Experts Critique 'Prison-like' Facilities for Youth Offenders

Experts express concerns regarding the proposal for 'prison-like' accommodations for highly delinquent children, a suggestion put forth by Interior Minister Gerhard Karner. The children's and youth welfare department in Vienna views closed facilities as a last resort, emphasizing the need for alternative support systems. Alfred Kohlberger, managing director of the Neustart organization, advocates for a clear legal framework to regulate such facilities.

Ingrid Pöschmann, a spokesperson for the Vienna children's and youth welfare department, highlighted that there are currently 30 to 40 children under the age of 14 who are not adequately reached by existing programs. She stated that closed facilities could be considered only when family support, residential programs, or experiential education initiatives fail to engage these children. However, she insists on the necessity of a federal legal amendment governing such institutions, which must include judicial oversight to determine the duration of a child's stay, ensuring it is not arbitrary.

Kohlberger expressed strong opposition to the concept of prison-like settings, suggesting that instead, temporary facilities with mandatory attendance could be established. He emphasized the importance of a comprehensive human rights assessment to evaluate whether the deprivation of liberty serves the best interests of the child.

Criminal sociologist Günter Stummvoll also criticized the effectiveness of harsh measures like closed facilities, arguing that isolating youth can have detrimental long-term effects. He noted that the term 'prison-like' seems politically charged, likely intended to resonate with those favoring strict law enforcement measures. Stummvoll pointed out that incarceration typically harms the psychological and social development of young people and can increase recidivism rates, according to international studies.

In discussing the design of potential closed facilities, Pöschmann underscored the necessity for child-friendly environments. She stated that these facilities should have secure, defined spaces and be staffed by a multidisciplinary team, including therapists, social workers, educators, and security personnel. Building trusting relationships is crucial for facilitating behavioral change in these children.

Many children who repeatedly engage in delinquent behavior lack stable relationships, often stemming from adverse childhood experiences. Stummvoll noted that youth violence frequently correlates with unstable family backgrounds and exposure to violence, resulting in feelings of hopelessness and failure in social and educational endeavors.

While the number of youth committing serious crimes is relatively small, there are approximately 30 to 50 identified repeat offenders in Vienna, often referred to as 'system breakers.' Kohlberger prefers the term 'unheard children,' emphasizing that these young individuals face significant challenges that require understanding and support rather than punitive measures.

Experts advocate for increased emphasis on institutional support that allows for controlled environments where repeat offenders can receive guidance and assistance. Preventive measures such as mentorship programs, educational support, and training in conflict resolution and social media skills are also deemed vital. The Vienna children's and youth welfare department is currently implementing a guidance initiative for repeat offenders, aiming to provide integrated support for these youths through collaboration between social workers, police, and their families.

This renewed focus on youth crime comes in light of recent crime statistics presented by Interior Minister Karner, who indicated a troubling rise in youth offenses, although the number of convictions for individuals aged 14 to 18 has decreased in recent years.