Reported Abductions from Austria Rise Sharply

Austria has recorded 92 reports of people being taken abroad in the first half of 2026, a sharp increase from the 160 reports registered across the previous two years combined. The figures came from an Austrian Press Agency inquiry to the National Competence Center against Abduction and Family Violence, operated by the PeriFeri association.

“

A concerning increase.

Center director Meltem Weiland described the rise as alarming. She said children, both boys and girls, are being taken by their parents as a form of “discipline,” often under the pretext of a holiday. Some are then expected to marry in their parents’ home countries. “The parents do not let anything show here,” Weiland said.

The center reported receiving five cases within four minutes several weeks ago. Weiland said the volume had become so high that the three-person team was sometimes overwhelmed. Women are also taken abroad under similar circumstances, including after marital disputes or filing for divorce. Some are abandoned with their parents, who may side with the husband because divorce is considered a source of shame.

“

The parents do not let anything show here.

The cases involve many destinations. Weiland said Russia and Syria are currently the most common, followed by countries including Iraq, Pakistan and Bangladesh, as well as other European Union and Balkan countries. Her team works with authorities, the Foreign Ministry and embassies to bring people back to Austria while staying in contact with them whenever possible.

“

Five cases in four minutes.

Twenty-four returns have been completed this year, each usually requiring months of work. In 2024 and 2025 combined, 70 people were brought back. Weiland is seeking stronger legal protection for those left abroad, particularly women who have little legal recourse against their husbands. PeriFeri is also seeking funding through a crowdfunding campaign.

“

Every case has its own story.