The government reduces social assistance for those who refuse to integrate.
The Austrian government presented the results of a new study on values, along with plans for stricter measures against individuals unwilling to integrate. Integration Minister Claudia Plakolm revealed the results on Tuesday, based on a representative survey conducted by the OGM Institute that included 1,006 participants.
The study showed that Austrians place great importance on family cohesion and partnership (58%) and living an independent life (54%) as core values. This is followed by the importance of security (48%) and then income (40%). 85% believe that national laws take precedence over religious rules, while 95% said that anyone who refuses to adopt local values should live elsewhere.
Language and cultural heritage have also been highlighted. Approximately 94% believe that people unwilling to learn German should not stay in Austria. Additionally, 69% see the cross in classrooms as part of cultural heritage, while 79% support continuing to celebrate Christian holidays such as St. Nicholas Day, Easter, and St. Martin's Day, even in schools where most children are non-Christian.
The survey also revealed a strong sense of belonging; 96% said they feel connected to Austria, 88% to their federal state, and 74% to Europe. Minister Blakolm considered that these results reflect clear expectations from Austrians towards those who settle in the country.
Blackholm announced that values courses will become mandatory starting from the first day of participation in integration programs. She also warned that anyone who refuses to attend should expect strict consequences, including a reduction in social assistance.