Austria’s Government Announces Comprehensive Measures in Response to School Shooting
In a government statement, Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker outlined a package of immediate and long-term measures in response to the recent school shooting in Graz, which claimed the lives of nine students and a teacher.
The government will finalize the package of measures, including emergency aid and long-term security measures, by the end of the week, according to Stocker. Key initiatives include the establishment of a compensation fund for the families of the victims, increased police presence at schools and an expansion of school psychological counseling services. Additionally, the government plans to tighten the country’s gun laws to better regulate access to weapons.
Special arrangements will be made for the affected school in Graz to ensure a smooth Matura examination process. Stocker characterized the incident as a turning point for Austria, expressing gratitude to the emergency responders and vowing to learn from the tragedy.
Following a three-day national mourning period, the government will take further steps to ensure schools remain safe havens.