‘Blind spot’ no longer: Austria targets Russian espionage with new law

Vienna has long had a reputation for being a nest of spies, but Austria is stepping up its crackdown on espionage. "Austria will no longer be a blind spot in Europe's security," Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger told POLITICO on Thursday, after the government approved draft legislation to strengthen its espionage laws on Wednesday.

New Penalties

Under Austria's current Criminal Code, operating or supporting a clandestine intelligence service is punishable if it harms Austrian interests. The proposed legislation would introduce prison sentences of up to five years for espionage targeting EU institutions or international organizations with headquarters or offices in Austria, such as the United Nations, the OSCE and the International Atomic Energy Agency. The maximum sentence for espionage against Austria itself would increase from five to 10 years.

Russian Espionage

While the new legislation targets espionage in general, it is part of the ministry's broader shift in policy toward Russia. Austria pressured Russia earlier this year to dismantle satellite installations on its diplomatic properties in Vienna over concerns they could be used for espionage. At least three installations have since been removed. The country has expelled eight Russian diplomats since March 2025 for suspected espionage.

"Foreign intelligence services are operating increasingly aggressively in Austria," the country's chancellor, Christian Stocker, added. "We are putting a stop to this by tightening our laws. In doing so, we are also helping to protect our European partners and the many international organizations based in Austria."

Historical Context

Austria's neutrality and its status as a non-NATO member have contributed to its reputation as a hotbed of spying. During the Cold War, its proximity to the Iron Curtain made it a meeting point for intelligence services from East and West.

The draft law would also criminalize the recruitment of so-called disposable agents by foreign intelligence services and strengthen penalties for certain cybercrimes. The legislation is expected to pass parliament next year and take effect in February 2027, according to a ministry spokesperson.