Family committee demands effective support for children and adolescents

Family committee demands effective support for children and adolescents

Österreich - On July 1, 2025, the family committee debated the support of families, children and young people. Applications from the Freedomers (FPÖ) and the Greens (Greens) were discussed in detail. In view of the enforcing challenges, the Greens demand more protection and psychosocial support for children and adolescents. ÖVP, SPÖ and Greens have also formulated a joint application that focuses on improved violence prevention in schools and contains more support offers for mental health. This application was accepted unanimously, while the Greens' original application remained in the minority and further applications were mostly postponed.

Norbert Sieber from the ÖVP expressed support for the demands of the Greens, but recognized the need for a joint application. In contrast, the FPÖ criticized that many social problems were caused by mass immigration. Rosa Ecker from the FPÖ emphasized the need for a repentance to support families in their financial burden. The SPÖ and the NEOS also share the view that reforms in maintenance law are urgently needed.

demands for reforms and protective measures

The Greens also urge the reintroduction of the valorization of family services from 2028 and are committed to expanding the family time bonus to adoptive and foster parents. They also call for the development of a national action plan to implement the UN Security Council resolution "Youth, Peace and Security". Barbara Neßler (Greens) called for a profound analysis of the causes of violence in society and an increased focus on prevention. In addition, the Greens want to regulate the use of social media by children and attribute child and youth welfare to federal competence.

The importance of protective measures for children and adolescents is also underlined by global contexts. According to the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, about half of the people who fled worldwide are under the age of 18. These children are particularly under pressure during their escape and in recording countries and are often victims of abuse, exploitation and forced recruitment. Girls are often exposed to additional risks such as gender -based violence.

right according to the UN Convention on the Rights of Children

The [UN Convention on the Rights of the Children) (https://www.unicef.de/informen/ueber-uns/fuer-kinderrecht/un-kinder Rights Convention) recognizes the need to provide children who are victims of neglect and conflicts. Article 39 calls for measures for physical and psychological recovery and reintegration of these children. This support must be done in an environment that health, self -esteem and dignity respects the children.

However, reality often looks different. Many refugees have suffered serious physical and psychological consequences while fleeing, which means that they can grow into a "lost generation". According to reports, only about a quarter of refugee children have access to secondary school formation. As a result, the children's rights remain unfulfilled for many according to the UN Convention on the Rights of Children.

The discussion in the family committee and the developments in the asylum -political context illustrate and protect the urgency, rights and well -being of children and adolescents. In view of these challenges, it is essential that all social actors work together on solutions.