As the first country in the European Union, Austria is about to suspend family reunification for those with asylum status, citing that the nation has reached its limits in terms of reception capacity. Scepticism remains regarding the measure’s effectiveness, even as right-wing factions in other European countries advocate for similar policies.
The measure was announced on Wednesday, March 26th, by the Minister for Integration Claudia Plakolm at the end of the Council of Ministers. The proposed suspension requires amending legislation to allow the issuing of a government decree on the matter. The suspension should come into force by May.
“We have reached the limits of our reception capacities,” explained the minister, who considers the measure necessary to “protect” the country and enable it to “preserve” its health and education system and its employment.
Please log in to like, share and comment!