30 years of EU: That is why Austria remains skeptical despite the economic benefit!

30 years of EU: That is why Austria remains skeptical despite the economic benefit!

On January 1, 2025, Austria celebrates an important event: the thirtieth anniversary of its accession to the European Union. The "Fokus Europa Special", moderated by Andreas Mayer-Bohusch, will be broadcast on Thursday, January 2, 2025, at 10:30 p.m. in ORF 2 and on ORF ON and highlights the development of Austria within the EU. The country has changed significantly since joining in 1995, and it is analyzed how EU membership has a positive effect on the economic situation, while many citizens are often critical of the decisions of the "powerful in Brussels". This view of the past three decades has encompassed important milestones and also raises the question of how Austria's constant neutrality can be maintained as an EU member ots.at.

Important steps in EU history

January 1, 1995 is not only the day on which Austria contributes to the EU, but also a turning point in the history of the country. In these 30 years, not only Austria benefited from the advantages of the internal market, but also significantly expanded the entire EU its structures and member states. How Europa.eu Represented, many of the most important milestones in the EU - from the establishment of the European Community for Coal and Steel to the creation of the European Central Bank - have been launched over the decades.

While important political and economic steps have been promoted in the background, public opinion remains ambiguous with regard to the EU. Many citizens: Inside, the EU sees an advantage, but at the same time complain about the inadequate say in decisions that affect it. In addition, the neutrality debate remains a controversial topic, since the current geopolitical context challenges the role of Austria inside and outside the EU. The upcoming program will take up these topics and toast a nationwide dialogue about Austria's role in the EU.