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Read updated news about key executives in Vienna's international community
Croatian Businesses Showcase Their Activities at Schönbrunn Palace
The Croatian Economy Day took place in the imperial setting of the Gloriette in Schönbrunn Palace Park. Over 200 guests took the opportunity to engage in direct dialogue with around 40 Croatian companies. The event, organized by the representative office of the Croatian Chamber of Commerce (HGK) in Vienna, once again underscored the close and growing economic partnership between Austria and Croatia.
October 6, 2025
Vienna, a Hub for Espionage since the Cold War
For several historical and geographical reasons, Vienna has a long and distinguished history as a center of espionage. During the Cold War, Vienna gained particular significance as a hotspot for espionage, but even after the end of the Cold War, this status has continued and has even intensified in recent years.
September 26, 2025
Innovation in Politics Awards 2025 Honor Europe's Best Democracy Projects
As European Capital of Democracy 2025, Vienna was the venue for a festive gala at which the Innovation in Politics Awards 2025 were presented. The awards, which have been presented annually by the Innovation in Politics Institute since 2017, honor courageous political leaders and outstanding democratic projects from across Europe.
September 25, 2025
Alternative Right in Austria: Technology, Theology, and Political Strategy
In August of this year, tech billionaire Peter Thiel, who is also known for his proximity to the new right, caused confusion by visiting the University of Innsbruck unnoticed. At the same time, the FPÖ in Austria is moving closer to the U.S. right wing. The FPÖ has a long history and has undergone a transformation to become an international pioneer of the new right.
September 25, 2025
OMV in Espionage Scandal: CEO Alfred Stern Reassures, Adnoc Relationship to Remain Uncompromised
A suspected espionage case at Austria's largest energy company, OMV, has caused a stir in recent days. While the authorities are investigating a long-standing employee suspected of having supplied sensitive data to the Russian secret service, OMV CEO Alfred Stern is trying to smooth the waters. Stern emphasizes that the incident will not strain the long-standing partnership with major shareholder Adnoc from Abu Dhabi.
September 22, 2025
Change in Leadership at DSN: Omar Haijawi-Pirchner Steps Down Early
The Directorate for State Protection and Intelligence (DSN), Austria's leading constitutional protection authority, is facing a significant change in leadership. As the DSN announced in a press release, Director Omar Haijawi-Pirchner will step down from his position at the end of 2025 at his own request. The decision comes eleven months before the end of his term of office and is justified on “personal grounds.”
September 21, 2025
Low-Cost Airlines Retreat from Vienna: Are Higher Prices and Location Disadvantages Looming?
Vienna International Airport is facing challenges as low-cost airlines Wizz Air and Ryanair are drastically reducing their presence. Wizz Air is withdrawing all five of its stationed aircraft and abandoning Vienna completely, while Ryanair is relocating three of its jets. Both companies cite excessive costs in Austria as the reason for this move. This development has reignited the debate about Vienna as a tourist and business location.
September 18, 2025
Fugitive Wirecard Manager Marsalek Tracked Down in Moscow
After extensive international research, a consortium of journalists has tracked down fugitive Wirecard manager Jan Marsalek in Moscow. According to reports, the 45-year-old is living under a false identity and working for the Russian secret service, the FSB.
September 17, 2025
Record Claims Amounting to Billions Against Signa Founder René Benko
René Benko, founder of the insolvent Signa Group, is also facing unprecedented claims in his personal bankruptcy.
September 17, 2025
Bajaj-Teaser Causes a Stir: Will KTM's Future be Manufactured in India?
The relaunch of the long-established motorcycle manufacturer KTM after overcoming insolvency is being overshadowed by new uncertainties. Statements made by Rajiv Bajaj, CEO of Indian major shareholder Bajaj Auto, have sparked a heated debate about the future of the production site in Mattighofen.
September 3, 2025
European Forum Alpbach 2025 Breaks records and Looks to the Future of Europe
This year's European Forum Alpbach (EFA) ended with a new record number of participants. Under the motto “Recharge Europe,” around 4,700 participants from 127 countries gathered to discuss the renewal of Europe and find solutions to the most pressing challenges of our time. The event also marked the 80th anniversary of the forum, which has established itself as one of the leading conferences on the future of Europe.
September 1, 2025
WIFO Chief Calls for Tougher Stance in Tariff Dispute with the U.S.
In the ongoing tariff dispute between the European Union and the United States of America, Gabriel Felbermayr, Director of the Austrian Institute of Economic Research (WIFO), advocates a reorientation of the European negotiating strategy.
August 28, 2025
Lufthansa Centralizes Power: AUA Loses Authority, But Expects Positive Effects
The Lufthansa Group, which also includes Austrian Airlines (AUA), is planning a far-reaching restructuring of the group that will concentrate more power at its Frankfurt headquarters. Following the plan, the subsidiaries, including Swiss and Brussels Airlines, will relinquish responsibilities starting at the beginning of next year.
August 25, 2025
Danger in the Digital Space: DSN Warns Against the Use of AI by Extremists
The use of artificial intelligence (AI) by extremist groups poses a growing threat to internal security. The Austrian Directorate for State Security and Intelligence (DSN) has issued a warning regarding this development. Modern AI systems could be used specifically to radicalize individuals with personalized propaganda.
August 19, 2025 · Updated: August 25, 2025; 11:06
Broad Criticism, Including from Austria, of New Tariffs Deal Between the U.S. and the EU
The trade deal between the United States and the European Union, which was announced by both sides with pride, may have averted a looming escalation in the trade dispute. Still, it has been widely criticized in political and economic circles. While EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Trade Commissioner Maros Sefkovic defended the agreement as a “breakthrough” and “the best possible outcome,” numerous member states and business representatives, including many voices from Austria, see and feel significant disadvantages for the EU and are calling for renegotiation.
August 20, 2025 · Updated: August 21, 2025; 12:46
Signa Insolvency Proceedings Take a New Turn: €191 Million Claim Against Benko
In the insolvency proceedings involving former Signa founder René Benko, a new development is once again causing a stir. A company from Abu Dhabi has filed claims against Benko in the amount of €191 million at the Innsbruck Regional Court.
August 13, 2025
Economic Recovery According to WIFO Still a Long Way Off in Austria
While the economy in the eurozone has largely stabilized, Austria remains in a phase of stagnation, according to the latest economic report from the Austrian Institute of Economic Research (WIFO). Domestic growth is stagnating, the labor market is weakening, and inflation is rising again more sharply. Industry in particular is in a prolonged recession, while only public services are showing momentum.
August 11, 2025
Kaufhaus Tyrol in Innsbruck Sold After Signa Bankruptcy
The sale of the Kaufhaus Tyrol department store in Innsbruck, once a prestigious project of Signa founder René Benko, is now officially complete. As part of the bankruptcy proceedings of Signa Prime Selection AG, the newly founded company KHT AcquiCo SARL has taken over the downtown department store.
August 6, 2025
OPEC Fund Development Forum 2025: Global Partners Seek Ways to Build a Stronger Future
The international development community is gathering in Vienna for the fourth OPEC Fund Development Forum. Under the theme “A Transition that Strengthens Our Tomorrow,” more than 500 high-level representatives, including heads of state, ministers, and heads of international institutions, are coming together in the historic setting of the Hofburg Imperial Palace to discuss pressing global challenges.
July 29, 2025
Former Chancellor Karl Nehammer Becomes Vice-President of the European Investment Bank
Former Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer (ÖVP) has been officially appointed as the new Vice-President of the European Investment Bank (EIB). He will take up his post on September 1, 2025, succeeding Swedish Vice-President Thomas Östros. The appointment was made following a decision by the finance ministers of the 27 EU member states, who represent the EIB's shareholders, on the recommendation of Austria.
July 23, 2025
Austria Strengthens Security Partnerships with the United Kingdom and Germany
Austria has deepened its bilateral relations with the United Kingdom and Germany in a series of important security policy consultations. The high-level talks focused on current security policy challenges, strategic interests, and strengthening defense cooperation in a changing global environment.
July 15, 2025
ICMPD Director General Michael Spindelegger: Europe Ten Years After the Refuge Crisis
Ten years after the so-called “refugee crisis” of 2015, Europe is taking stock of its migration policy. While enormous progress has been made in addressing the challenges, experts such as Michael Spindelegger, Director General of the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD), warn that the region continues to face growing complexities and political tensions.
July 14, 2025
Human Rights in Austria: NGOs Make 159 Demands on the Government
According to numerous non-governmental organizations (NGOs), the human rights situation in Austria continues to leave much to be desired. In the run-up to the United Nations' Universal Periodic Review (UPR), more than 300 civil society organizations issued a joint statement addressing an impressive 159 demands to the Austrian government.
July 14, 2025
Wirecard Scandal: Liquidator Reveals Billion-Euro Loss
Five years after its collapse, the Wirecard scandal continues to reverberate: Insolvency administrator Dr. Michael Jaffe revealed in the trial against former CEO Markus Braun that an incredible €1.1 billion was “burned” at the payment processor. While Braun claims in court that a shadow network existed, the main suspect, Jan Marsalek, remains at large, presumably in Russia.
July 9, 2025
Austrian Forum for Peace 2025: Peace Work in Times of Crisis, New Approaches, and the Role of Europe
This year's Austrian Forum for Peace 2025, themed “Peace in Crisis,” has come to a successful conclusion at Friedensburg Schlaining. The four-day international conference organized by the Austrian Center for Peace (ACP) brought together over 200 experts, diplomats, scientists, and representatives of international organizations from more than 25 countries to discuss pressing issues of peace work in an increasingly fragmented world.
July 4, 2025
Vienna: Still Among the World's Leading Conference Cities
Vienna consolidates its position as a leading global conference destination: after taking first place in the prestigious ranking of the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) in May, the city has now achieved second place worldwide for the third time in a row in the latest congress ranking of the Union of International Associations (UIA) for 2024.
July 4, 2025
Microsoft Strengthens Austria's Digital Future: Billion-Euro Investment in New Cloud Region
Technology giant Microsoft officially opened its new cloud region in Austria in the presence of State Secretary Alexander Pröll. With an investment of one billion euros and three data centers in the Vienna metropolitan area, which will go into operation in August, Microsoft is sending a strong signal for the country's digitalization and economic development.
July 3, 2025
Port of Vienna Enjoys Record Year in 2024: Increased Turnover and High Investments Secure Future
Port of Vienna, a key company within Wien Holding, can look back on an exceptionally successful 2024 financial year this summer. Despite a challenging economic environment, the trimodal logistics center significantly increased its revenue and achieved a record operating result. At the same time, extensive investments were made in infrastructure, digitalization, and sustainability to further consolidate its position as one of Europe's most important hinterland hubs.
July 3, 2025
Ban Ki-moon Praises Vienna and Reaffirms its Leading Role in Multilateralism
During a visit to Vienna, former United Nations Secretary-General and Co-Chair of the Ban Ki-moon Centre for Global Citizens (BKMC), Ban Ki-moon, praised Austria and the city of Vienna for their leading role in the field of multilateralism. At a time of increasing geopolitical tensions, he emphasized the crucial importance of international cooperation.
July 3, 2025
Iran Suspends Cooperation with IAEA: Escalation in Nuclear Dispute after Israel War
Iran has officially suspended cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). President Massoud Peseshkian enacted a law to that effect, which the Iranian parliament had already passed in June. This decision exacerbates the already tense nuclear dispute and follows a 12-day war between Israel and Iran, which ended with a ceasefire.
July 2, 2025
UNOOSA and Exolaunch Enable Satellite Launches for Bolivia, Guatemala, Jordan, and Nepal
In a move to promote equal access to space, the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) and Exolaunch GmbH have announced that institutions from Bolivia, Guatemala, Jordan, and Nepal have been selected to launch their CubeSats.
July 1, 2025
Vienna No Longer the Most Livable City in the World: Copenhagen Takes Top Spot
After three years, Vienna has lost its top position in the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) Global Liveability Index 2025 to Copenhagen. The Austrian capital now shares second place with Zurich. The main reason for Vienna's decline is a loss of points in the area of stability, influenced by foiled terrorist attacks.
July 1, 2025
Bettina Dorfer-Pauschenwein Elected Vice President of the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber
The Austrian Federal Economic Chamber (WKÖ) has a new vice president: Bettina Dorfer-Pauschenwein, a committed entrepreneur from Wiesen in Burgenland, was elected to the chamber's highest governing body on Thursday. With this appointment, the 32-year-old master carpenter and managing director of “Pauschenwein Creatives Wohnen GmbH” moves directly alongside WKÖ President Harald Mahrer and takes a significant career step in the Chamber of Commerce.
June 30, 2025
Algeria and ICMPD Strengthen Cooperation in the Mediterranean Region
In a step toward deepening migration cooperation in the Mediterranean region, high-level representatives from Algeria and the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) reaffirmed their joint determination at a meeting in Malta. The meeting, which took place on the sidelines of the first project steering committee of the Algerian-ICMPD cooperation, promises to significantly improve migration management capabilities in the region.
June 30, 2025
New UNODC Drug Report Paints Grim Picture of Drug Deaths
Global drug use has reached a new high of 316 million people in 2023, according to the World Drug Report 2025 published by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). The 28 percent increase within a decade shows that consumption is growing faster than the world's population, further exacerbating the global challenges in the fight against the drug problem.
June 26, 2025
Vienna as Europe's AI Hub: Supercomputer Launched, Gigafactory in Sight
The Austrian capital is consolidating its position as a European hub for artificial intelligence (AI). With the imminent launch of AI Factory Austria (AI:AT) and its active bid to become one of Europe's AI gigafactories, Vienna is sending a strong signal for innovation and digital sovereignty.
June 24, 2025
ISTA and Google Forge Long-Term Research Partnership in Klosterneuburg
The Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA) in Klosterneuburg and global technology giant Google have signed a far-reaching Master Sponsored Research Agreement to consolidate their existing collaboration and jointly advance innovative scientific research projects. This long-term partnership, which also includes financial support for research projects from Google, aims to further strengthen the ecosystem at the ISTA campus and open up new avenues in science.
June 24, 2025
OSCE Chairpersonship Conference Emphasizes Comprehensive Approach to Climate Protection
The third annual OSCE Chairmanship Conference on Climate and Security, held in Espoo, Finland, emphasized the urgent need to respond to the pressing national, regional, and global security challenges posed by climate change. The conference highlighted the importance of a comprehensive and whole-of-society approach to advancing the climate and security agenda.
June 17, 2025
IAEA Chief Grossi Voices Interest in UN Leadership
António Guterres' term of office expires at the end of 2026. The next Secretary-General should come from Latin America, through a geographical rotation system. A well-known UN official in Vienna, IAEA chief Rafael Grossi, as chance would have it, born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, has now voiced interest in seeking to become UN Secretary-General when the position becomes vacant in 2027.
June 11, 2025
Export Day 2025: Austria's Export Economy with its Opportunities and Challenges
The Austrian Federal Economic Chamber's (WKÖ) Export Day 2025 was once again the largest internationalization event in Central Europe. Under the motto “Seizing Business Opportunities. NOW!”, the event brought together around 3,000 participants, including over 2,500 decision-makers, more than 60 WKÖ economic delegates, top international speakers, and leading export service providers. The aim was to encourage companies to actively seize international business opportunities and put the Austrian export industry in the spotlight.
June 11, 2025
Susanne Raab Elected as New Director General of ICMPD
Representatives of the 21 ICMPD member states have elected Susanne Raab, a former ÖVP Integration Minister, in Stockholm to succeed Director General Michael Spindelegger, who is stepping down at the end of the year. This means that after nearly 10 years, the organization in Vienna will have new leadership, albeit Austrian once again.
June 7, 2025
International Climate Conference in Vienna, Austrian World Summit 2025: Schwarzenegger Calls for Action
The ninth Austrian World Summit took place at the Hofburg Palace in Vienna under the motto “Unite in Action – Terminate Pollution.” Organized by former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and the Schwarzenegger Climate Initiative, the event aimed to present concrete measures to combat the climate crisis, strengthen cooperation, and generate political and social momentum for ambitious climate protection policies.
June 4, 2025
ICMPD and Ireland Intensify Cooperation on Migration Policy
The International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) and Ireland have further deepened their cooperation in the field of migration policy. During an official visit, ICMPD Director General Michael Spindelegger met with Irish Minister for Justice Jim O'Callaghan and Minister of State for Migration Colm Brophy to discuss common priorities.
June 3, 2025
New Leadership Team Elected at the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB)
The International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) elected a new Bureau for the coming term at its 143rd session. Turkish forensic scientist and professor H. H. Sevil Atasoy was appointed as the new president of the board. She succeeded the previous incumbent, Prof. Jallal Toufiq, who thanked the meeting for the trust and support he had received during his term of office.
June 2, 2025
Signa Insolvency: Creditors Demand €11.7 Billion, Sale of Luxury Real Estate Underway
Following the collapse of the real estate group Signa, founded by René Benko, creditors have filed claims totaling €11.7 billion. The insolvency administrator of Signa Prime Selection AG (SPS), Norbert Abel, is working to sell the remaining assets to satisfy creditors.
June 2, 2025
“Tea for Harmony” in Vienna: Chinese Embassy Invites Guests to Intercultural Tea Salon
The elegant premises of the Chinese Embassy hosted the “Tea for Harmony" Yaji Cultural Salon on International Tea Day. Around 50 guests from the worlds of politics, business, science, and culture enjoyed an evening dedicated to the millennia-old Chinese tea culture—a symbol of harmony, modesty, and exchange between civilizations.
May 29, 2025
OPEC Secretary General Warns Against a Hasty Farewell to Oil
OPEC Secretary General Haitham Al Ghais repeatedly comments on the role of the oil industry in the context of global climate targets and the energy transition. In a recent interview, he emphasized that despite the expansion of renewable energies, global demand for oil will not fall in the coming decades. “It is a myth that new energy sources will automatically replace older ones,” says Al Ghais.
May 23, 2025
Van der Bellen Visits Japan: Focus on Business Delegation and EXPO 2025
Austria's President Alexander Van der Bellen is currently on a state visit to Japan, accompanied by a high-ranking business delegation of around 150 people. The four-day trip - organized in close cooperation with the Federal Ministry of Labour and Economy and the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber - is all about deepening bilateral economic and diplomatic relations.
May 22, 2025
Alfred Stern Leaves OMV in Summer 2026: End of an Era of Change
Alfred Stern, CEO and Chairman of the Executive Board of OMV, will not extend his contract beyond August 31, 2026. The 60-year-old top manager announced this decision to the Chairman of the Supervisory Board, Lutz Feldmann. This marks the end of a term of office characterized by far-reaching strategic upheavals, geopolitical challenges, and ambitious sustainability goals.
May 20, 2025
UNOOSA and Singapore Agree on Cooperation in the Field of Space Law
The United Nations and Singapore have announced a new partnership under the “Space Law for New Space Actors” project. The United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) and Singapore's Office for Space Technology & Industry (OSTIn) are working together to support the development of a national legal framework for space activities. This initiative aims to align Singapore's emerging space sector with international standards.
May 14, 2025
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