Debate about age

Juvenile delinquents: taboos and few resources

In the debate on juvenile delinquency, politicians are looking for solutions. One central question is how to deal with minors

Several cases in which young people and children are the perpetrators have recently caused horror throughout Austria. The sexual abuse of a 12-year-old girl - where there are 17 suspects, some of whom are under 14 years old - is the most shocking. But there have also been similar cases in Salzburg and Carinthia. Since then, there have been discussions as to whether the age of criminal responsibility should be lowered.

The situation has worsened
One person who is familiar with the problems is SPÖ party chairman Roland Fürst, who worked as a probation officer for many years. "There is an urgent need to invest in victim protection and offender work, there is not only a lack of money but also a lack of staff," says Fürst. Since the early 2000s, resources have decreased dramatically and politicians are letting their colleagues down.

Fürst in favor of a stricter approach
"Unfortunately, when it comes to looking after such difficult young people, the principle is that something only happens when something happens," says Fürst. The number of underage suspects has doubled between 2013 and 2022 to 9500. As preventative measures alone are not enough, the politician advocates a stricter approach - even for those under the age of criminal responsibility.

"Taboo subject" of migrants
In addition, a "taboo subject" must finally be tackled: "In the ten to 13 age group, almost 40 percent of reports are made by people without Austrian citizenship. This means that this group is disproportionately represented. Meaningful measures in terms of victim protection can only be derived here if we talk about this development." He has no sympathy for people who seek protection in Austria and then commit crimes here, says Fürst.