In the crowded streets of Vienna, the police have finally reacted: weapon-free zones in problem areas like Favoriten and the Praterstern have been in place for some time now as a proven means of combating violence. Now, this measure is to be extended to the entire country. A ban on carrying knives in densely populated areas is particularly in the spotlight.
The Vienna police have gained a clear picture of the past years. Public altercations, often with a migration background among the participants, frequently escalate into dangerous situations. Stabbings, fights among youths, and spontaneous escalations are the hallmark of some districts in the capital. Favoriten, Meidling, and the 20th district, in particular, stand out in this regard.
Since the introduction of the weapon-free zones, however, visible successes have been recorded. In Favoriten, a total of 118 prohibited weapons were seized last year, the majority of them knives. The Praterstern has also seen a more tranquil atmosphere: here, the number of seized weapons was 95, including 73 knives. The measure is showing its effect, and the police consider it essential to strengthen the sense of security among the population.
Especially the violence among youths is a cause for concern. Summer altercations, sometimes documented in viral videos, have become the hallmark of the streets. Groups that fight, pull out knives, or threaten passersby are unsettling the residents. The subjective sense of security is decisive – and is severely impaired by such incidents.
A nationwide ban on carrying knives, at least in urban areas, is considered a logical next step by the police. In densely populated areas, there is no need to carry knives, it is said. Exceptions could be made for certain groups, such as hunters, or for special occasions, like public grilling. The goal is to replace the “patchwork” of local weapon-free zones with a clear and uniform regulation.
However, not only the violence in the public space, but also the so-called control crime – for example, in the area of illegal drugs – has increased due to the enhanced police presence. More controls automatically lead to more complaints, it is recognized.
The police are faced with a double challenge: on the one hand, it is about curbing immediate dangers, such as weapons. On the other hand, the dynamic of social media demands swift clarification. Violence videos spread rapidly and amplify the public perception of insecurity.
The developments of the last few years show that the focus on the public space is the right strategy. While break-ins have decreased significantly, violence on the streets has increased. The police will continue to strengthen their presence to maintain the pressure on offenders – and to protect the sense of security of the population.
A nationwide ban on carrying knives could be the decisive step to prevent further escalations. The numbers and experiences from Vienna speak in its favor. Now, it remains to be seen whether the government will react to the police’s demands.