Austria's neutrality: Gazard for Peace and Security in Europe!

Austria's neutrality: Gazard for Peace and Security in Europe!

Austria's neutrality is not only a diplomatic commitment, but part of the national defense, which includes both mental and military aspects. In this context, the government plans to strengthen the capacities of the federal army. In addition, the Bundeswehr is involved in the UN mandate in the Balkans as part of peace-hedging. Austria has established itself as the seat of over 50 international organizations, including important institutions such as the UN and the OSCE. Another point is the support of the SPÖ for Austria's application for a seat in the UN Security Council, whereby the opportunities for this are considered to be good.

dimensions and development of neutrality

Austrian neutrality, which has been closely linked to the country's security policy for more than 40 years, consists of three central dimensions. Martin Senn describes this as a interpretation, attractiveness and deterrent. These dimensions form the framework for the design and securing of neutrality policy. The interpretation includes the domestic debates on neutrality changes, while the attractiveness relates to measures to ensure neutrality to the outside world, for example through mediation in conflicts and the accommodation of international organizations. Ducking means to illustrate potential aggressors that the benefit of a violation of neutrality does not justify the costs.

The development of Austrian neutrality is divided into four phases: from consolidation in 1955, a phase of expansion in the 1970s and 1980s to reorientation after the end of the east-west conflict when the country focused more on European issues. This historical review shows how Austria's attitude towards neutrality has changed over the decades. Stagnation has been observed in recent years, since all parliamentary parties, with the exception of the NEOS, agree to neutrality. This approval increased after NATO interventions and global crises such as the attacks of September 11, 2001.

The current security policy agenda

The security policy agenda in Austria is viewed in a new light by the Ukraine War. Military violence is again regarded as a legitimate option to enforce national interests. In the context of the EU, the Member States are faced with the challenge of redefining their safety policy roles. In this debate, Article 23 of the Austrian Constitution is also seen as a supportive discussion about neutrality and military cooperation in the EU. The new government has known itself to strengthen the strategic autonomy of the EU and the creation of a defense union, but the FPÖ and some other parties showed skepticism towards European security policy.

The high consent to neutrality correlates with the support for a common European defense. This could indicate that a positive referendum could strengthen the positioning of Austria within a European peace project. In view of the current geopolitical challenges, the question of how Austria can transfer its neutrality into a constructive security role within the EU.