Restart Association

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Violence can take many different forms. A stop must be put to all criminal acts.(Bild: Pressefoto Scharinger/Daniel Scharinger)

The resocialization of offenders and dangerous criminals poses great challenges for those in charge.

The Neustart association has recorded a new high in probation cases. More than 12,300 clients were under supervision throughout Austria in 2024. This is an increase of 3.5 percent compared to 2023. Over the past ten years, the number of clients under supervision has actually increased by more than 13%. In Burgenland, the increase compared to 2023 was eight percent.

Fewer convictions
The only downward trend is in the number of final convictions. However, the professional challenges for the probation service are increasing significantly. "On the one hand, the increasing number of people assigned to probation shows the social need for resocialization work; on the other hand, this development confirms the confidence of the public prosecutor's office and the courts in the quality of our employees' work," explains Alexander Grohs, head of the Neustart association.

12,300 clients

Significantly more cases than in 2023 were processed by the probation service nationwide last year.

Support changes lives
The population also appreciates the importance of sound social work. In a representative survey conducted in January, 72% considered this commitment to be a necessary prerequisite for ensuring safety in society. Even the clients are satisfied: 93% stated that their lives had changed for the better as a result of the support they received.