Austrian News

Austrian News: Read the latest headlines about developments in Austrian domestic politics with reference to the international interest

Austria Plans Increase in Foreign Policy Budget for 2024

The increased budget for foreign policy matters was discussed as part of the current deliberations in the Budget Committee on the Federal Finance Act 2024. Accordingly, the budget is to rise to 677.2 million euros in the coming year, which corresponds to an increase of 41.7 million euros or 6.6 percent compared to 2023.

November 20, 2023

Austria and Slovenia Support Moldova's EU Aspirations

In a remarkable gesture of solidarity and commitment to European integration, Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen and Slovenian President Nataša Pirc Musar recently visited Moldova and met with President Maia Sandu.

November 17, 2023

Uncovering of Money Laundering and Real Estate Fraud in Austria and Cyprus

New leaks have uncovered a complex network of opaque asset transfers centered around Russian oligarchs and Austrian real estate. According to the investigative project "Cyprus Confidential", Austrian real estate is particularly popular with wealthy Russians. Around 40 Cypriot companies own real estate in Vienna, often penthouses in expensive locations.

November 16, 2023

Herbert Kickl and the FPÖ: Propagating "Fortress Austria"

Herbert Kickl, the chairman of the Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ), is already in an election campaign mood and reiterated his critical stance on migration and asylum policy in Austria and Europe at a press conference. In clear terms, he called for an "asylum stop" and the implementation of a "Fortress Austria". His rhetoric was aimed at a strict demarcation policy and an election victory.

November 15, 2023

ODIHR and OSCE Combat Hate Crime and Promote Tolerance

In light of a worrying rise in hate crimes, particularly against Jewish and Muslim communities, the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) is intensifying its efforts to counter this trend.

November 13, 2023

Austria Intensifies its Fight Against Anti-Semitism: New Legal Reforms and Culture of Remembrance

On the occasion of the Remembrance Day of the November protests and at a time of global unrest and growing anti-Semitic tendencies, Austria has taken decisive steps to intensify the fight against anti-Semitism. This commitment manifests itself in a series of initiatives ranging from the reform of existing laws to the promotion of an active culture of remembrance.

November 13, 2023

Austria's Engagement in the Middle East: Solidarity with Israel and Support for Palestine

Amid the tense situation in the Middle East, Austria has reaffirmed its solidarity with Israel and at the same time pledged humanitarian aid for the Palestinian civilian population.

November 12, 2023

Austria and Czech Republic for European Stability and Security

During a pivotal meeting in Vienna, Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg and his Czech counterpart Jan Lipavský showcased a united front on several critical international issues.

November 8, 2023

Austria Under Observation: New Online Tool Uncovers Deficits in Human Rights Policy

A new online monitoring tool, developed by the Austrian League for Human Rights in cooperation with the Austrian Ombudsman Board, marks a turning point in the monitoring of the human rights situation in Austria. It reveals the areas in which the country has some catching up to do in terms of human rights, including in the international arena, such as Austrian development aid.

November 8, 2023

Vienna Pioneer for Circular Economy: Climate Lab as a Spark for Climate Transformation

In the heart of Vienna, more precisely at the Climate Lab in Vienna Spittelau, an innovative movement has emerged that has the potential to fundamentally change the way Austria's economy deals with its resources. Climate Protection Minister Leonore Gewessler and the top representatives of Austria's largest companies came together to drive forward a sustainable transformation of Austria as a business location, with the Climate Lab playing a key role.

November 5, 2023

Austria and the UK Join Forces Against Illegal Migration

A new era of cooperation in the areas of security and migration policy between Austria and the UK was heralded when the Home Secretaries of both countries, Gerhard Karner and Suella Braverman, signed an agreement to combat cross-border crime. This took place during the British Home Secretary's working visit to Vienna, where in-depth discussions were held on the bilateral relationship and the strengthening of internal security.

November 5, 2023

New "Integration Service for Skilled Workers" Opened in Austria

The Federal Minister for Women, Family, Integration and Media, Susanne Raab, visited the newly founded "Integration Service for Skilled Workers". The facility serves as a central point of contact for qualified skilled workers and their families as well as for companies operating in Austria. The service includes advice, information, and events on topics such as pre-integration, living and working in Austria as well as German language courses.

November 2, 2023

Austria's Rejection of UN Resolution Raises Questions Within the Government

Austria voted against a resolution in the UN General Assembly calling for an immediate ceasefire and improvement in the humanitarian situation in the Middle East. The decision, made by the ÖVP-led government, has caused tensions within the coalition, especially with the Green coalition partner, which has distanced itself from the decision.

November 1, 2023

Austrian Politics Between Neutrality and Security Policy

A heated political climate is currently shaping the political debate in Austria, where the FPÖ and other political groups in parliament are debating the issues of neutrality, security policy, and the right approach to current crises.

October 31, 2023

Austrian Blue Helmet Forum and Association of Austrian Peacekeepers

The significant gathering of civilian and military experts at the "Blue Helmet Forum" hosted by the "Association of Austrian Peacekeepers" at the National Defense Academy showcased Austria's international commitment to peace and conflict resolution.

October 30, 2023

Austria's National Day: A Look Back and an Appeal for the Future

On October 26, Austria celebrates its National Day, a date deeply rooted in the country's history and at the same time an opportunity to look to the future. The day marks the anniversary of the proclamation of perpetual neutrality in 1955, a pivotal moment in Austria's postwar history. But what does this day mean to the people of Austria and how does it connect to the challenges of the present?

October 26, 2023

Democracy in Crisis: How Austria's Democracy Index Reveals Alarming Trends

In recent years, democracy in Austria seemed to be on a good path. But the current Democracy Index raises eyebrows: The state of the democratic infrastructure is stagnating, and in some areas, there has even been regression. There is particular cause for concern in the areas of fundamental rights and the media landscape. But why is that and what can be done to counteract it?

October 26, 2023

Austria's Schengen Veto Dominates Meeting Between Austria's Nehammer and Bulgaria's Denkov

A significant meeting took place in Vienna between Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer and Bulgarian Prime Minister Nikolay Denkov. The talks focused on Austria's persistent Schengen veto, which currently prevents an expansion of the Schengen area to include Bulgaria and Romania.

October 25, 2023

75 Years of Human Rights: A Light Art Celebration in the Heart of Vienna

The Parliament in Vienna will become a radiant work of light art between November 2023 and January 2024 to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the signing of the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Austrian artist Victoria Coeln, known for her impressive light installations in world-famous locations, will transform the facade of the Parliament into a shining symbol of diversity, freedom, dignity, and rights for all.

October 24, 2023

Drastic Increase in Anti-Semitic Incidents in Austria

In recent days, the Anti-Semitism Reporting Office of the Vienna Israelite Community (IKG) has noted a worrying increase in anti-Semitic incidents in Austria. This is directly related to the devastating attacks on Israel by Hamas, in which more than 1,400 people have been killed and over 200 kidnapped, while thousands of rockets have been fired at Israel.

October 22, 2023

Vienna's Mayor Establishes "Council of Religions" to Foster Interfaith Dialogue and Peace

Vienna's Mayor, Michael Ludwig, convened a significant meeting at the cityhall, bringing together representatives from diverse religious groups in response to recent developments in the Middle East. These events underscore the vital role of religious tolerance and understanding in maintaining peaceful coexistence in society.

October 19, 2023

Austria Introduces Border Controls at Czech Border

In a remarkable reaction to Germany's decision to introduce stationary border controls at its borders with the Czech Republic, Poland, and Switzerland, Austria has announced that it will also introduce controls at its border with the Czech Republic. This step is intended to combat illegal migration and smuggling activities.

October 17, 2023

Othmar Karas' Reckoning with the ÖVP

For about 25 years, Othmar Karas, the first vice president of the EU Parliament, was a weighty member of the Austrian People's Party (ÖVP) in the European context. His withdrawal from the EU election and the associated clear criticism of his party caused a political stir in Austria.

October 12, 2023

Austria Intensifies Vigilance of Israeli Facilities in Wake of Hamas Attack

Amid an escalating Middle East conflict and subsequent massive military clashes between Israel and the terrorist organization Hamas, Austria's Interior Minister Gerhard Karner has ordered increased surveillance of Israeli facilities in the country. The measure is aimed at ensuring the safety of citizens and facilities that could potentially be targeted for attacks.

October 11, 2023

Evacuation Flight for Austrians from Israel: Austrian Government and Armed Forces Respond to Security Situation

Due to the ongoing tense security situation in Israel, which has led to numerous airlines suspending their connections to the country, the Austrian government has decided to take evacuation measures for its citizens.

October 10, 2023

EX-FPÖ Defense Minister Herbert Scheibner: Shadow Diplomacy in Syria and Iran

In the summer of 2019, when Syria's President Bashar al-Assad was acting with extreme brutality against the rebels in Idlib, former FPÖ Defense Minister Herbert Scheibner went on a trip to Syria. He met high-ranking representatives of the Assad regime in Damascus and later visited the Iranian ambassador in Vienna. But what drove Scheibner to these meetings?

October 9, 2023

Austria Reacts to Hamas Attack: Solidarity with Israel and Concern about Iran

Amid the tense situation in the Middle East, the Iranian ambassador was summoned to the Foreign Ministry in Vienna. Austria strongly condemned the official Iranian reaction to the attack on Israel by the Hamas terrorist organization. The Foreign Ministry stressed that Austria categorically rejects any questioning of Israel's right to exist and will consistently act against any form of anti-Semitism in the future.

October 9, 2023

Austria Takes Position Against Russian Wagner Group

The Foreign Affairs Committee of the Austrian National Council in Parliament has unanimously supported an initiative against the activities of the Russian Wagner Group. This follows allegations that the group is involved in human rights abuses and war crimes in Ukraine and other countries. The committee calls for Austria to take action with European partners to limit the group's influence and global presence.

October 5, 2023

Federation of Austrian Industries: New Divisional Managers in "Education & Society" and "International Relations & Markets

The Federation of Austrian Industries (IV) has announced personnel changes in two of its core areas. Gudrun Feucht and Igor Sekardi join in senior positions, supported by their previous roles at IV and their extensive expertise in their respective areas.

October 2, 2023

Central European Foreign Ministers of the "Central 5" Discuss OSCE, Ukraine, and Migration

The foreign ministers of the "Central 5" (C5) - Austria, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, and Slovenia - met in Vienna to discuss current security policy and neighborhood issues. Host Alexander Schallenberg stressed the importance of the Organization for Security and Cooperation (OSCE) as a pan-European platform for dialogue, especially in light of the challenges posed by Russia's attack on Ukraine and the need to keep the OSCE alive. During the meeting, Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijártó repeatedly irritated the participants.

October 1, 2023

Peter Launsky-Tieffenthal: The New World Special Representative of the Austrian Chancellor

Peter Launsky-Tieffenthal, former Secretary General of the Austrian Foreign Ministry, was recently appointed World Special Representative by Chancellor Karl Nehammer. His main task in this new function will be to intensify relations between Austria and the global South, especially Africa.

October 1, 2023

Austria Advocates Accelerated EU Integration of the Western Balkans

Austria's Minister of European Affairs Karoline Edtstadler and Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg show a profound commitment to the integration of the Western Balkan countries into the European Union (EU). They recently sent concrete proposals in a letter and a "non-paper" to EU External Relations Commissioner Josep Borrell and Enlargement Commissioner Oliver Varhelyi. The central theme of these proposals is to accelerate the enlargement process and clarify the agenda for 2024 and beyond.

September 27, 2023

Possible Spy Ring: Ex-Wirecard Manager and Suspected Russian Spies on Trial

British investigators suspect that former Wirecard manager and Austrian Jan Marsalek was involved in a spy network acting for Russia. This information became known through a communication from the British public prosecutor's office and was later reported by BBC and "Spiegel".

September 26, 2023

FPÖ-Delegation Visits Taliban in Afghanistan

Several members of the FPÖ (Freedom Party of Austria) traveled to Afghanistan and met, among others, Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. The meeting became known through a press release from the Afghan Foreign Ministry, which also published a photo of the delegation.

September 25, 2023

Austria Provides 2 Million Euros for Disaster Relief in North Africa

The suffering caused by natural disasters in Morocco and Libya has caused consternation around the world. To respond to this humanitarian crisis, the Austrian Federal Government has decided to provide two million euros from the Foreign Ministry's Foreign Disaster Fund.

September 21, 2023

Austria's Air Future: Embraer's C-390 Set to Replace the Stalwart C-130

In a landmark decision, Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner, flanked by National Armaments Director Major General Harald Vodosek, announced the intended replacement for the Austrian Armed Forces' reliable yet aging C-130 "Hercules": the Embraer C-390.

September 20, 2023

EU-Mercosur Pact: Austria's Balancing Act between Trade Opportunities and Sustainability

The discussion about the free trade agreement between the EU and the Mercosur countries - Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay - is entering a new round. While some see the treaty as an opportunity to intensify trade between the two economic areas, others raise serious concerns about its impact on the environment and social standards.

September 19, 2023

Austrian Armed Forces Continue to Provide Protection for Embassies in Vienna

To support the police and secure embassies and other critical objects in Vienna, the Austrian Armed Forces have extended the duration of their assistance mission until March 31, 2024.

September 17, 2023

Discrimination on the Housing Market: A Growing Problem in Austria

A recent SORA study conducted on behalf of the Ombud for Equal Treatment highlights a serious problem in Austria's real estate market: racism and discrimination. People with foreign-sounding names or accents have significantly fewer chances of being invited to view an apartment compared to people with typical Austrian names.

September 14, 2023

Austria EU Representative Selmayr at Dispute Because Of "Blood Money" Statement

EU representative Martin Selmayr has called Austrian gas payments to Russia "blood money". Now reprimanded by Vienna and Brussels, EU Commission representative Martin Selmayr does not want to give up his job in Austria.

September 14, 2023

Historic Center of Vienna Remains on the UNESCO Red List

The historic center of Vienna remains on UNESCO's red list of endangered World Heritage Sites despite recent changes to the Heumarkt project. This was decided by UNESCO. Now it is being examined whether the project is compatible with World Heritage in this way.

September 13, 2023

19th Salzburg Europe Summit 2023: "Europe: Setting out for New Horizons"

From September 24 to 26, 2023, the Institute of the Regions of Europe (IRE) invites you to the 19th Salzburg Europe Summit at the Salzburg Congress. More than 700 participants from all over Europe are expected to discuss together the current challenges and opportunities of the continent.

September 12, 2023

Austrian Army Modernizes its Tank Fleet in Germany

In the presence of the Minister of Defense, Klaudia Tanner the first "Leopard" main battle tank from Wels was handed over to the European armaments company Krauss-Maffei Wegmann and Nexter Defence Systems (KNDS). The aim of this initiative is to modernize the tank so that it meets current technological and military requirements.

September 11, 2023

New Regulations in Vienna: Year-round Outdoor Cafés and Green Parklets

In an innovative response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the City of Vienna has adopted new regulations for catering establishments and public lounges. Both Schanigärten (Viennese Outdoor Cafés) and the green parklets known as "Grätzloasen" are now allowed to remain in public spaces all year round.

September 10, 2023

Austria's Ex-Economy Minister Schramböck in Saudi Arabia: Progress on Women's Rights and Economic Opportunities

The former Austrian Minister of Economy, Margarete Schramböck, has given insights into her new professional activities in Saudi Arabia in an interview with the magazine "trend". She is currently on the board of Aramco Digital, a digital subsidiary of Saudi Aramco, the world's largest oil company, which was founded in spring 2023. Schramböck plays an important role there, which she describes as "between the executive board and the supervisory board."

September 7, 2023

Israeli Ambassador Received Federal Association Medal for Services to the Jewish Community in Austria

In a moving ceremony, Israeli Ambassador Mordechai Rodgold was awarded the "Great Golden Medal of Honor" by the Federal Association of Jewish Communities in Austria. This honor not only marked a remarkable recognition of his work but was also the first time that an Israeli ambassador was awarded this medal. In the presence of leading community representatives and dignitaries, the award ceremony became both an emotional farewell and a celebration of the close ties between Ambassador Rodgold and the communities in Vienna and throughout Austria.

September 6, 2023

Austria's Ambassadors' Conference 2023 Under the title "Austria's Eyes and Ears in the World"

Austria's Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg opened this year's Foreign Ministry Ambassadors' Conference, which is taking place this week in Vienna. The week-long conference brings together the heads of Austrian embassies and permanent representations to deepen mutual exchange and intensify cooperation with their colleagues in Vienna.

September 5, 2023

House of History Austria Sets an Example with Special Guided Tours to the "Hitler Balcony"

The House of Austrian History (hdgö) is adding two special tours at short notice to its program, which will take a look at the so-called "Hitler Balcony". The tours will take place on September 7 and 14, 2023, and will be led by Director Monika Sommer under the title "(K)ein Hitler-Balkon" (No Hitler Balcony).

September 4, 2023

Austria Signs Strategic Partnership for Food Aid

In the midst of global humanitarian challenges and in view of the increasing need for international food aid, Minister of Agriculture Norbert Totschnig signed a landmark three-year Strategic Partnership for Food Aid together with Ute Klamert, Associate Executive Director of the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP). This significant agreement was sealed on the sidelines of the European Forum Alpbach in Tyrol and is intended to help address the current global food crisis.

September 4, 2023

Austria's Positive Path Towards Citizenship for Descendants of National Socialism Victims

Austria took an important step in October 2019 to live up to its historical responsibility. Parliament made it possible for the descendants of persecutees of National Socialism to obtain citizenship through a "notification". This significant amendment to the Citizenship Law came into force on September 1, 2020. In view of the third anniversary of this change, Foreign Minister Schallenberg draws a positive conclusion.

September 3, 2023