Austria Amplifying Its Core Principles - Persists in the Journey of Integration, Led by Minister Plakolm
The Integration Minister, Claudia Plakolm, recently presented a study that delves into the shared core values of Austria's population. The study, conducted by the Institute for Trade, Sales, and Marketing (IHaM) in December of the previous year, offers insightful findings about the values that Austrians hold dear.
Good manners and increasing tolerance towards private lifestyles are valued in daily life in Austria. However, the desire for security and order in public spaces is growing. The study shows that security, closely following income in importance, is a significant concern for Austrians.
The study also highlights the importance of solidarity in family & partnership (58 percent) and a self-determined life (54 percent) as the most important fundamental values. Freedom and self-determination are important core values in Austria, but within established safety nets.
Austrians place a high value on their cultural heritage, with seven out of ten respondents seeing the cross in the classroom as cultural heritage. Almost eight out of ten respondents say that Christian holidays like Easter, St. Martin's Day, or St. Nicholas belong to Austria's coexistence. Interestingly, 79 percent of respondents believe that Christian holidays like St. Nicholas, Easter, or St. Martin's Day should be celebrated even if the majority of children are not Christians.
The study indicates that Austrians expect the state to ensure that laws stand above religious prescriptions. This is reflected in the finding that 85 percent of respondents believe that state laws are more important than religious regulations.
People living in Austria are expected to learn German, work, and respect and uphold the country's rules and values. The minister mentioned potential cuts in social benefits for those not participating in the mandatory integration program or not taking their registration with the employment service seriously.
The identification of the population with Austria is currently very high. The minister, Plakolm, announced the continuation of five-day values courses in integration policy. She stated that integration is not an invitation, but an obligation.
The study shows a clear commitment to Christianity as cultural heritage in Austria. However, it also indicates a high trust in the state administration, although losses of authority by parties and churches have been noted.
Photos from the event are available free of charge via the Federal Chancellery's photo service. A striking finding is that 95 percent of respondents believe that those who do not follow Austrian values should live elsewhere. Similarly, 94 percent of respondents believe that those who do not want to learn German should live elsewhere.
In conclusion, the study offers a comprehensive overview of the values that Austrians hold dear. It underscores the importance of security, cohesion, and self-determination, while also highlighting the significance of cultural heritage and the expectation for integration and adherence to Austrian values.
