One third of Vienna’s primary school pupils are Muslim

According to a survey by the Education Office, Catholics make up one fifth of the student population. The fastest growing group is students with no religious affiliation, which makes up about one quarter. City Councillor for Education Christoph Wiederkehr (NEOS) is once again calling for a separate subject for “democracy” starting in the first grade.

The current data is collected from public primary schools through the Education Bureau and therefore excludes private schools, which number about ten percent. Therefore, 35 percent of primary school students are Muslim, 26 percent are irreligious, 21 percent are Catholic, 13 percent are Orthodox, and 2 percent are Protestant or belong to another denomination. Sociologist Kenan Güngör told reporters on Tuesday that the proportion of Muslims would probably drop slightly if private schools were taken into account.

Return to Hope Theme “Living in Democracy”

The proportions have changed significantly compared to the 2016/17 school year – although the figures collected then were different and in some cases there were gaps. Seven years ago, 31% were Catholic, 28% were Muslim and 17% had no religious affiliation, according to city school board data at the time.

In light of these figures, Wiedecker reiterated his call for a course called “Democratic Life” to be made compulsory for all pupils starting from the first grade of primary school. Its aim is to convey knowledge of democracy, values ​​and morals as well as all recognised religions. In contrast, separate religious topics should be included in the timetable only when necessary.

Criticism of the status quo

Wiedecker believes that the current practice of teaching ethics only in high school and only when choosing a religion is fundamentally wrong. However, change can only be achieved through federal law – and here he has been repeatedly rejected by the ÖVP and the Greens. “But I am very stubborn about this.”

He believes that even if the large number of Muslim children is mainly an urban phenomenon, new democratic subjects should be introduced throughout Austria rather than religion. Among Muslims, the proportion of people who devalue other groups, such as Jews, LGBTIQ members or women, has increased. The tendency to devalue other groups has nothing to do with religion – see right-wing extremism – dealing with democracy and values ​​is relevant to all children in Austria. “But of course you can set different priorities.”

Güngör points to several parallel developments in the schools. As more people enter the country due to large immigration from Islamic Arab regions, they tend to be more religious – this in itself and in most schools is not a major problem. However, in some places, there is a certain sense of superiority based on religion.

At the same time, there has been an increase in skepticism towards Islam in society. “Muslim students have certainly noticed this.” As a result, they feel more protected in schools with a higher proportion of Muslims. But this is where the devaluation of non-believers exists. “We have to think in both directions.” This polarization must be addressed.