Commissioner Advocates for Pension Benefits for Ex-Foster Children
In a recent interview with the "Neue Osnabrücker Zeitung" (NOZ), Kerstin Claus, the Federal Government's Commissioner for Abuse in Austria, has expressed her support for a state-funded basic pension for former care home children who were victims of abuse. While the exact amount she proposes for this pension is not specified, her comments have sparked debate within Austria's political circles.
Currently, Austria does not have a state-funded basic pension for former care home children. However, Claus finds the current practice of providing them with 300 euros per month appropriate. She suggests that this proposed pension would be higher than the current amount.
Some political parties in Austria have expressed opposition to the idea, while others have voiced their support. The Austrian government has not yet made a formal statement regarding Claus's proposal.
It is important to note that, unlike in Germany, where a special state-funded pension for former care home children who were victims of abuse before 1999, known as the "home victim's pension," has been in place since mid-2025, this pension amounts to 421.60 euros per month and offers symbolic compensation regardless of other damage claims. To qualify, one must credibly prove having been a victim of violence or abuse in a children's or youth home, boarding school, hospital, psychiatric or sanatorium facility, or foster family, provided the placement was done by the youth welfare office.
As Austria considers Claus's proposal, it remains to be seen whether there will be any new legislative changes or expansions to the current system. The ongoing debate underscores the importance of addressing the needs of former care home children who were victims of abuse and the potential impact such a policy could have on Austria's economy and social welfare system.
Sources: [1] "Kerstin Claus fordert Rente für Heimopfer" - Neue Osnabrücker Zeitung [2] "Heimopferrente" - Bundesministerium für Arbeit und Soziales [3] "Heimopferrente" - Ombudsman Board [4] "Pensionen steigen im Jahr 2025 um 3,74%" - Bundesministerium für Arbeit und Soziales
Science and health-and-wellness are interconnected in this context as the discussion revolves around the wellbeing of former care home children who were victims of abuse, with the proposed state-funded basic pension aiming to ameliorate their health and financial stability. This policy could potentially have significant implications for Austria's economy and social welfare system, emphasizing the need for comprehensive research and analysis in assessing the impact and efficacy of such measures, thereby contributing to the scientific discourse on welfare policies and child protection.
