The Austrian National Academy of Music uses measures that endanger children's health, including smoking, according to the investigation commission.

The conclusion of a special investigation commission sponsored by the Austrian government on December 17 showed that the National Academy of Music Theater, the world's leading prestigious ballet dancer training, "ignored" the benefits. of young practitioners, preventing them from receiving adequate medical care.

Susane Reindl-Krauskopf, head of the investigation committee, said students were encouraged to smoke by the academy to stay in shape and were often called by their first names or clothing sizes.

"It is clear that those children and teens are not protected from discrimination, apathy and lack of medical care," the report said. The report also warned of overtraining that "poses a risk to practitioners' health".

The scandal was uncovered in April when Falter magazine accused the Austrian National Academy of Musicals of physical and mental abuse, as well as sexually assaulting practitioners.

Investigative reports claim that the academy used teaching methods from the "19th century", in which young dancers were beaten, tortured to bloody, grabbed by hair and humiliated in appearance. the child exhibits anorexia.

The Austrian government has set up a special commission to investigate the matter. This committee held 16 hearings and interrogated a total of 24 people.

Reindl-Krauskopf said that the director of the National Academy of Musicals Dominique Meyer did not fulfill his managerial responsibilities. Meyer called for a "thorough investigation" when the case was uncovered in April.

Responding to the conclusions of the investigation committee, the National Academy of Music said it had reduced the number of practitioners' concerts and would study the report carefully before giving formal feedback.

The Academy also organized a nutrition and fitness course, as well as hiring a psychologist to assist students. However, the investigating committee said that the above measures are not effective.

Established in 1771, the Austrian National Academy of Music attracts students from around the world. It is a training ground for many dancers serving world-renowned art troupes, such as the Royal Theater in London, the Mariinsky Theater in St. Peterburg, and the American Dance Theater in New York.