Awareness Teams in Vienna Start the New Season
Three mobile teams of four visit highly frequented places with their cargo bikes – highly visible, approachable, and with open ears for anyone who needs support or perceives conflicts. Their presence is particularly important for young women, people from the LGBTIQA+ community, or individuals at increased risk of discrimination, contributing to a greater sense of subjective security.
Around 21,000 Contacts Last Year
In the past season of 2024, the Awareness Teams had contact with around 21,000 people – about 8,500 female, 9,000 male, and 3,500 diverse. The majority of the people approached were between 15 and 25 years old. An anonymous survey showed: The work of the teams is perceived as appreciative, positive, and supportive – especially by those who often feel insecure or discriminated against.
What Do the Awareness Teams Do?
Awareness Teams mediate conflicts, address social tensions, support in situations of discrimination and violence, and are open to assisting everyone. They strengthen the sense of security for vulnerable groups and provide more orientation and belonging in public spaces. They also help with smaller problems – such as a dead phone battery – in an uncomplicated manner.
In 2025, they will also be more involved in the Vienna Democracy Year: focusing on respect, listening, and a solidarity that excludes no one. The project is implemented by the AwA* association - a collective for awareness work, event support, educational work, and concepts in public spaces.
Where the Awareness Teams Are Active
The Awareness Teams are active from 7 PM to 4 AM on weekends or nights at the following locations:
- Donaukanal (Urania bis Augartenbrücke)
- Karlsplatz & Resselpark
- Stadtpark
- rund um den Ring (u. a. Heldenplatz, Maria-Theresien-Platz, Schwedenplatz, Votivpark)
- Wientalterrasse
The cargo bikes with illuminated flags make the teams easily recognizable. In total, around 30 people are involved. The Awareness Teams can be reached by phone at 0800 99 91 92 (toll-free from Austria) and 0677 641 002 05 (also via Signal, WhatsApp, Telegram). Both numbers are available on Fridays, Saturdays, and before holidays from 7 PM to 4 AM.
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