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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: No progress

Enhance its ongoing efforts on human rights education campaigns, especially that on the rights of women, children, the elderly and minorities

Proponent:

Turkmenistan


Republic of Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan


Republic of Turkmenistan

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

An open letter to the federal government from Asylkoordination Österreich calls for the expansion of youth and social work programmes as well as political education and participation. Affected people in Austria, especially young people, should be given equal and barrier-free participation in democratic processes in order to support them, especially in times of racism (Open letter, 2022: https://archiv2022.asyl.at/de/info/news/offenerbriefandiebundesregierung/index.html). The German government is called upon to take the demands formulated in the open letter seriously and to take effective measures. It is to be hoped that increased efforts will be made to create a fair and inclusive society in Austria that guarantees the equal participation of all those affected in democratic processes. Children and young people who have experienced displacement face particular challenges. Not only do they have to deal with traumatic experiences, they often also have to cope in a new, unfamiliar social environment. Asylkoordination Österreich sees a need for action here in order to give these young people a fair chance at education, political participation and social integration. At the same time, it is emphasised that existing human rights education programmes are not sufficient to fully meet the needs of these young people. They need targeted support so that they can not only integrate into society, but also actively contribute to democratic coexistence. The letter emphasises that it is not just about imparting knowledge, but also about creating real opportunities for participation that give young people a voice. Although there are already approaches and progress, such as through the United Nations World Programme for Human Rights Education, there is a clear lack of specific offers in Austria that are tailored to children and young people with a migration background. Asylkoordination Österreich is therefore calling for increased investment in programmes aimed specifically at promoting the participation and political education of these young people. Austria should intensify its campaigning work in the field of human rights education, paying particular attention to the rights of older people. In 2011, the Federal Ministry of Labour, Social Affairs and Consumer Protection, in cooperation with the Federal Advisory Council on Senior Citizens, drew up a Senior Citizens‘ Plan, which was adopted by the Federal Government and the National Council in 2012 (Senior Citizens‘ Plan 2011, page 33 ff: https://www.sozialministerium.at/dam/jcr:9ff6832d-bef5-4acc-93ac-b4ad90033b09/Bundesseniorenplan-4.-Auflage-September-2013-0(1).pdf). The plan aims to improve the quality of life of older people through measures to combat poverty, promote social participation and ensure self-determination. Specific recommendations must be implemented, including increasing disposable income, promoting social networks and securing long-term care funding. The federal senior citizens‘ plan provides for campaigns to promote healthy living and remove the taboo surrounding the need for care. It is unclear whether these measures are currently being implemented. On 10 December 2004, the United Nations General Assembly launched the World Programme for Human Rights Education (2005-ongoing) to promote the implementation of human rights education programmes in all areas (infographic UN World Programme 2005: https://www.ohchr.org/sites/default/files/documents/issues/education/training/infographic-wphre.pdf). Austria should continue to work consistently on strengthening human rights education. This means effectively promoting and protecting the rights of all population groups, including women, children, the elderly and minorities. To this end, increased cooperation between government, educational institutions and non-governmental organisations is essential. In addition, as part of the Austrian chairmanship of the Human Security Network (2002-2003), the handbook „Understanding Human Rights“ was produced by the ETC Graz and supported by the Austrian Foreign Ministry (see handbook „Understanding Human Rights“: https://migrant-integration.ec.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2011-01/docl_18153_933253484.pdf). It has been translated into 15 languages and includes online training materials that are used in training programmes worldwide. In 2012, an expanded English edition was published under the title „Understanding Human Rights“. In 2013, a brochure with best practice examples was published to further develop the curricula and raise awareness among the general public in order to promote a tolerant and inclusive society. 

Progress: In progress

Continue to promote human rights education, awareness-raising and promoting dialogue and tolerance

Proponent:

Bosnia and Herzegovina


Bosnia and Herzegovina

Bosnia and Herzegovina


Bosnia and Herzegovina

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

The international activities of the Federal Ministry of Education, Science and Research (BMBWF) and the organisations charged with this task, erinnern.at and OeAD, all aim to support teachers and learners in the field of human rights education. However, there is no further information on specific projects from Austria. Although the World Programme for Human Rights Education was launched by the United Nations in December 2004, various measures to promote human rights education are being implemented in Austria. Although progress in human rights education is recognisable, it should be noted that there is still a considerable need for action. 

Progress: In progress

Strengthen training efforts in human rights

Proponent:

Luxembourg


Grand Duchy of Luxembourg

Luxembourg


Grand Duchy of Luxembourg

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

The international activities of the Federal Ministry of Education, Science and Research (BMBWF) and the organisations charged with this task, erinnern.at and OeAD, all aim to support teachers and learners in the field of human rights education. However, there is no further information on specific projects from Austria. Although the World Programme for Human Rights Education was launched by the United Nations in December 2004, various measures to promote human rights education are being implemented in Austria. Although progress in human rights education is recognisable, it should be noted that there is still a considerable need for action. 

Progress: In progress

Continue its efforts at the international level towards promotion of human rights through education projects

Proponent:

Mongolia


Mongolia

Mongolia


Mongolia

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

The international activities of the Federal Ministry of Education, Science and Research (BMBWF) and the organisations charged with this task, erinnern.at and OeAD, all aim to support teachers and learners in the field of human rights education. However, there is no further information on specific projects from Austria. Although the World Programme for Human Rights Education was launched by the United Nations in December 2004, various measures to promote human rights education are being implemented in Austria. Although progress in human rights education is recognisable, it should be noted that there is still a considerable need for action. 

Progress: In progress

Strengthen policies to promote gender equality, increase women’s participation in the political sphere, and eliminate the wage gap

Proponent:

Ecuador


Republic of Ecuador

Ecuador


Republic of Ecuador

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). Since the non-partisan expert government of 2019 with Austria’s first female Federal Chancellor, a largely balanced gender ratio of federal ministers and state secretaries has been established, although in recent years this has gradually tilted back towards a male majority. The proportion of women in parliament has also risen steadily in recent decades, most recently reaching around 40%. As there are no legal requirements for the creation of electoral lists or the allocation of mandates in this respect, there is a significant difference between the political parties. Gender parity of 50% is only reached or exceeded in the Green, Neos and SPÖ parties. The ÖVP and FPÖ are below parity, with the latter party only achieving a female quota of 17%. At provincial level, the gender ratio in both governments and provincial parliaments lags behind the federal level. There is an extreme imbalance at municipal level, where there are only around 10% female mayors. This ratio is roughly the same across all parties.   Measures taken by the federal government in 2022 include the establishment of an „Austrian Fund for the Empowerment and Advancement of Women and Girls“, which operates the „LEA – Let’s Empower Austria“ project (website https://letsempoweraustria.at/), as well as the „Girls in Politics“ project, which enables girls and young women to accompany mayors at work in individual municipalities (information on the BKA website: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/agenda/frauen-und-gleichstellung/gleichstellung-am-arbeitsmarkt/girls-in-politics.html. An evaluation of the projects is still pending. A report by the Women’s Section of the Federal Chancellery from 2022 provides a statistical basis for taking stock of the participation of women in political decision-making positions (as a PDF Further information is available at the following link: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/dam/jcr:c1f8eb6d-b56e-480a-9463-38273dc136d6/frauen_in_polit_entscheidungspositionen_2022.pdf). 

Progress: In progress

Expand representation of women in political decision-making positions, especially at the level of states and municipalities

Proponent:

Lithuania


Republic of Lithuania

Lithuania


Republic of Lithuania

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

Since the non-partisan expert government of 2019 with Austria’s first female Federal Chancellor, a largely balanced gender ratio of federal ministers and state secretaries has been established, although in recent years this has gradually tilted back towards a male majority. The proportion of women in parliament has also risen steadily in recent decades, most recently reaching around 40%. As there are no legal requirements for the creation of electoral lists or the allocation of mandates in this respect, there is a significant difference between the political parties. Gender parity of 50% is only reached or exceeded in the Green, Neos and SPÖ parties. The ÖVP and FPÖ are below parity, with the latter party only achieving a female quota of 17%. At provincial level, the gender ratio in both governments and provincial parliaments lags behind the federal level. There is an extreme imbalance at municipal level, where there are only around 10% female mayors. This ratio is roughly the same across all parties.   Measures taken by the federal government in 2022 include the establishment of an „Austrian Fund for the Empowerment and Advancement of Women and Girls“, which operates the „LEA – Let’s Empower Austria“ project (website https://letsempoweraustria.at/), as well as the „Girls in Politics“ project, which enables girls and young women to accompany mayors at work in individual municipalities (information on the BKA website: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/agenda/frauen-und-gleichstellung/gleichstellung-am-arbeitsmarkt/girls-in-politics.html. An evaluation of the projects is still pending. A report by the Women’s Section of the Federal Chancellery from 2022 provides a statistical basis for taking stock of the participation of women in political decision-making positions (as a PDF Further information is available at the following link: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/dam/jcr:c1f8eb6d-b56e-480a-9463-38273dc136d6/frauen_in_polit_entscheidungspositionen_2022.pdf). 

Progress: In progress

Strengthen the efforts to increase the participation of women in political decision-making positions

Proponent:

Romania


Romania

Romania


Romania

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

Since the non-partisan expert government of 2019 with Austria’s first female Federal Chancellor, a largely balanced gender ratio of federal ministers and state secretaries has been established, although in recent years this has gradually tilted back towards a male majority. The proportion of women in parliament has also risen steadily in recent decades, most recently reaching around 40%. As there are no legal requirements for the creation of electoral lists or the allocation of mandates in this respect, there is a significant difference between the political parties. Gender parity of 50% is only reached or exceeded in the Green, Neos and SPÖ parties. The ÖVP and FPÖ are below parity, with the latter party only achieving a female quota of 17%. At provincial level, the gender ratio in both governments and provincial parliaments lags behind the federal level. There is an extreme imbalance at municipal level, where there are only around 10% female mayors. This ratio is roughly the same across all parties.   Measures taken by the federal government in 2022 include the establishment of an „Austrian Fund for the Empowerment and Advancement of Women and Girls“, which operates the „LEA – Let’s Empower Austria“ project (website https://letsempoweraustria.at/), as well as the „Girls in Politics“ project, which enables girls and young women to accompany mayors at work in individual municipalities (information on the BKA website: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/agenda/frauen-und-gleichstellung/gleichstellung-am-arbeitsmarkt/girls-in-politics.html. An evaluation of the projects is still pending. A report by the Women’s Section of the Federal Chancellery from 2022 provides a statistical basis for taking stock of the participation of women in political decision-making positions (as a PDF Further information is available at the following link: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/dam/jcr:c1f8eb6d-b56e-480a-9463-38273dc136d6/frauen_in_polit_entscheidungspositionen_2022.pdf). 

Progress: No progress

Adopt a comprehensive strategy to eliminate discriminatory stereotypes regarding the roles and responsibilities of women and men in the family and in society

Proponent:

Bahamas


Commonwealth of the Bahamas

Bahamas


Commonwealth of the Bahamas

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

In 2022, the Austrian Women’s Fund LEA was founded to make a long-term strategic contribution to overcoming discriminatory stereotypes with regard to the roles and tasks of women and men. This fund offers various services, including school workshops with role models and the organisation of webinars, for example on the topic of financial education (Further information: https://letsempoweraustria.at/).  
In both 2022 and 2021, the Women’s Section initiated the „Empowerment Call“ with the aim of breaking down gender stereotypes in the area of education and career choices.  In September 2021, a comprehensive package of measures was presented aimed at strengthening women and girls with a migration background in their fight against patriarchal structures and cultures of honour. Part of these measures includes the expansion of counselling services in the Austrian Integration Fund (ÖIF) centres (ÖIF package of measures as PDF: https://www.integrationsfonds.at/fileadmin/user_upload/20210604_Frauenaufruf_2021_Aufrufdokument.pdf). 

Progress: No progress

Adopt a comprehensive strategy to eliminate discriminatory stereotypes of women and their portrayal as sexual objects, and ensure that children are educated about responsible sexual behaviour

Proponent:

Marshall Islands


Republic of Marshall Islands

Marshall Islands


Republic of Marshall Islands

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

Sexuality education for children and adolescents in Austria faces several challenges. Although it is anchored in education, its implementation remains inconsistent and often inadequate. According to the WHO standards on sexuality education, teaching should promote a social climate of tolerance and openness and respect the diversity of genders and sexual identities (see WHO standards: https://www.sexualerziehung.at/hintergrundinformation-und-begriffserklaerungen/). However, many schools focus heavily on topics such as self-determination and pleasure, which leads to an incomplete discussion of sexuality (see GIVE Service Centre for Health Promotion in Austrian Schools, an initiative of the Federal Ministry of Education, Science and Research, the Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection and the Austrian Youth Red Cross: https://give.or.at/gv2021/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Give_Sexualerziehung2021.pdf). In addition, sex education is often not sufficiently aligned with the respective developmental phases of young people. There is a lack of resources and specialists who are able to organise lessons in an age-appropriate and sensitive manner. As a result, many important topics, such as dealing with media, violence in relationships or sexual health, are often not addressed. Another problem is the social debate about gender ideologies and the role of the family. These discussions influence the curriculum and can lead to parents and teachers feeling unsure about how to approach the topics. Overall, although the situation in Austria is regulated by law, in practice there are many challenges and deficits in sexuality education for children and young people.
  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). In 2022, the Austrian Women’s Fund LEA was founded to make a long-term strategic contribution to overcoming discriminatory stereotypes with regard to the roles and tasks of women and men. This fund offers various services, including school workshops with role models and the organisation of webinars, for example on the topic of financial education (Further information: https://letsempoweraustria.at/).  
In both 2022 and 2021, the Women’s Section initiated the „Empowerment Call“ with the aim of breaking down gender stereotypes in the area of education and career choices.  In September 2021, a comprehensive package of measures was presented aimed at strengthening women and girls with a migration background in their fight against patriarchal structures and cultures of honour. Part of these measures includes the expansion of counselling services in the Austrian Integration Fund (ÖIF) centres (ÖIF package of measures as PDF: https://www.integrationsfonds.at/fileadmin/user_upload/20210604_Frauenaufruf_2021_Aufrufdokument.pdf). 

Progress: No progress

Strengthen its efforts to eliminate discriminatory stereotypes regarding the roles and the responsibilities of women and men in the family and in society

Proponent:

Timor-Leste


Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste

Timor-Leste


Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste

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

In 2022, the Austrian Women’s Fund LEA was founded to make a long-term strategic contribution to overcoming discriminatory stereotypes with regard to the roles and tasks of women and men. This fund offers various services, including school workshops with role models and the organisation of webinars, for example on the topic of financial education (Further information: https://letsempoweraustria.at/).  
In both 2022 and 2021, the Women’s Section initiated the „Empowerment Call“ with the aim of breaking down gender stereotypes in the area of education and career choices.  In September 2021, a comprehensive package of measures was presented aimed at strengthening women and girls with a migration background in their fight against patriarchal structures and cultures of honour. Part of these measures includes the expansion of counselling services in the Austrian Integration Fund (ÖIF) centres (ÖIF package of measures as PDF: https://www.integrationsfonds.at/fileadmin/user_upload/20210604_Frauenaufruf_2021_Aufrufdokument.pdf). 

Progress: No progress

Work to combat discrimination against women and improve access for persons with disabilities in the workplace

Proponent:

USA


United States of America

USA


United States of America

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

With this in mind, in August 2023 the ACA also published the report „Violence and Victim Protection for Women“, which highlights the potential for effective protection of women affected by violence. The ACA highlights shortcomings in strategic planning and recommends a coordinated joint strategy between the federal ministries and the federal states (Gewalt- und Opferschutz für Frauen, BUND 2023/21: https://www.rechnungshof.gv.at/rh/home/home/2023_21_Gewalt_und_Opferschutz_Frauen.pdf). An important civil society initiative in this area is the Neighbourhoods Without Partner Violence Initiative („StoP Partner Violence“) with the participation of the umbrella organisation Autonomous Austrian Women’s Shelters (for the initiative, see https://stop-partnergewalt.at/). The Austrian women’s organisations point out that violence against women, including femicide and domestic violence, is still reaching alarming proportions. In this critical situation, political, legal and financial measures that go beyond current measures are needed to effectively combat violence against women. 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: In progress

Pursue policies to strengthen the promotion and protection of the rights of women, notably those who are minorities, immigrants and refugees

Proponent:

Barbados


Barbados

Barbados


Barbados

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

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). The 2021 violence protection package aims to protect women at risk and improve the financial framework. Among other things, preventative measures and awareness-raising are to be emphasised more strongly (see https://bmi.gv.at/magazin/2022_01_02/Gewaltschutz.aspx). Nevertheless, the financial resources still appear insufficient. There is also a lack of support for single parents and further training for professional groups who work with affected women and children. In this context, the Austrian Ministry of Social Affairs‘ „PERSPECTIVE WORK“ project, which deals with gender equality and the prevention of violence against women in the workplace, is of interest (see the Ministry of Social Affairs‘ website: https://www.sozialministerium.at/Themen/Soziales/Soziale-Themen/Geschlechtergleichstellung/PERSPEKTIVE-ARBEIT.html). 

Progress: No progress

Counter all forms of discrimination against women and girls with disabilities

Proponent:

Jordan


Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan

Jordan


Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan

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

No measures have been taken to prevent multiple and/or intersectional discrimination against women and girls with disabilities. There is still a lack of adequate consideration of the gender perspective in disability legislation, the disability perspective in women’s legislation, and the related enforcement of laws. The Ombud for Equal Treatment (website:https://www.gleichbehandlungsanwaltschaft.gv.at), a state institution at the Federal Chancellery (BKA), is responsible for all grounds of discrimination except disability. However, women with disabilities must contact the Social Ministry Service (website: https://www.gleichbehandlungsanwaltschaft.gv.at) and apply for conciliation. This conciliation procedure is mandatory and must be carried out before a lawsuit is filed with the civil court. The problem is that the Social Ministry Service has no specific expertise in dealing with women with disabilities and is also not trained in a gender-equitable approach;

Progress: No progress

Adopt a common official statistical framework, coordinated at the federal level, to record more accurately the crimes of femicide and other crimes of violence against women

Proponent:

Spain


Kingdom of Spain

Spain


Kingdom of Spain

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

The data situation in the area of violence and victim protection for women is still inadequate for a comprehensive evaluation of political measures and their planning. The available information, such as police crime statistics, is not sufficient to fully record the causes and offences. There is a lack of supplementary justice-specific data and dark field research on private violence. Crime statistics in Austria currently only record crimes by gender and attempted murders, but not whether there is a gender-specific, misogynistic motive or the relationship between perpetrator and victim (see, for example, a motion for a resolution in parliament on a standardised definition of femicide here: https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXVII/A/2531).   Due to a lack of data, it is not possible to provide a realistic picture of federal and state expenditure on violence and victim protection. No progress can be seen in this area, especially at national level, and the number of femicides and hate crimes continues to rise. In August 2023, the ACA published the report „Violence and Victim Protection for Women“, which highlights potential for the effective protection of women affected by violence. The ACA also highlights shortcomings in strategic planning and recommends a coordinated joint strategy between the federal ministries and the federal states (Gewalt- und Opferschutz für Frauen, BUND 2023/21: https://www.rechnungshof.gv.at/rh/home/home/2023_21_Gewalt_und_Opferschutz_Frauen.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

Adopt a new national action plan to prevent gender-based violence against women that includes improved data collection on gender-based violence and femicide

Proponent:

Sweden


Kingdom of Sweden

Sweden


Kingdom of Sweden

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

With the National Action Plan for the Protection of Women against Violence 2014-2016, measures were taken throughout Austria to implement the requirements of the Istanbul Convention against Violence against Women (see National Action Plan 2014-2016 as PDF: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/dam/jcr:1f95e551-0e17-4d67-8090-b7bced3f4947/nap.pdf). However, the National Action Plan has now expired without replacement. Despite the fact that Austria has ratified the Convention, there is a lack of implementation and improvement of further measures, including due diligence in victim protection and, in particular, improved cooperation with civil society.   In August 2023, the ACA published the report „Violence and Victim Protection for Women“, which identifies potential for the effective protection of women affected by violence. The ACA also highlights shortcomings in strategic planning and recommends a coordinated joint strategy between the federal ministries and the federal states (Gewalt- und Opferschutz für Frauen, BUND 2023/21: https://www.rechnungshof.gv.at/rh/home/home/2023_21_Gewalt_und_Opferschutz_Frauen.pdf). A National Action Plan for the Protection of Women against Violence 2014-2016 with 60 measures has been drawn up, but no further action plan is planned (National Action Plan for the Protection of Women against Violence 2014-2016 on the website of the National Coordination Centre for the Protection of Women against Violence: https://www.coordination-vaw.gv.at/koordinierung/nap.html).  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

Establish a new National Action Plan to address violence against women and ensure that it is supported with adequate resources

Proponent:

Canada


Canada

Canada


Canada

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

With the National Action Plan for the Protection of Women against Violence 2014-2016, measures were taken throughout Austria to implement the requirements of the Istanbul Convention against Violence against Women (see National Action Plan 2014-2016 as PDF: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/dam/jcr:1f95e551-0e17-4d67-8090-b7bced3f4947/nap.pdf). However, the National Action Plan has now expired without replacement. Despite the fact that Austria has ratified the Convention, there is a lack of implementation and improvement of further measures, including due diligence in victim protection and, in particular, improved cooperation with civil society.   In August 2023, the ACA published the report „Violence and Victim Protection for Women“, which identifies potential for the effective protection of women affected by violence. The ACA also highlights shortcomings in strategic planning and recommends a coordinated joint strategy between the federal ministries and the federal states (Gewalt- und Opferschutz für Frauen, BUND 2023/21: https://www.rechnungshof.gv.at/rh/home/home/2023_21_Gewalt_und_Opferschutz_Frauen.pdf). A National Action Plan for the Protection of Women against Violence 2014-2016 with 60 measures has been drawn up, but no further action plan is planned (National Action Plan for the Protection of Women against Violence 2014-2016 on the website of the National Coordination Centre for the Protection of Women against Violence: https://www.coordination-vaw.gv.at/koordinierung/nap.html).  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

Implement and update the National Action Plan on Combating Violence against Women

Proponent:

Israel


State of Israel

Israel


State of Israel

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

With the National Action Plan for the Protection of Women against Violence 2014-2016, measures were taken throughout Austria to implement the requirements of the Istanbul Convention against Violence against Women (see National Action Plan 2014-2016 as PDF: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/dam/jcr:1f95e551-0e17-4d67-8090-b7bced3f4947/nap.pdf). However, the National Action Plan has now expired without replacement. Despite the fact that Austria has ratified the Convention, there is a lack of implementation and improvement of further measures, including due diligence in victim protection and, in particular, improved cooperation with civil society.   In August 2023, the ACA published the report „Violence and Victim Protection for Women“, which identifies potential for the effective protection of women affected by violence. The ACA also highlights shortcomings in strategic planning and recommends a coordinated joint strategy between the federal ministries and the federal states (Gewalt- und Opferschutz für Frauen, BUND 2023/21: https://www.rechnungshof.gv.at/rh/home/home/2023_21_Gewalt_und_Opferschutz_Frauen.pdf). A National Action Plan for the Protection of Women against Violence 2014-2016 with 60 measures has been drawn up, but no further action plan is planned (National Action Plan for the Protection of Women against Violence 2014-2016 on the website of the National Coordination Centre for the Protection of Women against Violence: https://www.coordination-vaw.gv.at/koordinierung/nap.html).  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

Adopt comprehensive measures aimed at preventing, combating and punishing all forms of gender-based violence against women

Proponent:

Togo


Republic of Togo

Togo


Republic of Togo

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

Austria therefore lacks a comprehensive, long-term strategy to protect women from violence, although responsibility is shared between the federal and state governments. The provinces fund women’s shelters and counselling centres in particular, while the Ministry of the Interior, the Ministry of Justice and the Federal Chancellery are active at federal level. The Austrian women’s organisations point out that violence against women, including femicide and domestic violence, is still reaching alarming proportions. In this critical situation, political, legal and financial measures that go beyond the current measures are required to effectively combat violence against women.   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

Adopt comprehensive measures to prevent, combat and punish all forms of gender-based violence against women

Proponent:

Lithuania


Republic of Lithuania

Lithuania


Republic of Lithuania

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

Austria therefore lacks a comprehensive, long-term strategy to protect women from violence, although responsibility is shared between the federal and state governments. The provinces fund women’s shelters and counselling centres in particular, while the Ministry of the Interior, the Ministry of Justice and the Federal Chancellery are active at federal level. The Austrian women’s organisations point out that violence against women, including femicide and domestic violence, is still reaching alarming proportions. In this critical situation, political, legal and financial measures that go beyond the current measures are required to effectively combat violence against women.   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

Adopt necessary measures to ensure that victims of violence and sexual abuse have full access to adequate shelters and counselling centres

Proponent:

Belgium


Kingdom of Belgium

Belgium


Kingdom of Belgium

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

Civil society has pointed out that there are still too few women’s shelters and that funding is inadequate, which causes difficulties for victims of violence. Social services often do not take into account gender and multiple discrimination. In 2022, 28 women were killed as a result of gender-based violence and the lack of places in women’s shelters persisted. In September, women’s rights organisations continued to criticise the limited access to safe abortions. There is still a need for action to improve the situation (see Amnesty International Annual Report 2022: https://www.amnesty.at/themen/menschenrechte-in-oesterreich/menschenrechtslage-in-oesterreich-2022-amnesty-jahresbericht/). Increased investment and better coordination between the relevant authorities and non-governmental organisations is needed to ensure that everyone has access to protection and support. An important civil society initiative in this area is the Neighbourhoods Without Partner Violence initiative („StoP Partner Violence“) with the participation of the umbrella organisation Autonomous Austrian Women’s Shelters (for the initiative, see https://stop-partnergewalt.at/).  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). There are numerous counselling services for women affected by violence in Austria. These include special counselling centres, hotlines and shelters that offer round-the-clock support. Many of these services offer comprehensive counselling on legal, psychological and social issues. Nevertheless, it is important that these services are further expanded and publicised to ensure that all women affected receive the support they need. The central facilities include the women’s helpline, the Austria-wide violence protection centres and the Autonomous Austrian Women’s Shelters (AÖF). The network of these facilities ensures that women in need have access to help around the clock. In addition, specific services are provided for special target groups, such as migrant women, female refugees and asylum seekers. These services are designed to overcome cultural and language barriers and offer customised support to the women concerned.  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

Create a new National Action Plan „Protection against Violence for Women“ which also considers women with disabilities, precarious residence permits and asylum seekers and women with mental illness

Proponent:

Netherlands


Kingdom of the Netherlands

Netherlands


Kingdom of the Netherlands

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

With the National Action Plan for the Protection of Women against Violence 2014-2016, measures were taken throughout Austria to implement the requirements of the Istanbul Convention against Violence against Women (see National Action Plan 2014-2016 as PDF: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/dam/jcr:1f95e551-0e17-4d67-8090-b7bced3f4947/nap.pdf). However, the National Action Plan has now expired without replacement. Despite the fact that Austria has ratified the Convention, there is a lack of implementation and improvement of further measures, including due diligence in victim protection and, in particular, improved cooperation with civil society.   In August 2023, the ACA published the report „Violence and Victim Protection for Women“, which identifies potential for the effective protection of women affected by violence. The ACA also highlights shortcomings in strategic planning and recommends a coordinated joint strategy between the federal ministries and the federal states (Gewalt- und Opferschutz für Frauen, BUND 2023/21: https://www.rechnungshof.gv.at/rh/home/home/2023_21_Gewalt_und_Opferschutz_Frauen.pdf). A National Action Plan for the Protection of Women against Violence 2014-2016 with 60 measures has been drawn up, but no further action plan is planned (National Action Plan for the Protection of Women against Violence 2014-2016 on the website of the National Coordination Centre for the Protection of Women against Violence: https://www.coordination-vaw.gv.at/koordinierung/nap.html).  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

Redouble efforts to eliminate all kinds of violence and discrimination against women and girls, regardless of their migratory status

Proponent:

Brazil


Federal Republic of Brazil

Brazil


Federal Republic of Brazil

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

With this in mind, in August 2023 the ACA also published the report „Violence and Victim Protection for Women“, which highlights the potential for effective protection of women affected by violence. The ACA highlights shortcomings in strategic planning and recommends a coordinated joint strategy between the federal ministries and the federal states (Gewalt- und Opferschutz für Frauen, BUND 2023/21: https://www.rechnungshof.gv.at/rh/home/home/2023_21_Gewalt_und_Opferschutz_Frauen.pdf). An important civil society initiative in this area is the Neighbourhoods Without Partner Violence Initiative („StoP Partner Violence“) with the participation of the umbrella organisation Autonomous Austrian Women’s Shelters (for the initiative, see https://stop-partnergewalt.at/). The Austrian women’s organisations point out that violence against women, including femicide and domestic violence, is still reaching alarming proportions. In this critical situation, political, legal and financial measures that go beyond current measures are needed to effectively combat violence against women. The 2021 violence protection package aims to protect women at risk and improve the financial framework. Among other things, preventative measures and awareness-raising are to be emphasised more strongly (see https://bmi.gv.at/magazin/2022_01_02/Gewaltschutz.aspx). Nevertheless, the financial resources still appear insufficient. There is also a lack of support for single parents and further training for professional groups who work with affected women and children. In this context, the Austrian Ministry of Social Affairs‘ „PERSPECTIVE WORK“ project, which deals with gender equality and the prevention of violence against women in the workplace, is of interest (see the Ministry of Social Affairs‘ website: https://www.sozialministerium.at/Themen/Soziales/Soziale-Themen/Geschlechtergleichstellung/PERSPEKTIVE-ARBEIT.html). Austria therefore lacks a comprehensive, long-term strategy to protect women from violence, although responsibility is shared between the federal and state governments. The provinces fund women’s shelters and counselling centres in particular, while the Ministry of the Interior, the Ministry of Justice and the Federal Chancellery are active at federal level. The Austrian women’s organisations point out that violence against women, including femicide and domestic violence, is still reaching alarming proportions. In this critical situation, political, legal and financial measures that go beyond the current measures are required to effectively combat violence against women.   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 further concrete steps to increase accessibility to shelters and support services for the victims of sexual and domestic violence

Proponent:

Croatia


Republic of Croatia

Croatia


Republic of Croatia

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

Civil society has pointed out that there are still too few women’s shelters and that funding is inadequate, which causes difficulties for victims of violence. Social services often do not take into account gender and multiple discrimination. In 2022, 28 women were killed as a result of gender-based violence and the lack of places in women’s shelters persisted. In September, women’s rights organisations continued to criticise the limited access to safe abortions. There is still a need for action to improve the situation (see Amnesty International Annual Report 2022: https://www.amnesty.at/themen/menschenrechte-in-oesterreich/menschenrechtslage-in-oesterreich-2022-amnesty-jahresbericht/). Increased investment and better coordination between the relevant authorities and non-governmental organisations is needed to ensure that everyone has access to protection and support. An important civil society initiative in this area is the Neighbourhoods Without Partner Violence initiative („StoP Partner Violence“) with the participation of the umbrella organisation Autonomous Austrian Women’s Shelters (for the initiative, see https://stop-partnergewalt.at/).  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). In August 2023, the ACA published the report „Violence and Victim Protection for Women“, which identifies potential for the effective protection of women affected by violence. The ACA identifies shortcomings in strategic planning and recommends a coordinated joint strategy between the federal ministries and the federal states (Gewalt- und Opferschutz für Frauen, BUND 2023/21: https://www.rechnungshof.gv.at/rh/home/home/2023_21_Gewalt_und_Opferschutz_Frauen.pdf).   The 2021 Violence Protection Package aims to protect women at risk and improve the financial framework. Among other things, preventive measures and awareness-raising are to be emphasised more strongly (see https://bmi.gv.at/magazin/2022_01_02/Gewaltschutz.aspx). The Austrian women’s organisations point out that violence against women, including femicide and domestic violence, is still reaching alarming proportions. In this critical situation, political, legal and financial measures that go beyond the current measures are needed to effectively combat violence against women.   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

Ensure that survivors of sexual and domestic violence have unrestricted access to shelters and provide adequate financial and human resources to survivors’ support services, including for effective victim protection

Proponent:

Iceland


Republic of Iceland

Iceland


Republic of Iceland

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

Civil society has pointed out that there are still too few women’s shelters and that funding is inadequate, which causes difficulties for victims of violence. Social services often do not take into account gender and multiple discrimination. In 2022, 28 women were killed as a result of gender-based violence and the lack of places in women’s shelters persisted. In September, women’s rights organisations continued to criticise the limited access to safe abortions. There is still a need for action to improve the situation (see Amnesty International Annual Report 2022: https://www.amnesty.at/themen/menschenrechte-in-oesterreich/menschenrechtslage-in-oesterreich-2022-amnesty-jahresbericht/). Increased investment and better coordination between the relevant authorities and non-governmental organisations is needed to ensure that everyone has access to protection and support. An important civil society initiative in this area is the Neighbourhoods Without Partner Violence initiative („StoP Partner Violence“) with the participation of the umbrella organisation Autonomous Austrian Women’s Shelters (for the initiative, see https://stop-partnergewalt.at/).  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). In August 2023, the ACA published the report „Violence and Victim Protection for Women“, which identifies potential for the effective protection of women affected by violence. The ACA identifies shortcomings in strategic planning and recommends a coordinated joint strategy between the federal ministries and the federal states (Gewalt- und Opferschutz für Frauen, BUND 2023/21: https://www.rechnungshof.gv.at/rh/home/home/2023_21_Gewalt_und_Opferschutz_Frauen.pdf).   The 2021 Violence Protection Package aims to protect women at risk and improve the financial framework. Among other things, preventive measures and awareness-raising are to be emphasised more strongly (see https://bmi.gv.at/magazin/2022_01_02/Gewaltschutz.aspx). The Austrian women’s organisations point out that violence against women, including femicide and domestic violence, is still reaching alarming proportions. In this critical situation, political, legal and financial measures that go beyond the current measures are needed to effectively combat violence against women.   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 necessary legislative and administrative measures to protect children and women against domestic violence

Proponent:

Iran


Islamic Republic of Iran

Iran


Islamic Republic of Iran

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

Statistics show that a significant proportion of women are affected by domestic violence. In 2023, the police in Austria recorded several thousand cases of domestic violence, with women being victims disproportionately often (see report with figures on femicides and violence against women in Austria, Gewaltinfo 2022: https://www.gewaltinfo.at/themen/gewalt-an-frauen/femizide-und-gewalt-gegen-frauen-in-oesterreich.html). In order to raise awareness of domestic violence and promote prevention, regular campaigns and educational programmes are carried out. The Violence Protection Summit and other events promote the exchange of best practices and the networking of experts in the field of violence protection. Many cases of domestic violence go unreported and the number of unreported cases is high. Organisations such as the AÖF association and the Alliance Living Free of Violence are therefore calling for a further increase in funding for gender equality and violence prevention work as well as the comprehensive implementation of the Istanbul Convention.   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 its efforts to eliminate all forms of sexual and gender-based violence, including by adopting comprehensive measures to prevent, combat and punish all forms of gender-based violence against women as well as by reinforcing the protection and assistance provided to victims of such violence, and to provide justice to survivors

Proponent:

Liechtenstein


Principality of Liechtenstein

Liechtenstein


Principality of Liechtenstein

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

Austria therefore lacks a comprehensive, long-term strategy to protect women from violence, although responsibility is shared between the federal and state governments. The provinces fund women’s shelters and counselling centres in particular, while the Ministry of the Interior, the Ministry of Justice and the Federal Chancellery are active at federal level. The Austrian women’s organisations point out that violence against women, including femicide and domestic violence, is still reaching alarming proportions. In this critical situation, political, legal and financial measures that go beyond the current measures are required to effectively combat violence against women.   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).In August 2023, the ACA published the report „Violence and Victim Protection for Women“, which identifies potential for the effective protection of women affected by violence. The ACA identifies shortcomings in strategic planning and recommends a coordinated joint strategy between the federal ministries and the federal states (Gewalt- und Opferschutz für Frauen, BUND 2023/21: https://www.rechnungshof.gv.at/rh/home/home/2023_21_Gewalt_und_Opferschutz_Frauen.pdf).   The 2021 Violence Protection Package aims to protect women at risk and improve the financial framework. Among other things, preventive measures and awareness-raising are to be emphasised more strongly (see https://bmi.gv.at/magazin/2022_01_02/Gewaltschutz.aspx). The Austrian women’s organisations point out that violence against women, including femicide and domestic violence, is still reaching alarming proportions. In this critical situation, political, legal and financial measures that go beyond the current measures are needed to effectively combat violence against women.   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 lacks a comprehensive, long-term strategy to protect women from violence, although responsibility is shared between the federal and state governments. The provinces fund women’s shelters and counselling centres in particular, while the Ministry of the Interior, the Ministry of Justice and the Federal Chancellery are active at federal level. The Court of Audit highlights shortcomings in strategic planning and recommends a coordinated joint strategy between the federal ministries and the federal states (Gewalt- und Opferschutz für Frauen, BUND 2023/21: https://www.rechnungshof.gv.at/rh/home/home/2023_21_Gewalt_und_Opferschutz_Frauen.pdf). It appears that the financial resources remain insufficient.  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

Adopt comprehensive measures to prevent, combat and punish all forms of violence against women, strengthen the protection and assistance offered to victims of such violence, and prosecute all crimes aimed at women and girls, including refugee and asylum-seeking women and girls

Proponent:

Luxembourg


Grand Duchy of Luxembourg

Luxembourg


Grand Duchy of Luxembourg

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

Austria therefore lacks a comprehensive, long-term strategy to protect women from violence, although responsibility is shared between the federal and state governments. The provinces fund women’s shelters and counselling centres in particular, while the Ministry of the Interior, the Ministry of Justice and the Federal Chancellery are active at federal level. The Austrian women’s organisations point out that violence against women, including femicide and domestic violence, is still reaching alarming proportions. In this critical situation, political, legal and financial measures that go beyond the current measures are required to effectively combat violence against women.   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).In August 2023, the ACA published the report „Violence and Victim Protection for Women“, which identifies potential for the effective protection of women affected by violence. The ACA identifies shortcomings in strategic planning and recommends a coordinated joint strategy between the federal ministries and the federal states (Gewalt- und Opferschutz für Frauen, BUND 2023/21: https://www.rechnungshof.gv.at/rh/home/home/2023_21_Gewalt_und_Opferschutz_Frauen.pdf).   The 2021 Violence Protection Package aims to protect women at risk and improve the financial framework. Among other things, preventive measures and awareness-raising are to be emphasised more strongly (see https://bmi.gv.at/magazin/2022_01_02/Gewaltschutz.aspx). The Austrian women’s organisations point out that violence against women, including femicide and domestic violence, is still reaching alarming proportions. In this critical situation, political, legal and financial measures that go beyond the current measures are needed to effectively combat violence against women.   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 lacks a comprehensive, long-term strategy to protect women from violence, although responsibility is shared between the federal and state governments. The provinces fund women’s shelters and counselling centres in particular, while the Ministry of the Interior, the Ministry of Justice and the Federal Chancellery are active at federal level. The Court of Audit highlights shortcomings in strategic planning and recommends a coordinated joint strategy between the federal ministries and the federal states (Gewalt- und Opferschutz für Frauen, BUND 2023/21: https://www.rechnungshof.gv.at/rh/home/home/2023_21_Gewalt_und_Opferschutz_Frauen.pdf). It appears that the financial resources remain insufficient.  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

Ensure survivors of sexual and domestic violence have unrestricted access to shelters and provide adequate resources to survivors’ support services

Proponent:

Malta


Republic of Malta

Malta


Republic of Malta

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

There are numerous counselling services for women affected by violence in Austria. These include special counselling centres, hotlines and shelters that offer round-the-clock support. Many of these services offer comprehensive counselling on legal, psychological and social issues. Nevertheless, it is important that these services are further expanded and publicised to ensure that all women affected receive the support they need. The central facilities include the women’s helpline, the Austria-wide violence protection centres and the Autonomous Austrian Women’s Shelters (AÖF). The network of these facilities ensures that women in need have access to help around the clock. In addition, specific services are provided for special target groups, such as migrant women, female refugees and asylum seekers. These services are designed to overcome cultural and language barriers and offer customised support to the women concerned.  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). In August 2023, the ACA published the report „Violence and Victim Protection for Women“, which identifies potential for the effective protection of women affected by violence. The ACA identifies shortcomings in strategic planning and recommends a coordinated joint strategy between the federal ministries and the federal states (Gewalt- und Opferschutz für Frauen, BUND 2023/21: https://www.rechnungshof.gv.at/rh/home/home/2023_21_Gewalt_und_Opferschutz_Frauen.pdf).   The 2021 Violence Protection Package aims to protect women at risk and improve the financial framework. Among other things, preventive measures and awareness-raising are to be emphasised more strongly (see https://bmi.gv.at/magazin/2022_01_02/Gewaltschutz.aspx). The Austrian women’s organisations point out that violence against women, including femicide and domestic violence, is still reaching alarming proportions. In this critical situation, political, legal and financial measures that go beyond the current measures are needed to effectively combat violence against women.   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 measures to address unreported cases of femicides and domestic violence against women, hate crimes against migrants, refugees and asylum-seeking women and girls

Proponent:

Myanmar


Republic of the Union of Myanmar

Myanmar


Republic of the Union of Myanmar

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

The Austrian government has ensured the funding of violence protection centres and supported the expansion of shelters and transitional housing. The budget for women’s and girls‘ advice centres was increased by 67 per cent to 13.6 million euros (see Measures Report BMI, 2023: https://www.bmi.gv.at/news.aspx?id=754742316C7558786E42413D). Another focus is on the nationwide introduction of violence outpatient clinics, which provide victims with free examinations regardless of the procedure. These outpatient clinics are intended to improve the documentation of injuries and thus increase the conviction rate in cases of domestic violence. In addition, cooperation between various ministries and departments is being continuously strengthened and regular violence protection summits are held to promote the exchange of best practices and networking between experts. Measures have also been introduced to better recognise and document violence and to raise awareness of the „silent emergency call“. Despite this progress, there are still gaps in the protection against violence, particularly in the area of conviction rates and research into unreported cases. Organisations such as the association AÖF and the Alliance Gewaltfrei leben are therefore calling for a further increase in the budget for gender equality and violence prevention work in order to achieve real equality and a significant reduction in violence against women in the long term.   As part of the Government Plan 2025-2029, the federal government is pursuing this goal through close cooperation with all stakeholders (see Government Plan 2ß025-2029: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/die-bundesregierung/regierungsdokumente.html). There continue to be concerns about the effectiveness of measures in Austria to combat hate crimes against migrant women. The latest data on hate crimes against women and hate crimes against migrant women in Austria show an alarming increase in reported cases in 2022 compared to the previous year. Despite a higher detection rate, many of these crimes remain unsolved. Of particular concern is the increase in offences based on ideology, national/ethnic origin and religion. Despite this, there is a lack of specific measures to prevent and support migrant women affected, and barriers to data collection and dark field research remain. Policymakers are called upon to develop and implement more effective strategies and a national action plan to combat hate crime. 

Progress: In progress

Undertake further policy, legal and financial measures for combating all forms of violence against women, including femicides and cases of domestic violence

Proponent:

North Macedonia


Republic of North Macedonia –

North Macedonia


Republic of North Macedonia –

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

With this in mind, in August 2023 the ACA also published the report „Violence and Victim Protection for Women“, which highlights the potential for effective protection of women affected by violence. The ACA highlights shortcomings in strategic planning and recommends a coordinated joint strategy between the federal ministries and the federal states (Gewalt- und Opferschutz für Frauen, BUND 2023/21: https://www.rechnungshof.gv.at/rh/home/home/2023_21_Gewalt_und_Opferschutz_Frauen.pdf). An important civil society initiative in this area is the Neighbourhoods Without Partner Violence Initiative („StoP Partner Violence“) with the participation of the umbrella organisation Autonomous Austrian Women’s Shelters (for the initiative, see https://stop-partnergewalt.at/). The Austrian women’s organisations point out that violence against women, including femicide and domestic violence, is still reaching alarming proportions. In this critical situation, political, legal and financial measures that go beyond current measures are needed to effectively combat violence against women. Austria therefore lacks a comprehensive, long-term strategy to protect women from violence, although responsibility is shared between the federal and state governments. The provinces fund women’s shelters and counselling centres in particular, while the Ministry of the Interior, the Ministry of Justice and the Federal Chancellery are active at federal level. The Austrian women’s organisations point out that violence against women, including femicide and domestic violence, is still reaching alarming proportions. In this critical situation, political, legal and financial measures that go beyond the current measures are required to effectively combat violence against women.   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 lacks a comprehensive, long-term strategy to protect women from violence, although responsibility is shared between the federal and state governments. The provinces fund women’s shelters and counselling centres in particular, while the Ministry of the Interior, the Ministry of Justice and the Federal Chancellery are active at federal level. The Court of Audit highlights shortcomings in strategic planning and recommends a coordinated joint strategy between the federal ministries and the federal states (Gewalt- und Opferschutz für Frauen, BUND 2023/21: https://www.rechnungshof.gv.at/rh/home/home/2023_21_Gewalt_und_Opferschutz_Frauen.pdf). It appears that the financial resources remain insufficient.  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 the implementation of policies in the fields of prevention, protection and prosecution in relation to domestic violence and extend it to all forms of gender based violence

Proponent:

Romania


Romania

Romania


Romania

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

Austria therefore lacks a comprehensive, long-term strategy to protect women from violence, although responsibility is shared between the federal and state governments. The provinces fund women’s shelters and counselling centres in particular, while the Ministry of the Interior, the Ministry of Justice and the Federal Chancellery are active at federal level. The Austrian women’s organisations point out that violence against women, including femicide and domestic violence, is still reaching alarming proportions. In this critical situation, political, legal and financial measures that go beyond the current measures are required to effectively combat violence against women.   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).There are numerous counselling services for women affected by violence in Austria. These include special counselling centres, hotlines and shelters that offer round-the-clock support. Many of these services offer comprehensive counselling on legal, psychological and social issues. Nevertheless, it is important that these services are further expanded and publicised to ensure that all women affected receive the support they need. The central facilities include the women’s helpline, the Austria-wide violence protection centres and the Autonomous Austrian Women’s Shelters (AÖF). The network of these facilities ensures that women in need have access to help around the clock. In addition, specific services are provided for special target groups, such as migrant women, female refugees and asylum seekers. These services are designed to overcome cultural and language barriers and offer customised support to the women concerned.  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). In August 2023, the ACA published the report „Violence and Victim Protection for Women“, which identifies potential for the effective protection of women affected by violence. The ACA identifies shortcomings in strategic planning and recommends a coordinated joint strategy between the federal ministries and the federal states (Gewalt- und Opferschutz für Frauen, BUND 2023/21: https://www.rechnungshof.gv.at/rh/home/home/2023_21_Gewalt_und_Opferschutz_Frauen.pdf).   The 2021 Violence Protection Package aims to protect women at risk and improve the financial framework. Among other things, preventive measures and awareness-raising are to be emphasised more strongly (see https://bmi.gv.at/magazin/2022_01_02/Gewaltschutz.aspx). The Austrian women’s organisations point out that violence against women, including femicide and domestic violence, is still reaching alarming proportions. In this critical situation, political, legal and financial measures that go beyond the current measures are needed to effectively combat violence against women.   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 lacks a comprehensive, long-term strategy to protect women from violence, although responsibility is shared between the federal and state governments. The provinces fund women’s shelters and counselling centres in particular, while the Ministry of the Interior, the Ministry of Justice and the Federal Chancellery are active at federal level. The Court of Audit highlights shortcomings in strategic planning and recommends a coordinated joint strategy between the federal ministries and the federal states (Gewalt- und Opferschutz für Frauen, BUND 2023/21: https://www.rechnungshof.gv.at/rh/home/home/2023_21_Gewalt_und_Opferschutz_Frauen.pdf). It appears that the financial resources remain insufficient.  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 its work aimed at preventing violence against women, including within the family settings

Proponent:

Russia


Russian Federation

Russia


Russian Federation

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

Austria therefore lacks a comprehensive, long-term strategy to protect women from violence, although responsibility is shared between the federal and state governments. The provinces fund women’s shelters and counselling centres in particular, while the Ministry of the Interior, the Ministry of Justice and the Federal Chancellery are active at federal level. The Austrian women’s organisations point out that violence against women, including femicide and domestic violence, is still reaching alarming proportions. In this critical situation, political, legal and financial measures that go beyond the current measures are required to effectively combat violence against women.   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

Intensify efforts to protect all children and provide them with better access to childhood services

Proponent:

Barbados


Barbados

Barbados


Barbados

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

On 31 January 2023, the National Council decided to develop a package of measures for child protection. The plan is to develop initiatives to promote the protection of children and young people by implementing concepts and training for professionals, strengthening sexual offences and creating prevention exceptions for perpetrators (National Council meeting on child protection – 195th session of the National Council on 31 January 2023 (195/NRSITZ): https://www.parlament.gv.at/aktuelles/pk/jahr_2023/pk0084#XXVII_NRSITZ_00195). The child protection organisations, such as the Austrian Ombuds Offices for Children and Youths, Austrian Child Protection Centres, NC Kinderrechte, ECPAT Austria and Netzwerk Kinderrechte, believe that the package of measures for child protection is progress in the right direction. However, it requires further steps, especially implementation, in order to see a real change in the protection of children and young people (position paper of the Children’s Rights Network: https://www.kinderhabenrechte.at/positionspapier-kinderschutzpaket-fuer-den-ausserfamiliaeren-kinderschutz/<).
  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

Continue to pay special attention to combating poverty and social exclusion of children in Austria

Proponent:

Vietnam


Socialist Republic of Vietnam

Vietnam


Socialist Republic of Vietnam

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

On 31 January 2023, the National Council decided to develop a package of measures for child protection. The plan is to develop initiatives to promote the protection of children and young people through the implementation of concepts and training for professionals, the strengthening of sexual offences and the creation of prevention exceptions for perpetrators (Nationalratssitzung zum Kinderschutz-
195th session of the National Council of 31 January 2023 (195/NRSITZ): https://www.parlament.gv.at/aktuelles/pk/jahr_2023/pk0084#XXVII_NRSITZ_00195). Child protection organisations such as the Austrian Ombuds Offices for Children and Youths, Austrian Child Protection Centres, NC Kinderrechte, ECPAT Austria and Netzwerk Kinderrechte consider the package of measures on child protection to be progress in the right direction. However, it requires further steps, especially implementation, in order to see a real change in the protection of children and young people
(Position paper of the Children’s Rights Network: https://www.kinderhabenrechte.at/positionspapier-kinderschutzpaket-fuer-den-ausserfamiliaeren-kinderschutz/<).
  In the Government Plan 2025-2029, the Federal Government commits to the goal of effectively combating child poverty and sustainably improving equal opportunities for all children and young people in Austria (see Government Plan 2025-2029: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/die-bundesregierung/regierungsdokumente.html).

Progress: No progress

Guarantee the same standards of protection and well-being to all children in its territory, regardless of their nationality

Proponent:

Uruguay


Republic of Eastern Uruguay

Uruguay


Republic of Eastern Uruguay

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

On 31 January 2023, the National Council decided to develop a package of measures for child protection. The plan is to develop initiatives to promote the protection of children and young people by implementing concepts and training for professionals, strengthening sexual offences and creating prevention exceptions for perpetrators (National Council meeting on child protection – 195th session of the National Council on 31 January 2023 (195/NRSITZ): https://www.parlament.gv.at/aktuelles/pk/jahr_2023/pk0084#XXVII_NRSITZ_00195). The child protection organisations, such as the Austrian Ombuds Offices for Children and Youths, Austrian Child Protection Centres, NC Kinderrechte, ECPAT Austria and Netzwerk Kinderrechte, believe that the package of measures for child protection is progress in the right direction. However, it requires further steps, especially implementation, in order to see a real change in the protection of children and young people (position paper of the Children’s Rights Network: https://www.kinderhabenrechte.at/positionspapier-kinderschutzpaket-fuer-den-ausserfamiliaeren-kinderschutz/<).
  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: No progress

Develop a comprehensive strategy and an implementation plan to protect children from violence

Proponent:

Zambia


Republic of Zambia

Zambia


Republic of Zambia

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

On 31 January 2023, the National Council decided to develop a package of measures for child protection. The plan is to develop initiatives to promote the protection of children and young people by implementing concepts and training for professionals, strengthening sexual offences and creating prevention exceptions for perpetrators (National Council meeting on child protection – 195th session of the National Council on 31 January 2023 (195/NRSITZ): https://www.parlament.gv.at/aktuelles/pk/jahr_2023/pk0084#XXVII_NRSITZ_00195). The child protection organisations, such as the Austrian Ombuds Offices for Children and Youths, Austrian Child Protection Centres, NC Kinderrechte, ECPAT Austria and Netzwerk Kinderrechte, believe that the package of measures for child protection is progress in the right direction. However, it requires further steps, especially implementation, in order to see a real change in the protection of children and young people (position paper of the Children’s Rights Network: https://www.kinderhabenrechte.at/positionspapier-kinderschutzpaket-fuer-den-ausserfamiliaeren-kinderschutz/<).
  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

Maintain efforts to further promote gender equality, combat violence against children, and eliminate poverty and social exclusion of children in Austria

Proponent:

Morocco


Kingdom of Morocco

Morocco


Kingdom of Morocco

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

On 31 January 2023, the National Council decided to develop a package of measures for child protection. The plan is to develop initiatives to promote the protection of children and young people by implementing concepts and training for professionals, strengthening sexual offences and creating prevention exceptions for perpetrators (National Council meeting on child protection – 195th session of the National Council on 31 January 2023 (195/NRSITZ): https://www.parlament.gv.at/aktuelles/pk/jahr_2023/pk0084#XXVII_NRSITZ_00195). The child protection organisations, such as the Austrian Ombuds Offices for Children and Youths, Austrian Child Protection Centres, NC Kinderrechte, ECPAT Austria and Netzwerk Kinderrechte, believe that the package of measures for child protection is progress in the right direction. However, it requires further steps, especially implementation, in order to see a real change in the protection of children and young people (position paper of the Children’s Rights Network: https://www.kinderhabenrechte.at/positionspapier-kinderschutzpaket-fuer-den-ausserfamiliaeren-kinderschutz/<).
  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). 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). On 31 January 2023, the National Council decided to develop a package of measures for child protection. The plan is to develop initiatives to promote the protection of children and young people through the implementation of concepts and training for professionals, the strengthening of sexual offences and the creation of prevention exceptions for perpetrators (Nationalratssitzung zum Kinderschutz-
195th session of the National Council of 31 January 2023 (195/NRSITZ): https://www.parlament.gv.at/aktuelles/pk/jahr_2023/pk0084#XXVII_NRSITZ_00195). Child protection organisations such as the Austrian Ombuds Offices for Children and Youths, Austrian Child Protection Centres, NC Kinderrechte, ECPAT Austria and Netzwerk Kinderrechte consider the package of measures on child protection to be progress in the right direction. However, it requires further steps, especially implementation, in order to see a real change in the protection of children and young people
(Position paper of the Children’s Rights Network: https://www.kinderhabenrechte.at/positionspapier-kinderschutzpaket-fuer-den-ausserfamiliaeren-kinderschutz/<).
  In the Government Plan 2025-2029, the Federal Government commits to the goal of effectively combating child poverty and sustainably improving equal opportunities for all children and young people in Austria (see Government Plan 2025-2029: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/die-bundesregierung/regierungsdokumente.html).

Progress: No progress

Ensure, in accordance with the best interests of the child, adequate monitoring and protection of the situation of asylum-seeking children, in particular their effective tracing and the safeguarding of their educational rights

Proponent:

Spain


Kingdom of Spain

Spain


Kingdom of Spain

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;The integration division of 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.   We would also like to draw attention to current statements written by members of the Children’s Rights Network. These concern various developments, including refugee and asylum coordination, the inclusion of children with disabilities in cooperation with the Austrian Disability Council and the protection against violence in cooperation 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.   In this report, the following demands are presented 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). 

Progress: No progress

Continue to advocate against corporal punishment by making all parts of the population aware of the legal abolition of such practices

Proponent:

Liechtenstein


Principality of Liechtenstein

Liechtenstein


Principality of Liechtenstein

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

On 31 January 2023, the National Council decided to develop a package of measures for child protection. The plan is to develop initiatives to promote the protection of children and young people through the implementation of concepts and training for professionals, the strengthening of sexual offences and the creation of prevention exceptions for perpetrators (Nationalratssitzung zum Kinderschutz-
195th session of the National Council of 31 January 2023 (195/NRSITZ): https://www.parlament.gv.at/aktuelles/pk/jahr_2023/pk0084#XXVII_NRSITZ_00195). On the part of child protection organisations such as the Austrian Ombuds Offices for Children and Youths, Austrian Child Protection Centres, NC Kinderrechte, ECPAT Austria and Netzwerk Kinderrechte, the package of measures on child protection is progress in the right direction. However, it requires further steps, especially implementation, in order to see a real change in the protection of children and young people
(Position paper Children’s Rights Network: https://www.kinderhabenrechte.at/positionspapier-kinderschutzpaket-fuer-den-ausserfamiliaeren-kinderschutz/<). 

Progress: No progress

Take further steps to promote equal opportunities for the Roma community in education and employment

Proponent:

India


Republic of India

India


Republic of India

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

Conduct awareness-raising campaigns aimed at the media, public officials, as well as the general public, to combat stigmatization and prejudice of which children with disabilities may be victims

Proponent:

Belgium


Kingdom of Belgium

Belgium


Kingdom of Belgium

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

Nothing is known about specific awareness-raising campaigns on the rights of children with disabilities, especially those focussing on self-empowerment and human rights. 

Progress: In progress

Develop the National Action Plan on Disability 2021-2030 in a participatory way and formulate a coherent strategy for the deinstitutionalization with a clear time frame and a mechanism for its effective implementation and monitoring

Proponent:

Bulgaria


Republic of Bulgaria

Bulgaria


Republic of Bulgaria

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

The National Action Plan on Disability 2012-2021 (NAP I) has now expired and has been replaced by the National Action Plan on Disability 2022-2030 (NAP II, information on the website of the Ministry of Social Affairs: here). A comprehensive evaluation of the success of NAP I has been carried out by the Ministry of Social Affairs and is available on their website as a PDF https://www.sozialministerium.at/dam/jcr:edab5ca1-4995-456a-820c-c414da78bc39/Evaluierung202012%E2%80%932020.pdf </a In NAP I, there remains great potential for improvement with regard to the inclusion of people with disabilities and the organisations representing them. The reasons for this are a lack of understanding of what full and effective participation means and what conditions are necessary for this, as well as a lack of resources for participation processes. In addition, political participation in Austria is highly formalised and has historical roots. This gives well-established and politically networked civil society organisations an advantage. The National Action Plan on Disability 2022-2030 (NAP II) was adopted by the Austrian Federal Government on 6 July 2022 and is available as a PDF https://www.behindertenrat.at/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Nationaler-Aktionsplan-NAP-Behinderung-2022-2030.pdf). The NAP II is also the central national instrument for implementing the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD) in Austria. This also aims to ensure the full and effective participation and inclusion of people with disabilities in society.   In the view of civil society, this goal of effective social integration of people with disabilities is not sufficiently realised in NAP II. The NAP II formally exists, but cannot be considered a complete success from this perspective. The National Action Plan on Disability II 2022-2030 (NAP II, available as a PDF https://www.behindertenrat.at/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Nationaler-Aktionsplan-NAP-Behinderung-2022-2030.pdf) has made some progress compared to the previous National Action Plan on Disability I from 2012-2020 (NAP I). The implementation of NAP II is being monitored by the NAP Monitoring Group. This group consists of representatives from federal ministries, federal states, organisations for people with disabilities and the Monitoring Committee for the Implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Its aim is to ensure that the measures in the action plan are implemented. This group also reports verbally on the implementation status of the 375 measures. The extent to which people with disabilities and their organisations are involved in implementation is not always clear and also depends on the respective measures.   During the preparation of the NAP II, the federal ministries and federal states made contributions in 26 expert teams. However, these contributions were only partially drawn up in a participatory process. The Ministry of Social Affairs and a few other federal ministries have set up corresponding processes for the preparation of their contributions. Unfortunately, however, many federal ministries did not respond to this call, which is why contributions on essential topics (e.g. education, children and young people or women) were produced without any real participation by civil society, despite numerous attempts by civil society to make contact. The participatory element was also not consistently ensured in the countries. The contributions made are available on the website of the Ministry of Social Affairs, see here). Moreover, the written implementation reports for 2021 and 2022, in which the status of implementation is to be presented in detail and thus made comprehensible, have still not been published. The editorial team, which included representatives of civil society and government monitoring mechanisms, was also unable to compensate for the original lack of participation in the creation of the NAP II, as by the time they were consulted, it was only a matter of combining contributions that had already been approved by the respective political level into an overall work. It was no longer possible for civil society to exert any significant influence on the content.   Reasons for the lack of participation include a lack of understanding of what unrestricted and effective participation means and what conditions are necessary for this, as well as a lack of resources for participation processes.   In terms of content, there is no coherent strategy for the de-institutionalisation of people with disabilities in the NAP II, although this would be of great importance in order to promote self-determination and inclusion in society and to prevent exploitation, violence and abuse of people with disabilities in institutions;

Progress: In progress

Redouble its liaison with stakeholders representing persons with disabilities, particularly in the adoption of the National Action Plan on Disability

Proponent:

Ethiopia


Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia

Ethiopia


Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia

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

The National Action Plan on Disability 2012-2021 (NAP I) has now expired and has been replaced by the National Action Plan on Disability 2022-2030 (NAP II, information on the website of the Ministry of Social Affairs: here). A comprehensive evaluation of the success of NAP I has been carried out by the Ministry of Social Affairs and is available on their website as a PDF https://www.sozialministerium.at/dam/jcr:edab5ca1-4995-456a-820c-c414da78bc39/Evaluierung202012%E2%80%932020.pdf </a In NAP I, there remains great potential for improvement with regard to the inclusion of people with disabilities and the organisations representing them. The reasons for this are a lack of understanding of what full and effective participation means and what conditions are necessary for this, as well as a lack of resources for participation processes. In addition, political participation in Austria is highly formalised and has historical roots. This gives well-established and politically networked civil society organisations an advantage. The National Action Plan on Disability 2022-2030 (NAP II) was adopted by the Austrian Federal Government on 6 July 2022 and is available as a PDF https://www.behindertenrat.at/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Nationaler-Aktionsplan-NAP-Behinderung-2022-2030.pdf). The NAP II is also the central national instrument for implementing the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD) in Austria. This also aims to ensure the full and effective participation and inclusion of people with disabilities in society.   In the view of civil society, this goal of effective social integration of people with disabilities is not sufficiently realised in NAP II. The NAP II formally exists, but cannot be considered a complete success from this perspective. The National Action Plan on Disability II 2022-2030 (NAP II, available as a PDF https://www.behindertenrat.at/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Nationaler-Aktionsplan-NAP-Behinderung-2022-2030.pdf) has made some progress compared to the previous National Action Plan on Disability I from 2012-2020 (NAP I). The implementation of NAP II is being monitored by the NAP Monitoring Group. This group consists of representatives from federal ministries, federal states, organisations for people with disabilities and the Monitoring Committee for the Implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Its aim is to ensure that the measures in the action plan are implemented. This group also reports verbally on the implementation status of the 375 measures. The extent to which people with disabilities and their organisations are involved in implementation is not always clear and also depends on the respective measures.   During the preparation of the NAP II, the federal ministries and federal states made contributions in 26 expert teams. However, these contributions were only partially drawn up in a participatory process. The Ministry of Social Affairs and a few other federal ministries have set up corresponding processes for the preparation of their contributions. Unfortunately, however, many federal ministries did not respond to this call, which is why contributions on essential topics (e.g. education, children and young people or women) were produced without any real participation by civil society, despite numerous attempts by civil society to make contact. The participatory element was also not consistently ensured in the countries. The contributions made are available on the website of the Ministry of Social Affairs, see here). Moreover, the written implementation reports for 2021 and 2022, in which the status of implementation is to be presented in detail and thus made comprehensible, have still not been published. The editorial team, which included representatives of civil society and government monitoring mechanisms, was also unable to compensate for the original lack of participation in the creation of the NAP II, as by the time they were consulted, it was only a matter of combining contributions that had already been approved by the respective political level into an overall work. It was no longer possible for civil society to exert any significant influence on the content.   Reasons for the lack of participation include a lack of understanding of what unrestricted and effective participation means and what conditions are necessary for this, as well as a lack of resources for participation processes.   In terms of content, there is no coherent strategy for the de-institutionalisation of people with disabilities in the NAP II, although this would be of great importance in order to promote self-determination and inclusion in society and to prevent exploitation, violence and abuse of people with disabilities in institutions;

Progress: Partial success

Continue to implement the National Action Plan on Disabilities 2012-2021 through consultations with persons with disabilities and the organisations that represent them

Proponent:

Israel


State of Israel

Israel


State of Israel

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

The National Action Plan on Disability 2012-2021 (NAP I) has now expired and has been replaced by the National Action Plan on Disability 2022-2030 (NAP II, information on the website of the Ministry of Social Affairs: here). A comprehensive evaluation of the success of NAP I has been carried out by the Ministry of Social Affairs and is available on their website as a PDF https://www.sozialministerium.at/dam/jcr:edab5ca1-4995-456a-820c-c414da78bc39/Evaluierung202012%E2%80%932020.pdf </a In NAP I, there remains great potential for improvement with regard to the inclusion of people with disabilities and the organisations representing them. The reasons for this are a lack of understanding of what full and effective participation means and what conditions are necessary for this, as well as a lack of resources for participation processes. In addition, political participation in Austria is highly formalised and has historical roots. This gives well-established and politically networked civil society organisations an advantage. The National Action Plan on Disability 2022-2030 (NAP II) was adopted by the Austrian Federal Government on 6 July 2022 and is available as a PDF https://www.behindertenrat.at/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Nationaler-Aktionsplan-NAP-Behinderung-2022-2030.pdf). The NAP II is also the central national instrument for implementing the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD) in Austria. This also aims to ensure the full and effective participation and inclusion of people with disabilities in society.   In the view of civil society, this goal of effective social integration of people with disabilities is not sufficiently realised in NAP II. The NAP II formally exists, but cannot be considered a complete success from this perspective. The National Action Plan on Disability II 2022-2030 (NAP II, available as a PDF https://www.behindertenrat.at/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Nationaler-Aktionsplan-NAP-Behinderung-2022-2030.pdf) has made some progress compared to the previous National Action Plan on Disability I from 2012-2020 (NAP I). The implementation of NAP II is being monitored by the NAP Monitoring Group. This group consists of representatives from federal ministries, federal states, organisations for people with disabilities and the Monitoring Committee for the Implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Its aim is to ensure that the measures in the action plan are implemented. This group also reports verbally on the implementation status of the 375 measures. The extent to which people with disabilities and their organisations are involved in implementation is not always clear and also depends on the respective measures.   During the preparation of the NAP II, the federal ministries and federal states made contributions in 26 expert teams. However, these contributions were only partially drawn up in a participatory process. The Ministry of Social Affairs and a few other federal ministries have set up corresponding processes for the preparation of their contributions. Unfortunately, however, many federal ministries did not respond to this call, which is why contributions on essential topics (e.g. education, children and young people or women) were produced without any real participation by civil society, despite numerous attempts by civil society to make contact. The participatory element was also not consistently ensured in the countries. The contributions made are available on the website of the Ministry of Social Affairs, see here). Moreover, the written implementation reports for 2021 and 2022, in which the status of implementation is to be presented in detail and thus made comprehensible, have still not been published. The editorial team, which included representatives of civil society and government monitoring mechanisms, was also unable to compensate for the original lack of participation in the creation of the NAP II, as by the time they were consulted, it was only a matter of combining contributions that had already been approved by the respective political level into an overall work. It was no longer possible for civil society to exert any significant influence on the content.   Reasons for the lack of participation include a lack of understanding of what unrestricted and effective participation means and what conditions are necessary for this, as well as a lack of resources for participation processes.   In terms of content, there is no coherent strategy for the de-institutionalisation of people with disabilities in the NAP II, although this would be of great importance in order to promote self-determination and inclusion in society and to prevent exploitation, violence and abuse of people with disabilities in institutions;

Progress: Partial success

Adopt promptly the National Action Plan on the Protection of Persons with Disabilities 2022 – 2030, which adequately favours their effective social integration

Proponent:

Spain


Kingdom of Spain

Spain


Kingdom of Spain

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

The National Action Plan on Disability 2012-2021 (NAP I) has now expired and has been replaced by the National Action Plan on Disability 2022-2030 (NAP II, information on the website of the Ministry of Social Affairs: here). A comprehensive evaluation of the success of NAP I has been carried out by the Ministry of Social Affairs and is available on their website as a PDF https://www.sozialministerium.at/dam/jcr:edab5ca1-4995-456a-820c-c414da78bc39/Evaluierung202012%E2%80%932020.pdf </a In NAP I, there remains great potential for improvement with regard to the inclusion of people with disabilities and the organisations representing them. The reasons for this are a lack of understanding of what full and effective participation means and what conditions are necessary for this, as well as a lack of resources for participation processes. In addition, political participation in Austria is highly formalised and has historical roots. This gives well-established and politically networked civil society organisations an advantage. The National Action Plan on Disability 2022-2030 (NAP II) was adopted by the Austrian Federal Government on 6 July 2022 and is available as a PDF https://www.behindertenrat.at/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Nationaler-Aktionsplan-NAP-Behinderung-2022-2030.pdf). The NAP II is also the central national instrument for implementing the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD) in Austria. This also aims to ensure the full and effective participation and inclusion of people with disabilities in society.   In the view of civil society, this goal of effective social integration of people with disabilities is not sufficiently realised in NAP II. The NAP II formally exists, but cannot be considered a complete success from this perspective. The National Action Plan on Disability II 2022-2030 (NAP II, available as a PDF https://www.behindertenrat.at/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Nationaler-Aktionsplan-NAP-Behinderung-2022-2030.pdf) has made some progress compared to the previous National Action Plan on Disability I from 2012-2020 (NAP I). The implementation of NAP II is being monitored by the NAP Monitoring Group. This group consists of representatives from federal ministries, federal states, organisations for people with disabilities and the Monitoring Committee for the Implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Its aim is to ensure that the measures in the action plan are implemented. This group also reports verbally on the implementation status of the 375 measures. The extent to which people with disabilities and their organisations are involved in implementation is not always clear and also depends on the respective measures.   During the preparation of the NAP II, the federal ministries and federal states made contributions in 26 expert teams. However, these contributions were only partially drawn up in a participatory process. The Ministry of Social Affairs and a few other federal ministries have set up corresponding processes for the preparation of their contributions. Unfortunately, however, many federal ministries did not respond to this call, which is why contributions on essential topics (e.g. education, children and young people or women) were produced without any real participation by civil society, despite numerous attempts by civil society to make contact. The participatory element was also not consistently ensured in the countries. The contributions made are available on the website of the Ministry of Social Affairs, see here). Moreover, the written implementation reports for 2021 and 2022, in which the status of implementation is to be presented in detail and thus made comprehensible, have still not been published. The editorial team, which included representatives of civil society and government monitoring mechanisms, was also unable to compensate for the original lack of participation in the creation of the NAP II, as by the time they were consulted, it was only a matter of combining contributions that had already been approved by the respective political level into an overall work. It was no longer possible for civil society to exert any significant influence on the content.   Reasons for the lack of participation include a lack of understanding of what unrestricted and effective participation means and what conditions are necessary for this, as well as a lack of resources for participation processes.   In terms of content, there is no coherent strategy for the de-institutionalisation of people with disabilities in the NAP II, although this would be of great importance in order to promote self-determination and inclusion in society and to prevent exploitation, violence and abuse of people with disabilities in institutions;

Progress: In progress

Take further measures to promote the rights of persons with disabilities, as outlined in the extended National Action Plan on Disability

Proponent:

Japan


Japan

Japan


Japan

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

The current approach to promoting the participation of people with disabilities and their representative organisations has significant weaknesses. These weaknesses result from various factors, such as an inadequate understanding of full and effective participation and the insufficient provision of resources for participation processes. In addition, political participation in Austria is highly formalised and has grown historically, which gives advantages to already established and politically networked civil society organisations. However, not enough systematic attention has been paid to carrying out targeted capacity building in accordance with the requirements of the UN CRPD.   It would be desirable if a process similar to the participatory drafting of the 2nd Adult Protection Act had been set up by the Ministry of Justice in 2016 (Justice website: https://www.bmj.gv.at/themen/Zivilrecht/Erwachsenenschutz/Das-neue-Erwachsenenschutzrecht-im-%C3%9Cberblick.html). In fact, from the perspective of civil society, the NAP II cannot yet be considered a sufficient success because it does not sufficiently realise the goal of effective social integration of people with disabilities. 

Progress: In progress

Continue the implementation of the national plan on persons with disabilities

Proponent:

Lebanon


Lebanese Republic

Lebanon


Lebanese Republic

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

The National Action Plan on Disability 2012-2021 (NAP I) has now expired and has been replaced by the National Action Plan on Disability 2022-2030 (NAP II, information on the website of the Ministry of Social Affairs: here). A comprehensive evaluation of the success of NAP I has been carried out by the Ministry of Social Affairs and is available on their website as a PDF https://www.sozialministerium.at/dam/jcr:edab5ca1-4995-456a-820c-c414da78bc39/Evaluierung202012%E2%80%932020.pdf </a In NAP I, there remains great potential for improvement with regard to the inclusion of people with disabilities and the organisations representing them. The reasons for this are a lack of understanding of what full and effective participation means and what conditions are necessary for this, as well as a lack of resources for participation processes. In addition, political participation in Austria is highly formalised and has historical roots. This gives well-established and politically networked civil society organisations an advantage. The National Action Plan on Disability 2022-2030 (NAP II) was adopted by the Austrian Federal Government on 6 July 2022 and is available as a PDF https://www.behindertenrat.at/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Nationaler-Aktionsplan-NAP-Behinderung-2022-2030.pdf). The NAP II is also the central national instrument for implementing the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD) in Austria. This also aims to ensure the full and effective participation and inclusion of people with disabilities in society.   In the view of civil society, this goal of effective social integration of people with disabilities is not sufficiently realised in NAP II. The NAP II formally exists, but cannot be considered a complete success from this perspective. The National Action Plan on Disability II 2022-2030 (NAP II, available as a PDF https://www.behindertenrat.at/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Nationaler-Aktionsplan-NAP-Behinderung-2022-2030.pdf) has made some progress compared to the previous National Action Plan on Disability I from 2012-2020 (NAP I). The implementation of NAP II is being monitored by the NAP Monitoring Group. This group consists of representatives from federal ministries, federal states, organisations for people with disabilities and the Monitoring Committee for the Implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Its aim is to ensure that the measures in the action plan are implemented. This group also reports verbally on the implementation status of the 375 measures. The extent to which people with disabilities and their organisations are involved in implementation is not always clear and also depends on the respective measures.   During the preparation of the NAP II, the federal ministries and federal states made contributions in 26 expert teams. However, these contributions were only partially drawn up in a participatory process. The Ministry of Social Affairs and a few other federal ministries have set up corresponding processes for the preparation of their contributions. Unfortunately, however, many federal ministries did not respond to this call, which is why contributions on essential topics (e.g. education, children and young people or women) were produced without any real participation by civil society, despite numerous attempts by civil society to make contact. The participatory element was also not consistently ensured in the countries. The contributions made are available on the website of the Ministry of Social Affairs, see here). Moreover, the written implementation reports for 2021 and 2022, in which the status of implementation is to be presented in detail and thus made comprehensible, have still not been published. The editorial team, which included representatives of civil society and government monitoring mechanisms, was also unable to compensate for the original lack of participation in the creation of the NAP II, as by the time they were consulted, it was only a matter of combining contributions that had already been approved by the respective political level into an overall work. It was no longer possible for civil society to exert any significant influence on the content.   Reasons for the lack of participation include a lack of understanding of what unrestricted and effective participation means and what conditions are necessary for this, as well as a lack of resources for participation processes.   In terms of content, there is no coherent strategy for the de-institutionalisation of people with disabilities in the NAP II, although this would be of great importance in order to promote self-determination and inclusion in society and to prevent exploitation, violence and abuse of people with disabilities in institutions;

Progress: In progress

Undertake actions ensuring the fulfillment of the National Action Plan on Disability, including more thorough consultations with organizations representing persons with disabilities

Proponent:

Poland


Republic of Poland

Poland


Republic of Poland

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

The National Action Plan on Disability 2012-2021 (NAP I) has now expired and has been replaced by the National Action Plan on Disability 2022-2030 (NAP II, information on the website of the Ministry of Social Affairs: here). A comprehensive evaluation of the success of NAP I has been carried out by the Ministry of Social Affairs and is available on their website as a PDF https://www.sozialministerium.at/dam/jcr:edab5ca1-4995-456a-820c-c414da78bc39/Evaluierung202012%E2%80%932020.pdf </a In NAP I, there remains great potential for improvement with regard to the inclusion of people with disabilities and the organisations representing them. The reasons for this are a lack of understanding of what full and effective participation means and what conditions are necessary for this, as well as a lack of resources for participation processes. In addition, political participation in Austria is highly formalised and has historical roots. This gives well-established and politically networked civil society organisations an advantage. The National Action Plan on Disability 2022-2030 (NAP II) was adopted by the Austrian Federal Government on 6 July 2022 and is available as a PDF https://www.behindertenrat.at/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Nationaler-Aktionsplan-NAP-Behinderung-2022-2030.pdf). The NAP II is also the central national instrument for implementing the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD) in Austria. This also aims to ensure the full and effective participation and inclusion of people with disabilities in society.   In the view of civil society, this goal of effective social integration of people with disabilities is not sufficiently realised in NAP II. The NAP II formally exists, but cannot be considered a complete success from this perspective. The National Action Plan on Disability II 2022-2030 (NAP II, available as a PDF https://www.behindertenrat.at/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Nationaler-Aktionsplan-NAP-Behinderung-2022-2030.pdf) has made some progress compared to the previous National Action Plan on Disability I from 2012-2020 (NAP I). The implementation of NAP II is being monitored by the NAP Monitoring Group. This group consists of representatives from federal ministries, federal states, organisations for people with disabilities and the Monitoring Committee for the Implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Its aim is to ensure that the measures in the action plan are implemented. This group also reports verbally on the implementation status of the 375 measures. The extent to which people with disabilities and their organisations are involved in implementation is not always clear and also depends on the respective measures.   During the preparation of the NAP II, the federal ministries and federal states made contributions in 26 expert teams. However, these contributions were only partially drawn up in a participatory process. The Ministry of Social Affairs and a few other federal ministries have set up corresponding processes for the preparation of their contributions. Unfortunately, however, many federal ministries did not respond to this call, which is why contributions on essential topics (e.g. education, children and young people or women) were produced without any real participation by civil society, despite numerous attempts by civil society to make contact. The participatory element was also not consistently ensured in the countries. The contributions made are available on the website of the Ministry of Social Affairs, see here). Moreover, the written implementation reports for 2021 and 2022, in which the status of implementation is to be presented in detail and thus made comprehensible, have still not been published. The editorial team, which included representatives of civil society and government monitoring mechanisms, was also unable to compensate for the original lack of participation in the creation of the NAP II, as by the time they were consulted, it was only a matter of combining contributions that had already been approved by the respective political level into an overall work. It was no longer possible for civil society to exert any significant influence on the content.   Reasons for the lack of participation include a lack of understanding of what unrestricted and effective participation means and what conditions are necessary for this, as well as a lack of resources for participation processes.   In terms of content, there is no coherent strategy for the de-institutionalisation of people with disabilities in the NAP II, although this would be of great importance in order to promote self-determination and inclusion in society and to prevent exploitation, violence and abuse of people with disabilities in institutions;

Progress: In progress

Involve the civil society organisations working in the area of the rights of persons with disabilities in the current process of the implementation of the national action plan on disability for 2022-2030

Proponent:

Qatar


State of Qatar

Qatar


State of Qatar

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

The National Action Plan on Disability 2012-2021 (NAP I) has now expired and has been replaced by the National Action Plan on Disability 2022-2030 (NAP II, information on the website of the Ministry of Social Affairs: here). A comprehensive evaluation of the success of NAP I has been carried out by the Ministry of Social Affairs and is available on their website as a PDF https://www.sozialministerium.at/dam/jcr:edab5ca1-4995-456a-820c-c414da78bc39/Evaluierung202012%E2%80%932020.pdf </a In NAP I, there remains great potential for improvement with regard to the inclusion of people with disabilities and the organisations representing them. The reasons for this are a lack of understanding of what full and effective participation means and what conditions are necessary for this, as well as a lack of resources for participation processes. In addition, political participation in Austria is highly formalised and has historical roots. This gives well-established and politically networked civil society organisations an advantage. The National Action Plan on Disability 2022-2030 (NAP II) was adopted by the Austrian Federal Government on 6 July 2022 and is available as a PDF https://www.behindertenrat.at/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Nationaler-Aktionsplan-NAP-Behinderung-2022-2030.pdf). The NAP II is also the central national instrument for implementing the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD) in Austria. This also aims to ensure the full and effective participation and inclusion of people with disabilities in society.   In the view of civil society, this goal of effective social integration of people with disabilities is not sufficiently realised in NAP II. The NAP II formally exists, but cannot be considered a complete success from this perspective. The National Action Plan on Disability II 2022-2030 (NAP II, available as a PDF https://www.behindertenrat.at/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Nationaler-Aktionsplan-NAP-Behinderung-2022-2030.pdf) has made some progress compared to the previous National Action Plan on Disability I from 2012-2020 (NAP I). The implementation of NAP II is being monitored by the NAP Monitoring Group. This group consists of representatives from federal ministries, federal states, organisations for people with disabilities and the Monitoring Committee for the Implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Its aim is to ensure that the measures in the action plan are implemented. This group also reports verbally on the implementation status of the 375 measures. The extent to which people with disabilities and their organisations are involved in implementation is not always clear and also depends on the respective measures.   During the preparation of the NAP II, the federal ministries and federal states made contributions in 26 expert teams. However, these contributions were only partially drawn up in a participatory process. The Ministry of Social Affairs and a few other federal ministries have set up corresponding processes for the preparation of their contributions. Unfortunately, however, many federal ministries did not respond to this call, which is why contributions on essential topics (e.g. education, children and young people or women) were produced without any real participation by civil society, despite numerous attempts by civil society to make contact. The participatory element was also not consistently ensured in the countries. The contributions made are available on the website of the Ministry of Social Affairs, see here). Moreover, the written implementation reports for 2021 and 2022, in which the status of implementation is to be presented in detail and thus made comprehensible, have still not been published. The editorial team, which included representatives of civil society and government monitoring mechanisms, was also unable to compensate for the original lack of participation in the creation of the NAP II, as by the time they were consulted, it was only a matter of combining contributions that had already been approved by the respective political level into an overall work. It was no longer possible for civil society to exert any significant influence on the content.   Reasons for the lack of participation include a lack of understanding of what unrestricted and effective participation means and what conditions are necessary for this, as well as a lack of resources for participation processes.   In terms of content, there is no coherent strategy for the de-institutionalisation of people with disabilities in the NAP II, although this would be of great importance in order to promote self-determination and inclusion in society and to prevent exploitation, violence and abuse of people with disabilities in institutions;

Progress: No progress

Continue efforts in supporting persons with disabilities, by ensuring their accessibility to the labour market and social welfare benefits

Proponent:

Cyprus


Republic of Cyprus

Cyprus


Republic of Cyprus

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: In progress

Consider a twin-track approach on disability inclusion in international cooperation, with special consideration on women and children with disabilities

Proponent:

Indonesia


Republic of Indonesia

Indonesia


Republic of Indonesia

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

One recommendation to Austria is to pursue a twin-track approach aimed at integrating people with disabilities more inclusively into society. The Three-Year Programme of Austrian Development Policy 2022-2024 was taken note of by the Council of Ministers on 16 November 2022 (available as a PDF on the parliament’s website: https://www.parlament.gv.at/dokument/XXVII/III/805/imfname_1482905.pdf). The new three-year programme has made significant progress in terms of the inclusion of persons with disabilities in international cooperation (see information on Parliament’s website: https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXVII/III/805). Civil society will closely monitor the implementation of this programme to ensure that the strategy is actually put into practice. On 16 November 2022, the Council of Ministers took note of the Three-Year Programme of Austrian Development Policy for the years 2022 to 2024, a significant step towards strengthening the inclusion of persons with disabilities in international cooperation (Available as PDF on the Parliament’s website: https://www.parlament.gv.at/dokument/XXVII/III/805/imfname_1482905.pdf) and more (information on Parliament’s website: https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXVII/III/805).   Within this framework, particular attention should be paid to women and children with disabilities. This focus is crucial to ensure that the most marginalised groups within the disability community are not overlooked. Targeted measures and programmes within the three-year programme aim to significantly improve the living conditions of these groups and enable their full participation in society. Civil society plays a crucial role in monitoring the implementation of this programme. This participation ensures that the strategies and objectives set out in the programme are not just on paper, but are actually put into practice. The active involvement and feedback of civil society organisations is essential to measure progress and ensure that the needs and rights of women and children with disabilities are effectively addressed;

Progress: No progress

Ensure that effective legal remedy and independent legal counsel for asylum seekers be guaranteed under the new procedures introduced with the establishment of the Federal Agency for Provision of Care and Support/BBU

Proponent:

Sweden


Kingdom of Sweden

Sweden


Kingdom of Sweden

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

In May 2019, the so-called BBU Act was passed, which aims to introduce care and support services (BBU) (see: https://www.oesterreich.gv.at/themen/soziales/armut/2/Seite.1694400.html). It is envisaged that this agency will be subordinate to the Ministry of the Interior and the Ministry of Justice and will take over all tasks relating to the care of asylum seekers that were previously mainly carried out by independent, non-governmental organisations. These tasks include care in the initial reception centres for asylum seekers, the provision of legal advice for asylum seekers and foreigners, return counselling and support for people who have been rejected.During the review process, Amnesty International, among others, has already criticised the draft law (see Amnesty International statement:https://www.amnesty.at/news-events/stellungnahme-zur-bundesagentur-fuer-betreuungs-und-unterstuetzungsleistungen/).   It is made clear in the main arguments that the law significantly impairs the rights of people with fair trials and the possibility of an effective complaint. It also conflicts with European requirements, such as the EU Reception Directive, particularly with regard to the requirement for free legal advice and representation. The BBU Act guarantees the independence and authority of legal advisors, as organisational, financial and personnel cooperation exists between the agency and the Ministry of the Interior. It is important to ensure that procedures are fair, transparent and in accordance with the rule of law and that asylum seekers have adequate access to legal remedies and independent counselling;

Progress: Deterioration

Refrain from polarizing populist campaigns against migrant communities and take a firm public stance against racist speeches

Proponent:

Turkey


Republic of Turkey

Turkey


Republic of Turkey

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

The international activities of the Federal Ministry of Education, Science and Research (BMBWF) and the organisations charged with this task, erinnern.at and OeAD, all aim to support teachers and learners in the field of human rights education. However, there is no further information on specific projects from Austria. Although the World Programme for Human Rights Education was launched by the United Nations in December 2004, various measures to promote human rights education are being implemented in Austria. Although progress in human rights education is recognisable, it should be noted that there is still a considerable need for action. 

Progress: No progress

Make efforts to improve the protection of the rights of migrants and asylum seekers

Proponent:

Uganda


Republic of Uganda

Uganda


Republic of Uganda

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

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; In July 2021, the „Counter-Terrorism Package“ was passed, with concerns raised by civil society organisations and UN experts that the paragraph on „religiously motivated extremist links“ could stigmatise Muslims (see Counter-Terrorism Act – TeBG (849 d.B.): https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXVII/I/849).   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 disappeared 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;

Progress: No progress

Further increase efforts aimed at protection of asylum seekers and migrants

Proponent:

Ukraine


Ukraine

Ukraine


Ukraine

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

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;In July 2021, the „Counter-Terrorism Package“ was passed, with concerns raised by civil society organisations and UN experts that the paragraph on „religiously motivated extremist links“ could stigmatise Muslims (see Counter-Terrorism Act – TeBG (849 d.B.): https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXVII/I/849).   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 disappeared 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;

Progress: No progress

Ensure the immediate assignment of a legal guardian to all unaccompanied minors who arrive in the country, without delays or preconditions

Proponent:

Uruguay


Republic of Eastern Uruguay

Uruguay


Republic of Eastern Uruguay

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

Children and young people between the ages of 14 and 18 are largely on their own at the beginning of their asylum procedure.
In 2021, the Minister of Justice set up an independent „Child Welfare Commission“ to examine the compatibility of Austrian asylum and immigration law with children’s rights standards (see the report, recommendations and implementation of the Child Welfare Commission on the website of the Federal Ministry of Justice: <a
href=https://www.bmj.gv.at/themen/Fokusthemen/Kindeswohlkommission.html)>https://www.bmj.gv.at/themen/Fokusthemen/Kindeswohlkommission.html)). The report presented in July 2021 revealed far-reaching deficits in the material examination of the best interests of the child in asylum proceedings, in the organisation of proceedings (e.g. participation of children) and in ensuring custody when it comes to unaccompanied refugee children and the basic care of children and their families. Since then, training and internal organisational improvement measures have taken place within the BVwG; the Ministry of the Interior/BFA is not aware of any further feedback on the implementation of the recommendations.   In the area of UMF, the Federal Ministry of Justice (BMJ) has already presented a draft for a nationwide standardised custody regulation for unaccompanied refugee children (including through an amendment to the General Civil Code). With this regulation, the responsible KJH is to be entrusted with custody by law (ex lege) immediately after an unaccompanied refugee child is apprehended. However, this new provision has not yet been adopted by parliament.   Following reports of suspected assaults or sexualised violence and exploitation of children in nurseries, schools, sport and film in 2022/23, the federal government decided on a package of measures against violence against children in January 2023; in particular, all institutions are to submit child protection concepts for prevention and victim protection. However, there is no uniformly binding legal framework for this. In March 2023, the Network for Children’s Rights drew up a comprehensive „Corona Special Report“ on the far-reaching consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, with the support of the Ministry of Social Affairs. Since then, training and internal organisational improvement measures have taken place within the Federal Administrative Court (BVwG); no further feedback on the implementation of the recommendations is known from the Ministry of the Interior/Federal Office for Immigration and Asylum. In 2022, a report was published by the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the UN Organisation for Migration (IOM) and the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) called on the Austrian Federal Government to improve protection measures for unaccompanied children and adolescents. In particular, it is crucial to ensure care from day 1 (see: <a href=https://archiv2022.asyl.at/files/366/03-20200225_obsorge_unhcriomunicef.pdf
>https://archiv2022.asyl.at/files/366/03-20200225_obsorge_unhcriomunicef.pdf). Unaccompanied children and adolescents should have guardians at their side immediately after their arrival in Austria to ensure that the best interests of the child are taken into account in all measures and decisions. The goal must be guardianship from day 1, as recommended by the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child and set out in the government programme. Children and young people between the ages of 14 and 18 who come to Austria without parents or other legal guardians generally receive no support during police interviews or when decisions are made regarding an asylum application. Child and youth welfare services (KJH) only come into action once these children and young people have been admitted to the asylum procedure and transferred to a basic care centre in a federal province. This can take several weeks or months, during which the young people are exposed to particular dangers. A swift appointment of qualified guardians whom the children can trust can significantly reduce the risk of disappearance or child trafficking shortly after their arrival.   The care situation is more positive for unaccompanied children under the age of 14. Child and youth welfare services are usually active immediately after arrival in Austria and provide care and support in child and youth welfare centres, accompany the children and young people to all official appointments and apply for custody.   However, this differentiation by age group is contrary to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. It is therefore of great importance that every child, regardless of legal status and age, is treated first and foremost as a child and receives the same protection and the best possible support;

Progress: In progress

Prosecute all hate crimes and assaults against migrants

Proponent:

Burkina Faso


Burkina Faso

Burkina Faso


Burkina Faso

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

On a positive note, the Federal Ministry of the Interior has integrated the systematic recording of prejudice motives in premeditated 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. 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). 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. 

Progress: No progress

Ensure that obligations of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights are fully met in regards to migrants and refugees, in particular, the rights to liberty and personal freedoms and the rights of unaccompanied refugee minors

Proponent:

Canada


Canada

Canada


Canada

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

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;In July 2021, the „Counter-Terrorism Package“ was passed, with concerns raised by civil society organisations and UN experts that the paragraph on „religiously motivated extremist links“ could stigmatise Muslims (see Counter-Terrorism Act – TeBG (849 d.B.): https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXVII/I/849).   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 disappeared 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;Children and young people between the ages of 14 and 18 are largely on their own at the beginning of their asylum procedure.
In 2021, the Minister of Justice set up an independent „Child Welfare Commission“ to examine the compatibility of Austrian asylum and immigration law with children’s rights standards (see the report, recommendations and implementation of the Child Welfare Commission on the website of the Federal Ministry of Justice: <a
href=https://www.bmj.gv.at/themen/Fokusthemen/Kindeswohlkommission.html)>https://www.bmj.gv.at/themen/Fokusthemen/Kindeswohlkommission.html)). The report presented in July 2021 revealed far-reaching deficits in the material examination of the best interests of the child in asylum proceedings, in the organisation of proceedings (e.g. participation of children) and in ensuring custody when it comes to unaccompanied refugee children and the basic care of children and their families. Since then, training and internal organisational improvement measures have taken place within the BVwG; the Ministry of the Interior/BFA is not aware of any further feedback on the implementation of the recommendations.   In the area of UMF, the Federal Ministry of Justice (BMJ) has already presented a draft for a nationwide standardised custody regulation for unaccompanied refugee children (including through an amendment to the General Civil Code). With this regulation, the responsible KJH is to be entrusted with custody by law (ex lege) immediately after an unaccompanied refugee child is apprehended. However, this new provision has not yet been adopted by parliament.   Following reports of suspected assaults or sexualised violence and exploitation of children in nurseries, schools, sport and film in 2022/23, the federal government decided on a package of measures against violence against children in January 2023; in particular, all institutions are to submit child protection concepts for prevention and victim protection. However, there is no uniformly binding legal framework for this. In March 2023, the Network for Children’s Rights drew up a comprehensive „Corona Special Report“ on the far-reaching consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, with the support of the Ministry of Social Affairs. Since then, training and internal organisational improvement measures have taken place within the Federal Administrative Court (BVwG); no further feedback on the implementation of the recommendations is known from the Ministry of the Interior/Federal Office for Immigration and Asylum. In 2022, a report was published by the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the UN Organisation for Migration (IOM) and the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) called on the Austrian Federal Government to improve protection measures for unaccompanied children and adolescents. In particular, it is crucial to ensure care from day 1 (see: <a href=https://archiv2022.asyl.at/files/366/03-20200225_obsorge_unhcriomunicef.pdf
>https://archiv2022.asyl.at/files/366/03-20200225_obsorge_unhcriomunicef.pdf). Unaccompanied children and adolescents should have guardians at their side immediately after their arrival in Austria to ensure that the best interests of the child are taken into account in all measures and decisions. The goal must be guardianship from day 1, as recommended by the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child and set out in the government programme. Children and young people between the ages of 14 and 18 who come to Austria without parents or other legal guardians generally receive no support during police interviews or when decisions are made regarding an asylum application. Child and youth welfare services (KJH) only come into action once these children and young people have been admitted to the asylum procedure and transferred to a basic care centre in a federal province. This can take several weeks or months, during which the young people are exposed to particular dangers. A swift appointment of qualified guardians whom the children can trust can significantly reduce the risk of disappearance or child trafficking shortly after their arrival.   The care situation is more positive for unaccompanied children under the age of 14. Child and youth welfare services are usually active immediately after arrival in Austria and provide care and support in child and youth welfare centres, accompany the children and young people to all official appointments and apply for custody.   However, this differentiation by age group is contrary to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. It is therefore of great importance that every child, regardless of legal status and age, is treated first and foremost as a child and receives the same protection and the best possible support;

Progress: In progress

Stop the implementation of policies and measures that violate the rights of migrants and effectively protect their rights

Proponent:

China


People's Republic of China

China


People's Republic of China

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

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;

Progress: No progress

Strengthen policies and programs targeting asylum seekers or migrants, with measures that guarantee systematic and free legal assistance

Proponent:

Costa Rica


Republic of Costa Rica

Costa Rica


Republic of Costa Rica

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

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;In May 2019, the so-called BBU Act was passed, which aims to introduce care and support services (BBU) (see: https://www.oesterreich.gv.at/themen/soziales/armut/2/Seite.1694400.html). It is envisaged that this agency will be subordinate to the Ministry of the Interior and the Ministry of Justice and will take over all tasks relating to the care of asylum seekers that were previously mainly carried out by independent, non-governmental organisations. These tasks include care in the initial reception centres for asylum seekers, the provision of legal advice for asylum seekers and foreigners, return counselling and support for people who have been rejected.During the review process, Amnesty International, among others, has already criticised the draft law (see Amnesty International statement:https://www.amnesty.at/news-events/stellungnahme-zur-bundesagentur-fuer-betreuungs-und-unterstuetzungsleistungen/).   It is made clear in the main arguments that the law significantly impairs the rights of people with fair trials and the possibility of an effective complaint. It also conflicts with European requirements, such as the EU Reception Directive, particularly with regard to the requirement for free legal advice and representation. The BBU Act guarantees the independence and authority of legal advisors, as organisational, financial and personnel cooperation exists between the agency and the Ministry of the Interior. It is important to ensure that procedures are fair, transparent and in accordance with the rule of law and that asylum seekers have adequate access to legal remedies and independent counselling;

Progress: No progress

Reinforce the capacity of the Federal Office for Immigration to process refugee claims of asylum seekers, ensuring that the principle of non-refoulement is observed at all times

Proponent:

Afghanistan


Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Afghanistan


Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

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

In September 2023, there were almost half as many asylum applications in Austria compared to 2022. Applications for international protection in Austria are made exclusively in Austria, as applications cannot be submitted to Austrian representation authorities abroad. As a result, many refugees have to come to Austria without a visa and therefore illegally, as it is almost impossible to obtain an entry visa for Austria or another EU member state. This illustrates that although refugees have a fundamental right to an asylum procedure, actual access to this right is often restricted in practice.   After entering Austria (legally or illegally), refugees must submit their asylum application to a police station. The initial interview takes place in special offices of the provincial police directorates and is conducted by interpreters or language experts. Asylum is granted in accordance with the Asylum Act of 2005 and is aimed at people who are persecuted because of their race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular ethnic or social group or their political convictions. The recognition rate varies greatly depending on the origin of the asylum seeker. There is also subsidiary protection, which is granted to people whose asylum application has been rejected but whose life or health is at risk in their country of origin. In cases of particular hardship, humanitarian residence permits can also be granted.   Public opinion in Austria is critical of asylum seekers from Muslim countries of origin such as Afghanistan, Syria and Tunisia. According to a survey in spring 2023, 61 per cent of Austrians rated living together with refugees as bad. The disparity between apprehensions and accepted asylum applications is particularly striking in November and December 2022, when only 0.6 per cent of those who entered the country were able to apply for asylum. There are calls for the right to asylum and lawful access to the asylum procedure to be guaranteed, as well as the establishment of independent human rights monitoring at German borders. Disciplinary consequences for those responsible, compensation and the right to re-entry for those affected are also called for (joint press release of 30 May 2023 by Pushback Alarm Austria, Border Violence Monitoring Network and the Bavarian Refugee Council: https://www.asyl.at/files/uploads/446/23-05-30-pm-pushbacks-an-bayerischen-grenzen-1.pdf). 

Progress: No progress

Continue applying measures to protect asylum seekers by facilitating the asylum application process and the relocation of asylum seekers to Austria

Proponent:

Cyprus


Republic of Cyprus

Cyprus


Republic of Cyprus

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

In July 2021, the „Counter-Terrorism Package“ was passed, with concerns raised by civil society organisations and UN experts that the paragraph on „religiously motivated extremist links“ could stigmatise Muslims (see Counter-Terrorism Act – TeBG (849 d.B.): https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXVII/I/849).   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 disappeared 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;In September 2023, there were almost half as many asylum applications in Austria compared to 2022. Applications for international protection in Austria are made exclusively in Austria, as applications cannot be submitted to Austrian representation authorities abroad. As a result, many refugees have to come to Austria without a visa and therefore illegally, as it is almost impossible to obtain an entry visa for Austria or another EU member state. This illustrates that although refugees have a fundamental right to an asylum procedure, actual access to this right is often restricted in practice.   After entering Austria (legally or illegally), refugees must submit their asylum application to a police station. The initial interview takes place in special offices of the provincial police directorates and is conducted by interpreters or language experts. Asylum is granted in accordance with the Asylum Act of 2005 and is aimed at people who are persecuted because of their race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular ethnic or social group or their political convictions. The recognition rate varies greatly depending on the origin of the asylum seeker. There is also subsidiary protection, which is granted to people whose asylum application has been rejected but whose life or health is at risk in their country of origin. In cases of particular hardship, humanitarian residence permits can also be granted.   Public opinion in Austria is critical of asylum seekers from Muslim countries of origin such as Afghanistan, Syria and Tunisia. According to a survey in spring 2023, 61 per cent of Austrians rated living together with refugees as bad. The disparity between apprehensions and accepted asylum applications is particularly striking in November and December 2022, when only 0.6 per cent of those who entered the country were able to apply for asylum. There are calls for the right to asylum and lawful access to the asylum procedure to be guaranteed, as well as the establishment of independent human rights monitoring at German borders. Disciplinary consequences for those responsible, compensation and the right to re-entry for those affected are also called for (joint press release of 30 May 2023 by Pushback Alarm Austria, Border Violence Monitoring Network and the Bavarian Refugee Council: https://www.asyl.at/files/uploads/446/23-05-30-pm-pushbacks-an-bayerischen-grenzen-1.pdf). 

Progress: No progress

Implement concrete actions based on respect for all human rights of asylum seekers and refugees, particularly boys, girls and adolescents, and the full observance of due process

Proponent:

El Salvador


Republic of El Salvador

El Salvador


Republic of El Salvador

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

In July 2021, the „Counter-Terrorism Package“ was passed, with concerns raised by civil society organisations and UN experts that the paragraph on „religiously motivated extremist links“ could stigmatise Muslims (see Counter-Terrorism Act – TeBG (849 d.B.): https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXVII/I/849).   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 disappeared 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;In September 2023, there were almost half as many asylum applications in Austria compared to 2022. Applications for international protection in Austria are made exclusively in Austria, as applications cannot be submitted to Austrian representation authorities abroad. As a result, many refugees have to come to Austria without a visa and therefore illegally, as it is almost impossible to obtain an entry visa for Austria or another EU member state. This illustrates that although refugees have a fundamental right to an asylum procedure, actual access to this right is often restricted in practice.   After entering Austria (legally or illegally), refugees must submit their asylum application to a police station. The initial interview takes place in special offices of the provincial police directorates and is conducted by interpreters or language experts. Asylum is granted in accordance with the Asylum Act of 2005 and is aimed at people who are persecuted because of their race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular ethnic or social group or their political convictions. The recognition rate varies greatly depending on the origin of the asylum seeker. There is also subsidiary protection, which is granted to people whose asylum application has been rejected but whose life or health is at risk in their country of origin. In cases of particular hardship, humanitarian residence permits can also be granted.   Public opinion in Austria is critical of asylum seekers from Muslim countries of origin such as Afghanistan, Syria and Tunisia. According to a survey in spring 2023, 61 per cent of Austrians rated living together with refugees as bad. The disparity between apprehensions and accepted asylum applications is particularly striking in November and December 2022, when only 0.6 per cent of those who entered the country were able to apply for asylum. There are calls for the right to asylum and lawful access to the asylum procedure to be guaranteed, as well as the establishment of independent human rights monitoring at German borders. Disciplinary consequences for those responsible, compensation and the right to re-entry for those affected are also called for (joint press release of 30 May 2023 by Pushback Alarm Austria, Border Violence Monitoring Network and the Bavarian Refugee Council: https://www.asyl.at/files/uploads/446/23-05-30-pm-pushbacks-an-bayerischen-grenzen-1.pdf). 

Progress: No progress

Strengthen efforts to ensure that every asylum-seeking child benefits from child protection safeguards, and that UNICEF recommended minimum standards for the protection of children in refugee accommodation centres are applied

Proponent:

Fiji


Republic of Fiji

Fiji


Republic of Fiji

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

{Kinder und Jugendliche-Kinderschutz}

Progress: No progress

Continue to ensure adequate and independent legal assistance to asylum seekers

Proponent:

India


Republic of India

India


Republic of India

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

In May 2019, the so-called BBU Act was passed, which aims to introduce care and support services (BBU) (see: https://www.oesterreich.gv.at/themen/soziales/armut/2/Seite.1694400.html). It is envisaged that this agency will be subordinate to the Ministry of the Interior and the Ministry of Justice and will take over all tasks relating to the care of asylum seekers that were previously mainly carried out by independent, non-governmental organisations. These tasks include care in the initial reception centres for asylum seekers, the provision of legal advice for asylum seekers and foreigners, return counselling and support for people who have been rejected.During the review process, Amnesty International, among others, has already criticised the draft law (see Amnesty International statement:https://www.amnesty.at/news-events/stellungnahme-zur-bundesagentur-fuer-betreuungs-und-unterstuetzungsleistungen/).   It is made clear in the main arguments that the law significantly impairs the rights of people with fair trials and the possibility of an effective complaint. It also conflicts with European requirements, such as the EU Reception Directive, particularly with regard to the requirement for free legal advice and representation. The BBU Act guarantees the independence and authority of legal advisors, as organisational, financial and personnel cooperation exists between the agency and the Ministry of the Interior. It is important to ensure that procedures are fair, transparent and in accordance with the rule of law and that asylum seekers have adequate access to legal remedies and independent counselling;

Progress: No progress

Strengthen the capacity to process refugee applications, provide adequate legal assistance to applicants, and guarantee the principle of non-refoulement

Proponent:

Mexico


United Mexican States

Mexico


United Mexican States

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

In May 2019, the so-called BBU Act was passed, which aims to introduce care and support services (BBU) (see: https://www.oesterreich.gv.at/themen/soziales/armut/2/Seite.1694400.html). It is envisaged that this agency will be subordinate to the Ministry of the Interior and the Ministry of Justice and will take over all tasks relating to the care of asylum seekers that were previously mainly carried out by independent, non-governmental organisations. These tasks include care in the initial reception centres for asylum seekers, the provision of legal advice for asylum seekers and foreigners, return counselling and support for people who have been rejected.During the review process, Amnesty International, among others, has already criticised the draft law (see Amnesty International statement:https://www.amnesty.at/news-events/stellungnahme-zur-bundesagentur-fuer-betreuungs-und-unterstuetzungsleistungen/).   It is made clear in the main arguments that the law significantly impairs the rights of people with fair trials and the possibility of an effective complaint. It also conflicts with European requirements, such as the EU Reception Directive, particularly with regard to the requirement for free legal advice and representation. The BBU Act guarantees the independence and authority of legal advisors, as organisational, financial and personnel cooperation exists between the agency and the Ministry of the Interior. It is important to ensure that procedures are fair, transparent and in accordance with the rule of law and that asylum seekers have adequate access to legal remedies and independent counselling;

Progress: No progress

Implement its international obligations and commitments related to migrant and refugees’ protection through specific policies and programmes

Proponent:

Pakistan


Islamic Republic of Pakistan

Pakistan


Islamic Republic of Pakistan

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

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;In July 2021, the „Counter-Terrorism Package“ was passed, with concerns raised by civil society organisations and UN experts that the paragraph on „religiously motivated extremist links“ could stigmatise Muslims (see Counter-Terrorism Act – TeBG (849 d.B.): https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXVII/I/849).   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 disappeared 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;

Progress: No progress

Establish a mechanism to ensure independent and competent legal counsel for asylum seekers

Proponent:

Philippines


Republic of the Philippines

Philippines


Republic of the Philippines

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

In May 2019, the so-called BBU Act was passed, which aims to introduce care and support services (BBU) (see: https://www.oesterreich.gv.at/themen/soziales/armut/2/Seite.1694400.html). It is envisaged that this agency will be subordinate to the Ministry of the Interior and the Ministry of Justice and will take over all tasks relating to the care of asylum seekers that were previously mainly carried out by independent, non-governmental organisations. These tasks include care in the initial reception centres for asylum seekers, the provision of legal advice for asylum seekers and foreigners, return counselling and support for people who have been rejected.During the review process, Amnesty International, among others, has already criticised the draft law (see Amnesty International statement:https://www.amnesty.at/news-events/stellungnahme-zur-bundesagentur-fuer-betreuungs-und-unterstuetzungsleistungen/).   It is made clear in the main arguments that the law significantly impairs the rights of people with fair trials and the possibility of an effective complaint. It also conflicts with European requirements, such as the EU Reception Directive, particularly with regard to the requirement for free legal advice and representation. The BBU Act guarantees the independence and authority of legal advisors, as organisational, financial and personnel cooperation exists between the agency and the Ministry of the Interior. It is important to ensure that procedures are fair, transparent and in accordance with the rule of law and that asylum seekers have adequate access to legal remedies and independent counselling;

Progress: No progress

Continue to raise public awareness to eliminate prejudice and stereotypes against migrants and refugees, and take further measures to translate integration efforts into effective practice on the ground

Proponent:

South Korea


Republic of Korea

South Korea


Republic of Korea

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

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;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

Pay particular attention to its human rights obligations in the context of the significant influx of migrants to the country from the Middle East and North Africa

Proponent:

Russia


Russian Federation

Russia


Russian Federation

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

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;

Progress: No progress

Ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on a communications procedure

Proponent:

Czech Republic


Czech Republic

Czech Republic


Czech Republic

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

In February 2012, Austria signed the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child regarding a communication procedure, but has not yet ratified it – in contrast to the majority of EU member states ( Bundesgesetzblatt für die Republik Österreich, BGBl III Nr.92/2002) and (United Nations Ratification List of the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child, May 2000). Ratification of the Optional Protocol is important to protect children’s rights and to ensure that children have an effective means of challenging violations of their rights. This has been repeatedly emphasised by civil society. Only through ratification would Austria be obliged to establish an effective complaints procedure for children and ensure that their voices are heard internationally and that their rights are protected;

Progress: No progress

Ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on a communications procedure

Proponent:

Gabon


Gabonese Republic

Gabon


Gabonese Republic

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

In February 2012, Austria signed the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child regarding a communication procedure, but has not yet ratified it – in contrast to the majority of EU member states ( Bundesgesetzblatt für die Republik Österreich, BGBl III Nr.92/2002) and (United Nations Ratification List of the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child, May 2000). Ratification of the Optional Protocol is important to protect children’s rights and to ensure that children have an effective means of challenging violations of their rights. This has been repeatedly emphasised by civil society. Only through ratification would Austria be obliged to establish an effective complaints procedure for children and ensure that their voices are heard internationally and that their rights are protected;

Progress: No progress

Ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on a communications procedure

Proponent:

Germany


Federal Republic of Germany

Germany


Federal Republic of Germany

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

In February 2012, Austria signed the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child regarding a communication procedure, but has not yet ratified it – in contrast to the majority of EU member states ( Bundesgesetzblatt für die Republik Österreich, BGBl III Nr.92/2002) and (United Nations Ratification List of the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child, May 2000). Ratification of the Optional Protocol is important to protect children’s rights and to ensure that children have an effective means of challenging violations of their rights. This has been repeatedly emphasised by civil society. Only through ratification would Austria be obliged to establish an effective complaints procedure for children and ensure that their voices are heard internationally and that their rights are protected;

Progress: No progress

Ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on a communications procedure

Proponent:

Italy


Italian Republic

Italy


Italian Republic

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

In February 2012, Austria signed the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child regarding a communication procedure, but has not yet ratified it – in contrast to the majority of EU member states ( Bundesgesetzblatt für die Republik Österreich, BGBl III Nr.92/2002) and (United Nations Ratification List of the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child, May 2000). Ratification of the Optional Protocol is important to protect children’s rights and to ensure that children have an effective means of challenging violations of their rights. This has been repeatedly emphasised by civil society. Only through ratification would Austria be obliged to establish an effective complaints procedure for children and ensure that their voices are heard internationally and that their rights are protected;

Progress: No progress

Consider ratifying the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on a communications procedure

Proponent:

Tunisia


Tunisian Republic

Tunisia


Tunisian Republic

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

In February 2012, Austria signed the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child regarding a communication procedure, but has not yet ratified it – in contrast to the majority of EU member states ( Bundesgesetzblatt für die Republik Österreich, BGBl III Nr.92/2002) and (United Nations Ratification List of the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child, May 2000). Ratification of the Optional Protocol is important to protect children’s rights and to ensure that children have an effective means of challenging violations of their rights. This has been repeatedly emphasised by civil society. Only through ratification would Austria be obliged to establish an effective complaints procedure for children and ensure that their voices are heard internationally and that their rights are protected;

Progress: No progress

Work towards ratifying the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on a communications procedure

Proponent:

Liechtenstein


Principality of Liechtenstein

Liechtenstein


Principality of Liechtenstein

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

In February 2012, Austria signed the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child regarding a communication procedure, but has not yet ratified it – in contrast to the majority of EU member states ( Bundesgesetzblatt für die Republik Österreich, BGBl III Nr.92/2002) and (United Nations Ratification List of the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child, May 2000). Ratification of the Optional Protocol is important to protect children’s rights and to ensure that children have an effective means of challenging violations of their rights. This has been repeatedly emphasised by civil society. Only through ratification would Austria be obliged to establish an effective complaints procedure for children and ensure that their voices are heard internationally and that their rights are protected;

Progress: No progress

Speed up efforts to ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on a communications procedure

Proponent:

Slovakia


Slovak Republic

Slovakia


Slovak Republic

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

In February 2012, Austria signed the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child regarding a communication procedure, but has not yet ratified it – in contrast to the majority of EU member states ( Bundesgesetzblatt für die Republik Österreich, BGBl III Nr.92/2002) and (United Nations Ratification List of the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child, May 2000). Ratification of the Optional Protocol is important to protect children’s rights and to ensure that children have an effective means of challenging violations of their rights. This has been repeatedly emphasised by civil society. Only through ratification would Austria be obliged to establish an effective complaints procedure for children and ensure that their voices are heard internationally and that their rights are protected;

Progress: No progress

Adopt an open, merit-based process when selecting national candidates for UN Treaty Body elections

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):

Decisions in nominating procedures are not explained in a public understandable form, even if internally there may be orderly nominating procedures.

Progress: No progress

Reinvigorate efforts aimed at the finalization and subsequent implementation of the National Action Plan for Human Rights

Proponent:

Georgia


Georgia

Georgia


Georgia

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

Despite the agreement in the last government programme and the sustained demand by opposition parties such as the SPÖ and NEOS, a general National Action Plan for Human Rights for Austria has not yet been finalised or adopted. The details (see: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/dam/jcr:7b9e6755-2115-440c-b2ec-cbf64a931aa8/RegProgramm-lang.pdf on page 153) and in the parliamentary initiatives of the SPÖ and NEOS (e.g. SPÖ and NEOS). A general National Action Plan for Human Rights should not be replaced by the results of topic-specific action plans. Rather, it is intended to provide strategic and long-term planning, prioritisation and serve as a central mechanism for coordination and strategic planning to implement the recommendations of the UPR process. In addition to strategic objectives for legislation, a comprehensive national action plan should include the following elements: Network building within the administration and with NGOs, new creation and support of human rights institutions, integration of human rights education in schools and universities, educational programmes for vulnerable groups, public awareness-building, provision of information materials, research and evaluation. As early as 1993, the World Conference on Human Rights in Vienna recommended comprehensive National Action Plans for Human Rights. These form the gold standard throughout the EU and are widespread in many countries, as a study by the EU Fundamental Rights Agency shows ( Study by the EU Fundamental Rights Agency). It is no substitute for a general National Action Plan for Human Rights to await the results of topic-specific National Action Plans. Rather, the purpose of the general National Action Plan is to plan strategically and in the long term and to define priorities. In this way, the National Action Plan for Human Rights can also be the main mechanism for coordination and strategic planning for the implementation of the recommendations of the UPR process.
  In the Government Plan 2025-2029, the Federal Government aims to revitalise the Human Rights Action Plan and promote its implementation (see Government Plan 2025-2029: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/die-bundesregierung/regierungsdokumente.html).

Progress: No progress

Develop a national human rights action plan in line with OHCHR guidelines to ensure participation of civil society

Proponent:

Kazakhstan


Republic of Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan


Republic of Kazakhstan

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

Despite the agreement in the last government programme and the sustained demand by opposition parties such as the SPÖ and NEOS, a general National Action Plan for Human Rights for Austria has not yet been finalised or adopted. The details (see: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/dam/jcr:7b9e6755-2115-440c-b2ec-cbf64a931aa8/RegProgramm-lang.pdf on page 153) and in the parliamentary initiatives of the SPÖ and NEOS (e.g. SPÖ and NEOS). A general National Action Plan for Human Rights should not be replaced by the results of topic-specific action plans. Rather, it is intended to provide strategic and long-term planning, prioritisation and serve as a central mechanism for coordination and strategic planning to implement the recommendations of the UPR process. In addition to strategic objectives for legislation, a comprehensive national action plan should include the following elements: Network building within the administration and with NGOs, new creation and support of human rights institutions, integration of human rights education in schools and universities, educational programmes for vulnerable groups, public awareness-building, provision of information materials, research and evaluation. As early as 1993, the World Conference on Human Rights in Vienna recommended comprehensive National Action Plans for Human Rights. These form the gold standard throughout the EU and are widespread in many countries, as a study by the EU Fundamental Rights Agency shows ( Study by the EU Fundamental Rights Agency). It is no substitute for a general National Action Plan for Human Rights to await the results of topic-specific National Action Plans. Rather, the purpose of the general National Action Plan is to plan strategically and in the long term and to define priorities. In this way, the National Action Plan for Human Rights can also be the main mechanism for coordination and strategic planning for the implementation of the recommendations of the UPR process.
  In the Government Plan 2025-2029, the Federal Government aims to revitalise the Human Rights Action Plan and promote its implementation (see Government Plan 2025-2029: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/die-bundesregierung/regierungsdokumente.html).

Progress: No progress

Address the COVID-19 pandemic-related challenges in its National Human Rights Action Plan update

Proponent:

Lithuania


Republic of Lithuania

Lithuania


Republic of Lithuania

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

Despite the agreement in the last government programme and the sustained demand by opposition parties such as the SPÖ and NEOS, a general National Action Plan for Human Rights for Austria has not yet been finalised or adopted. The details (see: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/dam/jcr:7b9e6755-2115-440c-b2ec-cbf64a931aa8/RegProgramm-lang.pdf on page 153) and in the parliamentary initiatives of the SPÖ and NEOS (e.g. SPÖ and NEOS). A general National Action Plan for Human Rights should not be replaced by the results of topic-specific action plans. Rather, it is intended to provide strategic and long-term planning, prioritisation and serve as a central mechanism for coordination and strategic planning to implement the recommendations of the UPR process. In addition to strategic objectives for legislation, a comprehensive national action plan should include the following elements: Network building within the administration and with NGOs, new creation and support of human rights institutions, integration of human rights education in schools and universities, educational programmes for vulnerable groups, public awareness-building, provision of information materials, research and evaluation. As early as 1993, the World Conference on Human Rights in Vienna recommended comprehensive National Action Plans for Human Rights. These form the gold standard throughout the EU and are widespread in many countries, as a study by the EU Fundamental Rights Agency shows ( Study by the EU Fundamental Rights Agency). It is no substitute for a general National Action Plan for Human Rights to await the results of topic-specific National Action Plans. Rather, the purpose of the general National Action Plan is to plan strategically and in the long term and to define priorities. In this way, the National Action Plan for Human Rights can also be the main mechanism for coordination and strategic planning for the implementation of the recommendations of the UPR process.
  In the Government Plan 2025-2029, the Federal Government aims to revitalise the Human Rights Action Plan and promote its implementation (see Government Plan 2025-2029: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/die-bundesregierung/regierungsdokumente.html).

Progress: No progress

Adopt the comprehensive National Human Rights Action Plan

Proponent:

Mongolia


Mongolia

Mongolia


Mongolia

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

Despite the agreement in the last government programme and the sustained demand by opposition parties such as the SPÖ and NEOS, a general National Action Plan for Human Rights for Austria has not yet been finalised or adopted. The details (see: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/dam/jcr:7b9e6755-2115-440c-b2ec-cbf64a931aa8/RegProgramm-lang.pdf on page 153) and in the parliamentary initiatives of the SPÖ and NEOS (e.g. SPÖ and NEOS). A general National Action Plan for Human Rights should not be replaced by the results of topic-specific action plans. Rather, it is intended to provide strategic and long-term planning, prioritisation and serve as a central mechanism for coordination and strategic planning to implement the recommendations of the UPR process. In addition to strategic objectives for legislation, a comprehensive national action plan should include the following elements: Network building within the administration and with NGOs, new creation and support of human rights institutions, integration of human rights education in schools and universities, educational programmes for vulnerable groups, public awareness-building, provision of information materials, research and evaluation. As early as 1993, the World Conference on Human Rights in Vienna recommended comprehensive National Action Plans for Human Rights. These form the gold standard throughout the EU and are widespread in many countries, as a study by the EU Fundamental Rights Agency shows ( Study by the EU Fundamental Rights Agency). It is no substitute for a general National Action Plan for Human Rights to await the results of topic-specific National Action Plans. Rather, the purpose of the general National Action Plan is to plan strategically and in the long term and to define priorities. In this way, the National Action Plan for Human Rights can also be the main mechanism for coordination and strategic planning for the implementation of the recommendations of the UPR process.
  In the Government Plan 2025-2029, the Federal Government aims to revitalise the Human Rights Action Plan and promote its implementation (see Government Plan 2025-2029: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/die-bundesregierung/regierungsdokumente.html).

Progress: No progress

Develop a national human rights action plan with concrete and measurable objectives ensuring meaningful participation of civil society

Proponent:

Norway


Kingdom of Norway

Norway


Kingdom of Norway

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

Despite the agreement in the last government programme and the sustained demand by opposition parties such as the SPÖ and NEOS, a general National Action Plan for Human Rights for Austria has not yet been finalised or adopted. The details (see: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/dam/jcr:7b9e6755-2115-440c-b2ec-cbf64a931aa8/RegProgramm-lang.pdf on page 153) and in the parliamentary initiatives of the SPÖ and NEOS (e.g. SPÖ and NEOS). A general National Action Plan for Human Rights should not be replaced by the results of topic-specific action plans. Rather, it is intended to provide strategic and long-term planning, prioritisation and serve as a central mechanism for coordination and strategic planning to implement the recommendations of the UPR process. In addition to strategic objectives for legislation, a comprehensive national action plan should include the following elements: Network building within the administration and with NGOs, new creation and support of human rights institutions, integration of human rights education in schools and universities, educational programmes for vulnerable groups, public awareness-building, provision of information materials, research and evaluation. As early as 1993, the World Conference on Human Rights in Vienna recommended comprehensive National Action Plans for Human Rights. These form the gold standard throughout the EU and are widespread in many countries, as a study by the EU Fundamental Rights Agency shows ( Study by the EU Fundamental Rights Agency). It is no substitute for a general National Action Plan for Human Rights to await the results of topic-specific National Action Plans. Rather, the purpose of the general National Action Plan is to plan strategically and in the long term and to define priorities. In this way, the National Action Plan for Human Rights can also be the main mechanism for coordination and strategic planning for the implementation of the recommendations of the UPR process.
  In the Government Plan 2025-2029, the Federal Government aims to revitalise the Human Rights Action Plan and promote its implementation (see Government Plan 2025-2029: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/die-bundesregierung/regierungsdokumente.html).

Progress: No progress

Develop a plan of action in the area of human rights

Proponent:

Qatar


State of Qatar

Qatar


State of Qatar

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

Despite the agreement in the last government programme and the sustained demand by opposition parties such as the SPÖ and NEOS, a general National Action Plan for Human Rights for Austria has not yet been finalised or adopted. The details (see: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/dam/jcr:7b9e6755-2115-440c-b2ec-cbf64a931aa8/RegProgramm-lang.pdf on page 153) and in the parliamentary initiatives of the SPÖ and NEOS (e.g. SPÖ and NEOS). A general National Action Plan for Human Rights should not be replaced by the results of topic-specific action plans. Rather, it is intended to provide strategic and long-term planning, prioritisation and serve as a central mechanism for coordination and strategic planning to implement the recommendations of the UPR process. In addition to strategic objectives for legislation, a comprehensive national action plan should include the following elements: Network building within the administration and with NGOs, new creation and support of human rights institutions, integration of human rights education in schools and universities, educational programmes for vulnerable groups, public awareness-building, provision of information materials, research and evaluation. As early as 1993, the World Conference on Human Rights in Vienna recommended comprehensive National Action Plans for Human Rights. These form the gold standard throughout the EU and are widespread in many countries, as a study by the EU Fundamental Rights Agency shows ( Study by the EU Fundamental Rights Agency). It is no substitute for a general National Action Plan for Human Rights to await the results of topic-specific National Action Plans. Rather, the purpose of the general National Action Plan is to plan strategically and in the long term and to define priorities. In this way, the National Action Plan for Human Rights can also be the main mechanism for coordination and strategic planning for the implementation of the recommendations of the UPR process.
  In the Government Plan 2025-2029, the Federal Government aims to revitalise the Human Rights Action Plan and promote its implementation (see Government Plan 2025-2029: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/die-bundesregierung/regierungsdokumente.html).

Progress: No progress

Finalize and adopt a comprehensive national human rights action plan and continue to ensure the effective implementation of existing thematic national action plans, including the NAP on Disability and the NAP on Combating Violence against Women

Proponent:

South Korea


Republic of Korea

South Korea


Republic of Korea

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

Despite the agreement in the last government programme and the sustained demand by opposition parties such as the SPÖ and NEOS, a general National Action Plan for Human Rights for Austria has not yet been finalised or adopted. The details (see: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/dam/jcr:7b9e6755-2115-440c-b2ec-cbf64a931aa8/RegProgramm-lang.pdf on page 153) and in the parliamentary initiatives of the SPÖ and NEOS (e.g. SPÖ and NEOS). A general National Action Plan for Human Rights should not be replaced by the results of topic-specific action plans. Rather, it is intended to provide strategic and long-term planning, prioritisation and serve as a central mechanism for coordination and strategic planning to implement the recommendations of the UPR process. In addition to strategic objectives for legislation, a comprehensive national action plan should include the following elements: Network building within the administration and with NGOs, new creation and support of human rights institutions, integration of human rights education in schools and universities, educational programmes for vulnerable groups, public awareness-building, provision of information materials, research and evaluation. As early as 1993, the World Conference on Human Rights in Vienna recommended comprehensive National Action Plans for Human Rights. These form the gold standard throughout the EU and are widespread in many countries, as a study by the EU Fundamental Rights Agency shows ( Study by the EU Fundamental Rights Agency). It is no substitute for a general National Action Plan for Human Rights to await the results of topic-specific National Action Plans. Rather, the purpose of the general National Action Plan is to plan strategically and in the long term and to define priorities. In this way, the National Action Plan for Human Rights can also be the main mechanism for coordination and strategic planning for the implementation of the recommendations of the UPR process.
  In the Government Plan 2025-2029, the Federal Government aims to revitalise the Human Rights Action Plan and promote its implementation (see Government Plan 2025-2029: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/bundeskanzleramt/die-bundesregierung/regierungsdokumente.html). With the National Action Plan for the Protection of Women against Violence 2014-2016, measures were taken throughout Austria to implement the requirements of the Istanbul Convention against Violence against Women (see National Action Plan 2014-2016 as PDF: https://www.bundeskanzleramt.gv.at/dam/jcr:1f95e551-0e17-4d67-8090-b7bced3f4947/nap.pdf). However, the National Action Plan has now expired without replacement. Despite the fact that Austria has ratified the Convention, there is a lack of implementation and improvement of further measures, including due diligence in victim protection and, in particular, improved cooperation with civil society.   In August 2023, the ACA published the report „Violence and Victim Protection for Women“, which identifies potential for the effective protection of women affected by violence. The ACA also highlights shortcomings in strategic planning and recommends a coordinated joint strategy between the federal ministries and the federal states (Gewalt- und Opferschutz für Frauen, BUND 2023/21: https://www.rechnungshof.gv.at/rh/home/home/2023_21_Gewalt_und_Opferschutz_Frauen.pdf). A National Action Plan for the Protection of Women against Violence 2014-2016 with 60 measures has been drawn up, but no further action plan is planned (National Action Plan for the Protection of Women against Violence 2014-2016 on the website of the National Coordination Centre for the Protection of Women against Violence: https://www.coordination-vaw.gv.at/koordinierung/nap.html).  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 National Action Plan on Disability 2012-2021 (NAP I) has now expired and has been replaced by the National Action Plan on Disability 2022-2030 (NAP II, information on the website of the Ministry of Social Affairs: here). A comprehensive evaluation of the success of NAP I has been carried out by the Ministry of Social Affairs and is available on their website as a PDF https://www.sozialministerium.at/dam/jcr:edab5ca1-4995-456a-820c-c414da78bc39/Evaluierung202012%E2%80%932020.pdf </a In NAP I, there remains great potential for improvement with regard to the inclusion of people with disabilities and the organisations representing them. The reasons for this are a lack of understanding of what full and effective participation means and what conditions are necessary for this, as well as a lack of resources for participation processes. In addition, political participation in Austria is highly formalised and has historical roots. This gives well-established and politically networked civil society organisations an advantage. The National Action Plan on Disability 2022-2030 (NAP II) was adopted by the Austrian Federal Government on 6 July 2022 and is available as a PDF https://www.behindertenrat.at/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Nationaler-Aktionsplan-NAP-Behinderung-2022-2030.pdf). The NAP II is also the central national instrument for implementing the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD) in Austria. This also aims to ensure the full and effective participation and inclusion of people with disabilities in society.   In the view of civil society, this goal of effective social integration of people with disabilities is not sufficiently realised in NAP II. The NAP II formally exists, but cannot be considered a complete success from this perspective. The National Action Plan on Disability II 2022-2030 (NAP II, available as a PDF https://www.behindertenrat.at/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Nationaler-Aktionsplan-NAP-Behinderung-2022-2030.pdf) has made some progress compared to the previous National Action Plan on Disability I from 2012-2020 (NAP I). The implementation of NAP II is being monitored by the NAP Monitoring Group. This group consists of representatives from federal ministries, federal states, organisations for people with disabilities and the Monitoring Committee for the Implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Its aim is to ensure that the measures in the action plan are implemented. This group also reports verbally on the implementation status of the 375 measures. The extent to which people with disabilities and their organisations are involved in implementation is not always clear and also depends on the respective measures.   During the preparation of the NAP II, the federal ministries and federal states made contributions in 26 expert teams. However, these contributions were only partially drawn up in a participatory process. The Ministry of Social Affairs and a few other federal ministries have set up corresponding processes for the preparation of their contributions. Unfortunately, however, many federal ministries did not respond to this call, which is why contributions on essential topics (e.g. education, children and young people or women) were produced without any real participation by civil society, despite numerous attempts by civil society to make contact. The participatory element was also not consistently ensured in the countries. The contributions made are available on the website of the Ministry of Social Affairs, see here). Moreover, the written implementation reports for 2021 and 2022, in which the status of implementation is to be presented in detail and thus made comprehensible, have still not been published. The editorial team, which included representatives of civil society and government monitoring mechanisms, was also unable to compensate for the original lack of participation in the creation of the NAP II, as by the time they were consulted, it was only a matter of combining contributions that had already been approved by the respective political level into an overall work. It was no longer possible for civil society to exert any significant influence on the content.   Reasons for the lack of participation include a lack of understanding of what unrestricted and effective participation means and what conditions are necessary for this, as well as a lack of resources for participation processes.   In terms of content, there is no coherent strategy for the de-institutionalisation of people with disabilities in the NAP II, although this would be of great importance in order to promote self-determination and inclusion in society and to prevent exploitation, violence and abuse of people with disabilities in institutions;

Progress: In progress

Strengthen measures to raise public awareness with a special focus on combating hate speech, racism, discrimination, xenophobia and islamophobia

Proponent:

Algeria


People's Democratic Republic of Algeria

Algeria


People's Democratic Republic of Algeria

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 anti-Semitism. A central coordination centre for anti-Semitism has been set up at the Federal Chancellery.   These measures to combat antisemitism are to be welcomed in principle. It is also positive to note that both their development and implementation were driven forward with the involvement of various civil society organisations. It should be criticised 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.   However, no clear responsibility for combating anti-Black racism, anti-Muslim racism and racism in general has been defined at federal level. There are also hardly any measures in place. There are no targeted awareness-raising measures focussing on combating discrimination against people with disabilities and limited abilities and addressing self-empowerment and human rights. In the area of art, culture, diversity and sport, the Competence Centre for Diversity, Antiracism and Anti-Discrimination (KDA) was set up by the federal government in 2022 to combat structural racism. One measure is the anti-racism strategy, which was published in March 2024. This strategy comprises 23 measures in the areas of sport, art, culture and public service. It was developed in cooperation with civil society and affected communities and focuses on diversity management, strengthening diversity competence and racism-critical communication (see Antiracism Strategy 2024: https://www.bmkoes.gv.at/dam/jcr:ec8e92ef-f349-44d1-8700-94b5f5293030/ars.pdf). 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). 

Progress: In progress

Adopt a national legislation regulating the activity of transnational companies with a human rights-based approach

Proponent:

Costa Rica


Republic of Costa Rica

Costa Rica


Republic of Costa Rica

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

In Austria, the debate on regulating the activities of transnational corporations has intensified, particularly with regard to compliance with human rights standards. A new legislative update aims to enact domestic legislation that takes a human rights-based approach. This means that companies should be obliged to organise their global activities in accordance with internationally recognised human rights standards. Such legislative changes could establish both legal and ethical obligations for companies to ensure that their business activities do not have a negative impact on human rights and, at best, contribute positively to the promotion of human rights. This approach reflects the endeavour to combine global economic activities with social responsibility and ethical standards in order to promote a fairer and more sustainable global economy. 

Progress: No progress

Review current regulations, including the Law on Senior Citizens’ Residences and the Law on Hospitalization, to ensure that no person is deprived of his/her liberty against his/her will on account of a disability

Proponent:

Mexico


United Mexican States

Mexico


United Mexican States

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

Although laws such as the Home Residence Act provide legal protection in the event of restrictions on freedom, there is still a need for a more comprehensive expansion of social psychiatric support systems in order to prevent repeated placements (see statement by RepresentationNet on the draft federal law amending the Code of Civil Procedure, the Extrajudicial Procedure Act, the Placement Act, the Home Residence Act, the Insolvency Act, the Enforcement Code and the Court Organisation Act. : https://vertretungsnetz.at/fileadmin/user_upload/3_SERVICE_Stellungnahmen/2023_Stellungnahme_ZPO_AussStrG_UbG_HeimAufG_ua_Stellungnahme.pdf).   In December 2011, a constitutional law significantly expanded the powers of the Austrian Ombudsman Board, which is the most significant expansion since it was founded in 1977. This step was taken as part of the implementation of the UN Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (OPCAT) and provisions of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The Austrian Ombudsman Board has now assumed the role of a National Preventive Mechanism (NPM) and is responsible for monitoring and promoting human rights (see National Preventive Mechanism under OPCAT at the Austrian Ombudsman Board since 07/2012 :https://www.bmi.gv.at/408/OPCAT/start.aspx).   In addition, the Representation Network, a non-profit organisation, has been actively campaigning for the protection of the fundamental rights of people with mental illness or intellectual disabilities in most Austrian provinces since 1980 on behalf of the Ministry of Justice. Although laws such as the Retention Act offer legal protection in the event of restrictions on freedom, there is still a need for a more comprehensive expansion of social psychiatric support systems in order to prevent repeated detentions. There is currently no information on measures for the systematic and comprehensive review of legal provisions that go beyond the amendment of the Placement Act (see statement by the Representation Network on the draft federal law amending the Code of Civil Procedure, the Non-Contentious Proceedings Act, the Placement Act, the Nursing Home Residence Act, the Insolvency Code, the Enforcement Code and the Court Organisation Act. https://vertretungsnetz.at/fileadmin/user_upload/3_SERVICE_Stellungnahmen/2023_Stellungnahme_ZPO_AussStrG_UbG_HeimAufG_ua_Stellungnahme.pdf). 

Progress: No progress

Adopt codes of conduct for politicians prohibiting the use of racist speeches, and make necessary arrangements for those to adopt approaches for supporting integration rather than isolation and alienation

Proponent:

Turkey


Republic of Turkey

Turkey


Republic of Turkey

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

The implementation of codes of conduct for political actors is an important step towards ensuring ethical standards and accountability in the political arena. These codes serve to regulate the behaviour of politicians and set clear boundaries for their statements. In particular, the prohibition of racist statements is of great importance, as they not only divide society but can also jeopardise integration.   Several codes of conduct exist in Austria that aim to promote ethical standards and integrity in the public sector. One of these is the Code of Conduct for the Prevention of Corruption in the Public Sector, which was adopted by the Council of Ministers in November 2020. This is aimed at federal employees and offers practical instructions and checklists for dealing with attempts at bribery.   Another code is the Code of Conduct of the Federal Ministry of the Interior (BMI), which was adopted in 2010 and is continuously updated. This serves as a guideline for all employees of the BMI and is based on the applicable legal situation in order to promote ethical standards.   However, it should be noted that there have been no recognisable efforts to date to draw up codes of conduct for politicians that prohibit the use of racist language. Similarly, there is a lack of regulations to ensure that political actors promote inclusion rather than favour isolation and alienation. 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. In Austria, incitement to hatred is prohibited under criminal law, even for politicians. One example of this is the conviction of former FPÖ politician Johann Gudenus, who was prosecuted for racist and inflammatory statements. Similarly, Herbert Kickl, another high-ranking member of the FPÖ, was criticised several times for his provocative statements, even if convictions were not always handed down. In such cases, parliament can decide to waive the immunity of the politician concerned if criminal prosecution is a possibility. This makes it possible to hold the person concerned accountable and prosecute them. It is desirable that politicians are actively committed to integration. However, it is not the responsibility of the government to dictate how they speak out on this issue. Standards of behaviour for politicians must be set by the political parties themselves or in parliament. 

Progress: No progress

Promote specific policies for supporting the family as it is the basic and natural unit of society

Proponent:

Egypt


Arab Republic of Egypt

Egypt


Arab Republic of Egypt

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

The recent extension of the Equal Treatment Act in Austria, particularly in the context of caring activities, is a positive step. Nevertheless, precise wording is needed to ensure legal certainty. Austria has recently extended the scope of protection of the Equal Treatment Act to cover discrimination in the context of care work. This is a significant step forward, but requires clear wording in the extended § 5a to ensure clarity and legal certainty.   The missed opportunity to distribute parental leave more evenly is regrettable and contradicts the goal of gender equality. The current amendment of the law offers the opportunity to rectify shortcomings, in particular by introducing a statutory minimum compensation for cases of discrimination. Despite positive developments, however, there is still no uniform standard of protection for all those affected by discrimination. Civil society, including the Litigation Association, appeals to legislators to seriously consider the recommendations, particularly with regard to the clear wording of Section 5a, the equal distribution of parental leave and the introduction of statutory minimum compensation. A holistic view beyond the world of work and the transfer of responsibility to the Federal Equal Treatment Commission in accordance with Directive (EU) 2019/1158 are crucial. These measures strengthen the protection of families and promote gender equality in Austria (see statement of the Litigation Association: https://www.klagsverband.at/klav/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Stellungnahme-Klagsverband-10.07.2023.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

Evaluate developing programmes to reduce the gender pay gap and promote the integration of women with disabilities, ethnic minorities and migrants into the labour market

Proponent:

Peru


Republic of Peru

Peru


Republic of Peru

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

Strengthen policies and measures in the field of labor, including by considering ratifying the ILO Domestic Workers Convention, 2011 (No. 189)

Proponent:

Brazil


Federal Republic of Brazil

Brazil


Federal Republic of Brazil

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

In June 2011, Austria adopted Convention No. 189 of the International Labour Organization (ILO) regarding domestic workers. This agreement sets out an ambitious level of protection for domestic workers under labour law. However, it has not yet been fully implemented at national level. Domestic workers contribute significantly to the global economy by improving employment opportunities for workers with family responsibilities. They provide care for the elderly, children and people with disabilities and create significant income shifts within and between countries. It is crucial that Austria continues to take measures to strengthen the protection of workers, including the ratification of ILO Convention No. 189 on Domestic Workers (see RIS Convention No.189: https://www.ris.bka.gv.at/Dokumente/RegV/REGV_COO_2026_100_2_651606/COO_2026_100_2_653149.html). 

Progress: No progress

Study, in close consultation with stakeholders, the possibility of a universal basic income

Proponent:

Haiti


Republic of Haiti

Haiti


Republic of Haiti

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

In May 2022, a referendum for the implementation of an unconditional basic income (UBI) in Austria was presented. It envisages that all persons with their main residence in Austria would receive a monthly state payment without having to provide anything in return. This is intended to enable a dignified existence and genuine participation in society. Despite the support of 168,981 people and a final hearing in the National Council, parties such as the ÖVP, FPÖ, SPÖ and Neos are sceptical about the introduction of the Unconditional Basic Income (see Parliamentary Correspondence No. 99 of 01.02.2023: https://www.parlament.gv.at/aktuelles/pk/jahr_2023/pk0099#XXVII_I_01628). The unconditional basic income (UBI) is a financial benefit that is paid unconditionally and regularly to every citizen. The amount should be high enough to ensure an appropriate lifestyle and participation in social life. Contrary to the assumption that the unconditional basic income would abolish the welfare state, it is argued that it should rather develop it further. Those in favour see an unconditional basic income as a way of giving people the freedom they need to react flexibly to current and future economic, social and ecological challenges.   In various welfare states, including Austria, there are regular debates about the extent to which it would make sense to replace existing social benefits with an unconditional basic income. Those in favour argue that this could reduce social inequality and poverty, strengthen social cohesion, increase enjoyment of life and motivation to work and reduce existential fears. However, critics fear a lack of accuracy, the risk of a passive mentality and a return to traditional gender roles. The financial viability of the programme is also questioned. The Austrian Federal Economic Chamber (WKÖ) expresses concerns about the introduction of an unconditional basic income. In their opinion, it would only exempt those who do not want to work, while the others would be affected by an excessive tax burden. The risk of national bankruptcy is mentioned as a possible consequence. The low level of support from the population, as with a referendum, is seen as an indication of the rejection of such a project (see WKÖ statement: https://www.wko.at/oe/news/bedingungsloses-grundeinkommen).   Die Zukunft takes a differentiated view on the introduction of an unconditional basic income. A possible implementation is considered sensible as long as it does not lead to the destruction or liberalisation of the social and welfare state. The potential creation of a social democracy is emphasised, which would have a direct impact on citizens‘ wallets (see article: https://diezukunft.at/editorial-zukunft-11-2023-bedingungsloses-grundeinkommen-von-alessandro-barberi-und-roland-pagani/). Various organisations such as the Civil Society Initiative, the UBI Association, the Peace Academy, KSOE, Active Unemployed and the Economy for the Common Good argue in favour of an unconditional basic income from different perspectives. They emphasise security, freedom, the end of poverty and the unconditionality of the UBI as a civil right that enables people to shape their lives without undignified social bureaucracy (see demands: https://www.volksbegehren-grundeinkommen.at/). 

Progress: Partial success

Take all necessary measures to strengthen the promotion and protection of the human rights of older persons, particularly in the current situation of extreme vulnerability they face in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic

Proponent:

Argentina


Argentine Republic

Argentina


Argentine Republic

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

The Austrian Reconstruction and Resilience Plan 2020-2026 follows the guidelines of the European Commission and implements measures that correspond to the country-specific recommendations for Austria. These measures, which have been in force since 31 January 2020, follow the guidelines of the Recovery and Resilience Facility and integrate sub-areas of the government programme. The plan consists of four focus areas or components: Sustainable Recovery, Digital Recovery, Knowledge-Based Recovery and Equitable Recovery (see Recovery and Resilience Plan 2002-2026: https://www.oesterreich.gv.at/dam/jcr:ecf30896-0861-4107-8ed9-b589a79bd623/%C3%96sterreichischer%20Aufbau-%20und%20Resilienzplan%202020-2026.pdf). In all components, the promotion of social cohesion and gender equality plays a crucial role. The participation of broad sections of the population is crucial for economic recovery and the realisation of future potential. Particular attention will be paid to disadvantaged groups in components 3 (Knowledge-based development) and 4 (Equitable development), including those affected by poverty, people with health impairments, the low-skilled and the long-term unemployed.   In addition, the effects of climate change are addressed in a further context that goes beyond the Austrian plan. Climate change leads to extreme weather events and disasters that have a particularly severe impact on people and systems that are already at high risk. This affects different population groups, with older people being particularly affected due to their increased vulnerability to climate-related disasters. Overall, it highlights the need to consider the impact of climate change through various factors such as age, gender, racial attribution, class, ethnicity, sexual orientation, indigenous identity, disability, income, location and migration status and to develop socially just solutions.
  On the part of the women’s organisations, many demands for the recovery and resilience plan were submitted to the federal government. Women in particular were massively affected by the coronavirus crisis, but they were also the ones who kept society going. Unfortunately, there is not a single women’s policy demand in the Austrian federal government’s plan that would have been necessary to compensate for this challenging time. Only the digitalisation of the mother-child pass and the conversion to the parent-child pass and the automatic pension splitting, where the expenses are incomprehensible, can be found in the plan. Neither of these are demands of women’s organisations (see: here).

Progress: No progress

Continue to respect economic, social and cultural rights including social protection without discrimination

Proponent:

Slovakia


Slovak Republic

Slovakia


Slovak Republic

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

The status of economic, social and cultural human rights remains precarious. Fundamental social rights in particular are not enshrined in the constitution. The lack of implementation in this area was also criticised by the Austrian League of Human Rights in the Human Rights Report 2022. The International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (BGBl. No. 590/1978) is also not enshrined in constitutional law. It is subject to fulfilment within the meaning of Article 50 para. 2 of the Federal Constitution, meaning that a supreme court review of relevant laws and measures on the basis of this instrument is not possible. Austria has also not ratified the Optional Protocol on the individual complaints procedure.   The implementation of the Convention on the Rights of the Child through the Federal Constitutional Act on the Rights of Children (BGBl. I No. 4/2011) also largely omitted the economic, social and cultural rights of children. On the contrary, many welfare state regulations, including access to affordable social housing, have been tightened for migrants and refugees in recent years. Social protection and social participation are thus being withheld from immigrants in a discriminatory manner. This matter is partly a matter for the federal states, meaning that there are major differences across Austria.   There is a lack of harmonisation in line with human rights. The Basic Social Assistance Act (Federal Law Gazette I 2019/41) was also repealed by the Constitutional Court in March 2023 in key points (including qualified knowledge of German as a prerequisite for receiving social assistance) due to a violation of the provisions of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (CERD) (see the Constitutional Court’s website: https://www.vfgh.gv.at/medien/Sozialhilfe.php).  However, numerous other regulations at federal and provincial level contain explicit disadvantages for asylum seekers and persons entitled to asylum, persons entitled to subsidiary protection, as well as non-EU citizens (third-country nationals), some of whom have been living legally in Austria for a long time. This also applies, for example, to the Upper Austrian Housing Subsidies Act, which contains special obstacles to accessing housing subsidies for third-country nationals and refugees who are long-term residents, or the Federal Housing Non-Profit Act, according to which subsidised housing may only be allocated to foreign citizens after 5 years of residence and a successful integration test (Upper Austrian Housing Subsidies Act: https://www.ris.bka.gv.at/GeltendeFassung.wxe?Abfrage=LROO&Gesetzesnummer=10000366). 

Progress: No progress

Continue strengthening successful policy to increase access to education, health and integration into the labour market for women with disabilities, ethnic minority groups, migrants, refugees and Asylum seekers

Proponent:

Somalia


Federal Republic of Somalia

Somalia


Federal Republic of Somalia

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

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. 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: here). In Austria, corresponding legislation has not yet been passed. The employment 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).  With regard to women with disabilities, it should be noted that they are not a specific target group of the Austrian labour market service. The status of ministerial work is still the 2017 inclusion package (see information on the website of the Ministry of Social Affairs: https://www.sozialministerium.at/Themen/Soziales/Menschen-mit-Behinderungen/Berufliche-Teilhabe-von-Menschen-mit-Behinderungen.html). Civil society considers this to be insufficient. No measures have been taken to prevent multiple and/or intersectional discrimination against women and girls with disabilities. There is still a lack of adequate consideration of the gender perspective in disability legislation, the disability perspective in women’s legislation and the related enforcement of laws. The Ombud for Equal Treatment (website:https://www.gleichbehandlungsanwaltschaft.gv.at), a state institution at the Federal Chancellery (BKA), is responsible for all grounds of discrimination except disability. However, women with disabilities must contact the Social Ministry Service (website: https://www.gleichbehandlungsanwaltschaft.gv.at) in the event of multiple discrimination and apply for conciliation. This conciliation procedure is mandatory and must be carried out before a lawsuit is filed with the civil court. The problem is that the Social Ministry Service has no specific expertise in dealing with women with disabilities and is not trained in a gender-equitable approach.  With regard to people of foreign origin, the employment rate is lower than for people born in Austria. Women from certain countries of origin are particularly affected (e.g. Turkey with a female employment rate of only 44%) and foreign origin is still a frequent reason for discrimination in the workplace (see Statistics Austria, „Labour market situation of migrants in Austria 2022“: https://www.statistik.at/fileadmin/publications/Arbeitsmarktsituation-Migrant-innen-2021.pdf). 

Progress: No progress

Strengthen policies and measures in the field of education, including by considering ratifying the UNESCO Convention against Discrimination in Education

Proponent:

Brazil


Federal Republic of Brazil

Brazil


Federal Republic of Brazil

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

This recommendation was only taken note of 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.   Regarding the ratification of the UNESCO Convention against Discrimination in Education (see Convention against Discrimination in Education: https://www.parlament.gv.at/dokument/XXIV/I/1061/imfname_204582.pdf), there is no new information. Austria is still not a state party to the UNESCO Convention against Discrimination in Education. 

Progress: No progress

Ensure financial and other resources for bilingual education of national minorities, in capital and in relevant regions

Proponent:

Croatia


Republic of Croatia

Croatia


Republic of Croatia

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]}).  

Progress: No progress

Ensure comprehensive bilingual education for Slovenian national minority from nursery to secondary level included

Proponent:

Slovenia


Republic of Slovenia

Slovenia


Republic of Slovenia

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 Austria, especially in Carinthia, there are special educational programmes for the Slovene ethnic group. Bilingual education is mainly offered in areas where a significant number of Slovenes live. However, there are challenges: In some regions, there are still bottlenecks in the provision of qualified teachers and suitable learning materials. There are also ongoing discussions about the appropriate promotion and integration of the Slovenian language in the education system. 

Progress: In progress

Amend the legal definition of rape in the criminal code to be based on lack of consent. Additionally, provide support and assistance to victims of rape, including bringing the rate of prosecutions and convictions of rape and sexual violence in conformity with the rise in reporting of such cases

Proponent:

Marshall Islands


Republic of Marshall Islands

Marshall Islands


Republic of Marshall Islands

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

The offence of rape in Austria is defined in Section 201 of the Austrian Criminal Code. This paragraph stipulates that a person who compels another person by force, deprivation of liberty or threat of imminent danger to life or limb to perform or tolerate sexual acts, in particular sexual intercourse or similar sexual acts, is punishable by a prison sentence of two to ten years (see RIS Criminal Code § 201 StGB : https://www.ris.bka.gv.at/eli/bgbl/1974/60/P201/NOR40217855). It should be emphasised that the absence of consent is already a fundamental characteristic of the offence of rape. The wording in the law refers to the victim’s predicament and the violation of her sexual self-determination. The consent of the victim is therefore of crucial importance, and the absence of this consent is already stipulated in the law.   It is crucial to provide rape victims with both criminal justice support and resources to deal with this traumatic situation. This includes the need to revise the offence of rape in the Criminal Code by establishing lack of consent as a fundamental element of the offence. In addition, it is necessary to ensure that as the number of reported cases of rape and sexual violence increases, the proportion of prosecutions and convictions increases appropriately. To ensure that every victim has access to protection and support, increased investment and better coordination between the relevant authorities and non-governmental organisations is required.   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).

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