Austria's News in English

Weekly Briefing: New Economic Developments

The Find out more about this week's developments. The war in Ukraine is also making itself increasingly felt in the Austrian economy. In Vienna, there are new developments in the day-to-day business of diplomacy. Read about the latest developments in diplomacy in Vienna and Austria.

August 18, 2022

Japanese Embassy in Vienna Invites to the Japanese Summer Festival

This summer, the Japanese Embassy in Vienna and the Japanese Society in Austria will be holding their annual Japanese Summer Festival. At the Japanese International School in Vienna, the festivities will take place from 12 to 4 p.m. on 27 August.

August 15, 2022

Weekly Briefing: New Developments in Diplomacy

The Find out more about this week's developments. Austria's embassy in Baghdad will reopen after being vacant since 1991. The Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, Rafael Mariano Grossi, will brief the United Nations Security Council about the nuclear safety situation at Ukraine’s Zaporizhzya Nuclear Power Plant. Read about the latest developments in diplomacy in Vienna and Austria.

August 11, 2022

Film Festival at the Vienna City Hall Square

Until September 4, 2022, Europe's largest cultural and culinary festival will once again be held in the heart of Vienna. At Vienna's Rathausplatz, you can look forward to a summer event with culinary delights and musical highlights.

August 10, 2022

Most Popular Congress Cities Worldwide: Vienna in 1st Place Despite COVID-19 Pandemic

As an ideal venue for international congresses and events, Vienna has built a reputation in the past. Now this reputation has been confirmed by the International Congress and Convention Association. The first congress statistics published by Vienna since the Covid-19 outbreak were published in 2021, placing it ahead of Lisbon and Athens as the world's top conference metropolis.

August 5, 2022

Weekly Briefing: Vienna Iran Nuclear Talks Back on Track

The Find out more about this week's developments. Negotiations with Iran to save the nuclear agreement have resumed in Vienna. The Ukrainian ambassador, Vasyl Khymynets, recently criticized the Austrian police. Read about the latest developments in diplomacy in Vienna and Austria.

August 4, 2022

Weekly Briefing: Rising Migration in Austria

The Find out more about this week's developments. For Austria, new questions arise about the migration and integration of refugees. The coronavirus quarantine ends in August. Read about the latest developments in diplomacy in Vienna and Austria.

July 28, 2022

Opening of the Salzburg Festival: "Culture as a Counter Model to Barbarism"

The Salzburg Festival has been ceremoniously opened. In addition to rousing speakers such as author Ilija Trojanow and Festival President Kristina Hammer, the Austrian Federal President also appealed to the unity of Europe.

July 27, 2022

Ambassador of Poland Presents Order of Merit of the Republic of Poland

As Secretary General of the National Fund of the Republic of Austria for Holocaust Victims, Hannah Lessing was awarded the Cavalier's Cross of the Order of Merit of the Republic of Poland for her outstanding work and deep understanding for the survivors of National Socialism living abroad.

July 22, 2022

Weekly Briefing: Austria Strengthens Diplomacy Towards Eastern Europe

The Find out more about this week's developments. The Austrian Foreign Minister visited Ukraine together with Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský. Vienna strengthens bilateral relations with neighboring countries in Eastern Europe. Read more about this week's developments in diplomacy in Vienna and the World.

July 21, 2022

Japanese Ambassador Presents Honorary Awards to Two Austrians

For over 50 years, the Japanese town of Hanamaki and the Austrian town of Berndorf have maintained a harmonious town twinning relationship. Two of the most important people behind this project have received the "Japan Foreign Minister's Award" from the Ambassador of Japan, Akira Mizutani.

July 21, 2022

Weekly Briefing: Newest Developments in Diplomacy and Vienna

Read about the latest developments in diplomacy in Vienna and Austria. The Georgian Prime Minister visited Austria and Vienna enables Ukrainian displaced persons to graduate from Ukrainian high school. In addition, Austria's Chancellor visited Israel and concluded an important agreement there. Furthermore, expats in Austria appreciate the high quality of life, but do not feel welcome. Read more about this week's developments.

July 14, 2022

French Community in Vienna Celebrates the French National Day (Bastille Day)

On 14 July, France celebrates National Day. It commemorates the storming of the Bastille on 14 July 1789, as well as the Federation Festival (Fête de la Fédération) in 1790, which marked the beginning of the French Revolution after the popular uprising that year.

July 14, 2022

Bregenz Festival: A Month of Culture and Music

In July and August, the Bregenz Festival presents a wide variety of musical selections, including the first stage production of Giacomo Puccini's "Madame Butterfly".

July 13, 2022

"Award for Innovation in Africa" Awarded for the First Time in Austria

The "Kofi Annan Award for Innovation in Africa" was awarded for the first time this week to African start-ups, all of which were dedicated to the topic of digital health. The three winners come from Kenya, Nigeria and Zimbabwe and can look forward to prize money of 250,000 euros each. Read on to find out what goals the respective projects have set themselves.

July 12, 2022

Reform of the Red-White-Red Card Passed by Parliament

In order to eliminate the shortage of suitable workers, the Austrian parliament recently decided to change the criteria for the Red-White-Red Card. In future, it should be easier to obtain this card. Austria's economy is relieved. If you want to know the exact changes, read on!

July 11, 2022

Vienna Airport Wins Award as Best Airport in Europe

Vienna International Airport recently received the "Best European Airport 2022" award from the Airports Council International. The airport particularly stood out for its new Terminal 2, which was only completed this year. But the high reliability, service quality and measures to reduce CO2 were praised.

July 7, 2022

Salzburg Festival in July: Everything you Need to Know About the Cultural Event

There is no doubt that the Salzburg Festival is one of the world's most important classical music and performing arts festivals. This year, a wide variety of guests from all over the world will be attending this year's festival. The Salzburg Festival wants to offer its music-loving guests a high-quality programme. Read more if you want to learn more about this famous Austrian event!

July 5, 2022 · Updated: July 7, 2022; 13:44

Alpine Peace Crossing - Commemorative Hike Recalls Flight of Thousands of Jews During National Socialism

Last weekend, a very special memorial event took place in the Krimml Tauern, Salzburg. The Alpine Peace Crossing memorial association organises an annual hike here, which follows the route of thousands of Jews who fled to South Tyrol via the Krimml Tauern in 1947.

July 5, 2022

Emotional Appeals From Zelenskyy, Clooney and Others During 4Gamechangers Event in Vienna

During his first live address to Austria Thursday, Ukraine's president Volodymyr Zelenskyy made an emotional appeal. Moreover, he called for tougher sanctions against Russia as well as increased support for Ukraine. Selenskyj said during a 4Gamechangers festival circuit that the war is also a "gamechanger" for Europe. An earlier appearance by Hollywood star George Clooney created a stir.

July 5, 2022

American Community in Vienna Celebrates Independence Day

Today, Americans around the world celebrate the Independence Day of the United States. So does the US community in Vienna. The day, which celebrates autonomy from Great Britain, is the occasion for great celebrations in the USA and is the most important holiday of the proud nation. We wish everyone a happy celebration day!

July 4, 2022

World-Renowned Psychoanalyst Receives Austrian Citizenship

Erika Freeman, a world-renowned Austro-American psychologist and psychotherapist, was granted Austrian citizenship last week after she was forced to flee her native Vienna to the US at the age of 12 to avoid deportation by the Nazis. She is one of 14,903 survivors and descendants of victims of the Nazi regime who have been granted Austrian citizenship since 2019.

July 4, 2022

Weekly Briefing: Diplomacy and State Visits in Vienna

Read about the newest developments in Diplomacy in Vienna and Austria. The Dutch Royal Couple visited Austria and International Organizations in Vienna released important publications. The consequences of the Russo-Ukrainian War are making themselves felt in security issues and are changing people's lives in Vienna as well. Further, the newest developments in the Iran Nuclear talks raise hopes. The Find out more about this week's developments.

June 30, 2022

OPEC Releases Annual Flagship Publication in Vienna

This week, the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) presented its Annual Statistical Bulletin (ASB) 2022. This report, which presents a large number of statistics and data on oil market developments in recent years, is the organisation's most important publication alongside the World Oil Outlook.

June 28, 2022

Israeli Ambassador Presents First "Israel Friendship Award" in Vienna

The newly created "Israel Friendship Award" was presented for the first time last week in Vienna to individuals and institutions that promote excellent relations between Israel and Austria. The winners were the Austria-Israel Academic Network Innsbruck and the Austrian former football coach of the Israeli national team, Andreas Herzog. From now on, the award will be presented annually by the Israeli ambassador.

June 27, 2022

Europa Forum Wachau: Shaping the Future of Europe

Austria is once again at the centre of European politics. At the 26th edition of the European Forum Wachau, many prominent guests from business, diplomacy and politics gathered in Lower Austria to discuss the future of the EU and its current challenges. The motto of this year's event is "Safeguarding Europe's future".

June 24, 2022

Weekly Briefing: Newest Developments in Diplomacy and Vienna

Read about the newest developments in Diplomacy in Vienna and Austria. Further, Austria is strengthening its efforts in aiding Ukraine, international politics and local grievances. Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov visited Iran. The Find out more about this week's developments.

June 23, 2022

EXPO 2025 in Osaka: Austria Wants to Strengthen Diplomatic Relations

Austria wants to further expand its diplomatic relations at the World Expo 2025 in Osaka. To this end, Ursula Plassnik, former Foreign Minister and experienced diplomat, has now been appointed an official representative for EXPO 2025.

June 22, 2022

Politicians in Vienna Demand Easier Access to Austrian Citizenship

Heated debates recently took place in Vienna's provincial parliament when the parties jointly discussed making it easier to obtain Austrian citizenship. Besides fears that such a facilitation would "devalue" Austrian citizenship, there was also a lot of support and calls for a more open Austria. The debate was fuelled by Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen, who had recently spoken out in favour of a simpler process in an interview.

June 21, 2022

Weekly Briefing: Diplomacy and Newest Developments in Vienna and Austria

Read about the newest developments in Diplomacy in Vienna and Austria. Further, Austria is strengthening its efforts to fight global and local grievances. Austrian Foreign Minister Schallenberg visited Serbia and Kosovo. The Find out more about this week's developments.

June 19, 2022

Vienna Airport Pleased with Rising Passenger Numbers

Vienna Airport can be pleased with a significant increase in visitor numbers in May. Despite continuing lower passenger numbers than in the same month before the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, five times more people flew through Vienna Airport than in May 2019. Read on if you want to learn more about Vienna Schwechat Airport!

June 15, 2022

Austrian World Summit 2022: Fighting Against Climate Change in Vienna

Today in Vienna, the top climate change leaders from Europe and the USA will meet to discuss the consequences of climate change and to find solutions for this global crisis. The sixth edition of the "Austrian World Summit" takes place today, June 14, at the Vienna Hofburg and was initiated by Arnold Schwarzenegger.

June 14, 2022

Art Collector and Billionaire Heidi Goess-Horten Deceased

The famous Austrian billionaire Heidi Goëss-Horten died unexpectedly this weekend at her home on Lake Wörthersee. Horten was best known for her great passion for art and her large collection of artworks. She passed away at the age of 81. If you want to learn more about this great Austrian personality, read her obituary here.

June 13, 2022

Diplomats in Austria March for Equality at Vienna Pride

Diplomats in Vienna marched for equality at one of the most important events of the Vienna pride, the Rainbow Parade. Learn more about "Diplomats for Equality" and today's event for peace and equality.

June 11, 2022

Weekly Briefing: Austrian Efforts in International Politics, IAEA Concerns and Russian War in Ukraine

Austria is strengthening its efforts in foreign policy and international cooperation. The IAEA is expressing its concerns about nuclear security in Iran and Ukraine. The Russian war in Ukraine is causing serious questions about human rights and European security. The Find out more about this week's developments.

June 11, 2022

Exhibition in Polish Institute Vienna Shows the Impressions of the First Days of War in Ukraine

A unique exhibition awaits you from today in the Gallery of the Polish Institute in Vienna. The exhibition shows the first days of the war in Ukraine from the point of view of Ukrainian artist and designer Hélène Litorelle and gives an insight into her thoughts and experiences. Read on if you want to learn more!

June 10, 2022

Austria Supports Women From Ukraine With Their Integration Into Austrian Working Life

The 100 Women - 100 Opportunities program supports Ukrainian women with their integration into the Austrian labor market. This New COMPASS Support Program was initiated by Austrian Federal Minister for Women, Family, Youth and Integration Susanne Raab, the Austrian Integration Fund, LEA and private businesses.

June 7, 2022

Vienna Receives Award as Austria's Most Transparent Municipality

In a report by the Transparency International Austria organization, Vienna was named the most transparent city in Austria. With an impressive result of over 87%, Vienna was able to defend its first place for the third time in a row and achieved the best result ever. Particularly decisive for this good performance is Vienna's city administration, which provides relevant information for the population on its websites in a proactive, easy-to-find manner and to a high degree.

June 7, 2022

ViennaUP'22 - Event in Vienna Excites Thousands of People

The Vienna International Business Festival ViennaUP'22 attracted 10,000 participants from all over the world this year. With the attention-grabbing event, the City of Vienna hits the bull's eye for international visibility and positioning in the startup scene.

June 3, 2022

Vienna Hosts the First Meeting of the States Parties to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons

From June 21-23, the first meeting of the States Parties to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) will be held at the Austria Center Vienna. At the first meeting of the States Parties, the States Parties will review the implementation of the Treaty and measure progress toward its goals.

June 1, 2022

UN Symposium in Austria: How Space Technologies Can Mitigate Climate Change

The UN/Austria Symposium 2022 "Space for climate action: experiences and best practices in mitigating and adapting to climate change and supporting sustainability on Earth" will be held online September 13-15. The focus of the symposium will be on recent initiatives, experiences and best practices in mitigating and adapting to climate change and supporting sustainability on Earth, and in addition to raising awareness of the use of space technologies by Member States, will also highlight how the space sector is adapting to reduce its own impact on the climate crisis.

May 31, 2022

Congresses in Vienna - What You Should Not Miss

After a long dry spell, Vienna's tourism industry is looking forward with hope to the large number of congresses planned for this summer. Vienna, which is internationally known to be an optimal place for congresses, is the venue for more than 40 major events with over 1,000 guests this year and hopes to be able to attract as many events in the future. Here you will find a brief overview of the most important events in the city!

May 23, 2022

Diplomats in Austria Stand Up for Equality: "Our Bodies, Our Lives, Our Rights"

The COVID-19 pandemic and the global economic crisis have exacerbated the vulnerable situation of LGBTIQ+ people in terms of mental health, existing inequalities and prejudices. To counteract this, a group of diplomats, international organisations and the Austrian Foreign Ministry now acknowledged the problems of the LGBTIQ+ scene and demanded that the grievances be addressed.

May 17, 2022

Vienna's Buddhist Community Celebrates the Vesak Festival

Today, the Vesak festival is celebrated by Buddhists all over the world. It commemorates the birth, enlightenment and complete extinction of Buddha Siddhartha Gautama and thus his exit from the cycle of rebirth. We wish all devout Buddhists a happy festival!

May 16, 2022

Business Festival in Vienna as the Centre of the International Startup World

Vienna will be the venue for one of the biggest start-up events in the world this month. Thousands of visitors from over 40 nations will attend the ViennaUP'22 festival between 27 May and 3 June. If you want to find out what the 8-day programme will focus on and why ViennaUP is unlike any other festival, read on.

May 10, 2022

Europe Day 2022: A Day in the Spirit of a United Continent

Today, 9 May, Europe Day is celebrated all over Europe. Many events are held to celebrate peace and cohesion in Europe. Alexander Van der Bellen also gave a speech in the House of the European Union and underlined the importance of European unity and condemned the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine, which is particularly dependent on the help of its European allies in such difficult times.

May 9, 2022

Austria Commemorates the Liberation of the Mauthausen and Gusen Concentration Camps

With a commemorative act on May 4, 2022, the eve of the 77th anniversary of the liberation of the concentration camps Mauthausen and Gusen, the concentration camp memorial Mauthausen remembers the victims of the concentration camp. International representatives, as well as the head of the Austrian government will be present at the commemoration ceremony.

May 3, 2022

Austria's Muslim Community Celebrates End of Ramadan

Every year, the Muslim community of Vienna and worldwide celebrates the holy End of Ramadan. Ramadan has ended and now Eid al-Fitr is celebrated.

May 2, 2022

Donauinselfest 2022 - This Year Without Covid Measures

The traditional Vienna Danube Island Festival is to be held again this year in all its glory. After two years of improvisation due to the pandemic, this year's festival will again take place without access controls and masks. In addition to international acts, Ukrainian artists will also be on the program this year to demonstrate the empathy and friendship between the two countries.

April 20, 2022

Solidarity With All Refugees: Integration House Calls for Refugee Ball 2022

After a one-year break, the City of Vienna and Integrationshaus are once again inviting to the annual Vienna Refugee Ball. The event, which will take place on April 23, aims to draw attention to current problems in the refugee issue and collect donations that will benefit the non-profit organization Integrationshaus.

April 12, 2022