Grief for Dr. Peter Kostelka: Pioneer against age discrimination died

Grief for Dr. Peter Kostelka: Pioneer against age discrimination died

Österreich - On April 17, 2025, Dr. Peter Kostelka, the President of the Austrian Pensioners Association (PVÖ). Since 2018, Kostelka has been tirelessly committed to the interests of the older generation and leaves a large gap in the organization. He was known for his empathy, his respect and commitment to social justice. In earlier positions, including as State Secretary and club chairman of the SPÖ, he joined the consensus and probably the socially weaker. His use against pension cuts and deteriorations for the older generation will be remembered.

Kostelka achieved numerous improvements, including a law that prohibits banks to refuse loans solely because of age. This law was an important step in the fight against age discrimination in Austria. The PVÖ expresses its deepest sympathy for the family of Peter Kostelka and recognizes his longstanding commitment to the concerns of older people.

age discrimination in focus

As a successor to Kostelka, fighting age discrimination will remain a central topic. The PVÖ calls for effective measures against discrimination in finance. This includes that age discrimination not only has to come to an end not only in the world of work, but also in other areas of life. A current study by AK Vienna shows that older people are disadvantaged in applications, even if they are qualified immediately. This illustrates the urgent need for action.

In January, a second round table with experts from banks, insurance and age research is to take place in order to discuss solutions to age discrimination. The problem is also of great relevance in the digital world. Many older people are excluded from digitization because they often do not have the necessary technical skills or devices. In addition, the likelihood of older applicants to be invited to an interview is greatly reduced.

Legal measures and the future outlook

The discussion about legal measures to combat age discrimination is in full swing. The Senior Council has made a significant contribution to the principle of equality in the Federal Constitutional Act to complement age discrimination. In addition, a permanent anti-age discrimination strategy is sought, which includes the creation of an old-age discrimination agency.

The equal treatment attorney (GAW) has found that discrimination occurs frequently due to age. The protection of discrimination in the equal treatment law only applies to the world of work and has gaps in other areas. In order to meet these grievances, the GAW calls for a nationwide expansion of the protection of discrimination against all areas of life.

For older generations in Austria, which increases to 28% of the population by 2050, protection against discrimination is essential. It is also important to ensure help for people with restricted mobility and technical support in dealing with digital services. Together it is important to raise the voice of the elderly and to stand up for their rights to create an inclusive society.

The use of Dr. Peter Kostelka and the upcoming measures are crucial to make a positive change in the life of the older generation and to counteract age discrimination. The PVÖ will continue to follow this path.

The reports and information about age discrimination were made by OTS , pvoe.at and equal treatment .gv.at