2026 Conference on International Cultural Policy (Auslandskulturtagung)

The conference brings together representatives of Austrian Cultural Forums, embassies and Austrian Libraries, as well as partners from the fields of art, culture and science. At its core is the question of how cultural and science diplomacy can build and strengthen connections in a rapidly changing world, with encounter, dialogue and cooperation serving as key foundations for future-oriented international cultural relations. The conference will also see the presentation of Austria’s new International Cultural Policy Concept 2026–2032, focusing, among other priorities, on freedom of art and science, dialogue, democracy and strengthening intellectual resilience.

We are particularly pleased that the work of our Cooperation Office in Lviv was represented at this year’s conference. Our Director Andreas Wenninger presented insights into the diverse activities of Ukraine Office Austria at the Austrian Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs and highlighted our joint efforts in support of Ukraine.

His presentation focused on three areas that remain essential pillars of our work: countering disinformation, reconstruction and resilience. Andreas Wenninger also emphasised that Austria continues to stand firmly with Ukraine, including through cultural cooperation in Ukraine, in Austria and in third countries.

This cooperation goes far beyond individual cultural projects. Through close collaboration between Ukraine Office Austria, the Austrian Cooperation Office in Lviv, and together with Austrian higher education institutions, we also support educational and cooperation programmes in Ukraine in the fields of Human Health, journalism and European Studies.

For us as the Cooperation Office, this work is above all about building and sustaining long-term connections between people and institutions. Culture, education and science create spaces for dialogue even in the most difficult times, strengthen resilience and foster partnerships that are essential for Ukraine today and for its future reconstruction.

We thank our Director Andreas Wenninger for presenting our joint work and all our partners who continue to strengthen Austrian-Ukrainian cooperation together with us!