Vienna NEOS Proposes Compulsory Care for Underage Offenders

The Vienna NEOS party has put forward a proposal for the establishment of social-pedagogical facilities aimed at addressing the needs of particularly problematic underage offenders, specifically those aged between twelve and fourteen years. This initiative includes the option of temporary compulsory placements for minors who exhibit recurrent criminal behaviors, such as severe bodily harm, robbery, or violence.

The party emphasizes that such placements would only be considered when alternative measures fail to stabilize the situation of these youths. The NEOS leadership clarifies that the intention is not to isolate children from society but rather to provide them with essential support, structure, and professional guidance during critical phases of their development.

According to the NEOS, these proposed facilities would serve as educational and therapeutic safe spaces, characterized by clear regulations, a binding structure, and personalized developmental support. The compulsory placement is envisioned as a last resort to interrupt what they describe as "extremely problematic developments" in the lives of these minors, contingent upon judicial approval and legal representation for the youths involved.

The NEOS party stresses that a federal legal framework is necessary to implement this initiative. They argue that when twelve-year-olds repeatedly inflict harm on others or put themselves in danger, there is a need for responsible intervention. The facilities would be designed to accommodate different levels of freedom for the minors, with specific areas dedicated to therapy, education, workshops, recreational spaces, and experiential learning activities.

A multi-disciplinary team comprising educators, psychologists, therapists, teaching staff, and security personnel would oversee the operations within these facilities. The proposed care model would involve multiple phases of placement, starting with a closed phase, followed by a more relaxed phase, and eventually leading to an open phase with continued support.

Progressive behavior and participation in activities would earn the minors increased freedoms, thereby promoting personal responsibility. Transparency in documentation and oversight of the process would be ensured, with legal recourse available at all times.

The NEOS party notes that while the number of particularly problematic minors is small, they represent a significant concern for both themselves and their communities. These minors cannot be held criminally accountable due to their age, yet they pose acute challenges. Current legal and institutional solutions are deemed insufficient to address their needs effectively. Furthermore, the NEOS proposal explicitly excludes youths with severe psychiatric conditions or acute addiction issues, as these cases would fall under the medical care system.