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austria<br />

the public official) before the authorities gain knowledge of it goes<br />

without punishment.<br />

What are the maximum sanctions for bribery in the public sector?<br />

Up to ten years of imprisonment or a corresponding monetary fine.<br />

2. Bribery in the private sector<br />

Active bribery: Is it an offence to bribe (i) employees, (ii) agents,<br />

or (iii) shareholders/owners of private companies with the intention<br />

that they act or omit to act contrary to their duties?<br />

Yes, regarding (i) and (ii), but it may be prosecuted only if a third<br />

party (e.g., a competitor) demands prosecution. Active bribery of<br />

shareholders/owners (iii) is not an offence.<br />

Active bribery: Is it an offence to bribe (i) employees, (ii) agents,<br />

or (iii) shareholders/owners of private companies with the intention<br />

that they act or omit to act in accordance with their duties?<br />

No.<br />

Passive bribery: Is it an offence if (i) employees, (ii) agents, or<br />

(iii) shareholders/owners of private companies accept advantages<br />

in exchange for an act or the omission of an act contrary<br />

to their duties?<br />

Yes regarding (i) and (ii). However, it may be prosecuted only if<br />

a third party (e.g., a competitor) demands prosecution or if the<br />

advantage exceeds EUR 3,000. Passive bribery of shareholders/<br />

owners (iii) is not an offence.<br />

Passive bribery: Is it an offence if (i) employees, (ii) agents, or<br />

(iii) shareholders/owners of private companies accept advantages<br />

in exchange for an act or the omission of an act in accordance<br />

with their duties?<br />

No.<br />

Is there a specific monetary limit up to which a person can offer<br />

gifts to (i) employees, (ii) agents, or (iii) shareholders/owners<br />

without being held criminally liable? (e.g., gifts below EUR 100<br />

will not be considered an advantage) (Geringfügigkeitsgrenze)<br />

No monetary limit is expressed by law in EUR. However, according<br />

to the Austrian Supreme Court jurisdiction, a benefit of up to EUR 100<br />

www.schoenherr.eu<br />

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