Austrian government to fine refugees that refuse to learn German and integrate
'The migrant inflow should be reduced but those, who do have the right to get asylum, should be integrated into society'
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Austria's Foreign Minister has announced any refugee refusing to attend special integration courses or learn German could see their social benefits cut.
Sebastian Kurz told an economic forum in Davos, Greece: "Those who are not willing to learn German, who do not want to be part of the labor market, who are not ready to attend an integration course, will face social benefits cuts, it is an absolutely necessary next step.
"The migrant inflow should be reduced but those, who do have the right to get asylum, should be integrated into society."
Austrian authorities have planned eight hour "value and orientation" training courses which aim to teach refugees Austrian laws and social norms.
These courses will be part of a wider integration program and will be held in Arabic, Farsi/Dari and English - reports RT.
Mr Kurz's statement was reiterated by Markus Wallner, the head of the Voralberg region in Austria: "There can eventually be no avoidance behavior. Specifically, if someone avoids attending the values training course, [his] social benefits should be reduced."
Austria has announced a plan to cap the number of new arrivals in 2016 to 37,500.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments