Major language problems – Research: how Austria is failing to integrate

Language barriers are particularly high for Austrian migrants. This is the result of a current study by the economically liberal think tank Agenda Austria. The number of students who do not speak German at home has increased significantly among first-generation migrants in recent years (see graph below).

The findings on second-generation migrants are sobering
The findings for second-generation migrants are also sobering. There are no major differences. “This is a sad Austrian peculiarity. In international comparison, Austria is doing very poorly here,” says economist Carmen Treml of Agenda Austria.

reflected in school performance
The Agenda economist sees these figures as evidence of serious shortcomings in integration.

It is no surprise that those who do not speak German at home do much worse at school. “These 82.5 percent, how are they supposed to be able to follow the lessons properly?” asks Treml, who demands action from politicians.

These measures are necessary
Language lessons start from one to two years of age. With intensive courses. The younger you are, the better language acquisition works. If this is missing or comes too late, this will have corresponding consequences for further education and working life.

“The figures collected are also demonstrably reflected in the PISA tests.” There are huge differences here between traditional locals, migrants who speak German at home and those who don’t.

“We finally have to take countermeasures here”
The share of migration is increasing, which means that the problem is getting worse. A huge social problem. For all those affected and involved. More and more people are at risk of falling behind. Lack of perspective included. Carmen Treml: “We finally have to take countermeasures here.”