How can integration work in Vienna? That’s what we ask our readers. And the answer is clear: only with sufficient knowledge of German.
“I live in a house in which I have experienced for twenty years that women are hardly allowed to leave the apartment, have more and more children and have no knowledge of German even after more than ten years,” writes “Krone” reader Samu L. “ This creates a parallel society.”
After our call – “Dear readers, how can integration work?” – the editorial mail folder was full on Wednesday morning. As reported, Vice Mayor and Councilor for Integration Christoph Wiederkehr of the Neos wants to redefine the rules of the game for immigrants, also with “clear consequences” for those who refuse values. The top politician bases his opinion on the opinions of ‘Krone’ readers, all of whom (also anonymously) end up on his desk.
German, German German!
The first requirement is clear: German, German German! “At least one parent must be present at the German language support lessons. It is simply not enough to want to teach the child German if German is not spoken at home,” writes Thomas K. And further: “If a parent refuses or is not present, social benefits must be reduced. Learning German, adapting, accepting values and culture is a debt.”
“Krone” reader Sabrina K: “My children’s colleagues at school never speak German outside of class. You also make it easy for them. Vienna/Austria is so stupid and writes everything in dozens of languages. In the office, at school, in kindergarten, etc. Why should they also learn German? You don’t need them.’
No forms in dozens of languages
Sieglinde F sees it the same way: “Everything should only be written in the official language German, and there should no longer be forms in dozens of languages. If someone doesn’t speak German, they should make sure they find someone who can translate.”
Many ‘Krone’ readers are calling for sanctions for those who do not want to learn our native language: “Warning, conversation with parents, blocking of social benefits,” writes Roman N. “Mandatory German courses with exam,” demands Monika F. “After Communication should be possible for a year without any problems!”
Dear readers, how can integration work? Please send emails with your ideas to: wien@kronenzeitung.at. Or to Kronen Zeitung, editorial office Vienna, Muthgasse 2, 1190 Vienna.
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.
