German Climate Activist Anja Windl Faces Two-Year Ban in Austria

The Bundesamt für Fremdenwesen und Asyl (BFA) has issued a two-year residency ban against German climate activist Anja Windl, following over two years of legal proceedings. The decision, confirmed by Windl and her attorney, Ralf Niederhammer, has raised concerns regarding its legitimacy.

Niederhammer criticized the basis of the BFA's ruling, arguing that the agency's claims do not justify the severe measure of a residency ban. He pointed out that the rationale for the ban hinges on Windl's prolonged stay in Austria and a purported 'serious danger to public order or safety.' However, the accusations primarily stem from her involvement in the climate movement 'Letzte Generation' and her activities on social media.

According to the BFA, Windl allegedly plays a prominent role in recruiting new members and has been involved in significant public relations efforts for the movement. The agency has suggested that her actions have disturbed public peace and order, but the exact nature of these disturbances has not been clearly articulated.

The attorney indicated plans to file a complaint with the Bundesverwaltungsgericht, which would also suspend the legally mandated four-week deadline for Windl to leave the country.

Windl herself expressed that the ban is an attempt to suppress peaceful protest and reflect a troubling trend in how activism is being treated. Having established her life in Austria for the past seven years, she asserted her determination not to leave voluntarily.

The BFA's investigation into Windl's residency status began in March 2023, with the agency citing data privacy as a reason for its examination process. The Interior Ministry emphasized that all relevant information is collected and evaluated independently of any criminal proceedings, underlining that residency bans are administrative measures designed to safeguard public order and security.

Windl has been residing in Klagenfurt since late 2017 and has become a notable figure in the Austrian branch of 'Letzte Generation,' which was disbanded in August 2024. Her protests, which included blocking roads and highways, were aimed at drawing attention to governmental climate policies.

The legal ramifications of her protest activities remain unresolved, as investigations by the Vienna Public Prosecutor's Office regarding allegations of forming a criminal organization and severe property damage against Windl and other former members of 'Letzte Generation' have been ongoing since November 2023.