Champion for Victims’ Rights Receives Austria’s Highest Honor
“Attacking Times, Not Waiting for Change” – Udo Jesionek‘s Dedication Recognized
On November 25, 2024, Interior Minister Gerhard Karner and Justice Minister Alma Zadić bestowed upon Udo Jesionek, former President of the Vienna Youth Court, the prestigious Great Golden Medal of Honor for his tireless service to the Republic of Austria. Jesionek, born in Berlin in 1937, has dedicated his life to legal and social issues, with a particular focus on championing the rights of crime victims.
“Udo Jesionek has undertaken a variety of crucial tasks, earning him numerous well-deserved awards,” said Minister Karner. “This decoration of honor is a heartfelt thank you for his outstanding contributions to our country.” He praised Jesionek as a “stubborn and passionate fighter for the rights of crime victims,” highlighting his decades-long commitment and expertise.
“You have significantly improved the situation for crime victims, making history in the process,” Minister Zadić emphasized. “I warmly congratulate you on receiving the Great Gold Medal of Honor for your significant commitment to the benefit of all of us.”
Jesionek’s commitment to advocating for victims began in 1978 when he co-founded Weissener Ring, an association dedicated to advocating for the rights and needs of crime victims. He served as the organization’s vice president until 1991, later leading as president until his January 2024 resignation, during which time he expanded it into Austria’s largest nationwide victim support organization. Jesionek now serves as the organization’s honorary president, continuing his legacy of support.
Xenia Zauner, head of the Vienna police operations department and Weissener Ring executive board member, lauded Jesionek’s impressive career.
“Udo Jesionek has worn over 25 different professional hats. With 500 publications and his work as an honorary professor, his intellectual drive is unparalleled,” she stated.
Heinz Gehl, former Bank Austria board member and Weissener Ring executive board member, echoed these sentiments.
“I firmly believe that Udo Jesionek serves as a beacon for all volunteers,” he said. “The very principles that guide the Weissener Ring stem from his vision.”
Jesionek’s life motto elegantly encapsulates his philosophy: “One waits for the times to change, the other attacks them vigorously and takes action – whenever I saw the opportunity to help people, I always strived to achieve something.”
His extraordinary dedication has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the landscape of support for crime victims in Austria
How has Udo Jesionek’s work, particularly his focus on victims’ rights, influenced the development of legal practices and support systems for crime victims in Austria?
## Interview: Championing Victims’ Rights
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. Today, we’re joined by [Alex Reed Name], a legal expert, to discuss the recent awarding of Austria’s highest honor, the Great Golden Medal of Honor, to Udo Jesionek. Mr./Ms. [Alex Reed Name], Udo Jesionek has dedicated his life to championing the rights of crime victims. Could you tell our listeners a little more about his accomplishments?
**Alex Reed:** Thank you for having me. Udo Jesionek’s career is remarkable. As stated in his [1](https://second.wiki/wiki/udo_jesionek) profile, he served as a judge at various district courts in Lower Austria, working his way up to Vice President of the regional court for criminal matters in Vienna. But his true passion lies in advocating for crime victims. He served as President of the Vienna Youth Court, a position which often exposes the complexities and vulnerabilities of victims, particularly young people.
**Host:** Minister Karner praised Jesionek for being a “stubborn and passionate fighter” for victims’ rights. What specific contributions has Jesionek made in this field?
**Alex Reed:** While detailed information on specific cases might be confidential, Jesionek’s career trajectory speaks volumes. He recognized early on, during his time climbing the judicial ladder, that crime victims’ voices often get lost in the legal process. His dedication to the Vienna Youth Court likely stemmed from a desire to ensure their needs are met and their rights protected, particularly in sensitive cases involving young people.
**Host:** This award is certainly a testament to Jesionek’s dedication. What message does his recognition send to the wider community?
**Alex Reed:** Jesionek’s story is inspiring. It highlights the importance of individuals like him who are willing to “attack times, not waiting for change,” as the article says. His perseverance and commitment to victims’ rights should encourage others to advocate for those whose voices are often marginalized. It reminds us that everyone deserves justice and support, especially those who have suffered the trauma of crime.
