Austria persists in upholding its defining principles - continuing its journey towards integration, as guided by the Minister for Integration, Plakolm.
In a significant development, Integration Minister Claudia Plakolm recently unveiled a study highlighting the shared core values of Austria's population. The comprehensive study, conducted by an unspecified organization, sheds light on the nation's collective identity and values.
The study reveals that the Austrian population places a high emphasis on solidarity within families and partnerships, with 58% of respondents considering it the most important fundamental value. Freedom and self-determination are also highly valued, albeit within established security networks, according to Data Scientist Johannes Klotz.
Security, cohesion, and self-determination are particularly important to Austrians, with these values underpinning the fabric of their society. The study further underscores the population's identification with Austria, which is now at a very high level.
When it comes to shared cultural heritage, Austria's Christian traditions hold a significant place. Almost eight out of ten respondents said that holidays like Easter, St. Martin's Day, or St. Nicholas belong to Austria's togetherness. Interestingly, 69% of respondents believe that the cross in the classroom is a cultural heritage and should remain, while 79% believe that Christian holidays should be celebrated even if the majority of children are not Christians.
The study also touches upon the importance of manners and tolerance towards private lifestyles in everyday life, but it notes an increasing desire for security and order in public spaces.
In terms of integration policy, the minister has confirmed the continuation of the path, focusing on values and basic rule courses for coexistence. The minister has also launched a pilot project extending the duration of values courses from three to five days. Moreover, the minister has proposed enforcing participation in the offered integration courses, with potential cuts in social benefits for inadequate participation or failure to register with the employment service.
One of the key findings of the study is the Austrian population's expectation for the state's laws to stand above religious regulations. This expectation is reflected in the fact that 85% of respondents believe that state laws are more important than religious regulations.
Interestingly, there is a clear commitment to Christianity as a cultural heritage in Austria, with 94% and 95% of respondents believing that those who do not want to learn the Austrian national language or do not follow Austrian values should live elsewhere.
Despite losses of authority by parties and churches, there is high trust in the state administration in Austria. People who wish to live in Austria are expected to learn the German language, go to work, and respect and follow the rules and values.
The study results do not provide information on which organization recently conducted the latest OGM evaluation study in Austria. However, the findings offer valuable insights into the shared core values of Austria's population, providing a foundation for future integration policies and national identity discussions.
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