Austrian Government Delighted with Seat on the UN Security Council: “A Strong Sign of International Trust”

Photo: BMEIA/Michael Gruber

The Government of the Republic of Austria views its election by the member states of the United Nations as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for the 2027–28 term as a strong sign of international trust. Starting next year, Austria will therefore be a member of the world’s most important forum for security policy for the fourth time.

The campaign for this position ran for 15 years and was driven forward with great dedication by the entire Federal Government. Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger alone has personally canvassed representatives from over 150 countries for a vote for Austria over the past 15 months. Through the joint efforts of the Federal President, the Federal Chancellor, members of the government, members of the National Council, emissaries, and at the diplomatic level, virtually all UN member states were reached. The commitment of the Red-White-Red team and the election campaign—which, in a globally polarized climate, focused on partnership, trust, and dialogue—have contributed significantly to Austria once again becoming a member of the world’s most important forum for security policy after 16 years.

Austria will use its seat to further advance the reform of the UN Security Council and to bring its priorities to the Council: the protection of civilians, the strengthening of peacekeeping missions, the defense of the international legal order, and addressing threats posed by new technologies, such as those related to AI and disinformation. All of these issues are directly relevant to security and stability in Europe and thus also to Austria.

At the same time, the non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council also strengthens Austria’s role as an international hub. We also expect greater global visibility for Vienna as one of the four UN headquarters locations, as well as for numerous international organizations and conference tourism in Austria, thereby contributing to our country’s economic upswing. The trust we are building internationally also creates opportunities for Austria’s export-oriented companies.

Chancellor Christian Stocker:

“Austria will assume responsibility on the UN Security Council in 2027 and 2028—this is a major diplomatic success for our country. We do not want to, and will not, merely watch from the sidelines as our world develops; rather, we will actively shape it to contribute to peace and security in the world. Austria is a reliable voice for dialogue instead of confrontation, for understanding instead of bloc thinking, and for a rules-based international order in which the rule of law prevails over the law of the strongest.”

Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger:

“Our efforts and the many international contacts we have forged in recent years have paid off: Austria is once again at the table where decisions on peace, security, and stability are made. Election to the UN Security Council strengthens Austria’s voice in the world—politically, economically, and in terms of security policy. It is a clear sign of the great trust placed in our work and in Austrian diplomacy. The world is currently undergoing a process of reconnecting. At this pivotal moment, a strong international network is a prerequisite for security and stability in Austria. Thanks to the campaign, Austria is now better connected globally than ever before. My thanks go to everyone who contributed to this campaign. In a successful final sprint, we have brought Austria’s long-standing efforts to a successful conclusion.”

Vice-Chancellor Andreas Babler:

“A strong signal of trust: Austria has been elected to the United Nations Security Council. Our task is clear: to strengthen peace, facilitate dialogue, and defend international law. The world needs more cooperation, not less.”