Krampus or Santa Claus? Experts warn of increasing violence!

Krampus or Santa Claus? Experts warn of increasing violence!

In recent years, the traditional Krampus runs in Austria have gained increasing attention, but the dark side of these centuries-old customs is becoming increasingly apparent. The festivities that take place in many cities during Advent feature costumed, horn-wearing figures who were originally intended to punish naughty children. However, recent incidents, such as the violent Krampus Run in Zams, which resulted in clashes among participants, raise serious security questions. Up to 50 people were involved in this chaos, which resulted in 67 reports and five arrests, according to reports The Local.

As psychologist Jolana Wagner-Skacel from MedUni Graz notes, these incidents reflect an increasing willingness to use violence, which is often characterized by personal suffering and financial problems. The masks that many participants wear give them a feeling of anonymity and allow them to act out aggressive behavior without revealing their own identity. This not only leads to attacks on the Krampus themselves, but also to injuries among the spectators. So far this year only two reports of damage have been registered in Styria, which is striking in comparison to the chaotic scenes in Tyrol ORF Styria.

Safety concerns and regulations

The German Krampus Runs are subject to strict security precautions to ensure that there is sufficient protection for participants and spectators. A ban on alcohol among performers is intended to help reduce violence. In one incident in Carinthia, a 22-year-old woman was hospitalized after being injured with a stick by a Krampus, while a 15-year-old was injured when a bystander tried to rip off his mask. Here the risks for both performers and viewers seem to become clearer.

In the current discussions about the tradition, it is also pointed out that the Krampus runs, which are carried out during Advent and winter celebrations, represent a dangerous mix of fascination and fear, which can be traumatizing not only for children. The Civil Defense of Styria therefore urges caution and advises that small children be carried on the shoulders of adults during events. These developments pose a challenge for organizers as they strive to increase security while keeping cultural traditions alive.