Austria: Police Attack On US Man Brings Up Racism

It said there was considerable evidence Austrian police have engaged in widespread ethnic profiling over the past decade, particularly in efforts to counter drug-related crime. It also expressed concern that disciplinary proceedings against law enforcement officials are sometimes not initiated despite "strong evidence" pointing to serious misconduct.

"I'm afraid that the police's role as friend and protector doesn't apply to everyone," said Beatrice Achaleke, executive director of the Vienna-based, nonprofit International Center for Black Women's Perspectives, who has lived in Austria for 14 years.

Achaleke, who is originally from Cameroon and is also president of the Black European Women's Council, said she worries her son, 8, could be harassed once he becomes old enough to go out at night.

"If he goes to a dance club and something happens it's clear he'll be among the first to be questioned by police," she said.

Still, Austria is a popular destination for immigrants because it is a safe and wealthy nation where job prospects are relatively good compared to other European countries. This spring, the Mercer consulting firm ranked its capital, Vienna, as the city with the world's overall highest quality of living. While taxes are high, Austrians enjoy universal health care, generous pensions and extended maternity leave.