Austrian government moves toward new anti-espionage and extremism legislation
State Secretary Jörg Leichtfried said the coalition is close to agreeing on a comprehensive spy-law package and an action plan against right-wing extremism.
In an interview with APA, State Secretary Jörg Leichtfried announced that Austria’s coalition is nearing a consensus on a new anti-espionage law that would penalise foreign intelligence work not directed against the Republic. He added that a comprehensive plan to combat right-wing extremism will soon enter the assessment phase, with the goal of completing it promptly. The minister highlighted the massive economic damage caused by agricultural spying, citing a study by the German Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution.
To counter radicalisation, the government proposes a ban on social-media use for under-14s, continued monitoring of high-risk individuals, stricter gun legislation, and changes to association law. A separate security-service law for private firms is already being tested at large events. DSN chief Sylvia Mayer warned of a growing “post-ideological” radicalisation that blends extremist content across online platforms.
Why it matters
The reforms could reshape Austria’s security framework and affect civil liberties, foreign espionage, and extremist violence prevention.
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