The research project, conducted by  the Ludwig Boltzmann Institute of Fundamental and Human Rights (LBI-GMR), shows clearly that gender-based violence remains a structural problem in academic settings: protective structures vary widely, procedures are often unclear, and students in particular do not enjoy a consistent level of legal protection across institutions.

The results were presented on 1 December 2025 at a press conference at the BMFWF by Federal Minister Eva-Maria Holzleitner, together with Johanna Blimlinger and Katrin Wladasch, experts from LBI-GMR. The Minister emphasized that several key recommendations of the study have already been integrated into two national action plans — including a nationwide Code-of-Conduct framework and binding minimum standards for violence-prevention and protection concepts — and are now being implemented step by step.

The study highlights, among other things:
• significant differences in rules, responsibilities and contact points,
• a lack of transparency and low willingness to report incidents,
• persistent patriarchal power structures and the absence of uniform procedures,
• a strong need for prevention, awareness-raising and clearly defined responsibilities.

Building on these findings, the assessment formulates concrete recommendations for strengthening protection mechanisms, establishing uniform legal standards, ensuring transparent reporting channels and implementing binding institutional measures. The aim is to guarantee effective protection against violence and to create a safe, discrimination-free environment for students and staff.

Authors: Johanna Blimlinger, Katrin Wladasch, Constanze Pritz-Blazek, Sabine Mandl, Edith Riegler

The full study and additional recommendations are available (in German) in the download section on the right.