Lena Stern sets new accents: War on the palaces!” at SJ-Vienna

Lena Stern sets new accents: War on the palaces!” at SJ-Vienna

The state conference of the Socialist Youth in Vienna took place on November 15, 2025 and was attended by 120 delegates. This conference marks a significant turning point for the organization, the largest left-wing youth organization in Vienna and Austria. Lena Stern was elected as the new state chairwoman, succeeding Rihab Toumi, who left the chair after five years.

In her inaugural speech, Stern criticized the current austerity policy and the shift to the right in society, which poses challenges for many people. In particular, she emphasized that the austerity measures mentioned above all affect the majority of the population, while wealthy people and large corporations remain unaffected by these cuts. Among the specific measures that Stern addressed were cuts in federal pensions, the reduction of minimum income in Vienna and the increase in prices for public transport.

Political messages and goals

The motto of the conference was “Peace to the huts, war to the palaces!”, which underlines the course and concerns of the Socialist Youth Vienna. In discussions about motions and resolutions, political developments were challenged and perspectives for the future of youth were developed. Stern called for a policy that is based on people's needs and strengthens the participation of young people in political processes.

The new chair team, consisting of Lena Stern and Samuel Schillhammer, has set itself the goal of further expanding its own political campaigns and actions. The organization's activities are aimed primarily at young people between the ages of 14 and 28 and include the planning of political events, seminars and the development of educational programs. District groups meet regularly to discuss ideas and demands, which strengthens grassroots democracy within the youth organization.

Youth policy in Austria

In the context of these developments, it is important to consider the broader framework of youth policy in Austria. The Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection actively contributes to the implementation of the Austrian youth strategy. This strategy aims to strengthen youth policy and was decided by the Austrian federal government in September 2020.

The youth goals include access to further (training) education and the promotion of the psychosocial health of young people. The aim is for all young people, regardless of their place of residence or educational qualifications, to have access to educational opportunities. The integration of volunteer work as a qualification for apprenticeships is also supported.

The Socialist Youth Vienna not only faces the challenge of developing its own political ideas and programs, but also actively contributes to strengthening youth participation in a rapidly changing society. The voice of young people is intended to ensure that their interests and needs are anchored in the political agenda.

For more information about the activities and concerns of the Socialist Youth Vienna, visit the official website at sj-wien.at.