2025 Annual Botstiber Lecture: Fake News — Hard Facts — True Lies? How News Media Influence Public Opinion in Austria and the United States

On May 16, 2025 the Embassy of Austria in Washington, DC had the pleasure of hosting the 2025 Annual Botstiber Lecture on Austrian-American Affairs, an event dedicated to fostering mutual understanding and academic dialogue between Austria and the United States.

The evening opened with welcoming remarks by Her Excellency Ambassador Petra Schneebauer, followed by Professor Siegfried Beer, Chairman of the Board of the Botstiber Institute for Austrian-American Studies, who set the tone for the evening’s discussions.

We were pleased to welcome Professor Reinhard Heinisch, Head of the Department of Political Science at the University of Salzburg, who presented his latest research titled “What Do Austrians and Americans Think About Each Other and the Changing International Order?” His presentation offered valuable insights into evolving public perceptions and the shifting global landscape.

The keynote address was delivered by Ms. Hannelore Veit, renowned journalist and former Washington Bureau Chief of Austria’s public broadcaster ORF. In her talk, “Fake News – Hard Facts – True Lies? How News Media Influence Public Opinion in Austria and the United States,” Ms. Veit provided an in-depth analysis of the media's influence on democratic societies, drawing on her extensive experience in both Austrian and American journalism.

We extend our sincere thanks to all distinguished speakers, partners, and guests who contributed to the success of this important annual event celebrating Austrian-American relations.