Udo Jesionek: Hero of the Crime Victims is Honored with Gold Decorations!

Udo Jesionek: Hero of the Crime Victims is Honored with Gold Decorations!

Udo Jesionek, the 87-year-old co-founder of the WEISSER RING, was awarded the Great Golden Decoration of Honor on November 25, 2024 for his outstanding services to the Republic of Austria. Interior Minister Gerhard Karner praised Jesionek as a “stubborn and passionate fighter for the rights of crime victims.” His initiatives to improve the rights of these people have not only improved their situation, but also made him one of the most important figures in the field of victim protection organizations in Austria, as well the small newspaper reported.

Jesionek was born in Berlin and grew up in Budweis before his family fled to Austria in 1945. He learned the profession of toolmaker, received his doctorate in law in 1962 and passed the judicial examination with distinction. In 1982 he took over the management of the Vienna Youth Court and worked in this position until its dissolution in 2003. His commitment to the rights of crime victims began in 1978 when he co-founded the WEISSER RING, of which he was president from 1991 to 2024 and which became the largest victim protection organization in Austria the Federal Ministry of the Interior added.

Lifetime Commitment Award

Especially in his role as honorary president of the WEISSER RING, Jesionek worked tirelessly for the interests of the victims, which was recognized by his companions and superiors. Xenia Zauner, head of the operations department of the Vienna police, underlined Jesionek's impressive record as well as his over 500 publications and extensive teaching activities. In his words of thanks, Jesionek himself revealed his life motto: “One waits for the times to change, the other attacks them vigorously and takes action.” This shows his tireless commitment to others - an impressive life's work that will continue to have an impact even after his resignation in January 2024.