Austria considers legal reforms following Marchtrenk femicide

Following the fatal assault of a 39-year-old woman in Marchtrenk, Austria, the activist alliance ‘Frauen*Streiken’ is calling for urgent political action to combat misogyny and violence against women. The group warns that verbal hatred often precedes physical violence, including rape and femicide.

In response to the Marchtrenk case, Justice Minister Anna Sporrer has announced intentions to adapt criminal law. A key point of contention is the current legality of possessing videos of violent crimes; while perpetrators have been convicted for filming assaults, the mere possession of such material is not currently a punishable offense in Austria.

The ‘Frauen*Streiken’ alliance has announced plans for a major strike on May 3, 2027, to demand increased safety and legislative changes. Activists, including Anna Majcan of the Graz Women's Council and spokesperson Lisa Rücker, emphasize that violence protection must be a top priority rather than a political bargaining chip.