AUSTRIA

        The Constitution provides for freedom of the press, and the Government generally respects this right in practice, although stringent slander laws tend to discourage reports of police brutality.  Publications may be removed from circulation if they violate legal provisions concerning morality or public security, but such cases are extremely rare.
        The government monopoly in television and national radio is gradually being dismantled.  A law passed in 1993 permitted licensing of regional private radio stations, but implementation of the law was delayed due to legal challenges by unsuccessful applicants for licenses.  Rewritten radio frequency rules went into effect on April 1.  Since that date, several private radio stations began broadcasting.
        Academic freedom is respected.

Last Updated: 11/20/99

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