Pornography Act (Austria)

The Austrian Pornography Act, also known as the Federal Act of March 31, 1950, on Combating Obscene Publications and Protecting Youth from Moral Danger, is a law that regulates pornography in Austria. It has its roots in legal efforts since 1715 to combat obscene writings and objects. The reason for enacting the Pornography Act was that the catastrophe of World War II had not only crippled the economy, but had also led to a shake-up of traditional views of decency and morality. The law was intended to set boundaries of morality and decency in the interest of orderly coexistence. It serves to restrict the satisfaction of sexual desire, as purely erotic works have a similar effect to drugs due to increased feelings of pleasure and awaken the subconscious urges of young people. It was considered a great injustice that had to be combated to use the superior strength of the instinct for self-preservation and procreation for financial gain. Since its adoption in 1950, the law has not been amended in substance, but has been increasingly liberalized by the courts. Due to its age, it has been criticized as outdated and in need of reform.