Hatred of gays

Attacks with stones: “I’m just scared!”

Jochen H. (45) ist verzweifelt. Unbekannte haben mit Steinen seinen Balkon beschädigt. Tischplatte und Fenster gingen zu Bruch.(Bild: Jöchl Martin)

An unknown trio targeted a homosexual couple in Vienna-Floridsdorf and vandalized their balcony several times. The city condemns the attacks and takes initiatives.

Jochen H. (45) and his husband Markus H. (38) have been attacked four times by unknown perpetrators in their apartment in Floridsdorf in the last two months. Three young boys, dressed in hoodies, threw decorative stones. The attacks were accompanied by swear words directed at the sexual orientation of the two men. A tabletop on the couple's balcony and a window were broken.

The last attack so far took place when they were both on the balcony. "What will happen next time? I'm just scared!" says Jochen H. (45) desperately in an interview with "Krone".

What will happen next time? I'm just scared!

Jochen H. (45)

The balcony table top was also broken during an attack.(Bild: zVg)

(Bild: zVg)

299 reports filed in the previous year
In 2021, 299 reports of prejudice-motivated hate violence against homosexuals and their sexual orientation were filed across Austria. However, a high number of unreported cases is assumed. There are no exact figures for Vienna.

Deputy Mayor Christoph Wiederkehr (NEOS) is concerned: "We are clearly committed to ensuring that all people can live their relationships freely and openly. Violence has no place in Vienna!" Under the motto "Live your love!", the City of Vienna is launching several initiatives in June to increase visibility.