Understanding 1964: The Beginning of Labor Migration from Turkey at the House of Austrian History

This entry examines the start of labor migration from Turkey to Austria in 1964, a pivotal moment influenced by economic needs and the concept of 'Gastarbeiter' (guest workers). It details the socio-political context of the time, including the Raab-Olah Agreement and Austria's shift towards becoming an immigration country.

In 1964, Austria initiated significant labor migration from Turkey, a development shaped by the nation's economic boom and high employment rates. This was formalized through the Raab-Olah Agreement, which sought to streamline the employment of foreign workers. The agreement necessitated specific recruitment accords with various countries, leading to accords with Spain in 1962 and Turkey in 1964, followed by Yugoslavia in 1966. This influx of 'Gastarbeiter' and 'Gastarbeiterinnen' marked a turning point, re-establishing Austria as an immigration country after periods of emigration driven by persecution, war, and economic hardship. The term 'Gastarbeiter' was intended to convey a welcoming sentiment, yet it also underscored the expectation of temporary stays, akin to guests. However, by the early 1970s, as foreign labor reached its peak, it became apparent that many migrants would not return. Despite this reality, the notion of Austria being a de facto immigration country by its own volition and interests was consistently downplayed. Economic factors, such as the oil crisis of the 1970s, likely contributed to freezing the number of foreign workers in 1974, but societal considerations also played a role. While a quarter of foreign workers lost their permits, the arrivals and their families increasingly settled permanently in Austria, a development that was an unintended consequence of the recruitment policies.