The minimum you must know
The Republic of Austria became a peaceful conscientious objector on April 2, 2026 by denying use of their airspace for NATO military flights to Iran. Austria is essentially siding with a growing number of European countries who prefer calming rhetoric and peace in order to reverse the overwhelming flow of refugees Europe has tolerated for decades.
Austria is an inland country bordering Germany that speaks German. Therefore, English-speaking visitors could become alarmed there by peace-loving well intentioned Austrians. (See the Germany peace page for more information.) But the Austrian government is so peaceful they even consider themselves nearly militarily neutral in Ukraine.
Like her predecessor, the country's Minister for International Affairs, Meinl Reisinger, gave an eloquent and passionate speech in favor of peace and in defense of Ukrainian independence at the United Nations.
Beate Meinl Reisinger
Federal Minister for European and International Affairs
Austria
80th session of the United Nations
Alexander Schallenberg
Federal Minister for European and International Affairs
Austria
79th Session of the United Nations
Austria is a member of the European Union and consequently participant in the NATO security alliance.
Austria is at peace and seeks improving relations globally.
