Criticism of Lower Austria's integration policy: Payment card provides protest!

In Lower Austria, the payment card introduced since the end of November 2024 ensures massive controversy. According to reports from noe.orf.at , around 1,000 asylum seekers have no access to cash and can only purchase food in selected shops. This measure is considered problematic by numerous experts because it significantly limits the quality of life and freedom of movement of those affected. Gundi Dick, co -founder of #cohesionnö, criticized the payment card as "harassed and senseless" because it should solve an unspecified problem.

The keeping of politics on the integration efforts is particularly alarming. Political scientist Sieglinde Rosenberger emphasizes that integration must be understood as a two -sided process, which, according to her assessment, no longer takes place in Lower Austria. Safety seekers are at the center of a disintegrative policy that creates more problems than she solves. The State Councilor Christoph Luisser (FPÖ), on the other hand, sees the payment card as an important instrument for distinguishing between needy and abusing persons. According to Luisser, the goal is to prevent illegal immigration into the social system.

criticism and demands

The use of the payment card is perceived as a one -sided integration policy, which deviates significantly from the needs of those seeking protection. Sociologist Lisa Sterzinger expresses concerns that these measures violate the human rights of asylum seekers. These difficulties relate, among other things, to restricted access to social support and necessary products, which significantly stresses the everyday life of those affected. It is also criticized that there is no way to buy in cheaper shops or social markets.

experts are calling for a fundamental reform. A possible alternative model could be the Tyrolean system, which enables asylum seekers more flexible. The planned Austria-wide payment card model could also offer perspectives, as the managing director of the Federal Employment Agency for Supervision and Support services, Andreas Achrainer, noted. Despite the challenges, there are positive approaches at the local level, such as integration advisory boards in Baden, which can serve as examples of a successful cooperation between the community and civil society.