The Centre for the Enforcement of Human Rights International (CEHRI) was pleased to participate in the March 2025 visit of the European Economic and Social Committee’s (EESC) Fundamental Rights and Rule of Law (FRRL) Group to Austria. The visit allowed the delegation of six EESC Members to engage directly with civil society representatives and hear their perspectives on developments in Austria related to fundamental rights—such as the rights of social partners, freedoms of association and assembly, freedom of expression and media, non-discrimination, and the rule of law.
During discussions on the state of the rule of law, CEHRI contributed insights from its work on strategic litigation related to international crimes, including torture, conflict-related sexual violence, and war crimes.
CEHRI highlighted barriers to justice for survivors of serious human rights violations—particularly in cases brought under Austria’s universal jurisdiction framework. CEHRI emphasized the need for specialized prosecutorial units and stronger application of international legal standards and raised concerns about long delays in proceedings. CEHRI’s recommendations included reforms to Austria’s legal aid system and enhanced training for public prosecutors on international criminal law and victim rights.
CEHRI welcomed the opportunity to contribute to the EESC’s assessment and continues to advocate for a more robust, survivor-centered justice system in Austria and beyond.
Find the EESC’s official press release here. A final report is forthcoming.