On the occasion of current events in the area of security in Vienna, the regional party chairman of the Vienna People’s Party, City Councilor Karl Mahrer, reacted sharply: “The increasing formation of Islamic parallel societies, especially in Vienna, must not lead to the emergence of counter-societies. Islamic centers, relevant shops, prayer rooms and tea rooms have already been established in some Vienna districts and neighborhoods. These developments sometimes provide a dangerous breeding ground for Islamism in the heart of Vienna and significantly hinder integration. At the same time, many people have the impression of losing their home.”
Mahrer demands that the granting of citizenship should become a federal competence and should only be possible after a comprehensive review by security authorities. “Citizenship after ten years cannot and should not be taken for granted, but should only come after very thorough examination of the applicants. Statements such as calls for a caliphate have no place in our basic democratic order and must be punished under criminal law,” continued Mahrer.
“We must draw the appropriate lessons from the events of the last few months and the new phenomena that have emerged as a result and take consistent measures. Vienna and Austria must not become a breeding ground for radicalized threats. In addition to urgently needed measures that we have often called for at the city government level in Vienna, new and additional measures are also required at the federal level. The principle applies more than ever: successful integration is only possible without isolated parallel societies. There must be no room for radicalization that leads to terror,” concluded Mahrer.
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