FPÖ Criticizes ÖVP Interior Minister's Asylum Policy

In a recent statement, the Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ) has strongly criticized the approach of the ÖVP Interior Minister, Gerhard Karner, regarding the country's asylum policies. The FPÖ's Secretary General, Michael Schnedlitz, expressed his views following Karner's appearance on a public broadcasting press program, where he discussed his stance on asylum issues.

Schnedlitz remarked that while Karner often speaks about implementing a strict asylum policy, he fails to put these words into action. He highlighted that the ongoing challenges faced by the ÖVP's asylum strategy are evident, particularly in Karner's inability to finalize measures on family reunification for asylum seekers. Schnedlitz labeled this lack of decisive action as a continuation of what he describes as a series of failures in the ÖVP's management of asylum matters.

Furthermore, Schnedlitz pointed to the influx of approximately 250,000 undocumented migrants in previous years as evidence of the ÖVP's inadequacy in ensuring the safety and security of the country and its residents. He criticized Karner's claims of success in controlling family reunification, noting that the minister referred to unspecified quotas, which Schnedlitz considers insufficient.

The FPÖ leader also recalled the tragic incidents of Islamist terror attacks in Vienna and Villach, asserting these events underline the failures of the current administration. He emphasized the need for a robust protection of Austria's borders, advocating for a more stringent approach to immigration that he believes is necessary to safeguard the nation.

In response to some of Karner's comments aimed at the FPÖ, Schnedlitz defended the party's position, stating that the FPÖ does not oppose actions to neutralize threats posed by individuals affiliated with terrorist organizations. However, he pointed out the ineffectiveness of certain measures, such as weapon bans, which have not deterred criminal activity, as evidenced by ongoing incidents shortly after such announcements.

Schnedlitz assured that the FPÖ stands firmly behind law enforcement, commending the dedication of police officers while also expressing concern about instances where officers have faced obstacles in their duties. He referenced the challenges experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic, where law enforcement was reportedly used against citizens, as well as allegations of interference in investigations from higher authorities.

He concluded by reinforcing the FPÖ's commitment to supporting law enforcement personnel and ensuring that budgetary cuts do not affect police operations, advocating instead for reductions in administrative costs.