Graz info corner
Here is information for you to get along well in Graz. This guide will help you if you don't know where to contact. Here you can find information about language courses, the healthcare system, the job market, financial support for associations and much more.
How can I get involved politically in Graz and Austria?
1. How can Austrian citizens participate politically?
Austrian citizens have many opportunities to be politically active:
Voting: You can vote in all elections — for example in the National Council elections (all of Austria), state elections (in the federal state), municipal council elections (in the city of Graz) and in the federal presidential election.
Get elected: You can stand as a candidate in these elections yourself, i.e. get elected.
Referendum: You can sign a referendum or start it yourself. This is an action that can be used to move politics on a specific topic.
Demonstrate: You can take part in demonstrations or organize one yourself.
Petitions and citizens' initiatives: You can sign or submit petitions — i.e. tell politicians what you want to change.
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Become a member: You can participate in parties, associations or movements.
2. How can EU citizens (from other EU countries) participate politically?
People from other EU countries may also have a say in Austria — but not everything:
Voting in Graz: They may take part in the municipal council election in Graz and in the district representative election if they live here.
EU elections: They may vote in the elections to the EU Parliament in Austria or their country of origin.
Have your say and get involved: You can take part in demonstrations, petitions or citizens' initiatives.
Become a member: You can be active in parties or organizations.
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❌ Not allowed: You may not vote or stand as a candidate in National Council elections or federal presidential elections in Austria.
3. How can third-country nationals (people from non-EU countries) participate politically?
People from countries that do not belong to the EU have fewer political rights in Austria. However, there are ways to get involved:
❌ Don't vote: You are not allowed to participate in any official elections in Austria (e.g. National Council, Municipal Council, Federal President).
✅ Election of the Migrant Advisory Council in Graz: In Graz, however, they may elect the Migrant Advisory Council.
The Migrant Advisory Board is a body that represents the interests of people with a migration background in Graz. He talks to city politicians and gives suggestions on how life can be better for immigrants .
Have your say: You can take part in demonstrations, petitions and citizens' initiatives.
Engage: You can work in associations, groups or political movements.
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