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Gas Drilling in Molln: Economic Interests vs. Nature Conservation
The debate about gas drilling in Molln in the Kirchdorf district continues to intensify. While the Australian-Austrian company ADX Energy wants to expand its exploration efforts, opposition from environmental associations and political representatives is growing. The Constitutional Court (VfGH) has now issued a ruling that could have far-reaching consequences for future drilling projects.
February 13, 2025
Safe Democracy Convention Held in Vienna
In an era where digital advancements shape every aspect of society, technology plays a crucial role in the future of democracy. To address both the challenges and opportunities presented by digital transformation, Vienna hosted the Safe Democracy Convention, a nationwide initiative bringing together cities, municipalities, businesses, and civil society.
February 13, 2025
Equal Pay Day 2025: Highlighting the Ongoing Gender Pay Gap
Equal Pay Day is a significant reminder of the persistent income disparity between men and women. This symbolic day marks the point in the year until which women have effectively worked "for free" compared to their male counterparts, based on the gender pay gap.
February 13, 2025
Failure of the Coalition Negotiations Between the FPÖ and ÖVP: Relieving Reactions and a Sobering Outlook
The coalition negotiations between the Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ) and the Austrian People's Party (ÖVP) have failed. Following a meeting with Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen, FPÖ leader Herbert Kickl announced that he had resigned from the government. The main point of contention was the distribution of ministries, particularly the interior and finance portfolios, which both parties claimed for themselves.
February 13, 2025
AI Action Summit in Paris: Strengthening International Cooperation
The Artificial Intelligence Action Summit, held in Paris on February 10 and 11, brought together world leaders, policymakers, and experts to discuss the future of AI. As artificial intelligence continues to shape economies, industries, and societies worldwide, the summit aimed to establish a collaborative and ethical framework for its development. At the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron, Austrian Chancellor Alexander Schallenberg and State Secretary for Digitalization Claudia Plakolm participated in the discussions.
February 12, 2025
Surge in Demand for Houses as Prices Decline Across Austrian Regions
Austria’s real estate market underwent a dynamic transformation in 2024, marked by a significant surge in the demand for single-family homes alongside fluctuating property prices across the country. While potential homeowners increasingly entered the market, drawn by improved financing conditions and relaxed credit regulations, regional price trends revealed a complex picture.
February 12, 2025
European Commission Sues Seven Member States Including Austria for Failure to Implement the NPL Directive
The European Commission has filed a complaint against Austria and six other EU Member States with the European Court of Justice (ECJ). The reason: these countries have not transposed the EU Non-Performing Loans (NPL) Directive into national law on time.
February 12, 2025
Coalition Negotiations in Austria Failed: Political Future Uncertain
Austria is facing a political turning point: after weeks of negotiations, talks between the Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ) and the Austrian People's Party (ÖVP) have broken down. The talks thus met the same fate as those between the ÖVP, SPÖ, and NEOS. With the collapse of the negotiations, the question now arises as to how things will continue politically and whether a new election is inevitable.
February 12, 2025
Steyr Arms Pushes Expansion - Austria as a Location in Danger?
The Austrian arms manufacturer Steyr Arms, part of the Czech investment group RSBC since 2024, is planning extensive expansion in the US and European markets. At the same time, the site in Austria is coming under pressure as export licenses are being delayed. While the company management wants to secure the future of the traditional business with new strategic decisions, a relocation could be considered.
February 11, 2025
Austria at Unprecedented Low in International Corruption Ranking
Political scandals, a lack of transparency and structural deficits have brought Austria to a new low in the international corruption index. Transparency International is sounding the alarm and calling for far-reaching reforms to restore trust in the rule of law.
February 11, 2025
Science Books of the Year: The Winners Announced
The results of Austria’s Science Book of the Year have been announced, recognizing works that present scientific topics in an accessible and engaging way for the general public. With over 8,000 votes cast, the awards reflect continued public interest in science communication and education.
February 11, 2025
Austria’s Population Approaches 9.2 Million, Growth Slows in 2024
Austria's population continues to grow, but at a noticeably slower pace than in recent years. While Vienna remains the primary driver of population growth, with the highest increase among all federal states, other regions like Burgenland experienced slight declines. The data also reveals a growing proportion of foreign nationals, now accounting for over 20% of Austria’s population.
February 11, 2025
Chancellor and Foreign Minister Schallenberg Met with "Friends of the Western Balkans" Group and Prime Minister Meloni in Rome
Austrian Chancellor and Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg reaffirmed Austria's commitment to regional stability and European unity during meetings in Rome. Engaging with both the "Friends of the Western Balkans" group and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Schallenberg emphasized the strategic importance of EU enlargement and the necessity of fostering robust bilateral relations with key European partners.
February 10, 2025
Austrian National Council President Engages in Dialogue with Ukrainian Parliament Speaker
Austrian National Council President Walter Rosenkranz and Chairman of the Ukrainian Parliament Ruslan Stefantschuk recently held a video conference to discuss the pressing issues surrounding Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
February 10, 2025
PaN President Hermann Mückler Awarded Golden Medal of Honor for Services to the State of Vienna
Prof. Dr. Hermann Mückler, President of the umbrella organization of all Austrian-foreign societies (Partner aller Nationen, PaN), was awarded the Golden Medal of Honor for Services to the State of Vienna. The festive ceremony took place in the magnificent Coat of Arms Hall of Vienna City Hall. The award was presented by Member of Parliament Dr. Ewa Samel on behalf of the Governor of Vienna, Dr. Michael Ludwig.
February 10, 2025
Construction Prices 2024 in Austria: Moderate Increase Despite Tense Situation in the Construction Industry
Construction prices in Austria rose moderately by 1.3% in 2024 compared to the previous year. This was announced by Statistics Austria in its latest report. While price increases eased over the year, the economic situation in the construction industry remains challenging. Residential construction in particular is suffering from high construction and financing costs, which could have a long-term impact on the labor market and future housing supply.
February 10, 2025
Austria's Initial Federal Deficit for 2024 Better Than Expected
Austria's federal deficit for 2024 ended up being 1.7 billion euros lower than initially forecast, standing at 19.1 billion euros. This positive outcome comes despite economic challenges, with lower-than-expected government spending helping offset revenue shortfalls.
February 9, 2025
Increase in Business Insolvencies in Austria Amid Economic Challenges
Austria's business landscape saw a challenging year in 2024, with a significant increase in corporate insolvencies driven by economic factors such as rising inflation, recession, and the end of pandemic-related support. While businesses struggled, a notable rise in new company formations offered a mixed picture.
February 9, 2025
Austria Opens New Cultural Forum in Sofia
The Austrian Cultural Forum was officially opened in Sofia. With the inauguration of this new center for art and culture, Austria is sending a further signal for bilateral exchange with Bulgaria and for its commitment to cultural diplomacy.
February 7, 2025
Shock for Austrian Foreign Trade: Weak Demand from Abroad Depresses Exports
The Austrian economy is facing a new challenge: exports slumped more sharply in November 2024 than they have for years. In particular, weak demand from Germany and the EU is causing concern - experts are warning of long-term consequences for industry and the labor market.
February 7, 2025
Minister and Chancellor Schallenberg Met with his Luxembourgian Counterpart
Austria and Luxembourg have reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining a rule-based international order. This was the central theme of a recent bilateral meeting between Austrian Chancellor and Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg and Luxembourg’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Xavier Bettel in Vienna. The discussions underscored the importance of diplomatic dialogue and international cooperation in addressing pressing global issues.
February 6, 2025
Scientists Warn Against Potential FPÖ-Led Government
Fearing for the country's democratic foundations and the integrity of its research institutions, leading scientists and scholars have united their voices in an open letter against a potential FPÖ-led Government. Their message is clear: the future of Austria’s liberal democracy, human rights, and academic freedom hangs in the balance.
February 6, 2025
A Sign of Friendship: The New Year's Meeting of the Austrian-Polish Society in Vienna
Bilateral relations between Austria and Poland are an important pillar of European cooperation and thrive not only through diplomatic meetings, but also through cultural and scientific exchange. The New Year's meeting of the Austrian-Polish Society in Vienna was an impressive example of how tradition and a vision for the future come together in a festive setting.
February 6, 2025
Labor Market in Austria 2024: Number of Vacancies Significantly Decreased
The Austrian labor market is facing an apparent contradiction: while companies are complaining about an acute shortage of skilled workers, vacancies fell significantly in 2024. Rising unemployment figures meet unfilled positions, and many industries are struggling with economic uncertainties. What is behind this development?
February 6, 2025
Austria's Federal President Van der Bellen Calls on Diplomacy for Unity
In his traditional speech at the New Year's reception for the diplomatic corps in Vienna's Hofburg, Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen highlighted the challenges of the current global situation. He emphasized the need for closer international cooperation, warned against increasing disinformation, and called for greater efforts to combat the climate crisis.
February 5, 2025
Chinese New Year Celebrations Strengthen Chinese-Austrian Friendship
The Chinese New Year was celebrated in Vienna with festive events underscoring the close diplomatic and cultural ties between China and Austria. The celebrations attracted not only high-ranking political representatives but also numerous members of the Chinese community and interested Viennese.
February 5, 2025
Austria Commemorates the 80th Anniversary of Auschwitz Liberation
January 27, 2025, marked the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi concentration and extermination camp. This milestone was being observed with solemn ceremonies in Austria and at the historic site in Poland, where world leaders, Holocaust survivors, and dignitaries gathered to honor the victims and reinforce the commitment to remembrance.
February 5, 2025
Austria and Liechtenstein Take Over EUSALP Chairmanship
In 2025, Austria and Liechtenstein have taken on the co-chairmanship of the EU Strategy for the Alpine Region (EUSALP), a framework that fosters cross-border cooperation among seven countries and 48 regions. With a focus on sustainability, innovation, and resilience, this initiative aims to ensure that the Alpine region remains a thriving and livable space for future generations.
February 5, 2025
Austria Welcomes the World: FIS Alpine Ski World Championships 2025 Kick Off in Saalbach
Saalbach-Hinterglemm has once again become the epicenter of the alpine skiing world as the FIS Alpine Ski World Championships 2025 officially begin. With athletes, fans, and officials from across the globe gathering in the Austrian Alps, the event promises thrilling races, unforgettable moments, and a celebration of winter sports excellence.
February 4, 2025
Austria’s Fight Against Cancer: Progress and Challenges on World Cancer Day
Cancer remains one of the most significant health challenges worldwide, affecting millions of people every year. In Austria alone, approximately 42,000 new cases are diagnosed annually, with around 20,000 deaths attributed to the disease. However, thanks to advancements in research, early detection, and innovative treatments, survival rates are steadily improving.
February 4, 2025
Wiiw Forecast: Economic Growth in Central and Eastern Europe Defies Global Uncertainties
Despite weakening industry, private consumption remains a strong growth driver and makes a significant contribution to the region's economic stability. At the same time, the unpredictable economic policy decisions of the USA under President Trump pose considerable risks for the export-oriented countries in Central and Eastern Europe.
February 4, 2025
Raiffeisen Bank International: Profit Slump due to Provisions for Russia
Raiffeisen Bank International's consolidated profit decreased by over 50% in 2024 due to a €840 million provision from a Russian court ruling, which ordered the bank to pay EUR 2 billion in damages.
February 4, 2025
Schallenberg Attended EU-Summit Calling for Unity in Trade and Security Policies
European leaders gathered in Brussels for an informal EU summit to discuss pressing issues related to security, defense, and transatlantic relations. Austrian Chancellor Alexander Schallenberg emphasized the need for a united European stance amid growing geopolitical tensions, particularly in response to potential trade disputes with the United States.
February 3, 2025
Vienna Hosted European Cities Conference on Democracy
Two-day summit fosters exchange on citizen participation and democratic innovation. The event served as a platform for exchanging ideas, sharing best practices, and forging new alliances.
February 3, 2025
Coalition Negotiations Between FPÖ and ÖVP Enter Decisive Phase
The coalition negotiations between the Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ) and the Austrian People's Party (ÖVP) are reaching a critical juncture. According to party sources, FPÖ leader Herbert Kickl and ÖVP chairman Christian Stocker are meeting today and tomorrow in a smaller circle for discussions. The goal is to overcome unresolved issues and lay the foundation for a joint government. However, differences remain significant.
February 3, 2025
Slovenia Takes over the Presidency of the International Commission for the Protection of the Danube River
Slovenia has officially assumed the presidency of the International Commission for the Protection of the Danube River (ICPDR) for 2025. Dr. Lidija Globevnik, Director-General of the Slovenian Water and Marine Directorate at the Ministry of Natural Resources and Spatial Planning, succeeds the previous Slovak President, Vladimír Novák. The annual rotation of the presidency highlights the ICPDR's ongoing commitment to sustainable and coordinated water management in the Danube region.
February 3, 2025
Poland as a New Military Power in Europe: A Bulwark against Russia and a New Strategic Leadership Role in the EU
In recent years, Poland has developed into one of Europe's most important defense powers. Given the ongoing threat from Russia, Warsaw is focusing on a massive rearmament, stronger military cooperation with allies, and an active role in European security policy. By assuming the EU Council Presidency in January 2025, Poland will also have the opportunity to anchor its security policy priorities at the European level and set a new security policy course.
February 2, 2025
Poland Takes Over EU Council Presidency: Ceremonial Opening by Polish Embassy in Vienna
The Polish Presidency of the Council of the European Union was ceremoniously opened in the magnificent ballroom of Vienna City Hall by the Polish Embassy in Vienna. Around 180 high-ranking guests from politics, diplomacy, business, and society took part in the festive event, which marked a symbolic start to Poland's six-month term at the head of the Council of the European Union.
February 2, 2025
Austria's Industry and Economy under Pressure: Economic Experts Discuss Solutions
The situation in Austrian industry has deteriorated continuously since mid-2021. The Federation of Austrian Industries (IV) is now issuing an urgent warning about the consequences of this development. “Industry is in a bleak situation,” explained IV chief economist Christian Helmenstein. There is no sign of a recovery shortly, which is seriously jeopardizing the competitiveness of the location and the prosperity of the country.
February 2, 2025
Suspected Terrorist from Austria: Investigation into Mecca Attack Raises Questions
The Directorate of State Security and Intelligence (DSN) has announced that no suspicious data was found on the seized laptop belonging to Hasan E., a 20-year-old from Lower Austria who allegedly carried out a terrorist attack in Mecca in March 2024. At the same time, the authorities rejected accusations that errors were made in the investigation.
February 2, 2025
OSCE Secretary General Feridun Sinirlioğlu Completed First Official Visits
Türkiye's top diplomat, Feridun H. Sinirlioğlu, has been appointed the new Secretary General of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE). He will take office at the beginning of 2025 and will lead the world's largest regional security organization during a time of global crises and geopolitical tensions. The unanimous election of the 57 OSCE member states underlines the international trust in his many years of experience and diplomatic expertise.
January 29, 2025
Ex-ÖBB Boss Christian Kern Criticizes German Railways: “It Will Never Work Out Like This”
The ongoing problems at Deutsche Bahn (DB) are again causing sharp criticism. This time, the former head of the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) and former Chancellor of Austria, Christian Kern, is unusually outspoken about the situation of the German state-owned company.
January 29, 2025
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong Meets Austrian Chancellor Schallenberg in Vienna
Austria's Foreign Minister and interim Chancellor Alexander Schallenberg received his Australian counterpart Penny Wong for a bilateral working meeting in Vienna. This high-level visit marks another milestone in the strategic cooperation between Austria and Australia, which has been steadily deepening since the signing of the Agreement on Strategic Cooperation (ASCo) in 2021.
January 28, 2025
Austrian Citizen in Custody for Knife Attack in Mecca
Saudi Arabia confirms the arrest of a 20-year-old Austrian from the district of Bruck an der Leitha — the charge: a knife attack in front of the holy Al-Haram mosque in Mecca. But the story goes further - to foiled plans to attack a Taylor Swift concert in Vienna.
January 28, 2025
Austria's Security Situation: Publication “Risk Report 2025” Presented
The Federal Ministry of Defense presented the publication “Risikobild 2025 - Gewählt! Democracy and the free world”. This annual analysis highlights the greatest security policy challenges facing Austria and Europe in the coming months. With contributions from numerous experts, the publication provides a comprehensive overview of risks such as the erosion of the rules-based world order, hybrid threats, and the consequences of the so-called “super election year 2024”.
January 27, 2025
Bitpanda Receives EU-Wide MiCAR License and Plans Further Growth
The Viennese crypto platform Bitpanda is one of the first companies to receive the coveted MiCAR license. This license, issued by the German Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin), has been fully valid since January 2025 and enables crypto service providers to operate their business within the European Union under a uniform legal framework.
January 27, 2025
Talks Between Austria and the Taliban on Deportations to Afghanistan
The Austrian Ministry of the Interior has held talks at the official level with representatives of the Taliban regime in Afghanistan to explore the possibility of returning rejected asylum seekers. A delegation consisting of two high-ranking officials from the ministry was in the Afghan capital Kabul for this purpose.
January 24, 2025
Rene Benko Arrested: From “Wunderwuzzi” to the Protagonist of a Billion-Dollar Scandal
Rene Benko, once a celebrated real estate entrepreneur and founder of the Signa Group, was arrested at his villa in Innsbruck. The Public Prosecutor's Office for Economic Affairs and Corruption (WKStA) in Vienna justified the arrest warrant because of the risk of concealment and the commission of a crime. Benko is suspected of concealing assets and manipulating evidence. His arrest marks the climax of one of the biggest business scandals in Austrian history.
January 24, 2025
EU Stops Erasmus Funding for Modul University in Vienna
The EU Commission has decided to withdraw funding from the Erasmus exchange program at Modul Private University in Vienna. The reason for this is the ownership structure of the university: 90 percent of it is owned by a Hungarian foundation, which is subordinate to the Mathias Corvinus Collegium (MCC) think tank. This is seen as a cadre factory of the Hungarian government under Viktor Orbán.
January 23, 2025
Meet the Ambassador of the French Republic to the Republic of Austria
Matthieu Peyraud, France's Ambassador presented his credentials to Austria's Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen in Vienna. Meet Matthieu Peyraud the ambassador of the French Republic to Austria.
January 21, 2025
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