Austrian Holocaust survivors worldwide will receive a one-time payment of around €5,000 following negotiations between the Claims Conference and the Austrian Finance Ministry, according to a statement on Wednesday.
The Committee for Jewish Claims has secured approximately €12.5 million in direct payments for Austrian Jewish Holocaust survivors in 2023. This marks the first time in over two decades that the Austrian government has agreed to provide additional compensation to every living Austrian Holocaust survivor.
In addition to the initial payment, according to the statement, survivors in special need will receive a second payment in 2023, with ongoing support planned for subsequent years. The National Fund of the Republic of Austria for Victims of National Socialism will administer these payments.In the statement, Claims Conference Executive Vice President Greg Schneider emphasized the importance of these payments for vulnerable survivors. Ambassador Stuart E. Eizenstat, Special Negotiator for the Claims Conference, highlighted the symbolic significance of the Austrian government’s recognition and accountability for the survivors’ suffering.