Action Plan Lower Austria – Mikl-Leitner: Fight against “radical Islam”

70 percent of all young people from Afghanistan, Syria and Chechnya living in our home country consider themselves very or quite religious. However, for young Bosnians, Turks and Kurds, this figure is only 39 percent. By comparison, only 13 percent of the young population without a migration background considers themselves very or fairly religious.

More and more citizens are born abroad
Demographics are currently changing rapidly: the share of the population born abroad has risen to around 20 percent in recent years. There has been a significant increase, especially since 2010. According to Governor Johanna Mikl-Leitner, clear rules are needed so that coexistence still works and integration gains momentum.

Governor warns of ‘radical trends’
“Unfortunately, radical tendencies have now taken root in Austria,” Mikl-Leitner explains. That is why Lower Austria decided to launch an “action plan against radical political Islam”. The renowned sociologist Kenan Güngör actively helps. What is especially important is the early recognition of problematic trends and quick action, for example in kindergarten or at school.

Advisory and observation center planned
The state governor: “One thing is certain: our action plan will include an advisory and observation center for radical Islam.” A central key is also the cooperation between institutions such as kindergartens, child and youth care, schools, youth work and integration associations and the police: “We want to build a network here.” Particular attention will be paid to “promoting democratic values ​​and strengthening social skills among children and young people,” Mikl-Leitner said.