Newsletter: Vienna International News
Diplomacy in Times of Conflict: Switzerland Takes the Helm of the OSCE
At the start of a period of the deepest diplomatic freeze since the end of the Cold War, Switzerland officially took over the chairmanship of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) at the beginning of the year. For Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, the mission is clear: “where diplomacy seems impossible, it becomes most important.”
U.S. Announces Withdrawal from 66 Different International Organizations
In an unprecedented move, the United States under President Donald Trump has announced its withdrawal from 66 international organizations and treaties. UN Secretary-General António Guterres responded with deep regret, but emphasized the international community's determination to continue its work even without Washington.
From Dishwasher to Top Diplomat: The Extraordinary Odyssey of Fate Velaj
It is a story that life rarely writes: in 1991, Fatmir Velaj arrived in Austria as a penniless refugee from Albania. Today, 35 years later, he resides in Vienna as ambassador for his home country. His path took him from the dishwashing kitchen to the factory floor and on to the highest circles of art and diplomacy.
Dance Fever Defies Economic Downturn: The 2026 Ball Season as an Economic Driver
While the Austrian economy is struggling to emerge from recession, a long-standing tradition is ensuring full coffers in the retail sector: the ball season. Despite tight budgets, Austrians are not letting anything dampen their enthusiasm for dancing. According to the latest Consumer Check by the Austrian Retail Association, one in six citizens (17%) plans to attend at least one dance event this year. The younger generation, in particular, is driving this trend forward.
