Karner: "Even offenders aged 11, 12, 13 have to feel the consequences"

Austrian Interior Minister Gerhard Karner has emphasized the need for strict measures against juvenile offenders, stating that even children as young as 11, 12, and 13 years old must face consequences for their actions. Speaking with Der Standard, Karner outlined his stance on addressing what he describes as "intensive perpetrators" who engage in criminal behavior and allegedly terrorize entire streets. He stressed the importance of taking decisive action against these individuals, many of whom, according to him, originate from Syria. Austria is currently working with four other countries to identify non-EU nations where asylum procedures can be conducted in the future. Karner was asked directly about the greatest threats facing Austria today, listing Islamic extremism, right-wing extremism, left-wing extremism, espionage, and weapons proliferation as key concerns. He noted that while all these areas pose risks, Islamic extremism represents the highest level of danger. When questioned about left-wing extremism, which often goes unnoticed in public discourse, Karner acknowledged its presence, particularly within activist circles such as university campuses, where antisemitism and potential violence have been observed. However, he reiterated that Islamic and right-wing extremism remain the most pressing issues. The issue of youth crime has become a focal point for police operations across the country, with significant efforts directed toward combating vandalism, fights, and burglaries among younger offenders. To address this challenge, police officers from six Austrian states were temporarily assigned to Vienna earlier this year. Karner clarified that the federal police force operates nationwide and that the deployment of additional personnel was part of a broader strategy to enhance security wherever needed. Over the course of three months, 48 officers from other regions were stationed in Vienna, with many volunteering for the assignment. Despite increased interest in joining the police force, Vienna continues to struggle with filling approximately 800 training positions, despite numerous applications. Karner explained that while there is a surplus of candidates in most regions, Vienna faces difficulties due to the inability of many applicants to meet the minimum requirements for entry into the police academy. These include physical fitness standards and sufficient proficiency in the German language. The multi-stage selection process often results in disqualifications based on these criteria, preventing some candidates from being accepted. Karner described the problem with youth gangs as one requiring immediate intervention, emphasizing that they are responsible for acts of violence and disorder that threaten public safety. He specifically pointed to Syrian-origin groups as being heavily represented in these activities, citing them as a reason behind the government's decision to halt family reunification policies. This move, he claimed, is directly linked to concerns over rising youth-related crime. The minister’s comments reflect a broader policy shift aimed at strengthening law enforcement capabilities and tightening immigration controls. His remarks highlight the complex interplay between national security, immigration management, and the challenges posed by youth crime. With Austria continuing to seek international cooperation on asylum matters, the focus remains on balancing humanitarian obligations with domestic safety concerns.