Sebastian Kurz announces gradual lifting of emergency measures

(Patria) – Austria is among the first European countries to gradually lift some of the emergency measures - thousands of shops will reopen there on Tuesday.

The Austrian government, which was among the first to close schools, cultural institutions, catering facilities, and non-essential shops, is warning citizens that the epidemic is still present and that the lifestyle appropriate for the emergency situation practically remains the same.

In Austria, 14,041 cases of infection have been confirmed, and 368 people have died. The daily growth of confirmed cases is in the single digits, and hospitalizations have also stabilized, Reuters reports.

Chancellor Sebastian Kurz emphasized that 'economically, we also want to emerge from the crisis as soon as possible and fight for every job in Austria'.

Last week, he presented a detailed plan for opening the economy, starting with shops up to 400 m2, as well as garden centers.

After that, from May 1, shopping malls, larger stores, and hairdressing salons will open, while restaurants and hotels will be considered from mid-May, Kurz announced.

The measure of mandatory mask-wearing and controlled numbers of people indoors remains in effect.

The reaction to the Chancellor's decision is divided; while some welcome it, others believe it sends a contradictory message regarding the overall emergency lockdown measures that are in effect until the end of April.