The Austrian government, led by Chancellor Christian Stocker, is preparing a constitutional reform to ban “political Islam” in the country. The initiative aims to counter radical organizations and mosques that use religion as a tool for political objectives.
Stocker, from the conservative ÖVP, has made this reform one of his main priorities after the summer break. He argues that Austria defends religious freedom, but must firmly oppose any attempt to use religion for political purposes.
The proposal is being drafted by Integration Minister Claudia Bauer, who is preparing a package that will be sent to the three coalition parties. The plan goes beyond the constitutional ban: it includes changes to association and religious law, along with new legal tools targeting organizations considered Islamist.
Bauer describes political Islam as “the greatest danger of our time”, accusing its promoters of trying to place ideological principles above democratic rule of law. The government wants a broad strategy to confront these groups both in Austria and across Europe.
The project also includes measures related to integration and radicalization, such as: banning the veil in schools, reviewing public funding for deradicalization programs, and ending cooperation with the Derad center, after authorities found links to the Muslim Brotherhood.
Stocker insists that when Islam is interpreted politically, it becomes incompatible with democracy and Western values. He connects the reform to defending gender equality and ensuring that cultural practices do not conflict with national laws and principles.
The proposal has received a cautiously positive reaction among coalition partners: the liberal Neos are open to considering it if legally sound, and the Social Democratic Party (SPÖ) calls for a broader debate.
Stocker also advocates for a balanced approach to migration and integration, rejecting both denial of problems and alarmist narratives. He notes that most residents respect the rules, but warns against behaviors such as rejecting institutions, refusing to learn the language, or showing disrespect toward women.
The ÖVP has long included opposition to political Islam in its agenda, with former chancellors Sebastian Kurz and Karl Nehammer promoting similar positions. Stocker now intends to elevate this stance into a constitutional reform with full legislative backing.
Source: https://gaceta.es/europa/el-gobierno-de-austria-anuncia-que-incluira-la-prohibicion-del-islam-politico-en-la-constitucion-es-incompatible-con-los-valores-occidentales-20260831-2006/
