Starting in January, Ukrainian refugees in Austria who own cars could lose their financial assistance, according to Austrian authorities.
The government argues that those who can afford car insurance and fuel are not in need of financial support. The Ministry of the Interior emphasized that the assistance should be directed only to those who are truly in need.
At present, around 37,000 Ukrainians in Austria receive basic aid, which includes food, housing, and medical services. However, the Austrian government is reassessing its policy, stating that financial assistance should be limited to individuals who are in dire need of help, and not to those who can afford additional expenses like owning and maintaining a car.
The new policy has sparked concerns among some refugees who argue that the decision could disproportionately affect those who are still struggling to rebuild their lives in Austria. While car ownership may seem like a luxury, many Ukrainians in Austria have relied on vehicles to access jobs, medical care, and other essential services, particularly in rural areas or smaller towns where public transportation options are limited.
Austrian authorities have defended the new measures as a way to prioritize resources for those who are most vulnerable. The Ministry of the Interior stated that they are committed to ensuring that the aid is targeted at those who have the greatest need, including individuals who may have limited access to employment or other forms of financial support.
As part of the ongoing policy review, the Austrian government is also considering tightening eligibility criteria for other forms of financial assistance provided to refugees. These include social welfare benefits and housing subsidies, which may be reduced or restructured based on factors such as income, property ownership, and other assets.
