Vienna police face staffing shortages despite high applicant numbers

The Austrian Ministry of the Interior has acknowledged staffing challenges facing the Vienna police. Despite receiving 900 applications for 200 available spots in police schools for the September intake, several positions remain unfilled because applicants often lack the necessary qualifications.

Federal Police Director Michael Takàcs called for ‘constructive action’ to address the shortage, stating that signature lists and protest models will not increase the number of officers. He urged local leaders and unions to actively motivate suitable candidates to join the force.

To combat rising crime, including violence, robbery, and drug-related offenses—particularly in areas like Favoriten—the Ministry has ordered six federal states to temporarily deploy 48 officers to Vienna for three months. Local political representatives have expressed a preference for sustainable, long-term staffing solutions rather than temporary reinforcements.