Facts
Nation
The Austrian republic is a national state consisting of nine federal states.
- Wien/Vienna (also federal and national capital),
- Burgenland (federal capital: Eisenstadt),
- Kärnten/Carinthia (federal capital: Klagenfurt),
- Niederösterreich/Lower Austria (federal capital: St. Pölten),
- Oberösterreich/Upper Austria (federal capital: Linz),
- Salzburg (federal capital: Salzburg),
- Steiermark/Styria (federal capital: Graz),
- Tirol/Tyrol (federal capital: Innsbruck),
- Vorarlberg (federal capital: Bregenz).
Size
Austria’s area is 83.854 km2 and it is situated in the heart of Europe.
Population
In Austria are living currently 8,43 million people. Almost every fifth Austrian citizen lives in the national capital Vienna. More than 18% of people living in Austria have a migration background.
Languages
The national language is German. In certain Austrian regions, further languages of registered ethnic minorities are on equal terms with the national language.
Religion
About 66% Austrians are Roman-Catholic, about 6% are Muslims and about 4% are Protestants. About 10% of the population declare that they have no religion. Young adults from the age of 14 years are allowed to choose their own religion.
International
Austria is firmly established in the international community of nations. Since 1955 Austria is a member of the United Nations (UNO). Since 1956 Austria is a member of the Council of Europe and its European Convention of Human Rights is in force in Austria. Since 1995 Austria is a member of the European Union (EU).
Basics
Living Democracy
Austria is a modern, democratic country situated in the heart of Europe. The political power and the legislation come from the people. The state does not act according to religious principles. It acts according to its constitution and the political intent of the majority of directly elected representatives of the people.
Observing the law
Every person and the state must observe all laws. Breaking the law, for example by bribing someone, is strictly forbidden and will be punished severely.
Successful Integration
In order to integrate yourself into Austria it is important to observe these basics. Obtaining Austrian citizenship completes a successful process of integration.
Human Rights
In Austria, human rights are applicable. They are firmly established in Austria’s constitution, the European Convention of Human Rights and in the Fundamental Rights Charter of the European Union. Because of the Human Rights, the state is obliged to respect and guarantee everybody’s personal freedom. This personal freedom is a fundamental right for everybody. All humans have equal dignity and value. Men and Women are equal.
Solidarity
Austria’s social peace and solidarity of its society depends on the sense of responsibility for people among each other. In Austria, public welfare is very important. This can be seen for example in the quick relief after cases of catastrophe or emergency. Also the established health care system, financial support for people in need or the obligation to help in case of an accident are also indicators for public welfare.
Source: Österreichischer Integrationsfonds (Austrian Integration Fund)