“Whilst urinals can be used free of charge, toilet cubicles in many public toilet facilities in Vienna are subject to a charge. Women therefore have to pay, whilst men can use the facilities for free. I have been criticising this particular instance of gender inequality for almost three years. The fact that the City of Vienna has still not rectified this discrimination against women is utterly outrageous,” emphasises Ombudsperson Gaby Schwarz in the Ö1 Mittagsjournal, referring to the relevant findings in the Austrian Ombudsman Board's report to the Vienna State Parliament from 2023.
“In Vienna, equality for women comes at an extra cost – namely 50 cents per visit. I do not accept the justification that toilet cubicles require more cleaning. Because let’s be honest – men don’t always hit the mark at a urinal either,” said the Ombudswoman. “I expect the City of Vienna to rectify this unequal treatment immediately. Either everyone pays, or nobody pays. Enough of this toilet discrimination. Equal treatment when using the toilet is not a luxury, but an obligation,” emphasised Ombudsperson Gaby Schwarz.
"Put an end to toilet discrimination", Ombudswoman Gaby Schwarz. Photo: Ombudsman’s Office/Michael Gruber