Protecting children, not perpetrators

Petition addressed to: Österreichischer Petitionsausschuss

We demand:
1. Sexual offenses against children must not be treated as ordinary crimes. The seriousness of these offenses and the often lifelong consequences for the victims must be clearly reflected in the penalties imposed. Particularly serious cases must be punished more severely.
2. Repeat offenders must face harsher penalties. Protecting children and society must be the highest priority when dealing with individuals who repeatedly commit such offenses.
3. Children must be better protected before harm occurs. We call for increased prevention, education, and protective measures in schools, clubs, and the digital environment.
4. Victims must not be left to cope alone. Affected children and their families must have rapid, free access to psychological care, trauma therapy, and legal support.
5. Justice must not take years. Legal proceedings involving sexual offenses against minors must be conducted in a child-friendly manner and as quickly as possible to avoid placing additional strain on those affected.
6. Protecting children must always remain a top priority. Laws and measures relating to child protection must be regularly reviewed and strengthened.