The government’s planned budget increase for the army enjoys support, but fewer and fewer compatriots want to take up arms themselves in the event of war.
Helicopters, transport machines and then interceptors and a missile defense system – the shopping list for new equipment is long. For years there were austerity in the federal army, but recently the government has massively increased the budget of the Ministry of Defense, the “Krone” reports.
The Linz Market Institute has now conducted a survey to find out whether this move is well received by the population. More than 1,400 Austrians were interviewed in September and October (including during the Israeli response to the Hamas terrorist massacre). And the results speak for themselves: the budget increase is supported by more than two-thirds of the population (aged 15 and older). Only a quarter reject the windfall for the military.
For many people, basic military service is too short
A large majority considers the armed forces to be “very important” or “important”, especially when it comes to disaster relief. Operations abroad are also positively assessed, as is the militia. And: A small majority believes that the duration of basic military service (six months, note) is too short. Young respondents in particular see this differently.
So there is a willingness to invest in the army. Things are different for Mr and Mrs Austrians when it comes to taking up arms themselves. Not even a third (31 percent) would defend our country with weapons in the event of a military attack. 53 percent of respondents believe that the number of soldiers should be increased. However, one in ten people are in favor of a reduction.
The research was carried out on behalf of the Ministry of Defense. The fluctuation range was plus/minus 2.67 percent.
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
