Oh, these child abusers!

Particularly in right-wing circles, homosexuality is often confused with child abuse. In reality, one has nothing to do with the other. Sexual abuse is hideous and subject to criminal prosecution, regardless of whether the perpetrator is hetero- or homosexual. Our legal system includes laws which are valid for everyone. The confusion of homosexuality with child abuse has only one aim, namely, to criminalize homosexuality and give it a socially negative image. Child abuse and rape are criminal acts which require criminal persecution. The principle of voluntary, self-determined sexuality is equally valid for all people. In Austria, consensual homosexual contact between grown-ups has (only!) been legal since 1971.

What do the laws say?
Homosexuality has been legal in Austria since 1971. Since 2002, the same age limits have applied to men, who have sex with men, as to heterosexual couples or women, who have sex with women. From the age of 14, sex is not subject to sanction. Between 14 and 16, certain limitations still apply – for example, sex in exchange for payment is prohibited.

Gays and lesbians enjoy protection from discrimination at their workplace. Following a guideline from the European Union, nobody may be discriminated – for example, fired – from their job due to their sexual orientation.

Homosexual couples are not allowed to marry. Although certain rights apply to homosexual partnerships, marriage is not a possibility. The introduction of a civil union is currently debated in Austria, which would at least enable homosexual couples to enjoy certain rights from marriage. For more help in legal issues, or information on the state of affairs, you can ask one of the counseling sites listed at the back.