Freedom Party: St. Polten's policy has turned the city into a refuge for Syrians, Afghans, and Iraqis
The Freedom Party criticized the city of St. Pölten in Lower Austria, claiming that the city's immigration policies have turned it into a hub for Syrians, Afghans, and Iraqis, ahead of the municipal elections scheduled for January 25, 2026.
Criticism arose after the city reached a new population level, as the population of Saint Bolton exceeded 60,000 for the first time in July 2025. While the mayor considered this growth a sign of social solidarity, the Freedom Party believes that the significant increase is mainly due to the settlement of refugees coming from conflict areas.
According to the party, about 7,835 people have moved to St. Bolton since 2012, including 6,998 non-Austrians, most of whom are from Syria, Afghanistan, and Iraq. Since 2015 alone, more than 2,000 refugees from these countries have settled in the city, leading to significant changes in the demographic and social structure.
The Freedom Party also pointed out that around 1,300 people in St. Polten are receiving social assistance, of which 75% are non-Austrians. The party warned that the increasing number of refugees is putting growing pressure on the social system and public services in the city.
The party confirms that the city has effectively become a destination for economic migration, and calls for an immediate halt to current policies. With no response from the city administration, the issue of refugees has become a major focus in the election campaign, alongside issues of security, social benefits, and the future of population growth in the capital of Lower Austria.