education and awareness-raising initiatives as well as closer cooperation between security authorities and civil society organisations in order to curb the spread of right-wing extremist ideologies at an early stage and reduce their influence on society (see Action Plan against Right-Wing Extremism 2021: <a href=https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXVII/A/1656< https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXVII/A/1656).
  As part of the Government Plan 2025-2029, the Federal Government has set itself the goal of countering extremism with targeted measures and strengthening social resilience (see Government Plan 2025-2029: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/die-bundesregierung/regierungsdokumente.html).

Progress: In progress

Cease torture and inhuman or degrading treatment in places of detention and ensure that those allegations are investigated impartially and perpetrators are prosecuted and convicted

Proponent:

North Korea


Democratic People's Republic of Korea

North Korea


Democratic People's Republic of Korea

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

Individual legal protection in prisons is primarily regulated by the Prison Act. Legal protection in the event of restrictions of liberty outside of prisons is guaranteed in particular by the Accommodation Act and the Residential Homes Act. There are no plans to further strengthen individual legal protection. There is insufficient data on the practical exercise of legal protection.   A practical problem with allegations of ill-treatment and torture is necessarily that accusations are often difficult to prove and that witness testimony is often unreliable. There is also a need for greater awareness and training of prison staff to ensure that human rights standards are met in practice. The training regulations have not been modernised for some time and further training in the area of human dignity and human rights is only optional.  In addition, however, a review of the conditions in all forms of deprivation of liberty, not only of state but also private operators, is carried out by the relevant commissions of the Ombudsman Board in accordance with the OPCAT (Review of the conditions of deprivation of liberty by the Ombudsman Board in accordance with OPCAT: https://volksanwaltschaft.gv.at/artikel/opcat-umfassendes-menschenrechtsmonitoring-durch-die-volksanwaltschaft ). Anonymised individual cases are published according to annual review priorities agreed with the Human Rights Advisory Council (see Website of the Austrian Ombudsman Board: Preventive human rights monitoring). It would also be desirable if even better-prepared statistical data were available, in particular on abuses in the area of criminal detention and police detention.  Even though a separate investigation and complaints office for cases of abuse and torture has now been set up for police activities (see Gesetz über das Bundesamt zur Korruptionsprävention und Korruptionsbekämpfung, Änderung (2089 d.B.)), there is no comparable body for the activities of judicial police officers. It would be necessary under fundamental rights to establish a genuine organisationally separate and independent complaints office with low access barriers for all bodies whose employees exercise direct command and coercive power. Individual legal protection in prisons is primarily regulated by the Prison Act. Legal protection in the event of restrictions of liberty outside of prisons is guaranteed in particular by the Accommodation Act and the Residential Homes Act. There are no plans to further strengthen individual legal protection. There is insufficient data on the practical exercise of legal protection.   A practical problem with allegations of ill-treatment is necessarily that accusations are often difficult to prove and that witness statements are often unreliable. There is also a need for greater awareness and training of prison staff to ensure that human rights standards are met in practice. The training regulations have not been modernised for some time and further training in the area of human dignity and human rights is only optional.   In addition, however, a review of the conditions in all forms of deprivation of liberty, not only of state but also private operators, is carried out by the relevant commissions of the Ombudsman’s Office in accordance with the OPCAT (more details Article: Comprehensive human rights monitoring by the Austrian Ombudsman Board). Anonymised individual cases are published according to annual review priorities agreed with the Human Rights Advisory Council (see Website of the Austrian Ombudsman Board). It would also be desirable if even better-prepared statistical data were available, in particular on abuses in the area of criminal detention and police detention.   Even though a separate investigation and complaints office for cases of abuse has now been set up for the activities of the police (see Government bill: Federal (constitutional) law), there is no comparable office for the activities of prison officers. It would be constitutionally required to establish a genuine organisationally separate and independent complaints office with low access hurdles for all bodies whose employees exercise direct command and coercive power;

Progress: In progress

Take measures aimed at reducing the number of detainees and ensure that prisons were provided with adequate financial resources to fulfil their aim of rehabilitation and social reintegration

Proponent:

Zambia


Republic of Zambia

Zambia


Republic of Zambia

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

There are currently 191 unfilled posts in Austrian prisons, including 111 in the executive service and 80 in administration. This leads to a considerable workload for the existing staff, who have to compensate for both staff shortages and absences due to illness. The answers to two parliamentary questions make it clear that the staff shortage has existed for years and that the situation remains tense (see two questions: https://www.parlament.gv.at/dokument/XXVII/AB/17366/imfname_1624738.pdf and https://www.parlament.gv.at/dokument/XXVII/AB/17457/imfname_1625033.pdf). In the last three years, the number of staff has not been increased, although the number of inmates has risen. The government’s current practice is criticised as a lack of administration. Posts are not increased with the argument that they cannot be filled anyway, and there are no measures to make the professions in the prisons more attractive. There is a particular lack of specialised staff such as social workers and psychologists. A more attractive job profile with fair pay is considered essential to remedy the situation. Despite measures such as the increase in basic salaries and a new recruiting and image campaign, filling vacancies remains challenging. Further measures, such as the heavy labour regulation for all justice guard employees, are considered necessary (see also statistics on the Ministry of Justice website on the distribution of inmate numbers: https://www.justiz.gv.at/strafvollzug/statistik/verteilung-des-insassinnen-bzw-insassenstandes.2c94848542ec49810144457e2e6f3de9.de.html). Legislatively, there are no recognisable changes that will lead to a reduction in the number of people in prison.  In a study published in March 2023 by the Ludwig Boltzmann Institute of Fundamental and Human Rights (LBI-GMR), other problem areas were also pointed out as alternatives to the deprivation of liberty of children (e.g. complete removal of juveniles from detention centres, capacities of juvenile psychiatry).   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). Prisons tend to be at or above capacity. This has a negative impact on the quality of prison conditions and the opportunities for rehabilitation and resocialisation. Due to limited resources and overcrowding in prisons, it is often difficult to effectively fulfil the purpose of resocialisation (see also statistics on the website of the Ministry of Justice, on the distribution of the inmate population: https://www.justiz.gv.at/strafvollzug/statistik/verteilung-des-insassinnen-bzw-insassenstandes.2c94848542ec49810144457e2e6f3de9.de.html). In addition, the Court of Audit published a report on the resocialisation measures of the justice system in August 2024 (see report: https://www.rechnungshof.gv.at/rh/home/home/2024_8_Resozialisierung_Justiz.pdf). From January to May 2023, the ACA audited the measures for the resocialisation of prisoners in prisons at the Federal Ministry of Justice and the Directorate General for the Execution of Sentences. It also audited the association „NEUSTART – Bewährungshilfe, Konfliktregelung, Soziale Arbeit“ with regard to cooperation and quality management, analysing and assessing the strategic orientation, impact objectives, organisation, staff, specific resocialisation measures and interface management.   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).

Progress: In progress

Take additional measures to address the problem of overcrowding in places of detention and ensure the social reintegration of convicts

Proponent:

Belarus


Republic of Belarus

Belarus


Republic of Belarus

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

There are currently 191 unfilled posts in Austrian prisons, including 111 in the executive service and 80 in administration. This leads to a considerable workload for the existing staff, who have to compensate for both staff shortages and absences due to illness. The answers to two parliamentary questions make it clear that the staff shortage has existed for years and that the situation remains tense (see two questions: https://www.parlament.gv.at/dokument/XXVII/AB/17366/imfname_1624738.pdf and https://www.parlament.gv.at/dokument/XXVII/AB/17457/imfname_1625033.pdf). In the last three years, the number of staff has not been increased, although the number of inmates has risen. The government’s current practice is criticised as a lack of administration. Posts are not increased with the argument that they cannot be filled anyway, and there are no measures to make the professions in the prisons more attractive. There is a particular lack of specialised staff such as social workers and psychologists. A more attractive job profile with fair pay is considered essential to remedy the situation. Despite measures such as the increase in basic salaries and a new recruiting and image campaign, filling vacancies remains challenging. Further measures, such as the heavy labour regulation for all justice guard employees, are considered necessary (see also statistics on the Ministry of Justice website on the distribution of inmate numbers: https://www.justiz.gv.at/strafvollzug/statistik/verteilung-des-insassinnen-bzw-insassenstandes.2c94848542ec49810144457e2e6f3de9.de.html). Legislatively, there are no recognisable changes that will lead to a reduction in the number of people in prison.  In a study published in March 2023 by the Ludwig Boltzmann Institute of Fundamental and Human Rights (LBI-GMR), other problem areas were also pointed out as alternatives to the deprivation of liberty of children (e.g. complete removal of juveniles from detention centres, capacities of juvenile psychiatry).   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). Prisons tend to be at or above capacity. This has a negative impact on the quality of prison conditions and the opportunities for rehabilitation and resocialisation. Due to limited resources and overcrowding in prisons, it is often difficult to effectively fulfil the purpose of resocialisation (see also statistics on the website of the Ministry of Justice, on the distribution of the inmate population: https://www.justiz.gv.at/strafvollzug/statistik/verteilung-des-insassinnen-bzw-insassenstandes.2c94848542ec49810144457e2e6f3de9.de.html). In addition, the Court of Audit published a report on the resocialisation measures of the justice system in August 2024 (see report: https://www.rechnungshof.gv.at/rh/home/home/2024_8_Resozialisierung_Justiz.pdf). From January to May 2023, the ACA audited the measures for the resocialisation of prisoners in prisons at the Federal Ministry of Justice and the Directorate General for the Execution of Sentences. It also audited the association „NEUSTART – Bewährungshilfe, Konfliktregelung, Soziale Arbeit“ with regard to cooperation and quality management, analysing and assessing the strategic orientation, impact objectives, organisation, staff, specific resocialisation measures and interface management.   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).

Progress: In progress

Strengthen efforts in preventing prison overcrowding, especially in this time of pandemic

Proponent:

Indonesia


Republic of Indonesia

Indonesia


Republic of Indonesia

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

There are currently 191 unfilled posts in Austrian prisons, including 111 in the executive service and 80 in administration. This leads to a considerable workload for the existing staff, who have to compensate for both staff shortages and absences due to illness. The answers to two parliamentary questions make it clear that the staff shortage has existed for years and that the situation remains tense (see two questions: https://www.parlament.gv.at/dokument/XXVII/AB/17366/imfname_1624738.pdf and https://www.parlament.gv.at/dokument/XXVII/AB/17457/imfname_1625033.pdf). In the last three years, the number of staff has not been increased, although the number of inmates has risen. The government’s current practice is criticised as a lack of administration. Posts are not increased with the argument that they cannot be filled anyway, and there are no measures to make the professions in the prisons more attractive. There is a particular lack of specialised staff such as social workers and psychologists. A more attractive job profile with fair pay is considered essential to remedy the situation. Despite measures such as the increase in basic salaries and a new recruiting and image campaign, filling vacancies remains challenging. Further measures, such as the heavy labour regulation for all justice guard employees, are considered necessary (see also statistics on the Ministry of Justice website on the distribution of inmate numbers: https://www.justiz.gv.at/strafvollzug/statistik/verteilung-des-insassinnen-bzw-insassenstandes.2c94848542ec49810144457e2e6f3de9.de.html). Legislatively, there are no recognisable changes that will lead to a reduction in the number of people in prison.  In a study published in March 2023 by the Ludwig Boltzmann Institute of Fundamental and Human Rights (LBI-GMR), other problem areas were also pointed out as alternatives to the deprivation of liberty of children (e.g. complete removal of juveniles from detention centres, capacities of juvenile psychiatry).   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).

Progress: No progress

Reform preventive detention measures for offenders with mental illness by developing review mechanisms consistent with international practice, based on defined psychiatric assessment standards

Proponent:

Ireland


Ireland

Ireland


Ireland

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

On 15 December 2022, the „Measures Enforcement Adjustment Act“ was passed by the National Council (on the parliament’s website: Maßnahmenvollzugsanpassungsgesetz, 2022). However, this law only deals with the first part of a planned two-part reform project. In particular, the requirements for admission to and release from the penitentiary system were changed with the aim of reducing the total number of offenders. These first reform steps resulted in changes to the Criminal Code (StGB), the Code of Criminal Procedure (StPO) and the Juvenile Courts Act (JGG). Only the second part of the planned reform project is intended to improve the care provided in detention centres and the therapies etc. on offer. However, no progress is currently being made on the second part of the reform. Civil society fears that the steps taken so far will bring too little practical change, as important issues such as the provision and funding of care and support before, during and after placement as well as an offer of adequate medical care remain unconsidered and offenders with mental illnesses still do not have sufficient access to medical treatment.   A study published by the LBI-GMR in March 2023 on alternatives to the deprivation of liberty of children pointed out further problem areas (e.g. complete removal of juveniles from detention centres, capacities of juvenile psychiatry). Another ongoing project is dedicated to the necessary strengthening of procedural rights of persons with psychosocial impairments in detention centres (see LBI-GMR study: https://gmr.lbg.ac.at/forschung/menschenwuerde-und-oeffentliche-sicherheit/). 

Progress: In progress

Ensure an adequate staffing situation within the penitentiary system

Proponent:

Norway


Kingdom of Norway

Norway


Kingdom of Norway

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

Prisons in Austria have been operating at full capacity for years and are overcrowded, while at the same time there is a significant shortage of staff. This was noted by the Austrian Court of Audit in its latest reports, which has a negative impact on resocialisation efforts. Despite some reforms and measures, many recommendations to improve the situation, such as investment in staff development and improved operational structures, remain incompletely implemented. For example, of 15 recommendations reviewed, only five were fully implemented. In 2023, 96 per cent of posts were filled, but there was still a shortfall of over 130 full-time employees. The employment rate of prisoners varies greatly, for example in 2023 it was 69 per cent in Vienna-Simmering Prison and 94 per cent in Gerasdorf. In 2022, the average duration of employment per prisoner was 3.16 hours per working day. The ACA emphasises the need to increase employment opportunities for prisoners and adapt the training on offer in order to increase the chances of successful reintegration into society (see ACA report, Management and coordination of the prison system; follow-up review, 2024,: https://www.rechnungshof.gv.at/rh/home/home/home_7/2024_9_Straf_Massnahmenvollzug_FuP.pdf).  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).

Progress: In progress

Further ensure that all detainees, both legally and in practice, receive all basic legal protection from the outset of their deprivation of liberty

Proponent:

Serbia


Republic of Serbia

Serbia


Republic of Serbia

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

Individual legal protection in prisons is primarily regulated by the Prison Act. Legal protection in the event of restrictions of liberty outside of prisons is guaranteed in particular by the Accommodation Act and the Residential Homes Act. There are no plans to further strengthen individual legal protection. There is no sufficiently prepared data on the practical exercise of legal protection. 

Progress: In progress

Continue efforts to improve access to justice for victims of discrimination, including discrimination based on hate speech and ethnic, racial or religious grounds

Proponent:

Cuba


Republic of Cuba

Cuba


Republic of Cuba

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

The 2020 EU Action Plan against Racism calls on the member states to draw up National Action Plans against Racism by the end of 2022. In Austria, the Federal Minister for Women, Family, Integration and Media in the Federal Chancellery is responsible for drawing up the National Action Plan against Racism and Discrimination. This National Action Plan is also anchored in the current government programme (EU Action Plan against Racism 2020: https://ec.europa.eu/migrant-integration/library-document/union-equality-eu-anti-racism-action-plan-2020-2025_en). Austria has also referred to the planned National Action Plan against Racism in various other recommendations regarding the implementation and promotion of measures to combat racism, discrimination, xenophobia and intolerance. This shows its particular importance. Contrary to this assurance and contrary to the agreement in the last government programme, no national action plan to combat racism was adopted and no significant other programmes in the area of anti-racism work were implemented, with the exception of the area of anti-Semitism.  Racism remains a serious social problem in Austria. The latest report by SOS Mitmensch and other studies show that racist discrimination and hate crimes are on the rise. Anti-Muslim racism in particular has increased in recent years, partly fuelled by political rhetoric and campaigns targeting Muslim communities. Anti-Muslim hate crimes are common and are often supported by certain political groups. In 2023, the Documentation Centre on Islamophobia and Anti-Muslim Racism recorded a total of 1522 racist attacks against Muslims and people perceived to be Muslim. Compared to the previous year, 263 more cases were reported to us offline, which represents an increase of over 100 per cent of active case reports. The report shows a striking increase in case reports from the education sector. See report: here).
Austria has various laws in place to combat racism, including the Prohibition Act and the Equal Treatment Act. However, these legal frameworks are not always applied consistently, leading to calls for stronger policy measures and more rigorous enforcement of existing laws. Education and awareness-raising measures are also crucial to raise awareness of racial discrimination in the population and bring about long-term change (see SOS-Mitmensch report: https://www.sosmitmensch.at/site/momagazin/alleausgaben/7/article/395.html&ts=1720702499859).
ZARA’s report for the year 2023 provides a comprehensive overview of the extent and various forms of racism in Austria. A total of 1302 reports were documented and processed, almost 60% of which concerned online racism. This underlines the importance of digital platforms as a place for racist incidents, which can often be documented and reported using simple screenshots. The public sphere and the goods/services sector were particularly affected, with 58.2% and 15.9% of reports respectively. State authorities and institutions were involved in 11% of cases, while racist incidents in the police were only formally complained about in 4 out of 58 cases. In most of the other cases, those affected sought support from ZARA through counselling sessions and legal advice. A significant number (almost 78%) of reports came from witnesses, while 22% were submitted by those directly affected. The report also criticises the lack of implementation of a National Action Plan against Racism in Austria, although the need for structural change and combating institutional racism is obvious. There are still challenges in dealing with racism in Austria and the need for social support and structural changes to effectively address these issues (see Racism Report 2023, March 2024 edition: https://assets.zara.or.at/media/rassismusreport/ZARA_RassismusReport_2023_DE.pdf).  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).It should be noted that in Austria, both the development and implementation of measures to combat discrimination have been driven forward in close cooperation with various civil society organisations. However, it must be noted that the public discourse often focuses on so-called „immigrant anti-Semitism“ and thus accuses people with migration experience from Turkey and Arabic-speaking countries in particular of anti-Semitism across the board. However, there is a lack of clear responsibility at federal level to combat anti-Black racism, anti-Muslim racism and racism in general. Few concrete measures have been taken so far. There is a lack of targeted awareness-raising measures that address discrimination against people with disabilities and limited abilities as well as aspects of self-empowerment and human rights. Austria has not yet implemented some of the recommendations of the European Commission against Racism and Intolerance (ECRI) from its report „General Policy Recommendations No. 15 on Combating Hate Speech (2015)“ (see: ECRI General Policy Recommendations No.15 on Combating Hate Speech,2015: https://rm.coe.int/ecri-general-policy-recommendation-no-15-on-combating-hate-speech/16808b5b01). This includes the pending ratification of the „Additional Protocol to the Convention on Cybercrime“ and the „Protocol No. 12 to the Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms.“  A large number of measures have been taken since 2021 to combat all forms of antisemitism. A central coordination centre for the topic of anti-Semitism has been set up at the Federal Chancellery and a national strategy against anti-Semitism has been published (see https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/dam/jcr:8bd2975f-0483-4e74-abd9-d66446195d7c/antisemitismusstrategie.pdf). Even though the position has now been downgraded to a department in the Policy Section, it still exists in principle.   Two implementation reports are available (for 2021 and 2022). For the education sector, a strategy paper on the „Prevention of antisemitism through education“ was developed in 2022, which contains recommendations for the implementation of the National Strategy against Antisemitism for the Austrian education administration and teacher training institutions (see: https://oead.at/fileadmin/Dokumente/oead.at/KIM/Downloadcenter/OeAD_E.AT_Strategiepapier_FIN_01.pdf). These recommendations were discussed at the symposium on „Preventing antisemitism through education“ in September 2022. In 2022, the National Forum against Antisemitism was also established to pool knowledge, combat antisemitism and promote Jewish life in Austria. The body is made up of representatives from the federal government, the provinces, municipalities, social partners, academia, religious communities, Jewish museums and civil society. A working group on the documentation of anti-Semitic incidents was also established with the aim of learning from the experiences of other organisations that already document racist, anti-Semitic, etc. incidents. The aim is to learn from the experiences of other organisations already documenting racist, anti-Semitic incidents in order to set up an anti-Semitism documentation centre that meets current requirements.   Parliament also commissioned a study on anti-Semitism in Austria, which was presented in April 2023 (see https://www.parlament.gv.at/dokument/fachinfos/publikationen/Langbericht-Antisemitismus-2022-Oesterreichweite-Ergebnisse.pdf). While there are political strategies against anti-Semitism, there is no comparable approach to anti-Muslim racism. Instead, measures are taken that lead to prejudgements of people perceived as Muslim. The establishment of the Documentation Centre for Political Islam and Operation Luxor reinforce a general suspicion of Muslims and lead to people withdrawing from social discourse, a reduction in diversity of opinion and restrictions on participation. Freedom of opinion, freedom of the press, freedom of religion and freedom of assembly can be restricted on the basis of membership of a particular group, which has a negative impact on basic democratic principles (website of the Federal Chancellery – Documentation Centre for Political Islam: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/nachrichten-der-bundesregierung/2020/integrationsministerin-raab-dokumentationsstelle-politischer-islam-nimmt-arbeit-auf.html). Regarding hate speech on the internet, the Hate on the Net Act was introduced to help victims of online hate, including group-focused misanthropy (HiNBG see: https://www.ris.bka.gv.at/Dokumente/BgblAuth/BGBLA_2020_I_148/BGBLA_2020_I_148.html). 

Progress: No progress

Hold those accountable who commit, aid or abet racial discrimination and profiling

Proponent:

Pakistan


Islamic Republic of Pakistan

Pakistan


Islamic Republic of Pakistan

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

In Austria, there are reports of racist police checks in which people are discriminated against on the basis of their ethnic origin or skin colour. According to the Amnesty Annual Report 2022, such practices have been documented time and again in police work, which places a particular burden on the communities affected. The Styrian Anti-Discrimination Agency confirms that racial profiling violates the ban on discrimination and must be urgently reformed in order to protect the rights of all citizens (Amnesty International Annual Report: https://www.amnesty.de/informieren/amnesty-report/oesterreich-2022). In Austria, there is still a need to strengthen measures to combat racial discrimination and racial profiling. This requires not only a clear condemnation of such practices, but also the implementation of accountability measures for those who commit, aid and abet or cover up racial discrimination. Promoting transparency, education and training for law enforcement agencies and strengthening the rights of victims are crucial steps to combat racial discrimination and racial profiling. Measures should be taken to hold people who practise racial discrimination and racial profiling accountable (Racism Report 2022 by ZARA- Civil Courage and Anti-Racism Work as PDF: https://assets.zara.or.at/media/rassismusreport/ZARA-Rassismus_Report_2022.pdf). 

Progress: In progress

Protect those who face persecution because of their religious beliefs

Proponent:

Nicaragua


Republic of Nicaragua

Nicaragua


Republic of Nicaragua

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

{Diskriminierung-Religion}

Progress: In progress

Pursue efforts to combat hate speech and violence on the internet while respecting the freedom of expression

Proponent:

Czech Republic


Czech Republic

Czech Republic


Czech Republic

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

Regarding hate speech on the internet, the Hate on the Net Act was introduced to help victims of online hate, including group-focused misanthropy (HiNBG see: here). Another positive development is that the Federal Ministry of the Interior has integrated the systematic recording of prejudicial motives in intentional criminal offences into police work as part of an EU project. For this purpose, the category „Hate crime“ was introduced in the police logging programme (PAD) as a separate „Motive“ tab with the title „Prejudice motives (hate crime) according to victim groups“. The recorded data is transmitted to the justice system via a separate interface: Electronic Legal Transactions (ERV) and subjected to quality assurance by the Federal Ministry of the Interior. Around 30,000 police officers throughout Austria have been prepared for this task by completing e-learning seminars and receiving training as multipliers. The police now work on the basis of a victim-centred approach, actively listening to those affected and investigating consistently to ensure appropriate prosecution. These measures are designed to help tackle bias crime and improve safety for all citizens.
 In the Government Plan 2025-2029, the Federal Government plans to set up a National Action Plan against Hate Crime with the aim of taking targeted action against hate crime (see Government Plan 2025-2029: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/die-bundesregierung/regierungsdokumente.html). An important aspect in the fight against racism is the balance between freedom of expression and combating hate speech. Austria protects freedom of expression, but hate speech that incites violence or discrimination is prosecuted by law. The Austrian government and the EU are working together to combat disinformation and hate speech without compromising freedom of expression (see statement by the Federal Chancellery: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/agenda/jugend/lebensqualitaet-und-miteinander/no-hate-speech.html). One initiative that is strongly committed to combating hate speech is the No Hate Speech Movement, which was founded in 2013 on the initiative of the Council of Europe. In addition, the National Committee was founded in 2016, which encourages and supports campaigns to raise awareness and combat hate online. In their statement, they call for Austria to take responsibility and draw up a national action plan against racism: a href=https://www.ots.at/presseaussendung/OTS_20230314_OTS0025/oesterreich-muss-seine-verantwortung-im-kampf-gegen-rassismus-wahrnehmen>here. Regarding hate speech on the internet, the Hate on the Net Act was introduced to help victims of online hate, including group-focused misanthropy (HiNBG see: https://www.ris.bka.gv.at/Dokumente/BgblAuth/BGBLA_2020_I_148/BGBLA_2020_I_148.html). Another positive development is that the Federal Ministry of the Interior has integrated the systematic recording of prejudicial motives in intentional criminal offences into police work as part of an EU project. For this purpose, the category „Hate crime“ was introduced in the police logging programme (PAD) as a separate „Motive“ tab with the title „Prejudice motives (hate crime) according to victim groups“. The recorded data is transmitted to the justice system via a separate interface: Electronic Legal Transactions (ERV) and subjected to quality assurance by the Federal Ministry of the Interior. Around 30,000 police officers throughout Austria have been prepared for this task by completing e-learning seminars and receiving training as multipliers. The police now work on the basis of a victim-centred approach, actively listening to those affected and investigating consistently to ensure appropriate prosecution. These measures are designed to help tackle bias crimes and improve safety for all citizens.  

Progress: No progress

Fully guarantee the independence and pluralism of the media

Proponent:

France


French Republic

France


French Republic

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

In February 2024, the National Council passed a new fundamental right of access to information vis-à-vis federal and provincial administrative bodies, enshrined in Article 22a of the Federal Constitutional Law and in the new Freedom of Information Act. For the first time, the right of access to government documents has been created – previously, administrative bodies were only obliged to provide a (brief, summarised) response to citizens‘ enquiries. Another important innovation is the right for everyone to receive information from foundations, funds, institutions and companies that are subject to the control of the Court of Audit or a provincial court of audit (public sector participation of at least 50%). Until now, Austria was the last democracy in Europe without the right of access to state documents. The new regulations on freedom of information will come into force on 1 September 2025, so it is not yet possible to assess their practical implementation.
 Another problem is that there is no limit on the financial contributions of public bodies for advertisements. As long as there are no binding regulations on the exclusive award of advertising contracts based on objective and comprehensible criteria, the system of mutual influence will continue.

 The revised Media Transparency Act, which came into force in 2024, has closed important transparency gaps in the financial flows from the public sector to media companies through advertising placements and media subsidies. According to the data published by KommAustria, EUR 196.5 million in advertising expenditure by the public sector was reported for the first half of 2024 alone – more than the EUR 193 million reported for the whole of 2023 – but at that time under an old regulation that had massive loopholes, which meant that many financial flows remained secret (see: here).
However, due to the increasing economic constraints of the media industry and the massive role of public advertising expenditure, there remains a high risk of undue political influence, abuse and corruption in the relationship between the media and politics or the public sector, even with improved public traceability of financial flows. This represents an inadequate response by the prevailing media policy to the serious allegations made by the Public Prosecutor’s Office for Economic Affairs and Corruption, as President Hausjell summarises (Media Cooperation and Promotion Transparency Act: MedKF-TG, as amended by Federal Law Gazette I No. 50/2023: https://www.ris.bka.gv.at/GeltendeFassung.wxe?Abfrage=Bundesnormen&Gesetzesnummer=20007610&FassungVom=2024-01-01). 

Progress: In progress

Operationalise domestically the insights arising from its October conference on ‘Human Trafficking in Times of Corona’

Proponent:

United Kingdom


United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

United Kingdom


United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

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

The conference on combating human trafficking was held virtually on 14 and 15 October 2020 under the title „Human trafficking in the wake of coronavirus“. The coronavirus pandemic has had a significant impact on human trafficking and the fight against it, particularly through increased recruitment via social media. A new reporting centre at the Federal Criminal Police Office was announced at the conference in order to better sensitise and support the population. The event emphasised the importance of international networking in the fight against organised crime.   The International Labour Organization estimates that around 21 million people worldwide are affected by forced labour. In 2019, 62 suspects were reported for human trafficking in Austria. The conference addressed the changing challenges posed by the pandemic and emphasised the need for new solutions and support systems.   The fight against human trafficking has been a focus of Austrian foreign policy since the Task Force on Human Trafficking was founded in 2004. Since 2007, the Task Force has organised the Vienna Conference against Human Trafficking in cooperation with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), the OSCE and, for some years now, with the Principality of Liechtenstein;

Progress: In progress

Investigate reports and identify child victims of sexual exploitation and trafficking, and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice

Proponent:

Botswana


Republic of Botswana

Botswana


Republic of Botswana

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

Austria has clear provisions against human trafficking in its criminal law, including criminal sanctions of up to ten years for serious cases. Nevertheless, law enforcement should be further strengthened and it should be ensured that perpetrators are effectively prosecuted and convicted, while victim protection and access to legal assistance are improved. With regard to measures to combat human trafficking, including child trafficking, the Federal Government has set extensive goals in the areas of prevention, victim protection, prosecution and monitoring in its National Action Plan 2021-2023.   The sixth National Action Plan for Combating Human Trafficking for the years 2021 to 2023 is available as a PDF on the website of the Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs (see: https://www.bmeia.gv.at/fileadmin/user_upload/Zentrale/Aussenpolitik/Menschenrechte/Beilage_1_VI._Nationaler_Aktionsplan_zur_Bekaempfung_des_Menschenhandels__NAP__2021-2023.pdf). A key challenge remains the identification of trafficked persons in the area of labour exploitation, the guarantee of residence security for these persons and the implementation of measures against child trafficking and sexual exploitation. In addition, the collection of relevant data in these areas poses a further difficulty. Every year on the European Day against Trafficking in Human Beings, the Austrian Task Force against Trafficking in Human Beings/MFAO, in partnership with Liechtenstein, organises a conference on current implementation challenges (further information can be found on the website of the Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs: https://www.bmeia.gv.at/themen/menschenrechte/kampf-gegen-den-menschenhandel/ available). 

Progress: In progress

Take further measures to strengthen economic and social inclusion of victims of trafficking through provision of vocational training, language courses and job placement

Proponent:

Cambodia


Kingdom of Cambodia

Cambodia


Kingdom of Cambodia

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

Despite existing measures, the situation regarding the protection of victims of human trafficking in Austria remains critical. Although there are specialised aid organisations such as LEFÖ-IBF, many victims are often not identified in time, which makes access to protection and support more difficult. Co-operation with the authorities is a particular hurdle for victims, as residence permits are often dependent on their willingness to co-operate. This can put victims in an insecure situation, especially if they are afraid of reprisals or deportation. The fight against child trafficking and sexual exploitation is also problematic, as there is still a lack of sufficient data collection and targeted measures.
  As part of the Government Plan 2025-2029, the Federal Government intends to follow up on the recommendation to take effective measures against human trafficking and to sustainably strengthen victim protection for refugees (see Government Plan 2025-2029: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/die-bundesregierung/regierungsdokumente.html).

Progress: In progress

Ensure the thorough investigation of human trafficking cases and the prosecution of perpetrators to justice

Proponent:

Cyprus


Republic of Cyprus

Cyprus


Republic of Cyprus

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

With regard to measures to combat human trafficking, including child trafficking, the Federal Government has set extensive goals in the areas of prevention, victim protection, prosecution and monitoring in its National Action Plan 2021-2023. However, challenges remain, for example, in the identification of trafficked persons in the area of labour exploitation, in the security of residence for trafficked persons and in measures against child trafficking. Austria has clear provisions against human trafficking in its criminal law, including criminal sanctions of up to ten years for serious cases. Nevertheless, law enforcement should be further strengthened and it should be ensured that perpetrators are effectively prosecuted and convicted, while victim protection and access to legal assistance are improved. 

Progress: In progress

Put in place every measure to combat human trafficking and ensure the implementation of an effective victims’ protection

Proponent:

France


French Republic

France


French Republic

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

Despite existing measures, the situation regarding the protection of victims of human trafficking in Austria remains critical. Although there are specialised aid organisations such as LEFÖ-IBF, many victims are often not identified in time, which makes access to protection and support more difficult. Co-operation with the authorities is a particular hurdle for victims, as residence permits are often dependent on their willingness to co-operate. This can put victims in an insecure situation, especially if they are afraid of reprisals or deportation. The fight against child trafficking and sexual exploitation is also problematic, as there is still a lack of sufficient data collection and targeted measures.
  As part of the Government Plan 2025-2029, the Federal Government intends to follow up on the recommendation to take effective measures against human trafficking and to sustainably strengthen victim protection for refugees (see Government Plan 2025-2029: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/die-bundesregierung/regierungsdokumente.html).

Progress: In progress

Ensure that cases of human trafficking continue to be investigated, perpetrators are brought to justice, and the victims are adequately compensated

Proponent:

Greece


Hellenic Republic

Greece


Hellenic Republic

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

With regard to measures to combat human trafficking, including child trafficking, the Federal Government has set extensive goals in the areas of prevention, victim protection, prosecution and monitoring in its National Action Plan 2021-2023. However, challenges remain, for example, in the identification of trafficked persons in the area of labour exploitation, in the security of residence for trafficked persons and in measures against child trafficking. Austria has clear provisions against human trafficking in its criminal law, including criminal sanctions of up to ten years for serious cases. Nevertheless, law enforcement should be further strengthened and it should be ensured that perpetrators are effectively prosecuted and convicted, while victim protection and access to legal assistance are improved. 

Progress: In progress

Strengthen efforts to thoroughly investigate all cases of human trafficking and ensure victim’s access to justice and remedies

Proponent:

Liechtenstein


Principality of Liechtenstein

Liechtenstein


Principality of Liechtenstein

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

Austria has clear provisions against human trafficking in its criminal law, including criminal sanctions of up to ten years for serious cases. Nevertheless, law enforcement should be further strengthened and it should be ensured that perpetrators are effectively prosecuted and convicted, while victim protection and access to legal assistance are improved. Despite existing measures, the situation regarding the protection of victims of human trafficking in Austria remains critical. Although there are specialised aid organisations such as LEFÖ-IBF, many victims are often not identified in time, which makes access to protection and support more difficult. Co-operation with the authorities is a particular hurdle for victims, as residence permits are often dependent on their willingness to co-operate. This can put victims in an insecure situation, especially if they are afraid of reprisals or deportation. The fight against child trafficking and sexual exploitation is also problematic, as there is still a lack of sufficient data collection and targeted measures.
  As part of the Government Plan 2025-2029, the Federal Government intends to follow up on the recommendation to take effective measures against human trafficking and to sustainably strengthen victim protection for refugees (see Government Plan 2025-2029: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/die-bundesregierung/regierungsdokumente.html). Austria should take measures to ensure effective compensation for victims of human trafficking. This includes greater cooperation with international organisations and non-governmental organisations in order to raise awareness of the problem and provide better support for trafficked persons. Legal frameworks should be reviewed and improved in order to strengthen the rights of victims and give them access to appropriate compensation. In addition, targeted sensitisation of law enforcement agencies and social services is necessary to effectively protect and support victims;Austria has a specialised task force to combat human trafficking, which works closely with various authorities and NGOs to give trafficked persons access to their rights. The task force is committed to improving the identification of victims and the prosecution of perpetrators. There are specialised institutions such as LEFÖ-IBF and MEN VIA, which offer comprehensive support for women and men. Victims receive legal counselling and court support. The police have specialised units that deal with cases of human trafficking and can be contacted via a hotline. Austria should continue to work on improving access to legal protection for all victims of human trafficking by strengthening cooperation between authorities and victim protection organisations and ensuring that the legal framework is implemented efficiently;

Progress: In progress

Enhance ongoing measures to combat trafficking in persons and exploitation of children and ensure perpetrators are brought to justice

Proponent:

Myanmar


Republic of the Union of Myanmar

Myanmar


Republic of the Union of Myanmar

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

With regard to measures to combat human trafficking, including child trafficking, the Federal Government has set extensive goals in the areas of prevention, victim protection, prosecution and monitoring in its National Action Plan 2021-2023. However, challenges remain, for example, in the identification of trafficked persons in the area of labour exploitation, in the security of residence for trafficked persons and in measures against child trafficking. Austria has clear provisions against human trafficking in its criminal law, including criminal sanctions of up to ten years for serious cases. Nevertheless, law enforcement should be further strengthened and it should be ensured that perpetrators are effectively prosecuted and convicted, while victim protection and access to legal assistance are improved. 

Progress: In progress

Adopt further measures in combatting human trafficking and protecting the rights of victims, as well as the rights of migrants

Proponent:

Nigeria


Federal Republic of Nigeria

Nigeria


Federal Republic of Nigeria

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

Law enforcement agencies continued to use facial recognition technologies without a clear legal basis, despite the potential discrimination against gender and ethnic minorities and the interference with the rights to privacy, freedom of expression and freedom of assembly. Racial profiling by the police continued to be practised and there was a lack of effective mechanisms to investigate these practices (see Human Rights Situation in Austria 2022, Amnesty International Austria: https://www.amnesty.at/themen/menschenrechte-in-oesterreich/menschenrechtslage-in-oesterreich-2022-amnesty-jahresbericht/). Between January and August 2021, 64 Afghan nationals were deported to Afghanistan despite the risk of serious human rights violations upon their return. In August of the same year, the Austrian government refused to evacuate Afghan refugees from the Taliban and to redistribute asylum seekers from the Greek islands. In July 2021, the Provincial Administrative Court of Styria found that seven asylum seekers had been illegally returned to Slovenia. This showed that unlawful pushbacks were being systematically practised in Austria in some cases. In February 2022, the same court confirmed that an asylum seeker from Morocco had been unlawfully returned to Slovenia and pointed out the methodical application of such unlawful pushbacks. By the end of 2022, around 90,000 Ukrainian refugees had received temporary protection in Austria in accordance with the EU mass influx directives. In September 2022, the Ministry of the Interior reported that 5,140 unaccompanied minors had gone missing between January and July. Numerous NGOs and politicians are calling for the immediate allocation of guardians for unaccompanied minors as soon as they arrive, instead of waiting for admission to the asylum procedure, which often takes several months;With regard to measures to combat human trafficking, including child trafficking, the Federal Government has set extensive goals in the areas of prevention, victim protection, prosecution and monitoring in its National Action Plan 2021-2023. However, challenges remain, for example, in the identification of trafficked persons in the area of labour exploitation, in the security of residence for trafficked persons and in measures against child trafficking. Despite existing measures, the situation regarding the protection of victims of human trafficking in Austria remains critical. Although there are specialised aid organisations such as LEFÖ-IBF, many victims are often not identified in time, which makes access to protection and support more difficult. Co-operation with the authorities is a particular hurdle for victims, as residence permits are often dependent on their willingness to co-operate. This can put victims in an insecure situation, especially if they are afraid of reprisals or deportation. The fight against child trafficking and sexual exploitation is also problematic, as there is still a lack of sufficient data collection and targeted measures.
  As part of the Government Plan 2025-2029, the Federal Government intends to follow up on the recommendation to take effective measures against human trafficking and to sustainably strengthen victim protection for refugees (see Government Plan 2025-2029: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/die-bundesregierung/regierungsdokumente.html). Austria has a specialised task force to combat human trafficking, which works closely with various authorities and NGOs to give trafficked persons access to their rights. The task force is committed to improving the identification of victims and the prosecution of perpetrators. There are specialised institutions such as LEFÖ-IBF and MEN VIA, which offer comprehensive support for women and men. Victims receive legal counselling and court support. The police have specialised units that deal with cases of human trafficking and can be contacted via a hotline. Austria should continue to work on improving access to legal protection for all victims of human trafficking by strengthening cooperation between authorities and victim protection organisations and ensuring that the legal framework is implemented efficiently;

Progress: No progress

Take further measures to harmonize protection standards for victims of child trafficking throughout the country

Proponent:

Moldova


Republic of Moldova

Moldova


Republic of Moldova

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

A working group on child trafficking coordinated by the Federal Criminal Police Office (Family) as part of the interministerial task force against human trafficking presented a concept for an Austria-wide protection centre for trafficked children in 2021, which has not yet been implemented. However, a revision of „guidelines for action“ for those involved in identifying and protecting victims of child trafficking, which is planned by the Child Trafficking Working Group in 2023, depends on this and should enable a more harmonised approach across the country. There are also deficits in the area of legal protection for children, including access to compensation. 

Progress: In progress

Continue efforts to strengthen legislative measures to combat human trafficking and to reinforcing monitoring mechanisms in this field

Proponent:

Tunisia


Tunisian Republic

Tunisia


Tunisian Republic

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

With regard to measures to combat human trafficking, including child trafficking, the Federal Government has set extensive goals in the areas of prevention, victim protection, prosecution and monitoring in its National Action Plan 2021-2023. However, challenges remain, for example, in the identification of trafficked persons in the area of labour exploitation, in the security of residence for trafficked persons and in measures against child trafficking. In 2011, the EU adopted Directive 2011/36/EU on combating trafficking in human beings, which has already been implemented by Austria. In addition, the EU is pursuing its own strategy to combat human trafficking for the period 2021-2025 (see Strategy 2021-2025: https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_21_1663). A task force of the Austrian federal government has been coordinating and strengthening measures to combat human trafficking since 2004. The task force is made up of federal ministries, federal states, social partners and NGOs. It develops and supports national action plans against human trafficking. This year, the current „National Action Plan against Human Trafficking (NAP) 2024-2027“ was published. In a recently published working paper, the effects of the federal system in Austria on the safety of persons in prostitution were also analysed. Every three years, the task force submits reports on the implementation of the action plans to the federal government and parliament. In addition, annual reports on the implementation of the NAP are prepared. If necessary, individual points are analysed in greater depth to ensure a better overview. This process is coordinated by the Federal Foreign Office (NAP Trafficking in Human Beings 2024-2027: https://www.bmeia.gv.at/fileadmin/user_upload/Zentrale/Aussenpolitik/Menschenrechte/NAP_2024.pdf). 

Progress: In progress

Take further measures to harmonize protection standards for victims of child trafficking throughout its territory, and refine its data collection to cover all forms of trafficking and sexual exploitation of children

Proponent:

Sri Lanka


Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka


Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka

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

A working group on child trafficking coordinated by the Federal Criminal Police Office (Family) as part of the interministerial task force against human trafficking presented a concept for an Austria-wide protection centre for trafficked children in 2021, which has not yet been implemented. However, a revision of „guidelines for action“ for those involved in identifying and protecting victims of child trafficking, which is planned by the Child Trafficking Working Group in 2023, depends on this and should enable a more harmonised approach across the country. There are also deficits in the area of legal protection for children, including access to compensation. A key challenge remains the identification of trafficked persons in the area of labour exploitation, the guarantee of residence security for these persons and the implementation of measures against child trafficking and sexual exploitation. In addition, the collection of relevant data in these areas poses a further difficulty. Every year on the European Day against Trafficking in Human Beings, the Austrian Task Force against Trafficking in Human Beings/MFAO, in partnership with Liechtenstein, organises a conference on current implementation challenges (further information can be found on the website of the Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs: https://www.bmeia.gv.at/themen/menschenrechte/kampf-gegen-den-menschenhandel/ available). 

Progress: No progress

Redouble its efforts to facilitate access of persons with disabilities to the labour market by ensuring effective implementation of the Employment of People with Disabilities Act

Proponent:

Thailand


Kingdom of Thailand

Thailand


Kingdom of Thailand

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

In Austria, there is a distinction between people who are fit for work and those who are not. The ability or inability to work is determined exclusively on the basis of medical criteria, often directly after school. The federal states are responsible for people who are not fit for work, while the federal government is responsible for people who are fit for work. Hardly any measures have been taken with regard to the group of people who are unable to work. These people continue to work in day labour and employment structures, but do not receive a wage and have no independent social insurance (with the exception of accident insurance). This leads to increased poverty in old age and there is no data on the transition to the regular labour market. There are no nationwide uniform measures to make this possible and the planned measures in the National Action Plan 2022-2030 have not yet been implemented (see National Action Plan on Disability available on the website of the Ministry of Social Affairs: https://www.sozialministerium.at/Themen/Soziales/Menschen-mit-Behinderungen/Nationaler-Aktionsplan-Behinderung.html). Support services for people who are able to work are largely linked to a certain degree of disability (GdB), which means that people who do not have a degree of disability (GdB) determined by the state are excluded from corresponding support measures. The measures offered by the Public Employment Service (AMS) are not fully accessible to people with disabilities. As a result, unemployed people with disabilities are less likely to take part in AMS training programmes than unemployed people without disabilities.    There are only a few measures to combat gender-specific employment imbalances and wage gaps, apart from higher wage cost support for women with disabilities as part of the „Inclusion Support Plus“ programme (Inklusionsförderung/InklusionsförderungPlus: https://www.wko.at/service/arbeitsrecht-sozialrecht/inklusionsfoerderung-inklusionsfoerderungplus.html). There are no specific labour market policy measures for women with disabilities (wage subsidies: Website of the Social Ministry Service: https://www.sozialministeriumservice.at/Finanzielles/Foerderungen/Lohnfoerderungen/Lohnfoerderungen.de.html). Austria has currently implemented various measures to promote the employment of people with disabilities, including the Disability Employment Act (BEinstG). The law stipulates that employers with a certain number of employees are obliged to hire a minimum number of people with disabilities or otherwise pay a compensatory tax. Although progress has been made, there are still challenges. The actual employment rate of people with disabilities remains below the legally required level and many companies prefer to pay the compensatory tax. There is still a need to improve the enforcement of the law, create more incentives for companies and expand the accessibility infrastructure. 

Progress: No progress

Provide appropriate job opportunities for persons with disabilities

Proponent:

Iran


Islamic Republic of Iran

Iran


Islamic Republic of Iran

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

In Austria, there is a distinction between people who are fit for work and those who are not. The ability or inability to work is determined exclusively on the basis of medical criteria, often directly after school. The federal states are responsible for people who are not fit for work, while the federal government is responsible for people who are fit for work. Hardly any measures have been taken with regard to the group of people who are unable to work. These people continue to work in day labour and employment structures, but do not receive a wage and have no independent social insurance (with the exception of accident insurance). This leads to increased poverty in old age and there is no data on the transition to the regular labour market. There are no nationwide uniform measures to make this possible and the planned measures in the National Action Plan 2022-2030 have not yet been implemented (see National Action Plan on Disability available on the website of the Ministry of Social Affairs: https://www.sozialministerium.at/Themen/Soziales/Menschen-mit-Behinderungen/Nationaler-Aktionsplan-Behinderung.html). Support services for people who are able to work are largely linked to a certain degree of disability (GdB), which means that people who do not have a degree of disability (GdB) determined by the state are excluded from corresponding support measures. The measures offered by the Public Employment Service (AMS) are not fully accessible to people with disabilities. As a result, unemployed people with disabilities are less likely to take part in AMS training programmes than unemployed people without disabilities.    There are only a few measures to combat gender-specific employment imbalances and wage gaps, apart from higher wage cost support for women with disabilities as part of the „Inclusion Support Plus“ programme (Inklusionsförderung/InklusionsförderungPlus: https://www.wko.at/service/arbeitsrecht-sozialrecht/inklusionsfoerderung-inklusionsfoerderungplus.html). There are no specific labour market policy measures for women with disabilities (wage subsidies: Website of the Social Ministry Service: https://www.sozialministeriumservice.at/Finanzielles/Foerderungen/Lohnfoerderungen/Lohnfoerderungen.de.html). 

Progress: No progress

Strengthen measures to increase job opportunities for women in full-time employment sectors

Proponent:

Myanmar


Republic of the Union of Myanmar

Myanmar


Republic of the Union of Myanmar

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

No corresponding legislation has yet been passed in Austria. The labour force participation rate for women is also still lower than for men (in 2023 70% compared to 78%, Statistics Austria: https://www.statistik.at/statistiken/arbeitsmarkt/erwerbstaetigkeit/erwerbstaetige-merkmale). Another factor is the fact that women often work in occupations that are traditionally seen as „women’s jobs“ and are lower paid. To improve the compatibility of work and family life, the Austrian Trade Union Federation (ÖGB) advocates, among other things, a legal entitlement to free childcare from the first birthday, the introduction of the ÖGB-AK family working time model, the nationwide expansion of care and support services, such as mobile services, day care centres, inpatient services and alternative care options, inpatient services and alternative care models, the reduction of normal working hours in accordance with the Working Hours Act as well as a reduction in the maximum permitted daily, weekly and annual working hours, better recognition of child-raising periods and increased qualification programmes for women (see further information on the website of the Austrian Trade Union Federation: https://www.oegb.at/themen/gleichstellung/geschlechtergerechtigkeit/finanzielle-unabhaengigkeit-von-frauen–barrieren-und-loesungen). Concrete measures by the federal government are still pending.  

Progress: No progress

Better enforce human rights compliance by private economic actors with a view to reducing the gender pay gap and diversifying career options for all

Proponent:

Vietnam


Socialist Republic of Vietnam

Vietnam


Socialist Republic of Vietnam

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

There is still a significant pay gap between women and men in Austria. According to recent studies, women in Austria earn on average 18.8 per cent less than men, and this difference exists regardless of educational and professional qualifications (Statistik Austria, 2021: https://www.statistik.at/statistiken/bevoelkerung-und-soziales/gender-statistiken/einkommen). According to the Pay Transparency Directive, companies in the EU should in future exchange information on how much they pay women and men for work of equal value and take action if their gender pay gap exceeds 5 per cent. EU member states now have up to 3 years to transpose the directive into national law. This will include more comprehensive disclosure of starting salaries and pay levels, increased reporting obligations for companies and improved access to legal measures for employees (more information on this: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/themen/europa-aktuell/2023/04/gender-pay-gap-rat-der-eu-nimmt-neue-vorschriften-zur-lohntransparenz-an.html). In Austria, corresponding legislation has not yet been passed. The labour force participation rate for women is also still lower than for men (in 2022 70% compared to 78%, Statistics Austria: https://www.statistik.at/statistiken/arbeitsmarkt/erwerbstaetigkeit/erwerbstaetige-merkmale). 

Progress: No progress

Take appropriate measures to eliminate discrimination of women in the labour market and reduce the gender pay gap

Proponent:

Uganda


Republic of Uganda

Uganda


Republic of Uganda

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

There is still a significant pay gap between women and men in Austria. According to recent studies, women in Austria earn on average 18.8 per cent less than men, and this difference exists regardless of educational and professional qualifications (Statistik Austria, 2021: https://www.statistik.at/statistiken/bevoelkerung-und-soziales/gender-statistiken/einkommen). According to the Pay Transparency Directive, companies in the EU should in future exchange information on how much they pay women and men for work of equal value and take action if their gender pay gap exceeds 5 per cent. EU member states now have up to 3 years to transpose the directive into national law. This will include more comprehensive disclosure of starting salaries and pay levels, increased reporting obligations for companies and improved access to legal measures for employees (more information on this: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/themen/europa-aktuell/2023/04/gender-pay-gap-rat-der-eu-nimmt-neue-vorschriften-zur-lohntransparenz-an.html). In Austria, corresponding legislation has not yet been passed. The labour force participation rate for women is also still lower than for men (in 2022 70% compared to 78%, Statistics Austria: https://www.statistik.at/statistiken/arbeitsmarkt/erwerbstaetigkeit/erwerbstaetige-merkmale). Gender stereotypes and role expectations contribute to inequality, make it difficult for women to advance in their careers and reduce their opportunities. To tackle the gender pay gap in the EU, the Council of the European Union adopted new rules on 24 April 2023 to combat pay discrimination and reduce the gender pay gap. 

Progress: No progress

Implement campaigns and measures to reduce the pay gap between men and women

Proponent:

Belgium


Kingdom of Belgium

Belgium


Kingdom of Belgium

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

There is still a significant pay gap between women and men in Austria. According to recent studies, women in Austria earn on average 18.8 per cent less than men, and this difference exists regardless of educational and professional qualifications (Statistik Austria, 2021: https://www.statistik.at/statistiken/bevoelkerung-und-soziales/gender-statistiken/einkommen). According to the Pay Transparency Directive, companies in the EU should in future exchange information on how much they pay women and men for work of equal value and take action if their gender pay gap exceeds 5 per cent. EU member states now have up to 3 years to transpose the directive into national law. This will include more comprehensive disclosure of starting salaries and pay levels, increased reporting obligations for companies and improved access to legal measures for employees (more information on this: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/themen/europa-aktuell/2023/04/gender-pay-gap-rat-der-eu-nimmt-neue-vorschriften-zur-lohntransparenz-an.html). In Austria, corresponding legislation has not yet been passed. The labour force participation rate for women is also still lower than for men (in 2022 70% compared to 78%, Statistics Austria: https://www.statistik.at/statistiken/arbeitsmarkt/erwerbstaetigkeit/erwerbstaetige-merkmale). 

Progress: No progress

Further promote measures that ensure the economic and social empowerment of women, mainly through reducing gender pay gap

Proponent:

Ethiopia


Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia

Ethiopia


Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia

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

There is still a significant pay gap between women and men in Austria. According to recent studies, women in Austria earn on average 18.8 per cent less than men, and this difference exists regardless of educational and professional qualifications (Statistik Austria, 2021: https://www.statistik.at/statistiken/bevoelkerung-und-soziales/gender-statistiken/einkommen). According to the Pay Transparency Directive, companies in the EU should in future exchange information on how much they pay women and men for work of equal value and take action if their gender pay gap exceeds 5 per cent. EU member states now have up to 3 years to transpose the directive into national law. This will include more comprehensive disclosure of starting salaries and pay levels, increased reporting obligations for companies and improved access to legal measures for employees (more information on this: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/themen/europa-aktuell/2023/04/gender-pay-gap-rat-der-eu-nimmt-neue-vorschriften-zur-lohntransparenz-an.html). In Austria, corresponding legislation has not yet been passed. The labour force participation rate for women is also still lower than for men (in 2022 70% compared to 78%, Statistics Austria: https://www.statistik.at/statistiken/arbeitsmarkt/erwerbstaetigkeit/erwerbstaetige-merkmale). According to the Pay Transparency Directive, companies in the EU should in future exchange information on how much they pay women and men for work of equal value and take action if their gender pay gap exceeds 5 per cent. EU member states now have until June 2026 to transpose the directive into national law. This will include more comprehensive disclosure of starting salaries and pay levels, increased reporting obligations for companies and improved access to legal measures for employees. The exact implementation of the directive is not yet known (further information on this: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/themen/europa-aktuell/2023/04/gender-pay-gap-rat-der-eu-nimmt-neue-vorschriften-zur-lohntransparenz-an.html). 

Progress: No progress

Further strengthen measures to promote equality between women and men, in particular regarding equal pay and the participation of women on the boards and in the chief executive offices of companies

Proponent:

France


French Republic

France


French Republic

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

There is still a significant pay gap between women and men in Austria. According to recent studies, women in Austria earn on average 18.8 per cent less than men, and this difference exists regardless of educational and professional qualifications (Statistik Austria, 2021: https://www.statistik.at/statistiken/bevoelkerung-und-soziales/gender-statistiken/einkommen). According to the Pay Transparency Directive, companies in the EU should in future exchange information on how much they pay women and men for work of equal value and take action if their gender pay gap exceeds 5 per cent. EU member states now have up to 3 years to transpose the directive into national law. This will include more comprehensive disclosure of starting salaries and pay levels, increased reporting obligations for companies and improved access to legal measures for employees (more information on this: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/themen/europa-aktuell/2023/04/gender-pay-gap-rat-der-eu-nimmt-neue-vorschriften-zur-lohntransparenz-an.html). In Austria, corresponding legislation has not yet been passed. The labour force participation rate for women is also still lower than for men (in 2022 70% compared to 78%, Statistics Austria: https://www.statistik.at/statistiken/arbeitsmarkt/erwerbstaetigkeit/erwerbstaetige-merkmale). Women continue to be underrepresented not only in companies, but also in political decision-making positions at state and municipal level. Despite some progress, there are still considerable problems with regard to the pay gap and the number of women in decision-making positions. The pay gap between women and men remains high. Women are underrepresented not only in companies, but also in political decision-making positions at provincial and municipal level. According to the Pay Transparency Directive, companies in the EU should in future exchange information on how much they pay women and men for work of equal value and take action if their gender pay gap exceeds 5 per cent. EU member states now have until June 2026 to transpose the directive into national law. This will include more comprehensive disclosure of starting salaries and pay levels, increased reporting obligations for companies and improved access to legal measures for employees. The exact implementation of the directive is not yet known (further information on this: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/themen/europa-aktuell/2023/04/gender-pay-gap-rat-der-eu-nimmt-neue-vorschriften-zur-lohntransparenz-an.html). 

Progress: No progress

Further pursue its efforts to narrow the gender pay gap and to ensure equal opportunities for women on the labour market

Proponent:

Greece


Hellenic Republic

Greece


Hellenic Republic

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

There is still a significant pay gap between women and men in Austria. According to recent studies, women in Austria earn on average 18.8 per cent less than men, and this difference exists regardless of educational and professional qualifications (Statistik Austria, 2021: https://www.statistik.at/statistiken/bevoelkerung-und-soziales/gender-statistiken/einkommen). According to the Pay Transparency Directive, companies in the EU should in future exchange information on how much they pay women and men for work of equal value and take action if their gender pay gap exceeds 5 per cent. EU member states now have up to 3 years to transpose the directive into national law. This will include more comprehensive disclosure of starting salaries and pay levels, increased reporting obligations for companies and improved access to legal measures for employees (more information on this: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/themen/europa-aktuell/2023/04/gender-pay-gap-rat-der-eu-nimmt-neue-vorschriften-zur-lohntransparenz-an.html). In Austria, corresponding legislation has not yet been passed. The labour force participation rate for women is also still lower than for men (in 2022 70% compared to 78%, Statistics Austria: https://www.statistik.at/statistiken/arbeitsmarkt/erwerbstaetigkeit/erwerbstaetige-merkmale). Gender stereotypes and role expectations contribute to inequality, make it difficult for women to advance in their careers and reduce their opportunities. To tackle the gender pay gap in the EU, the Council of the European Union adopted new rules on 24 April 2023 to combat pay discrimination and reduce the gender pay gap. 

Progress: No progress

Reducing the wages gap between women and men in work

Proponent:

Iraq


Republic of Iraq

Iraq


Republic of Iraq

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

There is still a significant pay gap between women and men in Austria. According to recent studies, women in Austria earn on average 18.8 per cent less than men, and this difference exists regardless of educational and professional qualifications (Statistik Austria, 2021: https://www.statistik.at/statistiken/bevoelkerung-und-soziales/gender-statistiken/einkommen). According to the Pay Transparency Directive, companies in the EU should in future exchange information on how much they pay women and men for work of equal value and take action if their gender pay gap exceeds 5 per cent. EU member states now have up to 3 years to transpose the directive into national law. This will include more comprehensive disclosure of starting salaries and pay levels, increased reporting obligations for companies and improved access to legal measures for employees (more information on this: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/themen/europa-aktuell/2023/04/gender-pay-gap-rat-der-eu-nimmt-neue-vorschriften-zur-lohntransparenz-an.html). In Austria, corresponding legislation has not yet been passed. The labour force participation rate for women is also still lower than for men (in 2022 70% compared to 78%, Statistics Austria: https://www.statistik.at/statistiken/arbeitsmarkt/erwerbstaetigkeit/erwerbstaetige-merkmale). 

Progress: No progress

Implement concrete measures to reduce the gender pay gap

Proponent:

Lithuania


Republic of Lithuania

Lithuania


Republic of Lithuania

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

There is still a significant pay gap between women and men in Austria. According to recent studies, women in Austria earn on average 18.8 per cent less than men, and this difference exists regardless of educational and professional qualifications (Statistik Austria, 2021: https://www.statistik.at/statistiken/bevoelkerung-und-soziales/gender-statistiken/einkommen). According to the Pay Transparency Directive, companies in the EU should in future exchange information on how much they pay women and men for work of equal value and take action if their gender pay gap exceeds 5 per cent. EU member states now have up to 3 years to transpose the directive into national law. This will include more comprehensive disclosure of starting salaries and pay levels, increased reporting obligations for companies and improved access to legal measures for employees (more information on this: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/themen/europa-aktuell/2023/04/gender-pay-gap-rat-der-eu-nimmt-neue-vorschriften-zur-lohntransparenz-an.html). In Austria, corresponding legislation has not yet been passed. The labour force participation rate for women is also still lower than for men (in 2022 70% compared to 78%, Statistics Austria: https://www.statistik.at/statistiken/arbeitsmarkt/erwerbstaetigkeit/erwerbstaetige-merkmale). 

Progress: No progress

Promote the principle of equal pay for work of equal value and minimize the gender pay gap

Proponent:

Maldives


Republic of Maldives

Maldives


Republic of Maldives

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

There is still a significant pay gap between women and men in Austria. According to recent studies, women in Austria earn on average 18.8 per cent less than men, and this difference exists regardless of educational and professional qualifications (Statistik Austria, 2021: https://www.statistik.at/statistiken/bevoelkerung-und-soziales/gender-statistiken/einkommen). According to the Pay Transparency Directive, companies in the EU should in future exchange information on how much they pay women and men for work of equal value and take action if their gender pay gap exceeds 5 per cent. EU member states now have up to 3 years to transpose the directive into national law. This will include more comprehensive disclosure of starting salaries and pay levels, increased reporting obligations for companies and improved access to legal measures for employees (more information on this: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/themen/europa-aktuell/2023/04/gender-pay-gap-rat-der-eu-nimmt-neue-vorschriften-zur-lohntransparenz-an.html). In Austria, corresponding legislation has not yet been passed. The labour force participation rate for women is also still lower than for men (in 2022 70% compared to 78%, Statistics Austria: https://www.statistik.at/statistiken/arbeitsmarkt/erwerbstaetigkeit/erwerbstaetige-merkmale). 

Progress: No progress

Redouble efforts in addressing the gender pay gap

Proponent:

Mozambique


Republic of Mozambique

Mozambique


Republic of Mozambique

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

There is still a significant pay gap between women and men in Austria. According to recent studies, women in Austria earn on average 18.8 per cent less than men, and this difference exists regardless of educational and professional qualifications (Statistik Austria, 2021: https://www.statistik.at/statistiken/bevoelkerung-und-soziales/gender-statistiken/einkommen). According to the Pay Transparency Directive, companies in the EU should in future exchange information on how much they pay women and men for work of equal value and take action if their gender pay gap exceeds 5 per cent. EU member states now have up to 3 years to transpose the directive into national law. This will include more comprehensive disclosure of starting salaries and pay levels, increased reporting obligations for companies and improved access to legal measures for employees (more information on this: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/themen/europa-aktuell/2023/04/gender-pay-gap-rat-der-eu-nimmt-neue-vorschriften-zur-lohntransparenz-an.html). In Austria, corresponding legislation has not yet been passed. The labour force participation rate for women is also still lower than for men (in 2022 70% compared to 78%, Statistics Austria: https://www.statistik.at/statistiken/arbeitsmarkt/erwerbstaetigkeit/erwerbstaetige-merkmale). 

Progress: No progress

Continue efforts to narrow down and eventually eliminate gender pay gap for equal work with men

Proponent:

Myanmar


Republic of the Union of Myanmar

Myanmar


Republic of the Union of Myanmar

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

There is still a significant pay gap between women and men in Austria. According to recent studies, women in Austria earn on average 18.8 per cent less than men, and this difference exists regardless of educational and professional qualifications (Statistik Austria, 2021: https://www.statistik.at/statistiken/bevoelkerung-und-soziales/gender-statistiken/einkommen). According to the Pay Transparency Directive, companies in the EU should in future exchange information on how much they pay women and men for work of equal value and take action if their gender pay gap exceeds 5 per cent. EU member states now have up to 3 years to transpose the directive into national law. This will include more comprehensive disclosure of starting salaries and pay levels, increased reporting obligations for companies and improved access to legal measures for employees (more information on this: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/themen/europa-aktuell/2023/04/gender-pay-gap-rat-der-eu-nimmt-neue-vorschriften-zur-lohntransparenz-an.html). In Austria, corresponding legislation has not yet been passed. The labour force participation rate for women is also still lower than for men (in 2022 70% compared to 78%, Statistics Austria: https://www.statistik.at/statistiken/arbeitsmarkt/erwerbstaetigkeit/erwerbstaetige-merkmale). 

Progress: No progress

Enhance efforts to reduce the high wage gap by enforcing the principle of gender equality

Proponent:

Slovenia


Republic of Slovenia

Slovenia


Republic of Slovenia

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

There is still a significant pay gap between women and men in Austria. According to recent studies, women in Austria earn on average 18.8 per cent less than men, and this difference exists regardless of educational and professional qualifications (Statistik Austria, 2021: https://www.statistik.at/statistiken/bevoelkerung-und-soziales/gender-statistiken/einkommen). According to the Pay Transparency Directive, companies in the EU should in future exchange information on how much they pay women and men for work of equal value and take action if their gender pay gap exceeds 5 per cent. EU member states now have up to 3 years to transpose the directive into national law. This will include more comprehensive disclosure of starting salaries and pay levels, increased reporting obligations for companies and improved access to legal measures for employees (more information on this: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/themen/europa-aktuell/2023/04/gender-pay-gap-rat-der-eu-nimmt-neue-vorschriften-zur-lohntransparenz-an.html). In Austria, corresponding legislation has not yet been passed. The labour force participation rate for women is also still lower than for men (in 2022 70% compared to 78%, Statistics Austria: https://www.statistik.at/statistiken/arbeitsmarkt/erwerbstaetigkeit/erwerbstaetige-merkmale). 

Progress: No progress

Eliminate gender pay gap

Proponent:

Somalia


Federal Republic of Somalia

Somalia


Federal Republic of Somalia

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

There is still a significant pay gap between women and men in Austria. According to recent studies, women in Austria earn on average 18.8 per cent less than men, and this difference exists regardless of educational and professional qualifications (Statistik Austria, 2021: https://www.statistik.at/statistiken/bevoelkerung-und-soziales/gender-statistiken/einkommen). According to the Pay Transparency Directive, companies in the EU should in future exchange information on how much they pay women and men for work of equal value and take action if their gender pay gap exceeds 5 per cent. EU member states now have up to 3 years to transpose the directive into national law. This will include more comprehensive disclosure of starting salaries and pay levels, increased reporting obligations for companies and improved access to legal measures for employees (more information on this: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/themen/europa-aktuell/2023/04/gender-pay-gap-rat-der-eu-nimmt-neue-vorschriften-zur-lohntransparenz-an.html). In Austria, corresponding legislation has not yet been passed. The labour force participation rate for women is also still lower than for men (in 2022 70% compared to 78%, Statistics Austria: https://www.statistik.at/statistiken/arbeitsmarkt/erwerbstaetigkeit/erwerbstaetige-merkmale). 

Progress: No progress

Continue efforts to implement the national development programme to combat poverty, preserve peace and protect the environment

Proponent:

Libya


State of Libya

Libya


State of Libya

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

{Armut-Allgemein}A § 8 BMG Commission for dialogue processes between the administration and civil society was newly established in the BMK. This commission promotes the exchange between the administration (represented by the) and organised civil society (represented by the managing directors of Ökobüro and Umweltdachverband). However, a climate protection law and other tangible legal progress are still lacking, which is also clearly criticised by civil society (see e.g. on the website of the climate referendum: https://klimavolksbegehren.at/). On 23 February 2022, the European Commission published a draft directive on „Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence“ (CDSDD, see draft on the European Union website: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/DE/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:52022 PC 0071 from=EN). On 1 December 2022, the European Council agreed on its position and on 1 June 2023, the European Parliament will adopt its position, which will be followed by trilogue negotiations between the three institutions (Proposal for a Directive of the European Parliament and of the European Council on corporate due diligence in relation to sustainability and amending Directive (EU) 2019/1937 as PDF: https://data.consilium.europa.eu/doc/document/ST-15024-2022-REV-1/en/pdf). The Federal Ministry of Justice and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Economic Affairs have initiated a good consultation process following the publication of the Commission’s draft directive. The government should again fully involve stakeholders in the future implementation of the directive in Austria.
  It is to be welcomed that the Directive that has been adopted and entered into force includes civil liability and sanctions by public authorities. However, in order for the directive to effectively protect human rights and the environment along global supply chains, access to justice for those affected by rights violations needs to be improved. An important civil society initiative on this topic is „Human rights need laws“ (campaign by the organisation Netzwerk Soziale Verantwortung for a supply chain law in Austria and the EU: https://www.nesove.at/menschenrechte-brauchen-gesetze/).
  On 26 February 2025, the EU Commission presented a package which, according to the Commission, is intended to simplify sustainability rules. Proposed amendments concern the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), the EU Taxonomy and the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD). Although a mere simplification and reduction of redundant and overlapping reporting points was announced, a massive watering down of the CSDDD in important points is now proposed: The erosion of the risk-based approach, as the due diligence obligations would only extend to direct business partners* with a few exceptions; monitoring of due diligence measures would only be carried out every 5 years instead of annually as previously envisaged; deletion of an EU-wide harmonised regulation on civil liability; deletion of the turnover-related minimum maximum penalties for violations; deletion of the obligation to implement climate transition plans, deletion of the possibility of representative actions, etc. (see: here). 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).

Progress: In progress

Make progress towards an economic and social recovery with a human rights approach to face the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, taking into account the special needs of vulnerable groups of society

Proponent:

Chile


Republic of Chile

Chile


Republic of Chile

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

The COVID-19 pandemic has also led to far-reaching restrictions on fundamental human and children’s rights in Austria (personal freedom, freedom of movement, education, health, etc.). However, there has been no review of the experiences to date; the federal government announced an analysis process led by the Academy of Sciences in May 2023; however, the involvement of civil society in the process remains unclear. In March 2023, the Austrian Children’s Rights Network, with the support of the Ministry of Social Affairs, published a „Corona Special Report“, which takes a detailed look at the many detrimental consequences of the fight against the pandemic for children (in the areas of civil liberties, information and participation, education, teaching, leisure, mental health, poverty, protection against violence and child rights monitoring) („Children’s Rights and Corona“ special report: here).   The LBI-GMR is running two projects in 2023 on crisis management and children’s rights, including a series of workshops with children and young people on their insights from the pandemic (available on the website: https://gmr.lbg.ac.at/forschung/menschenwuerde-und-oeffentliche-sicherheit/).   There has been an increase in domestic violence during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the current state of affairs shows that Austria’s measures and resources to combat domestic violence are inadequate. The rising number of cases of domestic violence during the pandemic has been repeatedly addressed by non-governmental organisations. Other effects of the COVID-19 pandemic include an increased suicide rate, including among young people, and a greater need for psychosocial support. The federal government is currently not systematically analysing and investigating the causes. It would be desirable to advance research here, not only to counter the specific effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, but also to be able to design measures in a more human rights-compliant manner in a comparable crisis in the future;

Progress: In progress

Implement a national strategy for the prevention and reduction of poverty, which gives priority to the most vulnerable sectors and incorporates the response to the socio-economic impact of COVID-19 in the short, medium and long term

Proponent:

Cuba


Republic of Cuba

Cuba


Republic of Cuba

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

The picture of poverty in Austria is varied: 2.3% of the population are currently directly affected by poverty, while 17.3% are considered to be at risk of poverty or marginalisation. However, these estimates do not take into account recent developments such as high inflation and the rising cost of living in 2022/2023, which could place additional burdens on low-income households.   The concept of poverty reduction in Austria and globally is based not only on financial indicators, but also on a comprehensive approach that includes education, health and living standards. Goal 1 of the UN Sustainable Development Goals calls for the sustainable eradication of poverty in all its forms, which means that in addition to securing a living income, the focus is also on improving equal opportunities and participation. For Austria, this specifically means ensuring access to basic services such as healthcare and education in addition to material support. Overcoming the current economic challenges therefore requires both short-term measures and long-term strategies in order to reduce social exclusion and sustainably improve the quality of life for all population groups. Children, elderly women, single parents, the long-term unemployed and people without citizenship are particularly at risk. People with chronic illnesses also face considerable challenges, and high housing costs are pushing many people to the brink.   More than a fifth of all people at risk of poverty and marginalisation are children (22%, or 353,000 children aged 0-17). More than half of children living in single-parent households are at risk of poverty or exclusion (52%), and 30% of families with at least three children are affected. Among pension recipients, women living alone in particular are affected by poverty at an above-average rate of 28% (see Current poverty figures in Austria: https://www.armutskonferenz.at/armut-in-oesterreich/aktuelle-armuts-und-verteilungszahlen.html). Civil society, including the Poverty Conference, urgently appeals to the need for the following measures to advance the fight against poverty: There is a need for a minimum income that is actually sufficient to lead a decent life; a quality, well-developed social infrastructure that is accessible to all is crucial to improve the quality of life of those affected; a new and innovative labour market and working time policy is needed to create long-term solutions to the problem of poverty; and more and comprehensive political participation opportunities must be created for people affected by poverty and social exclusion. This is crucial if their interests and needs are to be adequately taken into account. These measures are the first and decisive steps in the fight against poverty and social exclusion in Austria (see FAQ on the Poverty Conference website: https://www.armutskonferenz.at/armut-in-oesterreich/faqs-zum-thema-armut.html). The COVID-19 pandemic has also led to far-reaching restrictions on fundamental human and children’s rights in Austria (personal freedom, freedom of movement, education, health, etc.). However, there has been no review of the experiences to date; the federal government announced an analysis process led by the Academy of Sciences in May 2023; however, the involvement of civil society in the process remains unclear. In March 2023, the Austrian Children’s Rights Network, with the support of the Ministry of Social Affairs, published a „Corona Special Report“, which takes a detailed look at the many detrimental consequences of the fight against the pandemic for children (in the areas of civil liberties, information and participation, education, teaching, leisure, mental health, poverty, protection against violence and child rights monitoring) („Children’s Rights and Corona“ special report: here).   The LBI-GMR is running two projects in 2023 on crisis management and children’s rights, including a series of workshops with children and young people on their insights from the pandemic (available on the website: https://gmr.lbg.ac.at/forschung/menschenwuerde-und-oeffentliche-sicherheit/).   There has been an increase in domestic violence during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the current state of affairs shows that Austria’s measures and resources to combat domestic violence are inadequate. The rising number of cases of domestic violence during the pandemic has been repeatedly addressed by non-governmental organisations. Other effects of the COVID-19 pandemic include an increased suicide rate, including among young people, and a greater need for psychosocial support. The federal government is currently not systematically analysing and investigating the causes. It would be desirable to advance research here, not only to counter the specific effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, but also to be able to design measures in a more human rights-compliant manner in a comparable crisis in the future;

Progress: No progress

Examine the Covid-19-related long-term consequences for the state of human rights protection in Austria with a special focus on the situation of women and children affected by domestic violence

Proponent:

Germany


Federal Republic of Germany

Germany


Federal Republic of Germany

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

The COVID-19 pandemic has also led to far-reaching restrictions on fundamental human and children’s rights in Austria (personal freedom, freedom of movement, education, health, etc.). However, there has been no review of the experiences to date; the federal government announced an analysis process led by the Academy of Sciences in May 2023; however, the involvement of civil society in the process remains unclear. In March 2023, the Austrian Children’s Rights Network, with the support of the Ministry of Social Affairs, published a „Corona Special Report“, which takes a detailed look at the many detrimental consequences of the fight against the pandemic for children (in the areas of civil liberties, information and participation, education, teaching, leisure, mental health, poverty, protection against violence and child rights monitoring) („Children’s Rights and Corona“ special report: here).   The LBI-GMR is running two projects in 2023 on crisis management and children’s rights, including a series of workshops with children and young people on their insights from the pandemic (available on the website: https://gmr.lbg.ac.at/forschung/menschenwuerde-und-oeffentliche-sicherheit/).   There has been an increase in domestic violence during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the current state of affairs shows that Austria’s measures and resources to combat domestic violence are inadequate. The rising number of cases of domestic violence during the pandemic has been repeatedly addressed by non-governmental organisations. Other effects of the COVID-19 pandemic include an increased suicide rate, including among young people, and a greater need for psychosocial support. The federal government is currently not systematically analysing and investigating the causes. It would be desirable to advance research here, not only to counter the specific effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, but also to be able to design measures in a more human rights-compliant manner in a comparable crisis in the future;

Progress: No progress

Take further measures to reduce poverty among older persons, particularly older women and older migrants

Proponent:

Malaysia


Malaysia

Malaysia


Malaysia

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

The situation of poverty in old age in Austria remains critical, especially for older women. Around 14% of people over the age of 65 are at risk of poverty or marginalisation, which affects around 212,000 people. Women are more affected: 16% of older women are considered to be at risk of poverty, compared to around 10% of men. This is often due to lower pensions resulting from part-time work, childcare periods and caring responsibilities, which are predominantly taken on by women. As Diakonie reports, financial constraints exacerbate social and health problems in old age. Many of those affected struggle with loneliness and have difficulties accessing care services. Diakonie and Volkshilfe are therefore calling for better recognition of childcare and care periods as well as an increase in the minimum income to enable older people to live a dignified life.   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).

Progress: In progress

Continue to increase the availability and accessibility of child and adolescent mental health service and programme

Proponent:

Timor-Leste


Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste

Timor-Leste


Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste

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

The free psychosocial care programme for children, adolescents and young adults „Gesund aus der Krise“ has entered a second phase following requests from several organisations. The aim of „Gesund aus der Krise“ is to offer low-threshold psychosocial care throughout Austria without long waiting times. However, authorisation is usually only granted for 10 to 15 hours of treatment, whereas the majority of cases would require more time. It would be necessary to make the programme open-ended and provide additional funding. More free, low-threshold therapy programmes are generally necessary.   In the Government Plan 2025-2029, the Federal Government is focussing on joint improvements with all stakeholders on this point (see Government Plan 2025-2029: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/die-bundesregierung/regierungsdokumente.html).

Progress: In progress

Continue to increase the availability and accessibility of child and adolescent mental health services and programs

Proponent:

Portugal


Portuguese Republic

Portugal


Portuguese Republic

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

The free psychosocial care programme for children, adolescents and young adults „Gesund aus der Krise“ has entered a second phase following requests from several organisations. The aim of „Gesund aus der Krise“ is to offer low-threshold psychosocial care throughout Austria without long waiting times. However, authorisation is usually only granted for 10 to 15 hours of treatment, whereas the majority of cases would require more time. It would be necessary to make the programme open-ended and provide additional funding. More free, low-threshold therapy programmes are generally necessary.   In the Government Plan 2025-2029, the Federal Government is focussing on joint improvements with all stakeholders on this point (see Government Plan 2025-2029: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/die-bundesregierung/regierungsdokumente.html).

Progress: No progress

Guarantee access to sexual and reproductive rights and particularly to abortion (France)

Proponent:

France


French Republic

France


French Republic

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

The current situation regarding sexual and reproductive rights in Austria is a problem. Although the right to abortion is formally recognised, there are still numerous hurdles and restrictions that make access to this basic medical procedure difficult. Various non-governmental organisations such as the Austrian Society for Family Planning (ÖGF) and the Women’s Health Centre (FGZ) have repeatedly pointed out that there are restrictions on access to abortion in some parts of Austria and that there is a lack of information and counselling services.   Austrian law allows abortions to be carried out without penalty within the first three months of pregnancy, which is known as the „deadline solution“. Under certain circumstances, abortion is also possible after this period has expired. Nevertheless, restrictive laws and social stigmatisation make it difficult for women to have a safe and legal abortion.   The current situation highlights the need for a comprehensive revision of legislation and additional measures to educate and sensitise the public. § Section 6 (3) of the Hospitals and Health Resorts Act stipulates that hospitals may not have any provisions in their regulations that prohibit the performance of an abortion without punishment or co-operation in this. In addition, the public healthcare system bears the costs of an abortion if it is necessary for medical reasons (Federal Law Gazette I No. 13/2019, Section 6 (3) of the Hospitals and Health Resorts Act: https://www.ris.bka.gv.at/eli/bgbl/1957/1/P6/NOR40211921?ResultFunctionToken==100&Suchworte=anstaltsordnung). One goal of the Women’s Health Action Plan 2020 is to promote reproductive health, and measure 27, which is included in the plan, aims to support women in their self-determined sexuality, for example by providing low-threshold access to contraceptives, and to guarantee the possibility of abortion in all federal states (Action Plan Women’s Health as PDF: https://www.sozialministerium.at/dam/jcr:b185f2aa-a1a5-4893-a940-e034d76710c3/Aktionsplan_Frauengesundheit_01_2020.pdf). Progress is still to be evaluated.  A current problem is that many women have to travel long distances to receive adequate care, as there is an uneven distribution of abortion facilities in different regions. In addition, women’s autonomy and freedom of choice are impaired by legal requirements such as the reflection period and the obligation to undergo counselling. In recent years, individual federal states have seen regression rather than progress in access to abortion. 

Progress: In progress

Strengthen measures to address obesity in children and to promote a healthy lifestyle, as recommended by the Committee on the Rights of the Child

Proponent:

Sri Lanka


Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka


Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka

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

The range and effectiveness of the measures are to be increased, with the aim of improving availability and reducing waiting times in order to enable faster help for those affected. Studies show that mental stress in children and adolescents has increased significantly in recent years, particularly due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This is often linked to obesity.  

Progress: No progress

Strengthen the legislative framework to expressly prohibit any practice that modifies a person’s sexual characteristics without well-founded medical reasons or without the full consent of that person

Proponent:

Uruguay


Republic of Eastern Uruguay

Uruguay


Republic of Eastern Uruguay

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

The European Commission’s LGBTIQ Equality Strategy 2020-2025 calls for an end to this „genital mutilation of intersex people (see: here). International organisations, including the UN, the European Parliament and the European Commission, also support the end of these practices. Other European countries such as Malta, Greece and Germany have already passed corresponding laws. 

Progress: In progress

Ensure free and timely access to appropriate health-care for all, including LGBTI+ persons, children and adolescents where the young person has sufficient maturity to provide informed consent

Proponent:

Iceland


Republic of Iceland

Iceland


Republic of Iceland

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

In the „Concluding Observations“ on the situation of children’s rights in Austria, published in March 2020, the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child called for a ban on the performance of medically unnecessary treatments or surgical interventions on children with variations in gender development (intersex children).   These measures should only be carried out if they are safe and can be postponed until the children concerned are able to give their consent on the basis of an informed decision (see paragraph 27, lit a). However, there is no concrete information on the exact steps to implement these recommendations (see Convention on the Rights of the Child as PDF: here). On 10 May 2024, the UN Committee against Torture (CAT) published new recommendations to Austria concerning the protection of intersex people (see CAT recommendations to Austria 2024: https://tbinternet.ohchr.org/_layouts/15/treatybodyexternal/SessionDetails1.aspx?SessionID=2749&Lang=en). In points 42 and 43 of its „Concluding Observations“, the committee expressed the desire for legal regulation to prohibit non-medically necessary interventions on intersex children. Furthermore, the committee recommended that people who have undergone such treatments should be adequately compensated and that counselling and support structures should be set up. These recommendations build on those made by the CAT in 2015, in which Austria was already called upon to ensure the protection of intersex people from harmful interventions. Despite this call, Austria has not yet implemented any corresponding measures, which is why it now seems important to reiterate the recommendations.   VIMÖ has submitted an alternative report to the UN Committee in which the procedures practised in Austria are scientifically documented. The report shows that there are more than 1,000 hospital discharges of children and adolescents with variations in sex characteristics every year. Many of these discharges are associated with operations that can be categorised as intersex genital mutilation (IGM) (see alternative VIMÖ report: https://vimoe.at/2024/04/25/oesterreich-vom-un-ausschuss-gegen-folter-cat-geprueft-veroeffentlichung-unseres-ngo-berichts-und-bedeutende-antwort-oesterreichs/). During the hearing on 17 April 2024, Austria admitted that such operations continue to be carried out. Reference was also made to existing legal regulations intended to protect minors from such interventions;The European Commission’s LGBTIQ Equality Strategy 2020-2025 calls for an end to this „genital mutilation of intersex people (see: here). International organisations, including the UN, the European Parliament and the European Commission, also support the end of these practices. Other European countries such as Malta, Greece and Germany have already passed corresponding laws. 

Progress: No progress

End harmful practices, including forced and coercive medical interventions, to ensure the bodily integrity of children with intersex variations

Proponent:

Iceland


Republic of Iceland

Iceland


Republic of Iceland

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

In June 2021, the Austrian National Council unanimously passed resolution 1594/A(E) on the „Protection of intersex children and adolescents from medically unnecessary treatments of their sex characteristics“ (see parliament’s website: here). The Federal Ministry of Justice (BMJ) then set up a working group – with the involvement of civil society, psychotherapists and doctors – to draw up a draft law. The working group completed its work in November 2021.  A corresponding draft has been pending since then. Back in 2020, the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child called on Austria to protect intersex children from non-necessary and non-consensual medical interventions. The Committee described this practice as „harmful and referred to the UN Convention against Torture“. Austria was already reprimanded by the UN Committee against Torture in 2015 for such treatments (reprimands to Austria in the VIMÖ/PIÖ position paper: https://vimoe.at/2020/02/25/februar-2020-un-kinderrechtsausschuss-ruegt-oesterreich-fuer-nicht-notwendige-behandlungen-an-inter-kindern/).   The European Commission’s LGBTIQ Equality Strategy 2020-2025 also calls for an end to this „genital mutilation of intersex people (see: https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/policies/justice-and-fundamental-rights/combatting-discrimination/lesbian-gay-bi-trans-and-intersex-equality/lgbtiq-equality-strategy-2020-2025_e). International organisations, including the UN, the European Parliament and the European Commission, also support the end of these practices. Other European countries such as Malta, Greece and Germany have already passed corresponding laws. Self-advocacy organisations such as the Verein Intergeschlechtlicher Menschen Österreich (VIMÖ/OII Austria) are calling for a law to protect intersex children and young people or children and young people with variations in gender characteristics (VIMÖ website: https://www.ots.at/presseaussendung/OTS_20230411_OTS0032/vimoe-zu-lgbtiq-intergroup-im-parlament-intergeschlechtliche-kinder-muessen-geschuetzt-werden-verbot-seit-zwei-jahren-ausstaendig). On 10 May 2020, the UN Committee against Torture (CAT) issued new recommendations to Austria on the protection of intersex people. In points 42 and 43 of its „Concluding Observations“, the Committee is in favour of a legal regulation that prohibits medically unnecessary interventions on children. It also recommends compensating people who have undergone such interventions and setting up counselling and support structures. These recommendations build on those of the 2015 CAT, in which Austria was also called upon to ensure the protection of intersex people from harmful interventions. To date, Austria has not implemented these recommendations. 

Progress: No progress

Prohibit any practice that modifies a person’s sex characteristics without irrefutable medical reasons and the full and informed consent of the person affected

Proponent:

Malta


Republic of Malta

Malta


Republic of Malta

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

The European Commission’s LGBTIQ Equality Strategy 2020-2025 calls for an end to this „genital mutilation of intersex people (see: here). International organisations, including the UN, the European Parliament and the European Commission, also support the end of these practices. Other European countries such as Malta, Greece and Germany have already passed corresponding laws. 

Progress: No progress

Ensure that the human rights of intersex persons are respected, by developing a medical care protocol ensuring their participation in decision-making on medical interventions that affect them

Proponent:

Argentina


Argentine Republic

Argentina


Argentine Republic

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

The European Commission’s LGBTIQ Equality Strategy 2020-2025 calls for an end to this „genital mutilation of intersex people (see: here). International organisations, including the UN, the European Parliament and the European Commission, also support the end of these practices. Other European countries such as Malta, Greece and Germany have already passed corresponding laws. 

Progress: In progress

Strengthen access for all children to free, equitable and quality primary and secondary education, regardless of their socioeconomic status

Proponent:

Sri Lanka


Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka


Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka

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

In implementation of the EU Child Guarantee, the Children’s Opportunities programme was initiated in Austria to ensure basic services for children, particularly those in disadvantaged circumstances (early childhood education, health, combating child poverty); however, the necessary action plan, which has been due from the federal government for well over a year, has not yet been presented (see website of the Ministry of Social Affairs: <a
href=https://www.sozialministerium.at/Themen/Soziales/Soziale-Themen/Europäische-Garantie-für-Kinder.html)>https://www.sozialministerium.at/Themen/Soziales/Soziale-Themen/Europäische-Garantie-für-Kinder.html). In addition, the Integration Department at the Federal Chancellery supports low-threshold language support courses and learning support for children and young people of school age in order to improve their German skills and educational opportunities. In the years 2021 to 2023, around 7 million euros were made available for these purposes, with projects such as the Caritas learning cafés throughout Austria and the „HIPPY projects“ in various federal states being funded. In addition, the Ombuds Office for Children and Youths offers an education ombudsman service for kindergartens and schools, which provides support for various school-related problems such as derogatory behaviour, discrimination, violence, bullying, unfair grades and the involvement of pupils in decision-making processes and acute crisis situations in kindergartens and schools. We would also like to draw attention to current statements written by members of the Children’s Rights Network. These relate to various developments, including refugee and asylum coordination, the inclusion of children with disabilities in collaboration with the Austrian Disability Council and protection against violence in collaboration with the Association of Child Protection Centres and „Die Möwe.“ In addition, the Children’s Rights Network submitted a supplementary report to the 5th and 6th Report of the Republic of Austria to the United Nations in accordance with Article 44 (1b) of the Convention on the Rights of the Child.   The following demands are presented in this report on behalf of the Children’s Rights Network: The introduction of compulsory kindergarten years, an expansion of educational opportunities for children under the age of three, targeted support for children with special needs, including affordable language support, the transfer of elementary education to federal competence and improved training for educators and a comprehensive integration of children’s and human rights into early childhood education and appropriate further training for educators (see report: https://www.kinderhabenrechte.at/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Bericht_DT.pdf).
  As part of the Government Plan 2025-2029, the Federal Government is launching a process to improve child and youth welfare, harmonise standards and provide funding for cross-sectoral projects (see Government Plan 2025-2029: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/die-bundesregierung/regierungsdokumente.html).

Progress: In progress

Strengthen efforts to access quality education for all children, regardless of their socio-economic status

Proponent:

Maldives


Republic of Maldives

Maldives


Republic of Maldives

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

In implementation of the EU Child Guarantee, the Children’s Opportunities programme was initiated in Austria to ensure basic services for children, particularly those in disadvantaged circumstances (early childhood education, health, combating child poverty); however, the necessary action plan, which has been due from the federal government for well over a year, has not yet been presented (see website of the Ministry of Social Affairs: <a
href=https://www.sozialministerium.at/Themen/Soziales/Soziale-Themen/Europäische-Garantie-für-Kinder.html)>https://www.sozialministerium.at/Themen/Soziales/Soziale-Themen/Europäische-Garantie-für-Kinder.html). In addition, the Integration Department at the Federal Chancellery supports low-threshold language support courses and learning support for children and young people of school age in order to improve their German skills and educational opportunities. In the years 2021 to 2023, around 7 million euros were made available for these purposes, with projects such as the Caritas learning cafés throughout Austria and the „HIPPY projects“ in various federal states being funded. In addition, the Ombuds Office for Children and Youths offers an education ombudsman service for kindergartens and schools, which provides support for various school-related problems such as derogatory behaviour, discrimination, violence, bullying, unfair grades and the involvement of pupils in decision-making processes and acute crisis situations in kindergartens and schools. We would also like to draw attention to current statements written by members of the Children’s Rights Network. These relate to various developments, including refugee and asylum coordination, the inclusion of children with disabilities in collaboration with the Austrian Disability Council and protection against violence in collaboration with the Association of Child Protection Centres and „Die Möwe.“ In addition, the Children’s Rights Network submitted a supplementary report to the 5th and 6th Report of the Republic of Austria to the United Nations in accordance with Article 44 (1b) of the Convention on the Rights of the Child.   The following demands are presented in this report on behalf of the Children’s Rights Network: The introduction of compulsory kindergarten years, an expansion of educational opportunities for children under the age of three, targeted support for children with special needs, including affordable language support, the transfer of elementary education to federal competence and improved training for educators and a comprehensive integration of children’s and human rights into early childhood education and appropriate further training for educators (see report: https://www.kinderhabenrechte.at/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Bericht_DT.pdf).
  As part of the Government Plan 2025-2029, the Federal Government is launching a process to improve child and youth welfare, harmonise standards and provide funding for cross-sectoral projects (see Government Plan 2025-2029: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/die-bundesregierung/regierungsdokumente.html).

Progress: In progress

Increase awareness of cultural diversity, non-discrimination and tolerance in education system

Proponent:

Turkey


Republic of Turkey

Turkey


Republic of Turkey

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

In its Concluding Observations on Austria in March 2020, the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child made more than 60 recommendations to improve the situation of children’s rights, including protection against violence, education, non-discrimination, health and inclusion. The federal government does not have a structured implementation programme (e.g. strategy, action plan) for this; an exchange with relevant stakeholders only takes place within the framework of the Children’s Rights Board set up in the Federal Chancellery/Family, albeit with non-binding results. In implementation of the EU Child Guarantee, the Child Opportunities Programme was initiated in Austria to ensure basic services for children, particularly those in disadvantaged circumstances (early childhood education, health, combating child poverty); however, the necessary action plan, which has been due from the federal government for well over a year, has not yet been presented (see website of the Ministry of Social Affairs: <a
href=https://www.sozialministerium.at/Themen/Soziales/Soziale-Themen/Europäische-Garantie-für-Kinder.html>https://www.sozialministerium.at/Themen/Soziales/Soziale-Themen/Europäische-Garantie-für-Kinder.html).
In addition, the Integration Department at the Federal Chancellery supports low-threshold language courses and learning support for children and young people of school age in order to improve their German skills and educational opportunities. In the years 2021 to 2023, around 7 million euros were made available for these purposes, with projects such as the Caritas learning cafés throughout Austria and the „HIPPY projects“ in various federal states being funded.   The Ombuds Office for Children and Youths offers an education ombudsman service for kindergartens and schools, which provides support for various school-related problems such as derogatory behaviour, discrimination, violence, bullying, unfair grades and the involvement of pupils in decision-making processes and acute crisis situations in kindergartens and schools.   We would also like to draw attention to current statements written by members of the Children’s Rights Network. These relate to various developments, including refugee and asylum coordination, the inclusion of children with disabilities in collaboration with the Austrian Disability Council and protection against violence in collaboration with the Association of Child Protection Centres and „Die Möwe.“ In addition, the Children’s Rights Network submitted a supplementary report to the 5th and 6th Report of the Republic of Austria to the United Nations in accordance with Article 44 (1b) of the Convention on the Rights of the Child.   The following demands are presented in this report on behalf of the Children’s Rights Network: The introduction of compulsory kindergarten years, an expansion of educational opportunities for children under the age of three, targeted support for children with special needs, including affordable language support, the transfer of elementary education to federal competence and improved training for educators and a comprehensive integration of children’s and human rights into early childhood education and appropriate further training for educators (Supplementary Report to the 5th and 6th Report of the Republic of Austria to the United Nations pursuant to Article 44(1)(b) of the Convention on the Rights of the Child: https://www.kinderhabenrechte.at/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Bericht_DT.pdf).“ 

Progress: No progress

Intensify efforts to promote equal opportunities in access to education for Roma children at all levels

Proponent:

Ghana


Republic of Ghana

Ghana


Republic of Ghana

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

In 2021, the Austrian „Strategy for the Continuation of the Inclusion of Roma in Austria“ was updated (see report „Strategy for the Continuation of the Inclusion of Roma in Austria“ published by the Federal Chancellery 2021: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/dam/jcr:b556a06c-cd86-4b3d-a492-815c8a1bfb84/Strategie%20Roma%20Inklusion.pdf). Although the strategy for the inclusion of Roma in Austria aims to combat antiziganism (marginalisation and hostility towards Sinti and Roma), it does not contain any specific information on financial support for measures to combat hostility towards Roma and Sin:tizze. 

Progress: No progress

Continue efforts to promote equal access to education for children from ethnic minorities, such as the Roma

Proponent:

Peru


Republic of Peru

Peru


Republic of Peru

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

In 2021, the Austrian „Strategy for the Continuation of the Inclusion of Roma in Austria“ was updated (see report „Strategy for the Continuation of the Inclusion of Roma in Austria“ published by the Federal Chancellery 2021: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/dam/jcr:b556a06c-cd86-4b3d-a492-815c8a1bfb84/Strategie%20Roma%20Inklusion.pdf). Although the strategy for the inclusion of Roma in Austria aims to combat antiziganism (marginalisation and hostility towards Sinti and Roma), it does not contain any specific information on financial support for measures to combat hostility towards Roma and Sin:tizze. 

Progress: No progress

Provide equal opportunities and access to education for Roma minorities at all levels

Proponent:

Iran


Islamic Republic of Iran

Iran


Islamic Republic of Iran

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

In 2021, the Austrian „Strategy for the Continuation of the Inclusion of Roma in Austria“ was updated (see report „Strategy for the Continuation of the Inclusion of Roma in Austria“ published by the Federal Chancellery 2021: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/dam/jcr:b556a06c-cd86-4b3d-a492-815c8a1bfb84/Strategie%20Roma%20Inklusion.pdf). Although the strategy for the inclusion of Roma in Austria aims to combat antiziganism (marginalisation and hostility towards Sinti and Roma), it does not contain any specific information on financial support for measures to combat hostility towards Roma and Sin:tizze. 

Progress: No progress

Strengthen access for all children, including the Roma children, to equitable, quality and free primary and secondary education

Proponent:

Senegal


Republic of Senegal

Senegal


Republic of Senegal

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

A well-functioning school system in the mother tongue forms the fundamental basis for the existence and further development of ethnic groups. The language of an ethnic group is a central component of its cultural identity, the preservation and appreciation of which the Austrian state has guaranteed in accordance with the Federal Constitution. The federal government and the legislator have a responsibility to ensure that ethnic groups have non-discriminatory access to educational opportunities in their own language.   To date, bilingual education has only been regulated by law in some federal states. However, there are no clear guidelines for important areas of education such as early childhood education, kindergarten care and after-school programmes. In secondary education, the use of the languages of the national minorities is often lost, as there is a lack of appropriate and high-quality bilingual education programmes in many places.    Outside the scope of the minority school laws – especially in Styria and Vienna – the national minority groups are completely excluded from bilingual education in the public school system (website of the Federal Chancellery: here). This recommendation was only noted in the 3rd cycle of the UPR. In the eyes of civil society, it would be desirable to adopt such recommendations in the next cycle and to consider implementing them now.    There is an urgent need to provide financial and other resources. This should ensure that members of ethnic groups not covered by minority school laws have unrestricted access to fair and appropriate bilingual education  This was also called for as an immediate measure by the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe in its Resolution CM/ResCMN (2023)14 of 13 December 2023 on the implementation by Austria of the Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities (see: https://search.coe.int/cm#{%22CoEIdentifier%22:[%220900001680adcf6e%22],%22sort%22:[%22CoEValidationDate%20Descending%22]}).  In 2021, the Austrian „Strategy for the Continuation of the Inclusion of Roma in Austria“ was updated (see report „Strategy for the Continuation of the Inclusion of Roma in Austria“ published by the Federal Chancellery 2021: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/dam/jcr:b556a06c-cd86-4b3d-a492-815c8a1bfb84/Strategie%20Roma%20Inklusion.pdf). Although the strategy for the inclusion of Roma in Austria aims to combat antiziganism (marginalisation and hostility towards Sinti and Roma), it does not contain any specific information on financial support for measures to combat hostility towards Roma and Sin:tizze. 

Progress: No progress

Ensure equal opportunities in the area of education and leisure activities for children and youth, including of non-Austrian background, as well as ensure full implementation of the Constitution provision on indigenous minorities, including through systemic support of bilingual schools

Proponent:

Czech Republic


Czech Republic

Czech Republic


Czech Republic

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

In implementation of the EU Child Guarantee, the Children’s Opportunities programme was initiated in Austria to ensure basic services for children, particularly those in disadvantaged circumstances (early childhood education, health, combating child poverty); however, the necessary action plan, which has been due from the federal government for well over a year, has not yet been presented (see website of the Ministry of Social Affairs: <a
href=https://www.sozialministerium.at/Themen/Soziales/Soziale-Themen/Europäische-Garantie-für-Kinder.html)>https://www.sozialministerium.at/Themen/Soziales/Soziale-Themen/Europäische-Garantie-für-Kinder.html). In addition, the Integration Department at the Federal Chancellery supports low-threshold language support courses and learning support for children and young people of school age in order to improve their German skills and educational opportunities. In the years 2021 to 2023, around 7 million euros were made available for these purposes, with projects such as the Caritas learning cafés throughout Austria and the „HIPPY projects“ in various federal states being funded. In addition, the Ombuds Office for Children and Youths offers an education ombudsman service for kindergartens and schools, which provides support for various school-related problems such as derogatory behaviour, discrimination, violence, bullying, unfair grades and the involvement of pupils in decision-making processes and acute crisis situations in kindergartens and schools. We would also like to draw attention to current statements written by members of the Children’s Rights Network. These relate to various developments, including refugee and asylum coordination, the inclusion of children with disabilities in collaboration with the Austrian Disability Council and protection against violence in collaboration with the Association of Child Protection Centres and „Die Möwe.“ In addition, the Children’s Rights Network submitted a supplementary report to the 5th and 6th Report of the Republic of Austria to the United Nations in accordance with Article 44 (1b) of the Convention on the Rights of the Child.   The following demands are presented in this report on behalf of the Children’s Rights Network: The introduction of compulsory kindergarten years, an expansion of educational opportunities for children under the age of three, targeted support for children with special needs, including affordable language support, the transfer of elementary education to federal competence and improved training for educators and a comprehensive integration of children’s and human rights into early childhood education and appropriate further training for educators (see report: https://www.kinderhabenrechte.at/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Bericht_DT.pdf).
  As part of the Government Plan 2025-2029, the Federal Government is launching a process to improve child and youth welfare, harmonise standards and provide funding for cross-sectoral projects (see Government Plan 2025-2029: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/die-bundesregierung/regierungsdokumente.html).Although progress has been made, the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child criticises the lack of implementation of a structured programme to improve children’s rights in Austria. There is a lack of concrete and comprehensive action plans, such as the long-requested action plan within the framework of the EU Child Guarantee (see Network Children’s Rights Austria, Implementation and Monitoring in Austria: https://www.kinderhabenrechte.at/umsetzung-und-monitoring-in-oesterreich/). The Federal Youth Council (BJV) and other organisations are working hard to improve the situation. The BJV has proclaimed 2024 as the „Year of Children’s Rights“ to draw more attention to children’s rights and is calling for more investment in mental health services and a national action plan to combat child poverty, among other things (see Federal Youth Representation, more information on the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child: https://bjv.at/kinder-jugend/kinderrechte/).
  As part of the Government Plan 2025-2029, the Federal Government is launching a process to improve child and youth services, harmonise standards and provide funding for cross-sectoral projects (see Government Plan 2025-2029: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/die-bundesregierung/regierungsdokumente.html).

Progress: No progress

Ensure that children with migration or minority background have unhindered and equal access to education

Proponent:

Bangladesh


People's Republic of Bangladesh

Bangladesh


People's Republic of Bangladesh

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

In implementation of the EU Child Guarantee, the Child Opportunities programme was initiated in Austria to ensure basic services for children, particularly those in disadvantaged circumstances (early childhood education, health, combating child poverty); however, the necessary action plan, which has been due from the federal government for well over a year, has not yet been presented (see website of the Ministry of Social Affairs: <a
href=https://www.sozialministerium.at/Themen/Soziales/Soziale-Themen/Europäische-Garantie-für-Kinder.html>https://www.sozialministerium.at/Themen/Soziales/Soziale-Themen/Europäische-Garantie-für-Kinder.html).
In addition, the Integration Department at the Federal Chancellery supports low-threshold language courses and learning support for children and young people of school age in order to improve their German skills and educational opportunities. In the years 2021 to 2023, around 7 million euros were made available for these purposes, with projects such as the Caritas learning cafés throughout Austria and the „HIPPY projects“ in various federal states being funded.   In addition, the Ombuds Office for Children and Youths offers an education ombudsman’s office for kindergartens and schools, which provides support for various school problems such as derogatory behaviour, discrimination, violence, bullying, unfair grades and the involvement of pupils in decision-making processes and acute crisis situations in kindergartens and schools;A well-functioning school system in the mother tongue forms the fundamental basis for the existence and further development of ethnic groups. The language of an ethnic group is a central component of its cultural identity, the preservation and appreciation of which the Austrian state has guaranteed in accordance with the Federal Constitution. The federal government and the legislator have a responsibility to ensure that ethnic groups have non-discriminatory access to educational opportunities in their own language.   To date, bilingual education has only been regulated by law in some federal states. However, there are no clear guidelines for important areas of education such as early childhood education, kindergarten care and after-school programmes. In secondary education, the use of the languages of the national minorities is often lost, as there is a lack of appropriate and high-quality bilingual education programmes in many places.    Outside the scope of the minority school laws – especially in Styria and Vienna – the national minority groups are completely excluded from bilingual education in the public school system (website of the Federal Chancellery: here). This recommendation was only noted in the 3rd cycle of the UPR. In the eyes of civil society, it would be desirable to adopt such recommendations in the next cycle and to consider implementing them now.    There is an urgent need to provide financial and other resources. This should ensure that members of ethnic groups not covered by minority school laws have unrestricted access to fair and appropriate bilingual education  This was also called for as an immediate measure by the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe in its Resolution CM/ResCMN (2023)14 of 13 December 2023 on the implementation by Austria of the Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities (see: https://search.coe.int/cm#{%22CoEIdentifier%22:[%220900001680adcf6e%22],%22sort%22:[%22CoEValidationDate%20Descending%22]}).  

Progress: No progress

Take all necessary measures to ensure that children of immigrant origin have unrestricted and equal access to education

Proponent:

Nicaragua


Republic of Nicaragua

Nicaragua


Republic of Nicaragua

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

In implementation of the EU Child Guarantee, the Child Opportunities programme was initiated in Austria to ensure basic services for children, particularly those in disadvantaged circumstances (early childhood education, health, combating child poverty); however, the necessary action plan, which has been due from the federal government for well over a year, has not yet been presented (see website of the Ministry of Social Affairs: <a
href=https://www.sozialministerium.at/Themen/Soziales/Soziale-Themen/Europäische-Garantie-für-Kinder.html>https://www.sozialministerium.at/Themen/Soziales/Soziale-Themen/Europäische-Garantie-für-Kinder.html).
In addition, the Integration Department at the Federal Chancellery supports low-threshold language courses and learning support for children and young people of school age in order to improve their German skills and educational opportunities. In the years 2021 to 2023, around 7 million euros were made available for these purposes, with projects such as the Caritas learning cafés throughout Austria and the „HIPPY projects“ in various federal states being funded.   In addition, the Ombuds Office for Children and Youths offers an education ombudsman’s office for kindergartens and schools, which provides support for various school problems such as derogatory behaviour, discrimination, violence, bullying, unfair grades and the involvement of pupils in decision-making processes and acute crisis situations in kindergartens and schools;

Progress: No progress

Take concrete steps to promote inclusive education for children with disabilities in the mainstream school system

Proponent:

Bahamas


Commonwealth of the Bahamas

Bahamas


Commonwealth of the Bahamas

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

Austria lacks the political will to implement a fully inclusive education system. There is no precise information on the budget allocated to individual children’s needs to enable appropriate measures for equal access to education. The Second National Action Plan on Disability 2022-2030 (NAP II) does not promise any effective changes in the area of inclusive education. None of the 31 measures in the education chapter, which sets inclusive education as a goal, have their own budget funds available. Inclusion is only mentioned when it comes to pre-determined learning content and educational goals of school types, which contradicts the human rights-based model of disability. As a result, children and young people with learning difficulties and cognitive disabilities are largely excluded from educational opportunities after compulsory schooling (see the National Disability Action Plan on the website of the Ministry of Social Affairs: https://www.sozialministerium.at/Themen/Soziales/Menschen-mit-Behinderungen/Nationaler-Aktionsplan-Behinderung.html).   There is still no legal entitlement to an inclusive kindergarten place. In Vienna, due to parental protests, a compulsory kindergarten year and an 11th and 12th school year were temporarily offered for children with disabilities, but with restrictions and redistributions. The children are largely redistributed, often lose their afternoon care (and parents their jobs) and sometimes have to be transported across Vienna, even though they previously had a place with afternoon care at their place of residence. In addition, recreational teachers continue to be cut or converted into assistant teachers, which jeopardises the quality of the profession and the inclusive multi-grade classes. The quality of the profession and the inclusive multi-grade classes is jeopardised. The Austrian Ombudsman Board has been informed, there have already been two television programmes on this and there will be another review shortly (see link to the „Citizens‘ Advocate“ programme on the topic of children with special educational needs (SEN) on the website of the Austrian Ombudsman Board: https://volksanwaltschaft.gv.at/artikel/11-und-12-Schuljahr-fuer-Kinder-mit-Behinderung available).
  As part of the Government Plan 2025-2029, the Federal Government is launching a process to improve child and youth welfare, harmonise standards and provide funding for cross-sectoral projects (see Government Plan 2025-2029: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/die-bundesregierung/regierungsdokumente.html).

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Österreichische Liga für Menschenrechte, upr@liga.or.at

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