Austria tightens laws on asylum seekers, mandatory work, and learning German
The government of Carinthia has announced a new package of measures targeting asylum seekers within the basic assistance system, which includes imposing strict codes of conduct and requiring them to learn German and participate in community work, according to the Austrian news agency APA.
According to the data, these rules come within the framework of what the authorities described as organizing coexistence within society, where officials confirmed that any violation of what is called 'red lines', such as violence, incitement, or rejection of basic values, could lead to penalties up to deportation.
The measures also include requiring asylum seekers to learn the German language, as authorities emphasized that refusing to learn will have direct consequences, in a move aimed at accelerating integration into society.
On another note, beneficiaries of aid will be required to participate in public benefit work, such as cleaning streets, mowing grass in public areas, or removing snow, with the aim of enhancing communication with the local community.
The plan also stipulates financial penalties in case of refusal to participate, as the monthly allowance may be reduced by up to 50 percent to about 20 euros only, while a financial compensation will be granted to those who comply, amounting to about 1.60 euros per hour, with a maximum of 110 euros per month.
The government clarified that about 600 asylum seekers may be eligible to participate in these jobs, excluding children, the elderly, the sick, and those with caregiving responsibilities.
These measures are expected to be incorporated into a legal framework during the second quarter of the year, to come into effect at the beginning of July, in a move that reflects a trend towards tightening asylum policies at the local level.