Stricter begging laws in Styria: What's coming on September 1st?

Stricter begging laws in Styria: What's coming on September 1st?

On Thursday, the Styrian state government announced the adoption of a amendment to the State Security Act, which brings with it significant tightening of the rules against begging activities. This measure was initiated by the government coalition of FPÖ and ÖVP and is to be implemented with the aim of improving public order. The new provisions still require the approval of the Styrian state parliament and are to come into force on September 1st, if they are approved, as OE24

A central element of the amendment to the law is the ban on organized begging. This is supplemented by a general ban to ask for begging. In view of the growing concern for public security, regulations were also introduced that prohibit the taking of minors under the age of 14 and animals for begging. Also taz , which addresses the differentiation between passive and aggressive begging.

The distinction could be crucial to enforce the new law both legally and in practice. While passive begging, which is often understood as a quiet request for help, is mostly tolerated, aggressive begging, which is characterized by the impairment of the public traffic area, is increasingly perceived as a problem. This is often cited as an argument for the need for tightened regulations.

The introduction of the stricter begging laws and their possible enforcement have already triggered a broad discussion. The decent approach, which focuses on assistance instead of bans, is one aspect that is becoming increasingly important in current debates. Experts emphasize that it is important to find respectful solutions for the complex question of begging in urban rooms.