In a controversial decision, Austrian authorities have ordered climate activist Anja Windl, widely known as "Klima-Shakira," to leave the country for two years. The Federal Office for Immigration and Asylum (BFA) issued the residence ban on April 3, 2025, following more than two years of immigration proceedings against her. Windl, who has lived in Austria for seven years, must vacate the country within four weeks.
Windl's legal troubles began after her involvement with the climate activist group "Last Generation," which has staged numerous protests, including road blockades and airport disruptions. The BFA claims that since her first protest on November 7, 2022, Windl has posed a "serious danger to public order or security," a claim her lawyer, Ralf Niederhammer, vehemently disputes.
According to the BFA, Windl's activities and social media presence have led to her forfeiting her right to reside in Austria. The decision has sparked outrage among supporters of climate activism, who view it as an attempt to suppress peaceful protest. "It is alarming that such treatment of peaceful activism is being normalized internationally," Windl stated, emphasizing her unwillingness to leave voluntarily.
"I have my life, my family, and my studies here in Austria. I will not be silenced," she added. Windl plans to file a complaint against the BFA's decision, which has a suspensive effect, allowing her to remain in Austria while her case is reviewed by the Federal Administrative Court.
Niederhammer criticized the BFA's reasoning, stating, "The argumentation lacks any basis. To impose a residence ban, there must be a serious danger to public order or security, which has not been established in this case." He argues that Windl's long-term residency in Austria should be taken into account, and that her activism is mischaracterized as a threat.
The BFA has been scrutinizing Windl's activities since March 2023, and the recent decision has been described by some as one of the harshest forms of repression against climate activists in Austria. "It seems that the authorities are not taking the legal framework seriously when it comes to climate activists," stated a representative from the "Last Generation" group.
Michel Forst, a UN Special Rapporteur, has also weighed in on the issue, expressing concern over the treatment of climate activists across Europe. "The repression faced by those engaging in peaceful civil disobedience represents a significant threat to democracy and human rights," he warned. Forst urged governments and the media to recognize the importance of listening to climate activists and their messages.
Windl's case has garnered attention not only for its implications on her personal life but also for its broader impact on the climate movement in Austria and beyond. Activists fear that such measures could deter others from participating in peaceful protests, which are essential for raising awareness about climate change.
As the situation unfolds, Windl remains resolute in her commitment to climate activism. "I will continue to fight for the climate and for my right to protest peacefully. This decision will not silence me or my fellow activists," she affirmed.
Windl's situation highlights the ongoing tensions between authorities and climate activists in Europe, raising questions about the balance between public order and the right to protest. As more activists face similar challenges, the discourse surrounding climate action and civil liberties is likely to intensify.
In the coming weeks, Windl's legal team will prepare to challenge the BFA's decision, and the outcome could set a precedent for how climate activists are treated under Austrian law. With public opinion divided, the case serves as a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle for climate justice and the right to dissent.
