A nationwide online survey conducted by “Europe Pro Police among 329 women shows clearly that self-protection is gaining growing importance.
The purpose of the survey was to determine whether – and to what extent – women in Austria carry pepper spray as a means of self-defence.
The results are telling:
- 21.3% of respondents regularly carry pepper spray,
- 25.8% are considering purchasing one,
- while 46.8% currently do not own any.
- a further 6.1% had no opinion on the matter.
(Image: Final results of the Initiative Pro Polizei Österreich / Sicherheit-Zeitung AT survey)
The data was collected exclusively from female participants aged 18 and above, reached randomly via social media (X/Twitter).
The age distribution was balanced:
4.2% were under 20, 53.9% between 20–29, 18.4% between 30–39, 11.2% between 40–49, and 12.3% over 50.
The potential statistical margin of error is below 2%.
100% Female Participants, Aged 18 and Above
The findings present a realistic picture of Austrian women who actively reflect on their personal security, yet many still move about without any means of self-defence. Women aged 20 to 39, representing more than 70% of the respondents, are particularly mobile – often out in the evenings and using public transport – environments where feelings of insecurity are increasing, according to recent European studies. That nearly every second woman still does not carry pepper spray underlines the need for awareness, training, and legal information.
Legal Status and Responsible Use
In Austria, pepper spray is legally available and may be carried by persons aged 18 and older.
Its use, however, is strictly limited to self-defence – that is, when an unlawful attack is imminent or already underway. Legal experts and law-enforcement authorities emphasise that any such use must always be proportionate. The police themselves caution against relying solely on deterrent devices. Pepper spray may be a useful supplement, but it cannot replace vigilance, prevention, and correct behaviour in dangerous situations. Proper handling is particularly important: without training, there is a risk of incorrect use in stressful circumstances, or even of the spray being turned against the user.
Growing Interest in Self-Defence Training
In recent years, Austria – especially Vienna – has seen a rising demand for self-defence courses and pepper-spray handling workshops. Providers report increasing interest among young women who want to prepare themselves for possible danger scenarios. This trend reflects a growing understanding that self-protection and preparedness are not acts of fear, but expressions of responsibility and empowerment.
Pepper Spray and Weapons-Prohibition Zones
Pepper sprays may also be carried within Austria’s designated weapons-prohibition zones, provided they are used solely for self-defence and the carrier is legally entitled to possess them. In practice, this means that women aged 18 and above may carry pepper spray in places such as Vienna’s Reumannplatz or Praterstern, even though these areas are temporarily subject to weapons restrictions. Under Austrian law, irritant sprays are not considered weapons in the classical sense, as long as they are used exclusively for defensive purposes against an immediate threat. Individuals not authorised to possess such items include persons under 18, third-country nationals without specific exemption or residence permit, and individuals under an official weapons ban.
Austria Remains One of Europe’s Safest Countries
Austria continues to rank among the safest nations in Europe – a testament to the professional work of its police and the high level of security awareness among its citizens.
Nevertheless, the European security climate is deteriorating, and the effects are gradually being felt domestically. This makes preventive awareness all the more crucial.
Women who regularly move in public spaces should be informed about legal, responsible, and effective self-defence options.
In this context, pepper spray can be a simple yet effective tool – provided it is used correctly and carried with a clear understanding of legality and accountability.
A Snapshot of European Women’s Security Mindset
The survey conducted by the Initiative Pro Polizei Österreich offers the first compact snapshot of attitudes toward self-protection among Austrian women.
It reveals a generation that views security not only as a state responsibility, but increasingly as a shared personal duty. At a time when many European countries report rising incidents of public assaults, Austria continues to rely on the values of awareness, prevention, and personal responsibility –
trusting in both its police forces and the responsibility of its citizens to keep the country secure.
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