Reducing assistance for those who do not learn the German language.
The new Austrian government has announced strict measures regarding immigration and integration, including a halt to family reunification for asylum seekers and a reduction in social benefits for those who do not learn the German language or do not strive to integrate into society.
The Minister of Integration, Claudia Blackolm, confirmed that the state is not responsible for separating families, but it is responsible for not overburdening the system. She added that anyone who wants to live in Austria must learn German, work, and commit to Austrian values; otherwise, they will face consequences such as reduced financial assistance, a measure that is already being implemented in some states.
The government has announced the formation of a working team to review the eligibility of Ukrainian families for assistance, with stricter criteria to ensure that support is provided only to those who are truly fleeing from the war.
In another controversial move, the government seeks to impose a constitutional ban on wearing the hijab for girls, under the pretext of promoting personal freedom for Muslim girls and preventing extremist religious influences.