Austrian street newspapers announce joint action day

Eight street newspapers from Austria and South Tyrol have designated October 21 as the “Day of the Austrian Street Newspaper.” This joint action day aims to raise awareness for social justice, human dignity, and solidarity while highlighting the importance of their work amidst social budget cuts and a changing media landscape.

The participating publications include 20er (Tirol), Apropos (Salzburg), Augustin (Vienna, Lower Austria, and Burgenland), kazaus (Carinthia), Kupfermuckn (Upper Austria), marie (Vorarlberg), Megaphon (Styria), and zebra (South Tyrol). These newspapers operate on a “help for self-help” principle, with at least 50 percent of sales revenue going directly to the sellers.

Beyond providing income, the newspapers offer social support, such as assistance with housing or legal issues. The sellers include asylum seekers, students, and minimum-wage pensioners. Collectively, the seven Austrian street newspapers are sold by approximately 1,600 people and reach around 128,800 readers. The organizers noted that the shift toward digital media and economic difficulties are making it increasingly difficult to cover production costs.