De-Radicalisation and Integration: Legal and Policy Framework in Austria

November 2021

Abstract

The following report gives an overview of the legal and policy framework concerning radicalisation and deradicalisation in Austria. The aim of the report is to outline how existing policies and laws address radicalisation, and to connect the legislative and institutional framework to the socio-economic, political, and cultural context as well as to the constitutional organisation of the state. We cover punitive measures as well as primary, secondary, and tertiary deradicalisation measures and discuss the legislative framework against the background of fundamental rights. Finally, deradicalisation measures are outlined by two in-depth case studies that focus on urban and peri-urban youth. Through this overview of the legislation on the one hand, and institutions as well as practical examples on the other, we pinpoint critical aspects and best practices in Austria.