Austria’s national elections are pivotal in shaping the country’s future. Still, over 1.5 million residents of voting age are excluded from participating simply because they do not hold Austrian citizenship. In Vienna, as many as one in three people of voting age are excluded from participating in elections. 

This exclusion impacts a significant portion of the population who, despite living and working in Austria, cannot make their voices heard in the political process. 

In response, the non-governmental organisation SOS Mitmensch offers a unique solution: giving these individuals a symbolic platform to ‘vote’ through the so-called Pass Egal election.

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What is the Pass Egal election?

In Pass Egal elections, all people of voting age can cast their vote, including those excluded from official elections due to their non-Austrian citizenship. 

Since 2013, SOS Mitmensch and its cooperation partners have been organising regular campaigns in the run-up to elections at the federal and state levels. These “elections” have become almost a tradition among foreigners, with many lining up at every vote to show they should have a voice.

In 2022, over 8,500 people from 86 countries on all continents took part in the mock election for federal president. Alexander Van der Bellen (who also won the “real” vote) was the clear winner, with almost three-quarters of the vote among foreigners in Austria. The majority of the voters were Germans (27.5 percent), followed by people from Afghanistan (11.2 percent), Syria (9 percent), Italy (5.1 percent) and Turkey (3.7 percent).

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Who can vote in the Pass Egal election?

Anyone over 16 years old who has their centre of life in Austria but does not have an Austrian passport is cordially invited. Anyone with an Austrian passport who wants to cast a solidarity vote and advocate for more democracy is also cordially invited.

This is a stark difference from who can vote in the national elections, which are reserved for Austrian citizens aged 16 and over. The fact that a significant proportion of the Austrian population cannot participate in its democracy is a matter of debate in every regional and national election. Some organisations demand the right to vote be linked to the centre of life and residency instead of a passport. 

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Another demand is easier access to Austrian citizenship – mainly by lowering the high costs and allowing people to retain their previous nationality and become dual citizens.

How and where can I vote?

There are numerous Pass Egal polling stations throughout Austria. You can come to one of them with your ID and vote for one of the parties competing in the National Council elections. For people who cannot come to any of the polling stations, there is the possibility of participating by postal vote.

The final opportunity to participate will be the Pass Egal election closing party on September 24, 2024, at Vienna’s Yppenplatz from 3 to 8 p.m. 

In addition to a large election tent, there will be a stage with a music and cultural program. All those who still want to cast their vote and all those who wish to join in the celebrations and set an example for inclusive democracy are cordially invited to this celebration of democracy.

There are several polling stations in almost all of Vienna’s districts. The complete list of polling stations, their opening hours, and dates for Vienna and other states can be found HERE.

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Should foreigners resident in Austria have the right to vote in federal elections even if they are not Austria citizens? Share your views in the comments section.