Austria will compensate people convicted for their homosexuality

Millions of euros repair. The Author will offer financial compensation to thousands of people convicted due to their homosexuality, between 1971 and the 2000s.

Although same-sex relationships were decriminalized in the country in 1971, many people, the vast majority men, were still condemned due to their homosexuality until the 2000s.

In total, almost 26,500 convictions were issued due to legal exceptions. Prostitution for gay men remained banned until 1989, the right of association was closed to LGBTQI+ activists until the 1990s, while the age of consent for sexual relations between men was set at 18 (up from 14 years for heterosexual relationships) until 2002.

Compensation of 3,000 euros plus a further 1,500 euros for each year of imprisonment

Thus, more than 11,000 victims of this homophobic legislation will now be able to be compensated if they come forward, the Minister of Justice announced on Monday during a press conference in Vienna. Alma Zadicof the Green Party.

Thanks to this law which will be adopted at the end of the year and will come into force in February 2024, their sentence will be canceled and they will be paid 3,000 euros, plus 1,500 euros for each year of imprisonment. Which represents a budget of 33 million euros. Those who have been tried without being convicted will also be compensated, especially if they have suffered moral or professional damage.

Read also: According to a study, LGBT phobia in sports is far from gone

“ It is clear that this financial compensation can never erase the suffering and injustices suffered, but it is essential that Austria as a state finally recognizes its responsibilities “, declared the minister alFrench media agency.

In Austria marriage is for everyone and adoption for same-sex couples legalized in 2019, without a challenge from the Austrians. But LGBTphobic acts are on the rise.

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