Austrian Ombudswoman Highlights Human Rights Concerns for Women and Prison Inmates

The Austrian Ombudswoman has raised significant concerns regarding ongoing human rights issues affecting women and prison inmates in Austria. Addressing the public in connection with the International Human Rights Day, she emphasized the urgent need for stronger protection of women's rights and improved conditions within the country's penal system.

Focus on Women's Rights and Protection

The Ombudswoman stressed that violence against women constitutes a violation of fundamental human rights. She underlined the need for year-round efforts to combat gender-based violence, rather than limiting action to periodic awareness campaigns. According to her, every woman and girl is entitled to a life free from violence, and policies must be effectively implemented to ensure their safety and well-being.

She highlighted initiatives within the government's National Action Plan against Violence, which includes measures such as electronic monitoring for high-risk offenders subject to restraining orders. These steps are intended to enhance the safety of women by preventing perpetrators from breaching protective boundaries. The Ombudswoman urged for the swift execution of such measures to provide timely support and protection for those at risk.

Critical Situation in Austrian Prisons

Alongside issues of women's safety, the Ombudswoman brought attention to the deteriorating conditions in Austrian correctional facilities. According to her assessment, the prison system is currently facing unprecedented challenges due to overcrowding and a shortage of staff. Official figures indicate that the inmate population has exceeded the designed capacity of 8,800, with current numbers surpassing 10,000. This overpopulation has led to substandard living conditions and has complicated the process of inmate rehabilitation.

One of the most alarming trends noted is the rise in suicide rates among prisoners. This year, there have been 54 reported suicide attempts and eight completed suicides in Austrian correctional institutions, marking a record high. For comparison, the total number of suicide attempts and deaths in 2020 was 28, underscoring the growing severity of this issue.

The Ombudswoman called upon the Ministry of Justice to implement immediate and effective interventions aimed at improving the situation for both inmates and prison staff. She advocated for enhanced suicide prevention strategies, including multiple assessments of suicide risk during an inmate's incarceration--specifically, a second evaluation within the first two to three months of detention. These recommendations reflect the findings of a 2023 expert committee that examined prison conditions and mental health risks among inmates.

Commitment to Human Rights

The Austrian Ombudswoman reaffirmed the institution's role as a guardian of human rights, emphasizing that the rights of all individuals, including prisoners, must be respected without exception. The Ombudswoman's office is actively engaged in the National Preventive Mechanism, monitoring conditions and advocating for the upholding and strengthening of human rights across the country.

Her remarks serve as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in ensuring the protection of vulnerable groups and the necessity for continued vigilance, policy action, and societal commitment to uphold human dignity and safety for all.