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A Crisis Manager for Vienna: Monica Juma Takes the Helm at UNODC and UNOV
A historic leadership change at the UN City in Vienna: Monica Juma, an experienced Kenyan diplomat and security expert, has officially assumed her duties as the new Director-General of the United Nations Office at Vienna (UNOV) and Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). With the rank of Under-Secretary-General, Juma thus assumes one of the most influential positions for an African diplomat in the entire UN system. She succeeds Ghada Waly of Egypt.
Yesterday
Jewish Museum Vienna is Showing Eran Shakin’s “A Muslim, a Christian, and a Jew”
A joke that doesn’t mean to be one: wearing bowler hats, tailcoats, and carrying canes, three figures wander through worlds that are both bizarre and ordinary. In these times of deep social polarization, Israeli artist Eran Shakine’s new exhibition at the Jewish Museum Vienna highlights the common ground between the world’s three major religions—with humor, depth, and a touch of naive hope.
Yesterday
Wachau European Forum Calls for a Radical Shift in Thinking on Safety and Health
Under the forward-looking theme “The Next 30,” the Europa-Forum Wachau became the epicenter of European future policy from May 18 to 22, 2026. Marking its 30th anniversary, the forum in the heart of Lower Austria brought together a high-caliber international group of leaders from politics, business, and academia. The unanimous conclusion of the intensive debates: In light of global geopolitical upheavals, Europe must transform itself from a project focused solely on prosperity and regulation into a resilient, digitally sovereign, and economically agile actor.
May 20, 2026
Reception for International News Agencies at the Presidential Office: VdB Promotes Quality Journalism
Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen recently surprised guests at a reception for international news agencies at the Presidential Chancellery with an unusual opening remark: he appeared to give the assembled journalists a “great crypto investment tip.” But what sounded like a curious slip of the tongue quickly turned out to be a stark warning about the manipulative power of artificial intelligence.
May 5, 2026
Signa's Insolvency Administrator Declines to Challenge the 700-Million-Franc Judgment in Geneva
Amid the ruins of the Benko empire, the lines are being drawn. As the restructuring team at Signa Holding comes to terms with a far-reaching ruling from Geneva, pressure is mounting on prominent advisors such as Alfred Gusenbauer. An overview of the current state of affairs surrounding the largest bankruptcy in Austrian economic history.
May 4, 2026
U.S. Diplomacy and Austrian Businesses: Austria’s Economic Giants Expanding in the U.S.
From Red Bull to Borealis: A high-level business delegation will travel to Maryland in May for the “SelectUSA Investment Summit.” Led by U.S. Ambassador Art Fisher, the trip underscores the historically close and economically thriving ties between Vienna and Washington.
May 3, 2026
New Direct Flight Between Xi’an and Vienna Officially Launched
A milestone for tourism and economic cooperation: With China Eastern Airlines’ new flight route, the former imperial city of Xi’an and the music capital of Vienna are growing closer. The launch on April 20 marks a special diplomatic anniversary.
May 2, 2026
Schiebel of Wiener Neustadt Ushering in a New Era with Armed Camcopters
For a long time, the Lower Austrian company Schiebel was regarded as a prime example of high-tech civilian and government technology “Made in Austria.” With its unmanned helicopters (UAS), the company monitored the world’s oceans, tracked down environmental offenders, and supported rescue teams. However, the increasingly tense geopolitical situation has led to a strategic shift in direction: With the new Camcopter S-101 and S-301 models, Schiebel is introducing drones designed specifically for armed operations for the first time.
April 29, 2026
Poland to Assume the ICMPD Presidency in 2026
In a formal ceremony, Poland assumed the chairmanship of the Steering Group of the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD). Amid geopolitical tensions, one of the most important host countries for Ukrainian refugees has thus taken the helm of the organization. Polish representative Paweł Dąbrowski took over the position from Eva Åkerman Börje of Sweden.
April 13, 2026
Future RBI Chief Höllerer Promotes Exit from Russia and Expansion into Eastern Europe
At this year’s annual general meeting of Raiffeisen Bank International (RBI) in Vienna, the course for the future was set. Michael Höllerer, who will take over from Johann Strobl in July, outlined a clear strategy: a more systematic withdrawal from Russia, coupled with massive growth in the core markets of Central and Eastern Europe.
April 12, 2026
Eitek Austrian Auto Parts Supplier Scandal: Between Bankruptcy and Billion-Dollar Fraud
Eitek GmbH, a long-established company based in Lower Austria, is currently facing significant financial challenges. While restructuring proceedings involving the automotive supplier are underway at the Korneuburg Regional Court, a criminal indictment against owner Patrick James in the United States is causing further uncertainty. Approximately 280 jobs at the Ebergassing site are directly affected by the proceedings.
April 2, 2026
EU and Australia Seal a Free Trade Agreement, and Austrian Business Leaders Celebrate
After eight years of tough negotiations, a breakthrough has been achieved. The EU and Australia have agreed on a comprehensive free trade agreement. While Brussels has its sights set on raw materials for the energy transition, the Austrian business community sees massive export opportunities. But the path to final implementation remains fraught with bureaucratic hurdles.
March 26, 2026
OMV and ADNOC Appoint Leadership Team for Borouge Group International
This marks the birth of a global leader in the petrochemical industry. With the announcement of the executive board for the new Borouge Group International AG (BGI), the Austrian energy company OMV and the state-owned company ADNOC from the United Arab Emirates are entering the home stretch of their historic merger.
March 26, 2026
Hotel Sacher in Vienna is Celebrating its 150th Anniversary with Sculptures by Erwin Wurm
It is a date that brings together tradition and innovation on the Viennese stage. The Hotel Sacher Vienna, a global symbol of Austrian hospitality and the art of chocolate, is celebrating its 150th anniversary. But instead of dusty nostalgia, a fresh, almost surreal breeze is blowing through Philharmonikerstraße: Oversized handbags on spindly legs have been guarding the entrance to this iconic hotel since today.
March 26, 2026
Vienna Celebrates the First International Taijiquan Day with Chinese Ambassador Qi Mei
Hundreds of enthusiasts gathered in Vienna to mark UNESCO’s first official International Taijiquan Day. Among the guests was China’s Ambassador Qi Mei, who practiced the “24-form” alongside sports stars and members of the public, symbolizing the 55-year friendship between China and Austria.
March 24, 2026
How the Iran Conflict is Affecting Europe's Economy and Gas Prices in Austria
While diesel prices in Austria are approaching the two-euro mark, energy regulators are warning of a protracted rise in electricity prices. A complex interplay of geopolitics, fiscal disputes, and EU-wide reform plans paints a picture of an industry in a state of emergency.
March 19, 2026
The Ban Ki-moon Foundation Reflects on a Transformative 2025
On International Women’s Day 2026, the Ban Ki-moon Foundation (BKMF) released its long-awaited annual report for 2025. Under the leadership of the 8th UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and former Austrian President Dr. Heinz Fischer, the organization looks back on a year marked by structural growth and massive global reach. Having reached over 2.8 million people worldwide, the foundation is setting new standards in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda.
March 18, 2026
Austria's Industry Defies the Crisis: Billion-Dollar Contracts, Expansion, and a New Direction in the Capital Markets
While geopolitical tensions and fragile supply chains keep the global economy on edge, the domestic industry is making a powerful statement. From massive infrastructure projects by voestalpine and Andritz to multi-million-euro plant expansions at FACC—Austria’s leading companies are demonstrating resilience. This upswing is accompanied by a slight easing in corporate bankruptcies and new legal measures to facilitate IPOs.
March 18, 2026
Vienna as a Global Hub for Disarmament Diplomacy: 15 Years of the Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation
In a time marked by intense geopolitical tensions, armed conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, and growing risks of nuclear proliferation, the importance of dialogue and arms control is coming increasingly into focus. Against this backdrop, the Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP) celebrated its 15th anniversary.
March 15, 2026
Booming City Tourism and a New EU Signal: How Austria’s Tourism Industry Is Shaping Its Future
Austria’s tourism industry is on the rise. While city tourism set new records in 2025 as a key driver of the economy, a landmark debate is emerging at the European level: The introduction of legally sound “resident rates” is intended to strengthen public acceptance of tourism in the long term.
March 15, 2026
Austria's Business Location in 2026: A Year of Records and Strategic Realignment
Despite a challenging global economic environment and geopolitical uncertainties, the Austrian Business Agency (ABA) has achieved remarkable results for 2025. With a record number of consultations and targeted investments of around €900 million, Austria is positioning itself as a resilient location in the heart of Europe.
March 12, 2026
ICMPD's Susanne Raab's Diplomatic Marathon to Reshape European Migration Policy
Since taking office as Director General of the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD), former Austrian Minister Susanne Raab has set a pace that is unparalleled in the world of international diplomacy. In just two months, Raab has laid the strategic cornerstones for a new era of migration management.
March 5, 2026
How the Iran War is Tearing Austria's Economy Between Crisis and Opportunity?
While drones and missiles fly in the Persian Gulf, calculators are working overtime in Vienna. The geopolitical escalation in the Middle East has Austria's economy firmly in its grip. Between rapidly rising fuel prices, stubborn inflation, and hopes for an “economic miracle after regime change,” the small European country faces an uncertain but highly exciting economic future.
March 3, 2026
Vienna Positioning Itself as a Global Hub for Ukraine's Reconstruction
At the end of February, 50 international special coordinators met in Vienna to set the course for the reconstruction of Ukraine. For the domestic economy, this is about more than just solidarity—it is an investment project of historic proportions.
March 2, 2026
The Middle East Powder Keg: Between Rocket Attacks, Oil Price Shock, and Nuclear Uncertainty
Following massive U.S.-Israeli military strikes against Iran and Iranian counterstrikes in the region in the Emirates, Lebanon, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Cyprus, Kuwait, and Oman, the international community is facing a severe test. While Tehran laments damage to its nuclear program, the IAEA urges caution. In Austria, the government is preparing for the economic consequences, while thousands of citizens are stranded in the crisis region.
March 2, 2026
Vienna and Prague: A New Economic Giant in the Heart of Europe
The capitals of Austria and Czechia are committed to drastically intensifying their cooperation. The goal: to create a Central European economic area that can compete with the world's major metropolitan regions.
March 2, 2026
Glamorous Anniversary Gala at the Hoxton Vienna: 20 Years of the IMMY Award
When the Real Estate and Asset Trustees Section of the Vienna Economic Chamber calls, the who's who of the industry gathers. On Tuesday evening, the IMMY Award, the most coveted seal of quality in the Viennese real estate industry, celebrated its 20th anniversary. In a festive evening show, those brokerage firms that set new standards in service, competence, and customer orientation were honored.
February 26, 2026
IGGÖ and Austria as Bridge Builders Through Interfaith Dialogue
From Vienna to the provinces: the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan is increasingly becoming a platform for social cohesion in Austria. While Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen sent a strong signal for diversity at the interfaith Iftar in Cobenzl Castle, the Islamic Religious Community in Austria (IGGÖ) emphasized the importance of internal cohesion at its internal Muslim fast-breaking ceremony.
February 26, 2026
The Mullahs' Vienna Network: How the Iranian Regime Moves Millions in Austria
A failed million-dollar deal involving a Viennese supermarket chain, secret crypto transfers, and visas for the regime's elite: There are many reveals around the dense network through which the Iranian leadership—including the son of the revolutionary leader—uses Vienna as a financial hub and escape route.
February 26, 2026
High Flying in the Innviertel Region: FACC Makes History in 2025 with Record Sales
While the global aviation industry continues to struggle with supply chain problems, Upper Austrian aerospace group FACC has announced a historic milestone. With record sales and a massive jump in profits, the ATX Prime-listed company is consolidating its position as one of the world's leading technology partners in the industry.
February 25, 2026
Conference in Vienna on Logistics Concerning Europe's Crisis-Ridden Supply Chains
Resilience instead of pure efficiency: Leading experts from business and science discussed the future of global trade at the Palais Niederösterreich. The focus was on geopolitical tensions, digital transformation, and the presentation of the “Logistics Oscar” to a pioneering German project.
February 24, 2026
Kremlin's Shadows in Vienna: The Russian Spy Network and “Operation Vienna”
The Grand Jury Courtroom of the Vienna Regional Court is currently the scene of an espionage saga that is taking even experienced investigators' breath away. At the center of it all is Egisto Ott, a former top official at the now-defunct Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution and Counterterrorism (BVT). The allegations are serious: abuse of office, bribery, and, above all, intelligence activities to the detriment of Austria for the Russian secret service FSB.
February 23, 2026
Vienna Ball Season 2025/26: A Record Year of Superlatives
Vienna has once again proven itself to be the world capital of dance in the 2025/26 ball season, which has just come to an end. With a historic record number of visitors and a massive increase in revenue, the Vienna Chamber of Commerce (WK Wien) is celebrating a triumphant outcome. But this success also brings challenges: demand from abroad is now so high that capacities are reaching their limits.
February 19, 2026
Bridges to an Uncertain Future: Infrastructure and Emerging Markets as Anchors in 2026
In a world that is undergoing a realignment between geopolitical upheavals and technological quantum leaps, investors are seeking stability. The current balance sheet of Raiffeisen Capital Management (RCM) and the analyses of the Raiffeisen Investment Forum last year paint a clear picture: the path to successful returns in 2026 will be via tangible assets and the courage to differentiate regionally.
February 19, 2026
From Vienna to Silicon Valley: The Unprecedented Rise of OpenClaw and Peter Steinberger
Within just a few months, Austrian Peter Steinberger has turned the world of AI upside down with a hobby project. Now he is moving to OpenAI. What began as an experiment with “agentic AI” could change the way we use technology forever.
February 18, 2026
Glitz, Glamour, and Solidarity in Action: the Ukrainian Ball Takes Vienna's Hofburg Palace
While preparations for the Opera Ball kept the city in suspense on the other side of the Ringstrasse, a new chapter in Vienna's ball history was written on Heldenplatz that same evening. For the first time, the Ukrainian Charity Ball took place in the magnificent halls of the Vienna Hofburg. Where emperors once resided, hundreds of guests danced for a good cause under the motto #tanzendhelfen (dancing to help).
February 16, 2026
Broadway Glamour and Tearful Drama: The 68th Vienna Opera Ball as a Stage for World Politics and Emotions
The 68th Vienna Opera Ball once again transformed the State Opera House into the nation's “living room” – a night of diplomatic finesse, Broadway glamour, and unexpectedly deep emotions. While the usual celebrity hustle and bustle prevailed outside on the red carpet, the celebration inside had a special theme: confidence.
February 13, 2026
Business Crisis in the Austrian Publishing Industry: Leykam Discontinues Novels and Children's Books
Austria's oldest publishing house is facing a radical reorientation. As announced by the management of the long-established Leykam publishing house, the company will largely withdraw from the consumer market starting in 2027. In concrete terms, this means the end of the literature, children's, and young adult book divisions, as well as popular non-fiction. In the future, the publishing house, founded in 1585, intends to focus exclusively on the fields of science and education.
February 9, 2026
Russian State Television Films at Vienna Middle School
Christian Klar, principal of the Franz Jonas European School in Floridsdorf, has already given two interviews to the Russian state broadcaster Rossija 1. The Vienna Board of Education appears unaware of the situation, while experts warn against exploiting Vienna's school problems for Kremlin propaganda.
February 9, 2026
Change of Rector at Vienna's IWM: Misha Glenny Returns to the BBC
The renowned Institute for Human Sciences (IWM) is facing a significant change. As announced by the institute, the current rector, Misha Glenny, will step down from his position in 2026. A successor is already being sought through an international call for applications.
February 4, 2026
ams-Osram Sells Sensor Business to German Company Infineon for €570 Million
The semiconductor company ams-Osram is continuing its cost-cutting measures and divesting itself of a significant division. The buyer is German chip giant Infineon, which is primarily strengthening its location in Graz with this acquisition.
February 3, 2026
ICMPD and Migration 2026: A “Window of Opportunity” for Europe
The International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) has published its eagerly awaited “Migration Outlook 2026.” While the number of irregular arrivals in the EU is falling, the organization warns against a false sense of calm. The new Director General, Susanne Raab, calls for the decisive implementation of the EU Asylum Pact.
January 29, 2026
Signa Crisis Intensifies: Concerns About “Bankruptcy Within Bankruptcy” Due to Billion-Dollar Ruling in Paris
The already complex insolvency situation of the Signa Group is now threatened by a new financial blow. An imminent ruling by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) arbitration court could ruin the local proceedings—even before the first installment is paid to creditors.
January 29, 2026
Vienna as a Bridge to Latin America: Austria Becomes a Pioneer Donor for Urban Development
In a groundbreaking round of consultations, Austria has consolidated its role as a strategic partner to Latin America. The Republic is the world's first donor to support the Inter-American Development Bank's (IDB) new “Cities and Regions” program. This positions Vienna as a central hub for sustainable urbanization and economic cooperation shortly before the IDB's major annual meeting in Paraguay.
January 28, 2026
IAEA and International Financial Institutions Strengthen Cooperation
Representatives from the World Bank Group, the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), and the OPEC Fund for International Development met at the Vienna International Centre of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to discuss recent progress in financing nuclear energy projects. The meeting was part of a new phase in which cooperation between the IAEA and multilateral development banks is moving from purely diplomatic dialogue to tangible projects.
January 28, 2026
Music Against Oblivion: Exile Art Celebrates a Grand Double Anniversary in 2026
The Exile Art Center at the mdw (University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna) has announced an extraordinary program for 2026. With a series of high-caliber concerts and exhibitions, the institution will celebrate its tenth anniversary as a university center and the 20th anniversary of its founding association. The goal remains unchanged: to make audible the voices of those who were silenced by the Nazi regime.
January 13, 2026 · Sponsored Content
After 25 Years Mercosur Agreement Reached: Austria Torn Between Export Euphoria and Farmers' Fears
After a quarter of a century of negotiations, the European Union has paved the way for the world's largest free trade agreement. While Austrian industry is calling it a “historic milestone,” the agricultural sector is bitterly disappointed.
January 12, 2026
CEOs Ranked for 2025: ORF Chief Weißmann Reigns Over Austria's Business Elite
Those who feature in Austria's media landscape often determine the country's discourse. The current CEO ranking by PR service provider APA-Comm for the period from October 2024 to September 2025 shows that a historic music event and shifts in sporting power have shaken up the ranking of the most prominent company bosses. While an old acquaintance triumphs at the top, the proportion of women in executive positions is struggling with a severe setback.
December 29, 2025
Chinese Delegation Strengthens Economic Ties in Styria
Relations between China and Austria, particularly with the province of Styria, were further strengthened by the visit of a high-ranking Chinese delegation. Ambassador Qi Mei of the People's Republic of China in Austria led a delegation from the Association of Chinese Enterprises in Austria (VCUOe) on a study trip to the federal state.
December 15, 2025
200 Years of Partnership: Austria and Brazil Strengthen Economic Cooperation in Vienna
As part of the 200th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Austria and Brazil, the 3rd meeting of the Joint Austrian-Brazilian Economic Commission (JEC) took place in Vienna last week. This meeting, which brought together government and business representatives from both nations, marks a significant milestone in the bilateral partnership and reaffirms the shared desire to deepen cooperation.
December 8, 2025
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