Foreign and European Policy Report 2012

bericht_e_2012.inddbericht_e_2012.inddbericht_e_2012.indd 2 2 2 02.12.1302.12.13 16:0902.12.13 16:09 16:09 Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs Minoritenplatz 8 A-1014 Vienna

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Foreign and European Policy Report 2012

Report by the Federal Minister for European and International Affairs

Proprietor and Publisher: Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs A-1014 Vienna, Minoritenplatz 8 Austria

ISBN: 978-3-902965-02-8 (print) 978-3-902965-03-5 (ePub)

Edited and coordinated by: Michael Haider English translation coordinated by: Sabine Hübler Production: Berger Crossmedia GmbH & Co KG

.Based on Außen- und Europapolitischer Bericht 2012 Bericht des Bundesministers für europäische und internationale Angelegenheiten. Wien, 2013. Foreword

The year 2012 was marked by radical change in the Arab world and the dramatic deterioration of the situation in Syria, where a protest movement for the democratisation of the country drifted into an all-out civil war with a distinctly sectarian character. Right from the outset, Austria fully supported the United Nations’ efforts towards finding a political solution to this conflict. Bringing an end to bloodshed, immeasurable human suffering and the destruction of cities and villages is our primary objective. Austria fully supports all humanitarian efforts launched by the international community to protect the civilian population and alleviate their suffering. To date, Austria has contributed some 5.6 million euros in assistance for the victims of this tragic civil war. The Syrian civil war, which has claimed innumerable lives and resulted in a massive flow of refugees within Syria and the neighbouring region, as well as the fighting in Mali and Burkina Faso confronted both our network of representations abroad and headquarters in Vienna with major challenges. The handling of the impacts of these crises by the Foreign Ministry was a true test of our staff’s efficiency and professionalism in crisis management – an area where, in line with our motto “worldwide at your service”, we constantly strive to guarantee the highest levels of consular protection. The provision of services to Austrians abroad is one of the key tasks fulfilled by the Fed- eral Ministry for European and International Affairs. It is an area that has increased in importance from year to year. In 2012, our staff handled 422,552 cases involving consular assistance as well as 325,884 visa applications. We continuously strive to update and increase efficiency levels across the range of services we provide, including through the use of the new media. A particularly successful example for these efforts is the Foreign Ministry’s smartphone application, which is available as a download from our website www. bmeia.gv.at. Austria’s reputation and standing in the world is also shaped by the some 500,000 Austrians living abroad who, thanks to their personal connections and networks, can make valuable contributions to the work of our representations abroad. Providing services and support to Austrians abroad is among the core tasks performed by Austrian embassies and consulates. Managing the economic and financial crisis continues to represent a major challenge for European solidarity. At the European Council meeting in III Foreword

December, the most important aspects of European crisis management were reconfirmed: apart from the crisis management instruments already in place, a further deepening of the Economic and Monetary Union was envisaged. Of particular relevance are budget consolidation measures that encourage growth and are at the same time targeted at promoting youth employment and fighting poverty as well as social exclusion. In the context of shaping the future Economic and Monetary Union, a focus will also have to be placed on democratic legitimacy and accountability. With respect to designing a banking union, an agreement in principle was reached regarding a common Euro- pean banking supervision mechanism. At a crucial time for Europe, when we need to manage the impacts of the financial crisis and at the same time secure our future global competitiveness, special efforts need to be undertaken to properly communicate the importance of “Project Europe”. In 2012, I therefore placed a special focus on the continuation of a “Dialogue on Europe”. My goal is to strengthen the Austrian people’s trust and confidence in the EU and to invite them to get actively involved in a “Europe of citizens”. In the context of the FMEIA’s “DARUM EUROPA” information campaign, State Secretary Reinhold Lopatka embarked on a “Europe Information Tour”. Travelling to all Austrian provinces, he visited companies and introduced himself as a contact person Austrians can turn to with their questions about European issues – thus providing an opportunity for open debate and discussion. This initiative was launched in cooperation with the Federation of Austrian Industries and the Austrian Economic Chamber. The “EU Townhall Meetings” which I initiated together with the European Commission Repre- sentation in Austria as well as the appointment of “Municipal Councillors for European Affairs” were successfully continued. Today, this network of local contact persons on EU issues already comprises more than 500 individuals. The award of the Nobel Peace Prize to the European Union demonstrated the recognition of the historical role the unification of Europe has played for peace, freedom and prosperity in Europe. At the same time it underlines the important role Europe has come to play for the rest of the world – the EU has evolved into an exporter of stability and peace whose effects spread far beyond its borders. It is thus in Austria’s utmost interest to contribute pro-actively to European crisis management. Moreover, Austria is highly committed to the Balkans and the Middle East. The perspective of a rapprochement to the EU has proven to be the most important instrument in the context of further promoting stability. The European Union’s enlargement policy remains the central driver for reforms in the Western Balkan region. The progress Croatia, Monte negro, Macedonia, Serbia and Kosovo have achieved over the last few years with a view to a European perspective has contributed greatly to stability in IV Foreword the region. Based on the progress reports, it was thus possible to open negotiations with Montenegro just four years after its application for accession. The EU accession of Croatia – which took place on 1 July 2013 – illustrated in an impressive manner how Croatia, steering a determined reform course, used its historic opportunity to become part of the European unification process. Croatia’s success also serves as an encouraging signal for all countries in the Western Balkans where strengthening the rule of law, intensification of regional cooperation and measures aimed at sustainable economic recovery remain among the major challenges to be tackled by European enlargement policy. Our initiatives in the Danube area and the Black Sea region are the logical continuation of Austria’s efforts in the Balkans. The EU Strategy for the Danube Region – initiated by Austria – is currently being implemented by 14 states including some non-EU members. Apart from the immediate added value for the participating states, the projects planned under this strategy clearly lend themselves to promoting closer links and stronger connections between Austria and this growth region. This further strengthens Austria’s position as a player in South East Europe. The Joint Declaration adopted at the foreign ministers’ meeting in Sankt Pölten on 22 October 2012 confirmed that the EU Strategy for the Danube Region is to be consistently implemented in all EU programmes for this area in order to contribute to realizing the potential inherent in this region. This approach was reconfirmed at the first annual meeting held in Regensburg on 27 and 28 November 2012 where positive stock was taken of the development and implementation of the EU Strategy for the Danube Region. The United Nations is a traditional priority of Austria’s commitment at multilateral level. Since the beginning of our membership of the UN Human Rights Council in 2011 we have been able to contribute to numerous areas related to the protection and promotion of human rights, thus strengthening our reputation as a proactive and innovative member. The safety of journalists is a sine qua non for the effective exercise of the right to independent information and is thus a fundamental pillar of every democratic society. On Austria’s initiative and in line with our thematic priority, the Human Rights Council on 27 September 2012 adopted the first resolution ever on the “safety of journalists”. This resolution condemns any form of violence against journalists and proposes concrete preventive actions to be taken by states. The adoption of the resolution by consensus and the fact that it was co-sponsored by 67 states from all over the world sent a truly powerful signal. In connection with the 20th anniversary of the UN Declaration on Minority Rights of 1992, Austria placed a special focus on the protection of religious minorities. By organising a high-level discussion event at the Human Rights Council in Geneva in February 2012, an experts’ seminar in Vienna in May 2012 and an event at the UN Forum on Minority Issues in Geneva in Novem- ber 2012, we managed to firmly enshrine this topic in the Human Rights V Foreword

Council. Our efforts in this context are focused on making more efficient use of international human rights mechanisms in order to enhance the protection of religious minorities. With regard to our intensive commitment to promoting the rights of the child and the protection of children from exploitation and violence, I am very pleased indeed that Austrian judge Renate Winter was elected by a large majority to the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child. As in previous years, Austria continues to contribute at the frontline towards fostering disarmament and non-proliferation. In 2012, Austria was again able to implement a number of concrete initiatives in this context. Based on a resolution that was jointly initiated by Austria, Mexico and Nor- way and adopted by the United Nations General Assembly by a vast majority of votes, a new forum was created to add momentum to the multilateral disarmament negotiations in Geneva, which have been stagnating for many years now. Furthermore, together with a continuously growing group of states and representatives from civil society such as the Red Cross, Austria has worked towards expanding the discussions that are traditionally focused on military-security policy aspects by including the humanitarian dimension. The establishment of a robust and credible disarmament and non-proliferation regime governed by the rule of law is a clear goal of Austrian foreign policy. This also has a direct bearing on the role of Vienna as a UN host city whose “nuclear component” has gained in importance over the past few years. In this context, the mandate of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is of particular relevance. Likewise, Austria remains strongly committed in its efforts to facilitate the – long overdue – entry into effect of the Compre- hensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT). The position enjoyed by Vienna as the official seat of and home to many international organisations and as a hub for peace and dialogue was furthered by the opening of the International King Abdullah Centre for Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue in the presence of UN Secretary-General Ban Ki- moon on 26 November 2012. The dialogue centre will serve as a platform for exchange and networking among representatives of various religions, from civil society, universities, governmental and non-governmental institutions as well as experts from a range of fields with the aim of promoting mutual respect and understanding. By hosting the UN Alliance of Civilisations Global Forum in Vienna at the end of February 2013, which was also attended by United Nations Secretary- General Ban Ki-moon, we again continued in our long-standing tradition of facilitating constructive dialogue. Especially in times of change, Austria’s international cultural policy serves as a point of reference and answers important questions with regard to the image enjoyed by our country, which is often perceived primarily as a nation of culture. The international cultural policy network serves explicitly as a VI Foreword bridge facilitating the participation of creative professionals in international cultural dialogue. International cultural activities also reflect the geographic priorities set by Austrian foreign policy, i.e. the Danube area, the Black Sea region and the Western Balkans. Austria’s representations abroad as well as the Cultural Fora play an important role in maintaining scientific relations, which have gained in- impor tance not least due to the adoption of the Federal Government’s Research, Technology and Innovation Strategy 2011. Together with the network of Aus- tria Libraries, Austria Institutes and the lecturers from the Austrian Agency for International Cooperation in Education and Research (OeAD), Austria thus enjoys a global presence that is consistent with our clear commitment to Austria as a nation of culture. In the Executive Board of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), of which our country has been a member since 2011, Austria has continued its pro-active commitment to its thematic priorities – education, freedom of opinion and expression, safety of journalists as well as intercultural and interfaith dialogue. The management of global challenges requires holistic political approaches – a concept that holds particularly true for development cooperation. In order to be able to make an effective contribution towards reducing global poverty and extreme inequality and promoting sustainable development, development policy needs to be understood as a cross-cutting task that involves many policy areas. In 2012, Austria again strove to highlight the multi-face ted interconnections between security, human rights, development and the economy and to further intensify these links. The area of renewable energy and energy efficiency that is so pivotal to improving living conditions worldwide remains another priority of Austrian development cooperation. The fact that the office of the United Nations Sustainable Energy for All (SE4All) initiative was set up in Vienna contributes to further strengthening the energy cluster in the UN host city. Joint and internationally coordinated approaches are also of the utmost importance in the event of humanitarian disasters. In order to mitigate the suffering caused by the conflict in Syria, Austria has, as mentioned above, already made available 5.6 million euros for the provision of initial medical care to internally displaced persons and refugees. Another priority was managing the crisis in Mali which was additionally aggravated by the drought disaster in the Sahel region, where 3.1 million euros were made available to alleviate the food crisis and provide assistance to refugees and internally displaced persons. Further assistance of 1.85 million euros was made available to provide relief in the wake of the humanitarian crises in Haiti, Uganda and South Sudan. In conclusion, I would like to express my special thanks to the “Team For- eign Ministry” for their successful and committed efforts. My thanks goes to VII Foreword

State Secretary Dr. Wolfgang Waldner for having represented Austrian interests so impressively before assuming new political tasks in September 2012. Likewise, I would like to thank his successor State Secretary Dr. Reinhold Lopatka especially for his efforts in engaging so intensively in the continuation of the dialogue on European issues with our citizens. Last but not least, I would like to express my thanks and appreciation to Secretary-General Dr. Johannes Kyrle as well as all employees at headquarters in Vienna and at the Austrian representations abroad for their great dedication and their untiring efforts. It is only with this high level of commitment given by our staff on a day to day basis that the Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs is able to successfully fulfil the manifold tasks carried out in the service of our country and its citizens.

Dr. Michael Spindelegger Vice-Chancellor and Federal Minister for European and International Affairs

VIII Legal and Consular Matters 2 Table of Contents Foreword...... III 1. Worldwide at Your Service – Services provided by the FMEIA to Austrians abroad...... 1 1.1. Worldwide at Your Service: Services provided by the FMEIA in 2012 to Austrians abroad...... 1 1.1.1. Crisis Prevention and Crisis Management...... 1 1.2. Legal and Consular Matters...... 2 1.2.1. Citizens’ Help Desk...... 2 1.2.2. Assistance in Civil and Criminal Matters...... 3 1.3. Tourist and Cross-border Traffic...... 4 1.3.1. Visas...... 4 1.4. Austrians abroad...... 5 1.4.1. Organisations representing Austrians abroad...... 6 1.4.2. Support for Austrian Citizens abroad...... 7 1.4.3. Participation by Austrians abroad in Political Decision Making in Austria and the European Union ...... 7 2. the Economic and Financial Crisis: European Crisis Management . 9 2.1. Implementation and Strengthening of Economic Governance. 10 2.2. Financial Market Regulation and Supervision...... 10 2.3. A deep and genuine Economic and Monetary Union ...... 11 2.3.1. The Banking Union ...... 11 2.3.2. Institutional Reform / Democratic Legitimacy...... 12 2.4. Financial Assistance to Euro Area Countries (Greece, Ireland, Portugal, Cyprus and Spain)...... 12 2.4.1. Greece...... 13 2.4.2. Ireland ...... 13 2.4.3. Portugal ...... 13 2.4.4. Cyprus ...... 14 2.4.5. Spain...... 14 2.5. The European Central Bank’s Response to the Crisis ...... 14 2.5.1. The ECB’s Government Bond Purchasing Programmes (SMP, OMT)...... 14 2.6. Taxation of the Financial Sector: Financial Transaction Tax . 15 2.7. Global Approach in the context of the G20...... 15 3. austria in the European Union...... 18 3.1. Austria in the Institutions of the European Union...... 18 IX Table of Contents

3.1.1. Introduction...... 18 3.1.2. The Permanent Representation of Austria to the European Union...... 22 3.1.3. Austrians in the EU Institutions...... 23 3.1.4. The European Parliament...... 24 3.1.5. The European Council...... 24 3.1.6. The Council...... 25 3.1.7. The European Commission...... 25 3.1.8. The Court of Justice of the European Union...... 26 3.1.9. The Committee of the Regions ...... 27 3.1.10. The European Economic and Social Council...... 27 3.1.11. The European External Action Service...... 27 3.2. The Role played by the Austrian Parliament at European Level and National Cooperation between Parliament and the Federal Provinces...... 29 3.3. Austria’s Contribution to the EU Policy Areas ...... 31 3.3.1. Internal Policies of the European Union...... 31 3.3.2. The European Union’s External Relations ...... 54 3.3.3. The Enlargement of the European Union...... 63 3.3.4. Strategy for the Danube Region ...... 67 3.4. Information on Europe...... 68 4. challenges and Developments on All Five Continents...... 69 4.1. Europe...... 69 4.1.1. Austria’s Neighbourhood...... 69 4.1.2. Turkey...... 85 4.1.3. Cyprus...... 86 4.1.4. Russia...... 86 4.1.5. Eastern European States...... 88 4.1.6. Southern Caucasus...... 90 4.2. Africa and the African Union...... 93 4.2.1. General Developments...... 93 4.2.2. Developments in the Regions...... 93 4.2.3. Regional Integration Issues...... 107 4.3. America...... 108 4.3.1. USA...... 108 4.3.2. Canada...... 112 4.3.3. Latin America and the Caribbean...... 113 4.4. Asia...... 118 4.4.1. General Developments...... 118 X Table of Contents

4.4.2. Developments in the Regions...... 118 4.4.3. Regional Organisations...... 134 4.5. Australia and Oceania...... 135 4.5.1. Australia...... 135 4.5.2. New Zealand...... 136 4.5.3. Oceania...... 136 5. Security Policy Dimension...... 137 5.1. Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP)...... 137 5.1.1. Ongoing Crisis Management Operations ...... 137 5.1.2. Development of Civilian and Military Crisis Management Capabilities ...... 137 5.2. OSCE...... 139 5.2.1. The OSCE’s Evolution towards a Comprehensive Security Community ...... 139 5.2.2. Regional Issues and Field Activities...... 140 5.2.3. Election Observation...... 144 5.2.4. The OSCE’s Human Dimension...... 145 5.2.5. The OSCE’s Security Policy Dimension...... 147 5.2.6. The OSCE’s Economic and Environmental Dimension...... 148 5.2.7. Parliamentary Assembly of the OSCE...... 149 5.3. North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO)...... 149 5.3.1. The Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council (EAPC) and Partnership for Peace (PfP)...... 149 6. austria in other European Fora...... 151 6.1. Council of Europe...... 151 6.1.1. Political Developments...... 151 6.1.2. Relations with other International Organisations...... 152 6.1.3. Human Rights...... 153 6.1.4. Monitoring Respect of Commitments by Member States ...... 153 6.1.5. Assistance Programmes...... 155 6.1.6. The Organs of the Council of Europe...... 155 6.1.7. The Council of Europe and Austria ...... 157 6.2. The Central European Initiative...... 157 6.3. The Alpine Convention...... 158 6.4. The Danube Commission...... 159 7. the United Nations, its Specialised Agencies and Related Organisations...... 160 XI Table of Contents

7.1. Introduction ...... 160 7.2. The General Assembly...... 160 7.2.1. Procedural Matters...... 160 7.2.2. Political Affairs...... 162 7.2.3. Economic, Development and Environmental Affairs. 163 7.2.4. Human Rights...... 163 7.2.5. International Drug Control...... 163 7.2.6. International Crime Prevention...... 164 7.2.7. Social Policy...... 165 7.2.8. International Women’s Affairs ...... 166 7.2.9. Humanitarian Affairs...... 166 7.2.10. Peaceful Use of Outer Space...... 167 7.2.11. Administrative and Budgetary Affairs...... 167 7.2.12. International Law ...... 168 7.3. The United Nations Security Council ...... 170 7.3.1. Cross-sectional Issues...... 170 7.3.2. Peacekeeping Operations...... 173 7.3.3. Country-specific and Regional Issues...... 174 7.4. The UN Peacebuilding Commission...... 174 7.5. The Economic and Social Council...... 175 7.5.1. General Information...... 175 7.5.2. The United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE)...... 176 7.6. The International Court of Justice ...... 176 7.7. The United Nations Specialised Agencies and Related Organisations ...... 177 7.7.1. Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO)...... 177 7.7.2. International Labour Organisation (ILO)...... 178 7.7.3. International Telecommunications Union (ITU)...... 179 7.7.4. International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)...... 179 7.7.5. International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)..... 180 7.7.6. United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO)...... 180 7.7.7. World Health Organization (WHO)...... 183 7.7.8. International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)...... 183 7.7.9. World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO)...... 184 7.7.10. Universal Postal Union (UPU)...... 184 7.7.11. World Meteorological Organization (WMO)...... 185 XII Table of Contents

7.7.12. International Maritime Organization (IMO)...... 185 7.7.13. Excursus: International Organization for Migration (IOM) ...... 185 8. austria as the Seat of International Organisations and Institutions ...... 187

9. the International Protection of Human Rights...... 189 9.1. Introduction...... 189 9.2. Human Rights within the United Nations...... 189 9.2.1. Human Rights Council...... 189 9.2.2. General Assembly...... 191 9.2.3. Commission on the Status of Women...... 193 9.3. Human Rights in the European Union...... 193 9.3.1. The European Union Human Rights Policy ...... 193 9.3.2. Structured Human Rights Dialogues...... 195 9.4. Human Rights in the Council of Europe...... 196 9.5. Human Rights in the OSCE...... 197 9.6. Austrian Priorities in the Field of Human Rights ...... 197 9.6.1. Freedom of Religion and Protection of Minorities ... 197 9.6.2. Human Rights of Children...... 198 9.6.3. Human Rights of Women...... 200 9.6.4. Freedom of the Media and Protection of Journalists. 201 9.6.5. Protection of Minorities ...... 203 9.6.6. Human Rights Education...... 204 9.6.7. International Humanitarian Law...... 205 9.6.8. Combating Human Trafficking ...... 205 9.7. The International Criminal Court...... 206 10. Humanitarian Affairs...... 209 10.1. Austrian Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief...... 209 10.1.1. Bilateral Humanitarian Aid...... 209 10.1.2. Multilateral Humanitarian Aid...... 210 10.2. Humanitarian Aid in the United Nations Context...... 210 10.2.1. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs ...... 210 10.2.2. Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees ...... 211 10.2.3. United Nations World Food Programme ...... 211 10.2.4. United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Middle East...... 211 XIII Multilateral Economic PolicyTable of Contents 214

10.2.5. The United Nation’s Central Emergency Response Fund ...... 211 10.3. Humanitarian Aid in the European Union Context ...... 212 10.4. International Humanitarian Law...... 212 11. Multilateral Economic Policy...... 214 11.1. World Trade Organisation (WTO) ...... 214 11.2. Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD)...... 215 11.2.1. Developments and General Trends...... 215 11.2.2. Economic and Financial Policy...... 216 11.2.3. International Tax Policy ...... 216 11.2.4. Investment...... 216 11.2.5. Social Affairs, Migration, Consumer Protection...... 216 11.2.6. Environment, Agriculture and Price Volatility...... 217 11.2.7. Global Relations...... 217 11.2.8. Statistics...... 218 11.3. International Energy Agency (IEA)...... 218 11.4. International Financial Institutions...... 219 11.4.1. International Monetary Fund (IMF)...... 219 11.4.2. Multilateral Development Banks...... 220 12. Global Disarmament, Arms Control and Non-Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction and their Means of Delivery...... 222 12.1. Arms Control and Disarmament in the Field of Weapons of Mass Destruction ...... 222 12.1.1. Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons...... 222 12.1.2. Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty ...... 222 12.1.3. Geneva Conference on Disarmament...... 223 12.1.4. Chemical Weapons Convention...... 223 12.1.5. Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention ...... 224 12.1.6. Ballistic Missiles...... 224 12.2. Arms Control and Disarmament in the Field of Conventional Weapons ...... 225 12.3. Export Control Regimes...... 226 12.3.1. Multilateral Export Controls ...... 226 12.3.2. Arms Trade Treaty (ATT)...... 227 12.3.3. National Export Controls...... 228 13. Austrian Development Cooperation...... 229 13.1. Introduction...... 229 XIV Table of Contents

13.1.1. Budget for Development Cooperation...... 229 13.1.2. Policy Coherence...... 229 13.1.3. Themes and Sectors...... 230 13.1.4. Evaluation...... 233 13.2. Bilateral Development Cooperation...... 234 13.2.1. Geographic Priorities...... 234 13.2.2. NGO Co-financing...... 239 13.3. Multilateral Development Cooperation...... 240 13.3.1. The European Union...... 240 13.3.2. The United Nations...... 241 13.3.3. OECD/DAC...... 243 13.3.4. Assignments of Young Austrians...... 243 14. Global Environmental and Sustainability Policy...... 245 14.1. UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20)...... 245 14.2. Sustainable Development in the OECD...... 245 14.3. The UN Environment Programme (UNEP)...... 246 14.4. Global Environmental Protection Agreements...... 247 14.5. Sustainable Energy for All...... 250 14.6. Nuclear Safety ...... 250 15. International Cultural Policy...... 252 15.1. Objectives and Priorities...... 252 15.2. Bilateral Agreements in the Fields of Culture and Science... 260 15.3. Austria Libraries...... 261 15.4. Science, Education and Language...... 263 15.4.1. Austrian Professorships and Centres of Austrian Studies Abroad...... 263 15.4.2. Scholarships and Mobility Programmes in the University Field ...... 263 15.4.3. Language...... 263 15.5. Multilateral Scientific and Technical Cooperation...... 264 15.6. International Cultural Activities in the Context of the European Union ...... 265 15.7. Intercultural and Interreligious Dialogue...... 266 15.8. Task Force for International Cooperation on Holocaust Education, Remembrance and Research (ITF)...... 267 15.9. Prague Holocaust Restitution Process ...... 268 15.10. Future Fund of the Republic of Austria...... 269 16. Media und Information...... 270 XV Table of Contents

16.1. Press Work...... 270 16.2. PR, New Media and Web Presence ...... 270 16.3. Information on Europe: “EU Town Hall Meetings”, Europe Information Tour...... 270 16.4. The “Municipal Councillors for European Affairs” Initiative ...... 272 16.5. Publications...... 273 16.6. Press Officers’ Meeting...... 273 17. The Austrian Foreign Service...... 274 17.1. Introduction ...... 274 17.2. Working at the Foreign Ministry – Human Resources...... 275 17.2.1. Diplomatic Passports...... 278 17.3. The Foreign Ministry’s Budget ...... 278 17.4. Worldwide Infrastructure ...... 280 17.4.1. Real Estate Management and Construction Projects . 280 17.4.2. Information Technology...... 281 17.4.3. Information and Knowledge Management...... 282 17.5. Austrian Representations Abroad and Honorary Consulates. 283 17.6. Organisational Chart...... 286 17.7. Excursus: The Diplomatic Academy of Vienna...... 288 18. Selected Documents...... 290 18.1. “Austrian Foreign Policy Today – Challenges at European and International Level”. Address by Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Dr. Michael Spindelegger to the Foreign Policy and United Nations Association of Austria, Vienna, Parliament, 26 November 2012...... 290 18.2. “Responding to European and International Challenges: Austria’s Foreign Policy”. Speech by Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Dr. Michael Spindelegger at the JFK School of Government, Harvard University, Harvard, 24 September 2012...... 299 18.3. Address by Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Dr. Michael Spindelegger at the Commemoration Ceremony “New Departures – New Beginnings – Europe”, Vienna, Federal Chancellery, 8 May 2012...... 305 18.4. Address by Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Dr. Michael Spindelegger at the opening of the International King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz Centre for Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue, Vienna, 26 November 2012...... 309 XVI Table of Contents

18.5. Opening address by Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Dr. Michael Spindelegger at the conference “Sudan, South Sudan & Europe: Prospects of Cooperation for Regional Peace and Development”, Vienna, 10 October 2012...... 311 18.6. Address by Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Dr. Michael Spindelegger at the European Union – League of Arab States Foreign Affairs Ministerial Meeting, Cairo, 13 November 2012...... 314 18.7. Address by Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Dr. Michael Spindelegger to the Kosovar Parliament on the occasion of the closure of the Office of the International Civilian Representative, Pristina, 10 September 2012...... 316 18.8. Statement by Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Dr. Michael Spindelegger at the 67th Session of the General Assembly of the United Nations, New York, 28 September 2012...... 319 18.9. Statement by Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Dr. Michael Spindelegger at the 56th Regular Session of the IAEA General Conference, Vienna, 17 September 2012...... 323 18.10. Statement by State Secretary Dr. Wolfgang Waldner at the 19th Session of the UN Human Rights Council, Geneva, 27 February 2012...... 326 18.11. Speech by Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Dr. Michael Spindelegger at the International Cultural Meeting 2012, Vienna, 4 September 2012...... 329 18.12. “Austrian Development Cooperation in response to a changing environment”. Address by State Secretary Dr. Reinhold Lopatka at the international panel discussion “Change and Challenges for Development Cooperation”, Vienna, Parliament, 11 October...... 333 18.13. Statement by State Secretary Dr. Reinhold Lopatka at the first session of the Assembly of Parties to the IACA Agreement, Vienna International Centre, 29 November 2012...... 336 18.14. Statement by State Secretary Dr. Wolfgang Waldner at the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20), Rio de Janeiro, 21 June 2012...... 338 Index...... 341

XVII Table of Contents

XVIII 1. Worldwide at Your Service – Services provided by the FMEIA to Austrians abroad 1.1. Worldwide at Your Service: Services provided by the FMEIA in 2012 to Austrians abroad 1.1.1. crisis Prevention and Crisis Management Crisis management is a very important area of activity for the Federal Min- istry for European and International Affairs (FMEIA) and the Austrian representations abroad, particularly in view of the related consular component and the protective function they provide for Austrian citizens. Preventive measures aimed at ensuring a representation remains fully func- tional in the event of crisis also form part of crisis prevention. The technical and organisational safety precautions in place for all representations abroad are thus subject to ongoing evaluation. As the safety and security situation constantly deteriorates in many service locations, investment in the protection, safety and security of embassy premises has been scaled up over the last few years. Additional arrangements have also been put in place regarding provision of technical support for equipment or resources required in the event of a crisis. Further activities included training seminars on crisis situations for FMEIA staff, two crisis exercises involving 45 participants, and most importantly, the development of a new standardised database that will enable more efficient registration of Austrians in a crisis region. Various crisis situations had to be managed in the reporting period including the impacts of the civil war in Syria and the fighting in Mali and Burkina Faso, the sinking of the cruise vessel Costa Concordia off the Italian coast, worldwide protests caused by publications that were critical of Islam and a kidnapping case in Yemen. Precautions taken to deal with critical developments abroad also include institutionalised cooperation between the Federal Ministry of the Interior, the Federal Ministry of Defence and Sports under the leadership of the FMEIA. An important element in this crisis prevention planning is the dispatch of crisis support teams which conducted exploratory missions to Jordan and the Lebanon and were involved in the handling of a kidnapping case. Information regarding operational consular matters was constantly exchanged and the relevant measures coordinated with the EU Member States and Swit- zerland. The discussions on the EU’s role in crisis management were continued in the fields of emergency situations and Crisis Coordination Arrange- ments (CCA), the supportive role of the European External Action Service (EEAS) in managing consular activities by Member States, the solidarity clause and the European Civil Protection Mechanism. 1 Worldwide at Your Service

An evacuation exercise was conducted in Cyprus in the context of the pluri- national efforts of the Non-Combatant Evacuation Group (NCG) specialised in evacuations in crisis situations.

1.2. legal and Consular Matters 1.2.1. citizens’ Help Desk In close cooperation with the Austrian representations abroad, the Citizen’s Help Desk provides timely, immediate and high-quality assistance to Aus- trian citizens both in routine and emergency situations abroad. In 2012, Austrians made approximately 8.98 million holiday trips and some 1.97 million business trips abroad (source: Statistics Austria). The service and assistance provided by the Citizens’ Help Desk included safety-oriented information on travel destinations made available on the FMEIA’s website, information given on the telephone, in writing and recently also via a smartphone application and social media like Twitter and Facebook. This travel information and advice is constantly updated in close cooperation with the Austrian representations and the EU Member States. The travel information provided on the FMEIA website (www.aussenministerium.at) was accessed by more than 1.4 million visitors over the year. In peak times, up to 2,736 callers a month dialled the Citizens’ Help Desk telephone number 0 50 11 50–3775 to seek travel information or general information on the granting of visas, the procurement of documents from abroad, certifications, official procedures, etc. In total, 17,616 such calls were answered by FMEIA staff throughout 2012. The Citizens’ Help Desk also provides concrete support in emergency situations both to individuals and in major crises that require consular assistance and support. In the event of consular emergencies abroad, FMEIA staff can be reached around the clock by phone on 0 50 11 50–4411. In total, another 11,224 callers – at peak times 1,326 callers per month – dialled this number in 2012 to seek assistance from FMEIA staff. The impacts of political change in the Arab countries confirmed the need for intensive consular assistance and support – in cooperation with both the responsible embassies, some of which had to be moved to other places for security reasons (Syria), as well as with other ministries, tour operators, airlines and companies. The growing volume of foreign travel undertaken by Austrian nationals is also reflected in the increasing use made of consular support in cases of sick- ness, accidents or deaths abroad, including the number of cases involving the provision of support for mentally unstable or sick Austrian citizens in a foreign country or the repatriation of such individuals from abroad as well as of Austrian citizens without health insurance coverage abroad. 2 Legal and Consular Matters

There was continued cooperation with EU Member States and mutual exchange of information at consular level. Consultations were started based on the European Commission’s proposal of 14 December 2011 regarding a Council Directive on Consular Protection for Citizens of the Union Abroad.

1.2.2. assistance in Civil and Criminal Matters The Austrian representations offered legal assistance in a total of 810 cases worldwide. Representations may not directly interfere with pending proceedings, nor are they authorised to legally represent Austrian nationals. A further 6,795 requests for mutual administrative and judicial assistance were handled by the Austrian authorities. At the end of the year, 175 Austrian citizens were detained in prisons abroad1, in total there were 253 new cases of imprisonment involving Austrian citizens abroad, most of them in Europe. At regular intervals, representations ascertain that Austrian prison inmates are being treated in line with the relevant national regulations, that such regulations comply with the international minimum standards and that Austrian inmates also enjoy all the relief that they may be entitled to under the existing provisions. Representations paid 344 visits to prison inmates. Another important element of the services provided is the acceptance and forwarding free of charge of packages and small sums of money (inmate deposit) to Austrian prison inmates. The FMEIA’s scope of responsibility also includes inter-ministerial coordination and chairing of negotiations on international criminal and civil law agreements, mainly concerning readmission, police cooperation, extradi- tions and service of process agreements. In the reporting period work was carried out on 15 such agreements. In cases of child abduction, direct cooperation between the ministries of justice as central authorities is provided for under the Hague Convention on Child Abduction (HCCA). Especially in countries that are not party to the HCCA, the FMEIA and the Austrian representations support the affected par- ent in asserting their rights abroad. The Hague Adoption Convention (HAC) regulates adoption processes between countries that are party to the convention. In Austria, each federal province has a central authority operating in line with HAC provisions, which cooperates closely with the FMEIA and the Federal Ministry of Jus- tice. Adoptions from countries that are not party to the HAC are in principle possible for Austrians wishing to adopt a child but do involve substantial

1 Statistics include only individuals who are reported to and/or have contacted Austrian representations 3 Worldwide at Your Service administrative efforts. The Austrian representations are kept informed and updated in an ongoing manner by the competent specialist department on the applicable legal requirements regarding the examination of adoption documents. The fight against human trafficking and child trafficking enjoys top priority in this context.

1.3. tourist and Cross-border Traffic 1.3.1. Visas As of 31 December 2012, Austrian nationals holding a regular passport were free to enter 109 states without a visa, including all neighbouring states, Canada, Japan, the USA and many states in Africa, Asia and South America. Austrians may enter 40 of these states with an identification card and 18 with a passport that has expired within the last five years. Citizens of 126 countries need a visa to travel to Austria. Visas for Austria were issued at 87 Austrian embassies and consulates. Schengen visas for entering Austria were issued at 97 further locations by representation authorities of states Austria holds Schengen Representation Agreements with. In turn, Austria – having 70 Schengen representations – issued visas in its capacity as representative under the Schengen Agreement at 37 service locations. A Schengen Representation Agreement between Austria and the Principal- ity of Liechtenstein was negotiated in the course of the year and signing was scheduled for 2013. At EU level, the visa facilitation agreements with Moldova and the Ukraine were re-negotiated and signed. Under both agreements, which are in the process of being ratified, visa exemption is to be granted to holders of diplomatic or service passports. The Austrian representation authorities processed 325,884 visas – an increase of approximately 7.6 per cent over the previous year. This increase is largely attributable to the efforts by the Austrian Tourist Office, which succeeded in attracting new tourism target groups especially from Arab and South East Asian countries. Peak values were again registered in the CIS countries and the highest increases in the Middle East and East Asia. In 2012, measures towards increasing reliability, security, efficiency and service-orientation in the visa sector were further enhanced thus implementing the recommendations made by the visa commission. In the course of the year, the EU-wide roll-out of the EU Visa Information System (VIS) was completed for all Austrian representation authorities in Africa (except for South Africa). Likewise, the representations in the Middle East were equipped with biometric data collection facilities. In 2013, a fur- 4 Austrians abroad ther roll-out is planned that will include the representations in South Africa, South America and South East Asia. As has been the case in previous years, the FMEIA and the Ministry of the Interior organised a joint visa workshop on 4 July. At this workshop consular staff was provided with the opportunity to exchange experience and best practices in order to further improve the protection of visa administration against improper use. At a visa workshop directed at Heads of Missions a newly developed working tool was introduced. It was specifically designed for the latter to facilitate visa administration, improve tamper resistance and protect against improper use. Activities by the joint training and inspection team, composed of members of the FMEIA and the Ministry of Justice, were further intensified at Austrian representations and at headquarters. Inspections included joint checks performed in cooperation with the Federal Ministry of the Interior in states with particularly high migration rates. Close cooperation with the Federal Ministry of the Interior on the analysis of visa number development, ongoing joint training activities in the consular sector and evaluation of visa administration at the representation authorities including the implementation of relevant measures was also continued and further intensified. Continued close and successful cooperation with the Austrian Economic Chamber in the form of a round table with representatives from the tourism industry contributed to managing the growing number of visas that was mainly attributable to increasing tourism from countries requiring a visa for travel to Austria. Under the resolution of the Austrian National Council passed on 5 July on the Act on the restructuring of authorities dealing with matters related to aliens (Fremdenbehördenneustrukturierungsgesetz, Federal Law Gazette I No. 87/2012), the ordinary right to appeal in visa matters was established and will become effective as of 1 January 2014.

1.4. austrians abroad The provision of support and services to Austrians citizens abroad is one of the core tasks of Austrian embassies and consulates(-general). Just like the dedicated website of the Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs for Austrians abroad (www.auslandsoesterreicherinnen.at), the Aus- trian embassies and representations are an important link between Austrians abroad and their present or former home country. These facilities and the website are the first points of contact and service with regard to passport, citizenship and voting matters, further contact with authorities and consular protection, information about Austria, effective crisis preparedness and coordination, or with respect to facilitating and organising Austria-related events. 5 Worldwide at Your Service

As there is no obligation to officially register one’s permanent residence abroad, the figures on Austrians living abroad are largely based on estimates. Verifiable figures do not reflect the actual number of Austrians residing abroad. According to estimates approximately 500,000 Austrians live abroad. About four fifths reside in Germany (243,000), Switzerland (50,000), the USA (27,000), the United Kingdom (22,000), in South Africa (18,000), Australia and Spain (15,000 each). 329,000 Austrians abroad are registered at embassies and consulates(-general), out of these 251,000 are entitled to vote. The introduction of a modern standardised registration system worldwide shall serve to increase the number of Austrians registered abroad and enhance data quality, which will also facilitate and ensure quick and efficient establishment of contact (by text message or email). Austrians abroad may also register online with Austrian representation authorities. The number of “Austrians at heart” (those who do not hold Austrian citizenship but feel a particular attachment to Austria due to their former Austrian citizenship, family connections or for other reasons) can only be estimated and probably comprises several hundred thousand individuals.

1.4.1. organisations representing Austrians abroad Links between Austrians living abroad and their home country are maintained particularly through associations of Austrians abroad and other societies in foreign countries. There are more than 420 such associations and societies in almost 60 countries worldwide, a list of which can be found at the dedicated website for Austrians abroad (www.auslandsoestereicherin- nen.at). Those interested in joining the network of Austrians abroad “Aus- landsösterreicherInnen-Netzwerk” may register at their website. The Vienna-based Auslandsösterreicher-Weltbund (AÖWB), the World Fed- eration of Austrians Abroad, is the umbrella organisation, interest group and service platform for Austrian associations abroad. Since 2004, Gustav Chles- til has been the President of the AÖWB, while Irmgard Helperstorfer holds the office of Secretary-General. The AÖWB maintains a website (www.weltbund.at) and publishes the magazine “ROT-WEISS-ROT”. Since September it has also maintained an internet platform at www.austrians.org. The AÖWB organises annual meetings of Austrians abroad, this year’s meeting took place in Graz from 6 to 9 September. The AÖWB received funding of 200,000 euro from the FMEIA. Burgenländische Gemeinschaft is the umbrella association of all natives of Burgenland who live abroad. It aims to maintain and deepen the ties of all natives of Burgenland worldwide with their home province. This goal is also pursued by its periodical magazine, “Die Burgenländische Gemeinschaft”. The President of Burgenländische Gemeinschaft is Walter Dujmovits. 6 Austrians abroad 1.4.2. Support for Austrian Citizens abroad The Fund for the Support of Austrian Citizens Abroad was established in 1967 with a view to assisting Austrians living abroad who find themselves in serious difficulties. The Federal Act on the Fund for Austrians Abroad (Bundesgesetz über den Auslandsösterreicher-Fonds, AÖF-G), Federal Law Gazette I No. 67/2006, which came into force on 1 January 2007, extended the group of potential recipients of support. The Fund is financed with 600,000 euros by Austria’s nine federal provinces and the FMEIA which contribute 50 per cent each. Drawing on existing financial reserves the fund provided financial assistance totalling about 650,000 euros to more than 1,100 needy Austrians in 64 countries. The Board of Trustees appointed by the Federal Government is chaired by Ambassador Markus Lutterotti, the office of Man- aging Director is held by Josef Knapp. In the course of the Christmas Campaign, organised by the FMEIA every year in support of needy Austrians abroad, donations in cash and in kind totalling 65,120 euros were provided to 547 needy Austrians in 80 countries worldwide. For Austrians living abroad who are elderly or severely ill and no longer able to care for themselves, the FMEIA can arrange for repatriation including accommodation in a suitable institution in Austria. Prerequisites for such a return to Austria are that help by relatives or local relief organisations is impossible, the individual’s state of health allows them to travel and he/ she agrees to medical repatriation. Ten Austrians were thus repatriated from seven countries – Germany, Italy, Pakistan, the USA, Egypt, the Cayman Islands and Spain – and placed with Austrian social welfare and/or care institutions.

1.4.3. participation by Austrians abroad in Political Decision Making in Austria and the European Union Since 1990, Austrians entered in the (European) electoral roll register who are either residing in other countries or temporarily staying abroad on election days have had the right to vote in Austrian parliamentary and presidential elections and to participate in nationwide plebiscites and referenda. Austrians abroad – as well as non-Austrian citizens of the European Union having their main residence in Austria – can also vote in elections for Aus- trian Members of the European Parliament. Voting rights of Austrians abroad that were simplified substantially as of 1 July 2007 enable participation in elections from the age of 16. Postal voting is possible in Austria and abroad for anyone unable to cast their vote in a polling station on election day. A signed affidavit is now sufficient for cast- ing a postal vote. Postal charges due for sending absentee ballots by normal mail from all parts of the world back to Austria are borne by the Repub- 7 Worldwide at Your Service lic of Austria. Furthermore, Austrians abroad can order absentee ballots in advance for a period of ten years (“absentee ballot subscription”) and will automatically receive their absentee ballots for all nationwide elections, referenda and plebiscites during this period. The municipality in which they are registered as voters informs them ex officio about forthcoming elections, plebiscites and referenda and also when they are about to be deleted from the electoral roll. Furthermore, under Federal Constitutional Law the Austrian federal provinces also have the right to give Austrians living abroad the opportunity to vote in elections to the regional parliaments of their former federal province of residence. So far, the provinces of Lower Austria, Tyrol and Vorarlberg have implemented this type of voting right for Austrians abroad. The range of services provided to Austrians abroad is constantly being extended. The latest improvements and adaptations to current needs have related to election law, online registration and information provided on the internet. This mainly concerned facilitated participation in elections from abroad by simplification in the area of postal voting introduced by the Voting Rights Amendment Act of 2009 and extended in 2010. At the federal elections 2010, as was the case with the EP election in 2009, witnesses were thus no longer required, nor was it necessary to indicate the place and time of the affidavit on the voting card. Confidentiality of personal data was ensured by the new design of the voting cards. According to the 2011 Voting Rights Amendment Act voting cards must arrive at the Austrian election authority by election day at the latest. The relevant previous deadlines were thus adjusted accordingly. Hence the time span between the sending of voting cards and their return to district election authorities remains practically unchanged. With a view to the national referendum to be held in 2013 on “compulsory military service or professional army”, information and advice was provided via a telephone hotline. A specially established election information website provides more details on voting rights for Austrians abroad including all required forms (www.wahlinfo.aussenministerium.at). Acting in collaboration with Austrian authorities, ministries, competence centres and scientists, the FMEIA promotes Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) applications for Austrians abroad, especially with regard to eGovernment and broader citizen participation. Increased use is also being made of new forms of communication (social media).

8 Austrians abroad 2. the Economic and Financial Crisis: European Crisis Management The most important elements of European crisis management were confirmed by the European Council (EC) of 13/14 December. Europe’s crisis management strategy remains clearly focused on increased solidarity and integration based on strict conditionality. The strategy encompasses the following elements: • Continued consolidation of government budgets involving a differentiated and sound budget policy that supports growth through structural reforms aimed at improving competitiveness in order to create jobs, especially for young people (see Chapters 3.3.1.4 and 3.3.1.5). • Implementation and strengthening of the new economic and budgetary governance framework, consisting of the “six-pack”, the legislative package for economic policy governance that includes instruments for the systematic monitoring and analysis of macro-economic imbalances and the promotion of competitiveness; the implementation of the Treaty on Stabil- ity, Coordination and Governance in the Economic and Monetary Union (TSCG or “Fiscal Compact”); and the adoption of the legislative package on budgetary surveillance (“two-pack”). • Stabilisation of the financial sector through comprehensive reform in the fields of financial market regulation and supervision. • Further steps towards establishing a deeper Economic and Monetary Union (EMU) in the fields of economic and budgetary policy, in the financial sector (banking union) and in the field of the EMU’s democratic legitimacy and social dimension. Financial assistance to euro countries (Greece, Spain, Portugal, Ireland and Cyprus) provided by the euro “stabilisation and rescue packages” EFSF (European Financial Stability Facility) and the permanent European Stability Mechanism (ESM) that has been in operation since October.

The crisis strategy is supplemented by special measures launched by the European Central Bank (ECB) to support lending by banks and money market activity as well as the Compact for Growth and Jobs adopted by the EC on 28/29 June to boost growth, investment and employment and to increase Europe’s competitiveness. The Compact includes measures introduced at Member State level, ranging from growth-friendly budget consolidation to the creation of jobs and the modernisation of public administration. Other activities that are to contribute to promoting growth and employment include the deepening of the Internal Market, better access to finance for business and the commitment to smart regulation with a view to reducing regulatory burdens for companies. 9 The Economic and Financial Crisis: European Crisis Management 2.1. implementation and Strengthening of Economic Governance The major weakness of pre-crisis economic governance consisted in the lack of systematic surveillance of macro-economic imbalances and competitiveness developments. The reporting year saw the first implementation of the “six-pack” reforms – in force since November 2011 – including the new Macroeconomic Imbalance Procedure (MIP) with enforcement provisions in the form of financial sanctions for euro area member states. Under the new regulations, the individual components of economic policy, budgetary and structural surveillance are assessed simultaneously within the first six months of a calendar year (European semester) to give Member States time to implement the EU´s recommendations at national level during the second half of the year. Strategic recommendations to Member States are communi- cated before the latter finalise their individual draft budgets for the coming year. Negotiations on the “two-pack” (focused on governing budgetary surveillance) were conducted throughout the entire year.

2.2. Financial Market Regulation and Supervision Based on the de-Larosière Report, the European Commission proposed a comprehensive financial market reform programme when the crisis started to materialise. This programme includes stricter supervision and equity rules for banks (fourth Capital Requirements Directive/CRD IV and Capital Requirements Regulation/CRR I) which were negotiated on over the course of the year. The adoption of the Capital Requirements Regulation will add a major impetus to the completion of a uniform set of rules (the Single Rule Book) for the Union’s financial institutions. The European Commission also established a High-level Expert Group on reforming the structure of the EU banking sector chaired by the member of the ECB Governing Council Erkki Liikanen. In its report published in Octo- ber (the Liikanen Report), this group proposes a number of structural reform measures including a legal separation of banks’ retail banking activities from risky trading activities with a view to protecting the banks’ private clients. Furthermore, the report suggests involving shareholders and private investors when winding-up banks (known as “bail-in”) and strengthening risk weighting and minimum capital requirements. The EU also introduced binding provisions for remuneration policies and tightened financial market supervision by setting up the European System of Financial Supervision (ESFS). The rating agencies that had played a substantial role in triggering this crisis are now being closely monitored by the new European Securities and Market Authority (ESMA). Legislation adopted in 2012 ensures that all standardised over-the-counter (OTC) derivatives are 10 A deep and genuine Economic and Monetary Union cleared through central counterparties in order to reduce the counterparty credit risk.

2.3. a deep and genuine Economic and Monetary Union The EC of 13/14 December kicked off an intensive political debate on the deepening of the EMU, which had originally been launched by the first presentation of the “Four Presidents’ Report” at the June EC meeting. The most eminent outcome of the December Council was the confirmation of the agreement in principle on a common European banking supervision – an initial important step towards a banking union and the definition of four areas to be worked on in the future.

2.3.1. the Banking Union The EC confirmed the agreement in principal achieved by theEU Minis- ters of Finance at the Economic and Financial Affairs Council (ECOFIN) on 12 December on the European Single Supervisory Mechanism (SSM) for the oversight of credit institutions. The legal framework for the new supervisory body will be in place by the first half of 2013 and the ECB will assume the tasks conferred on it within the SSM on 1 March 2014 or twelve months after the entry into force of the legislation. The supervisory responsibilities may be transferred at an earlier date, namely as soon as the ESM requests that the ECB shall assume full supervision. The ECB regularly updates EP and Coun- cil on the status of preparatory work. Only those banks will be subject to direct supervision whose direct value of assets exceeds 30 billion euros or whose ratio of total assets over the gross domestic product (GDP) of the participating Member State of the institution exceeds 20 % and banks that are directly recapitalised by the ESM. Accord- ing to ECB figures this affects some 130 to 150 banks, eight of which are established in Austria. Furthermore, the ECB may also, on its own initiative, take over supervision of an institution if it has established banking subsidiaries in more than one participating Member State and its cross-border assets or liabilities represent a significant part of its total assets or liabilities. In any case, the three most significant banking institutions in each of the participating Member States shall be subject to ECB supervision. All other banks will continue to be supervised by the relevant national supervisory authorities. However, if justified by particular circumstances, the ECB may also assume supervision of these institutions. The operational readiness of the Single Supervisory Mechanism (SSM) is one of the prerequisites for the direct recapitalisation of banks by the Euro- pean Stability Mechanism (ESM). 11 The Economic and Financial Crisis: European Crisis Management

Additional elements of the banking union, including the directive proposals for tightened equity capital requirements (CRD IV, CRR), the harmonisation of provisions on the resolution and restructuring of banks and for a harmonised deposit guarantee scheme were still being discussed at the end of the year. As soon as agreement has been reached on the above items a single mechanism for the resolution and restructuring of banks participating in the SSM, which will be funded from contributions by the banks themselves, can be created in a next step. In the course of 2013 the EC will submit a proposal with implementation to be effected by the end of the EP cycle, i.e. before June 2014. The goal pursued by all these measures is to interrupt the vicious cycle between government debt and banks to be recapitalised (with tax funds).

2.3.2. institutional Reform / Democratic Legitimacy The December EC confirmed that any new steps towards strengthening economic governance will need to be accompanied by further steps towards stronger legitimacy and accountability.

2.4. Financial Assistance to Euro Area Countries (Greece, Ireland, Portugal, Cyprus and Spain) Support under the EU “rescue funding mechanisms” (the European Finan- cial Stability Facility/EFSF and/or the European Stability Mechanism/ ESM and the International Monetary Fund) is currently being provided to Greece (since May 2010)2, Ireland (since December 2010), Portugal (since April 2011), Cyprus (since June 2012) and Spain (since July 2012). The ESM was equipped with more than 80 billion euros paid-in by the participating Member States. The Austrian contribution amounts to 2.22 billion euros. The ESM’s entire subscribed capital will amount to 700 billion euros and Aus- tria’s contribution thus to 19.48 billion euros. Financial assistance provided in the form of loans requires recipient countries to implement economic adaptation programmes (consolidation, structural reform etc.) and/or sector-specific reform programmes (for instance in the banking sector) subject to strict conditionalities. Implementation is regularly – at three month intervals – reviewed by the lenders, a “troika” com- prising the European Commission (EC), the European Central Bank (ECB) and International Monetary Fund (IMF).

2 The first Greece package was funded from bilateral loans made available by the euro Member Countries; the second package was funded with money the EFSF/ESM had raised on the capital market. 12 Financial Assistance to Euro Area Countries

Based on the ESM Accompanying Amendment (Federal Law Gazette I No. 65/2012) that came into force on 26 July, the Austrian National Council has a comprehensive say in matters relating to the ESM. Austrian representatives on the ESM Board of Governors require authorisation from the National Council when decisions are to be taken on the following topics: proposals for a resolution to generally grant stability assistance to a Member State; changes to the approved share capital and adaptation of the maximum loan volume under the ESM and the calling of approved not paid-in share capital; changes to the applicable tools for financial assistance.

2.4.1. greece Since the parliamentary elections in June, Greece has undertaken substantial efforts in implementing the programme agreed with the troika (EC/ECB/IMF) including especially legal provisions on the implementation of a large number of economic reforms, a budget plan for 2013 and a medium-term fiscal policy strategy for the years 2013–2016. The goal pursued by these measures is a budget consolidation amounting to 13.5 billion euros in 2013/2014 and a primary surplus (excluding interest payments) of 4.5 % of GDP in 2016. On 13 December, following successful completion of the debt buyback programme, the Eurogroup approved the release of the next instalment of a total amount of 49 billion euros to be paid out to Greece. The disbursement is to be made in several “tranches”. The first such instalment amounting to 34.3 billion euros was already paid out in December and the remaining amount will be paid out in the first quarter of 2013. As previously, the disbursement of international assistance to Greece is linked to the implementation of measures agreed with the troika (“milestones”).

2.4.2. ireland On 21 November 2010, Ireland officially requested financial assistance of 85 billion euros from the EU and the IMF. The country has meanwhile made so much progress that is was able to partially return to the free bond market in July. Currently, Ireland is working with the troika on preparing its exit from the euro assistance programme and thus its full return to the international capital market, which will in all probability start by the end of 2013.

2.4.3. portugal On 7 April 2011, Portugal requested financial assistance of 78 billion euros. The joint financing package agreed on is funded with 26 billion euros each from the EFSF, the EFSM and the IMF. So far 48.3 billion euros have been paid out. Portugal, in turn, committed itself to reducing its deficit to 3 % of GDP by 2014, to reforming its banking and financial sector and to strength- 13 The Economic and Financial Crisis: European Crisis Management ening its competitiveness. The objective is Portugal’s return to the capital market as of September 2013.

2.4.4. cyprus The Greek debt restructuring in March and the ongoing recession led to a clear reduction in the Cypriot banks’ equity capital base. On 25 June, Cyprus thus officially requested financial assistance from the EU (in order to restore the soundness of its banking sector and support management of fiscal and structural challenges). By the end of the year, the due diligence exercise aimed at identifying the financial sector’s capital requirements and its implications for the overall funding requirements were still ongoing.

2.4.5. Spain On 20 July, the Eurogroup unanimously agreed on granting financial assistance of up to 100 billion euros to Spain to support the ongoing recapitalisation and restructuring of the country’s financial sector. The measures aimed at stabilising the Spanish financial sector focus on restoring access to financial markets under affordable conditions. On 3 December the Eurogroup agreed on a banking assistance package for Spain amounting to 39.5 billion euros. Previously, the troika of EC, IMF and ECB had confirmed in its first review report that Spain fulfilled all conditions required for disbursement.

2.5. the European Central Bank’s Response to the Crisis The European Central Bank (ECB) has consistently played a central role in tackling the entire euro debt crisis. An important measure consisted in adding additional liquidity to banks in the euro area in order to enable them to provide securities of sufficient quality. This was later supplemented by covered bond purchase programmes and further activities towards countering disturbances on the securities markets and restoring an appropriate monetary policy transmission mechanism. With a view to strengthening confidence in the eurozone banks, the ECB in December 2011 announced the Long Term Refinancing Operations programme (LTRO) to supply banks with liquidity and support lending. The LTRO has a term of 36 months and a total volume of more than 1 trillion euros.

2.5.1. the ECB’s Government Bond Purchasing Programmes (SMP, OMT) Since May 2010 (onset of the crisis in Greece), the Securities Markets Pro- gramme (SMP) has been used to buy government bonds from eurozone Mem- 14 Taxation of the Financial Sector: Financial Transaction Tax ber States via the euro systems’ central banks. Under its new President Mario Draghi the ECB on 6 September adopted the Outright Monetary Transactions (OMT) programme – a new purchasing programme for government bonds issued by distressed eurozone Member States. Under this programme the ECB stands ready to purchase government bonds issued by euro member countries on the secondary market, subject to “strict and effective conditionality”, in order to remove substantial distortions on the government bonds market and restore the effectiveness of ECB monetary policy. The following essential features distinguish the OMT from the SMP: absence of ex ante quantitative limits, the sovereign bonds’ maturity ranges from one to three years, the purchase of bonds is tied to strict conditions; i.e. the OMT is linked to an official EFSF/ESM assistance programme – subject to the relevant conditionalities as defined by the EC/ECB/IMF. In a second step, EFSF/ ESM may buy government bonds from the respective “programme countries”. With this double conditionality attached to OMTs – structural reform by distressed euro countries and the euro countries’ readiness to activate the EFSF/ESM – the ECB defined clear conditions for the purchase of sovereign bonds in the secondary market that also ensure governments honour their obligations and discharge their duties with respect to their respective reform efforts. The OMT programme has not yet been used.

2.6. taxation of the Financial Sector: Financial Transaction Tax The planned financial transaction tax (FTT) pursues a dual objective: on the one hand it aims to ensure that the financial sector makes an appropriate contribution to managing the costs of the crisis and on the other hand it strives to attain greater stability in the financial markets through increased taxation on highly speculative transactions. As agreement on an FTT based on the EC’s proposal of September 2011 could not be reached at EU 27 level, eleven EU Member States (Austria, Belgium, Estonia, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia and Spain) declared their readiness at the ECO- FIN meeting in Luxembourg on 9 October to support the introduction of an FTT via “enhanced cooperation”. A FTT would cover all interbank transactions of financial instruments (i.e. approximately 85 % of all financial transactions). The proposal sets minimum standards. The minimum tax rates foreseen are 0.1 % for trading in shares and bonds and 0.01 % for derivative agreements. Individual participating countries are free to introduce higher taxation rates.

2.7. global Approach in the context of the G20 On 1 December, the Russian President of State Vladimir Putin announced the following priorities for Russia’s presidency of the G20 in 2013: 15 The Economic and Financial Crisis: European Crisis Management

• Stimulation of economic growth and creation of jobs through • investment and development incentives, • restoring confidence in the markets and their transparency, • efficient market regulation, • reform of financial and currency market supervision, • stability of global energy markets, • strengthening international trade and • fighting corruption. Immediately before Russia, Mexico had held the G20 presidency for one year beginning from 1 December 2011 and organised the Seventh G20 Summit at Heads of State and Government level in Los Cabos (Mexico) from 18 to 19 June. As was the case with the G8 summit in Camp David (USA) on 18 and 19 May, the focus was on striking a balance between consolidation and growth in the eurozone, and above all on promoting global growth. At the G20 summit agreements were reached on the following priority areas defined by the Mexican Presidency: • economic stabilisation and structural reform as the basis for growth and employment; • strengthening of the financial system and promotion of financial inclusion to stimulate economic growth; • improvement of the international financial architecture in an intercon- nected world; • enhancing food security and reduction of commodity price volatility; • promoting sustainable growth, green growth and fighting climate change. At their meeting held on 4 and 5 November, the ministers of finance and central bank governors of the G20 states requested that by the beginning of 2013 the World Bank, the IMF, the OECD, the UN and other international institutions assess the factors influencing long-term investment funding. With respect to the euro crisis, the G20 representatives recognised that progress had been made. The introduction of a uniform system of banking supervision in the EU was welcomed as were the measures towards enhancing transparency of banking institutions and the publication of a revised and updated list of global systemically important banks by the Financial Stability Board. In their final communiqué, the G20 ministers of finance and bank governors criticised the slow progress made towards achieving a single set of accounting standards. As early as 2009 the G20 had agreed to standardise the contra- dictory accounting rules for stock-listed groups by the end of that year. With a view to improving the registration of financial players, the G20 ministers of finance and national bank governors stressed their support for the 16 Global Approach in the context of the G20 creation of a standardised Legal Entity Identifier System. The system is to be operational as of March 2013 and will contribute to curbing shadow banking activities. With respect to promoting consumer protection in the field of financial services, the G20 ministers of finance and national bank governors acknowledged the work carried out by the International Financial Consumer Protection Network (FinCoNet), which is to present a “best practice” report at the next G20 summit in St. Petersburg on 5/6 September 2013. The role played by the OECD International Network on Financial Education (INFE) and especially its work in the field of financial education and further training of women was also acknowledged.

17 Austria in the European Union 3. austria in the European Union 3.1. austria in the Institutions of the European Union 3.1.1. introduction Austria’s active involvement in the shaping and further development of the EU – with a special focus on issues that are of particular importance to Aus- tria – is among the central tasks fulfilled by the FMEIA. Austria has a seat and a vote in all EU institutions. By focusing its best efforts and making full use of its opportunities Austria strives to influence and co-determine developments – be it by way of having its say on the European Council, the Council and its preparatory bodies or through Austria’s Members of the European Parliament (EP) and the Austrian representatives in other EU institutions. The development of EU policies and positions by the 27 Member States is preceded by an important national policy and position development process in all EU Member States. The Federal Government attaches great importance to the process of defining and agreeing on the respective Austrian position. It does so by fully using all the consultation obligations and opportunities that are provided under the Federal Constitution, in particular with regard to the Austrian Parliament, the federal provinces and municipalities, special interest groups and representations and the general public. As part of the intensive efforts undertaken to overcome the sovereign debt crisis (see Chapter 2), improvements were made to cooperation and crisis management systems within the Eurogroup. On 27 September the European Stability Mechanism (ESM), which is to replace the European Financial Sta- bility Facility (EFSF) as a permanent stability mechanism, came into force. In order to set up such a permanent stability mechanism, the European Council in its meeting on 16 and 17 December 2010 decided to immediately launch the simplified revision procedure provided for in Article 48 (6) TEU to amend Article 136 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union by adding the relevant paragraph. The amendment to the Treaty adopted by the European Council on 25 March 2011 will enable those Member States whose currency is the euro to permanently establish a stability mechanism to be activated in order to safeguard the stability of the euro area as a whole. This mechanism may enter into force as soon as notifications on the completion of their relevant constitutional provisions have been received from all Member States. By the end of the year, all Member States with the exception of the Czech Republic had submitted this notification. The Treaty on Stability, Coordination and Governance of the Economic and Monetary Union (EMU) signed on 2 March by 25 Member States aims to improve the economic and financial policy coordination. It came into force, as scheduled, on 1 January 2013 after having been ratified by the end of the year by at least 12 Member States whose currency is the euro. The contracting parties are Austria, Cyprus, Germany, Estonia, Spain, France, Greece, 18 Austria in the Institutions of the European Union

Italy, Portugal, Finland and Slovenia. From the date the treaty comes into force, the contracting parties will have one year to transpose the balanced budget rule (“debt brake”) and the automatic correction mechanism into national law as provided for in the treaty. Proper implementation will then be reviewed by the European Commission (EC). The contracting parties may turn to the Court of Justice of the European Union for its opinion on the correct implementation of the provisions. The sovereign debt crisis has led the EU to a key turning point in its integration history. Apart from important crisis management issues, the question of how the EU will and should develop in order to maintain its stability, prosperity and influence in the world became an increasingly important focus of attention. In the context of the efforts aimed at strengthening the Economic and Mon- etary Union, further substantial steps towards integration were considered and debated by the EU Member States. In June, the Heads of State and Gov- ernment commissioned the President of the European Council, Herman Van Rompuy, with submitting detailed proposals for a stage-based process towards a genuine Economic and Monetary Union. The report entitled “Towards a Genuine Economic and Monetary Union”, prepared by the Presi- dent of the European Council in collaboration with the Presidents of the Commission, the Eurogroup and the European Central Bank, whose final version was presented on 5 December ahead of the European Council meeting on 13/14 December, aims at developing a roadmap for the completion of an Economic and Monetary Union to ensure stability and sustained prosperity. The report concludes that closer EMU integration also requires appropriate democratic legitimacy and accountability in the decision-making process. On 28 November, the President of the European Commission, José Manuel Barroso, presented “A Blueprint for a deep and genuine Economic and Monetary Union” as the Commission’s contribution to the report the four presidents, chaired by the President of the European Council Herman Van Rompuy, had prepared for the European Council meeting in December. This communication by the Commission briefly outlines incremental measures to be taken over the short, medium and longer term in order to achieve the goal of deepening of the Economic and Monetary Union and sets out the required legal instruments including modifications of the treaties. The blueprint also closely examines the possible role of the Commission and the European Par- liament in designing a genuine EMU. The same holds true for the question on how the necessary democratic legitimacy and accountability can be ensured. In its Conclusions, the European Council of 13/14 December defined four areas for further efforts towards deepening the Economic and Monetary Union: ex-ante coordination, the social dimension, individual arrangements and a solidarity mechanism. With respect to a deepening of the Economic and Monetary Union the European Council also advocated ensuring democratic legitimacy and accountability at the level at which decisions are taken 19 Austria in the European Union and implemented. At the national level, moves towards further integration of the fiscal and economic policy frameworks would require that Member States ensure the appropriate involvement of their parliaments. A concrete measure specified in the Conclusions is the expansion of cooperation between the European Parliament and national parliaments, which is also suggested in the Commission communication. The European Council Conclusions focus on measures that can be implemented without modifications to treaties. The strengthening of the Economic and Monetary Union and opportunities for strengthening democratic legitimation of decision-making processes at the European level were also discussed in great detail by the Future of Europe Group. Set up in March 2012 on the initiative of the German Foreign Minis- ter Guido Westerwelle, this reflexion group serves as an informal and open discussion forum involving the foreign ministers of a group of EU Member States. Besides Guido Westerwelle, the Foreign Ministers of Belgium, Den- mark, France, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portu- gal and Spain participated in the total of five meetings on the future of the Union. Austria hosted the third meeting of the Future of Europe Group that was held at the invitation of Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Michael Spindelegger in Vienna on 15 May. The Vienna meeting dealt with issues related to democratic legitimacy at EU level and citizens’ participation. A major part of the proposals prepared by the Future of Europe Group deals with measures aimed at overcoming the euro crisis, particularly as the foreign ministers attach top priority to strengthening the European Economic and Monetary Union. Apart from discussing issues related to enhanced integration, the reflexion group also prepared proposals towards strengthening the Union’s capacity to act. In this context it was stressed that a fundamental deepening of the Economic and Monetary Union must be accompanied by greater democratic legitimacy. The proposals range from strengthening the European Parliament’s visibility through the direct election of the EC Presi- dent to strengthening the role of the European Parliament and the national parliaments in the European decision-making processes. An interim report published by the Future of Europe Group in June was received with great interest by the Austrian public. The final report presented in September was also included in the four presidents’ report prepared under the leadership of the President of the European Council Herman Van Rompuy and submitted to the European Council in December. The Federal Government too is open to constructively examine all options in the interest of strengthening the EU. At a joint press conference held in the lead up to the European Council meeting on 28 June, Federal Chancel- lor Werner Faymann and Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Michael Spindelegger advocated a new EU convention for sustainable reform of the European Union. In a statement on the European Council meeting of 13/14 December – adopted with a majority of votes by the governing parties on 12 December in a meeting of the EU Main Committee of the National Council – 20 Austria in the Institutions of the European Union the MPs inter alia advocated far-reaching reforms towards deepening of the Economic and Monetary Union in the context of a convention. A central question for the future is how citizens’ participation can be promoted at European level. By enshrining the European citizens’ initiative in the Treaty of Lisbon, the EU for the first time created an initial tool that enables direct democratic participation by the Union’s citizens. By signing such a European citizens’ initiative, at least one million Union citizens from at least seven Member States can invite the European Commission to propose legislation on a matter in which the EU has competence. According to the EU Regulation on the European Citizens’ Initiative that came into force on 1 April 2011, all EU Member States must put the necessary technical and legislative prerequisites for launching citizens’ initiatives in place within 12 months. To this end, several EU Member States adopted implementing acts. Austria adopted the Federal Act on the Implementation of the European Citizens’ Initiative (Federal Law Gazette I No. 12/2012), which specifically regulates the relevant national authorities’ scope as well as legal issues relating to data protection, criminal law and legal protection. By the end of the year 11 European Citizens’ Initiatives had been registered EU-wide following examination by the Commission. On 12 September, the Commission submitted a proposal for a regulation on the statute and funding of European political parties and foundations that is to replace the regulation currently in force. The core elements of the proposal are the development of a European statute for European political parties and foundations. The conditions that need to be satisfied in order to be granted such a statute include respect for European values and the highest possible level of transparency. In turn, amendments to the EU Financial Reg- ulation are to enable more financial flexibility. Furthermore, higher EU co- funding for European political parties and foundations is to create a financial basis for their activities and especially to foster a European political awareness as provided for in the treaties. Consultations over this draft started in 2012. The joint statement adopted by the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission as well as the common approach on the reform of the currently 30 EU agencies adopted by Council resolution on 26 June marked the completion of three years of work by the inter-institutional working group on the reform of agencies. Apart from streamlining structures, the reform focuses primarily on increased levels of efficiency, improved performance audits and better management. In implementing the reform, account is to be taken of the specific features of the individual agencies- as was also requested by Austria. Led by the FMEIA and involving all affected ministries as well as the social partners and the Austrian representatives on the agencies’ administrative boards, Austria had since 2009 contributed substantially towards achieving this result. 21 Austria in the European Union

On 10 December, the Union’s contribution to promoting peace and reconciliation in Europe was recognised with the award of the Nobel Peace Prize 2012. The President of the European Council Herman Van Rompuy, the Pres- ident of the EU Commission José Manuel Barroso and the President of the European Parliament Martin Schulz accepted the Nobel Peace Prize in Oslo. The award ceremony was attended by most of the 27 Heads of State and Government of the EU Member States, including Federal Chancellor Werner Faymann. When announcing its decision, the Norwegian Nobel Committee stressed that the prize was being awarded in recognition of the role the EU had played over decades in promoting peace and reconciliation, democracy and human rights in Europe. The Nobel Committee pointed out that the introduction of democracy was the condition for the EU membership of Greece, Spain and Portugal in the 1980s. It also underlined that the fall of the Berlin Wall made EU membership possible for many Central and Eastern European countries and that the admission of Croatia as a member in 2013, the opening of membership negotiations with Montenegro and the granting of candidate status to Serbia would all strengthen the process of reconciliation in the Balkans.

3.1.2. the Permanent Representation of Austria to the European Union The Permanent Representation of Austria to the European Union is Austria’s direct point of contact to the institutions of the Union, the Council Presi- dency and other Member States and represents Austria in preparing political and legislative decisions. The Permanent Representation is made up of experts from each of the federal ministries, the Liaison Office of the Federal Provinces well as social partners and interest groups (the Austrian Economic Chamber, the Federal Chamber of Labour, the Austrian Chamber of Agri- culture, the Trade Union Federation, the Association of Municipalities, the Association of Cities and Towns, the Federation of Austrian Industry as well as the Austrian National Bank). Preparatory work is carried out in the competent Council Working Groups and/or the relevant committees who meet in total about 4,500 times per year and also involve staff from the Permanent Representation of the federal ministries. Before being adopted at ministers’ level, decisions have to pass the ambassadorial level (the Committee of the Permanent Representatives and, as required, also the Political and Security Committee). Apart from participating in formal meetings the Permanent Representation’s staff also seek to represent Austrian interests in all phases of decision-making and legislative processes by making targeted use of their networks. The Per- manent Representation also provides the Federal Government with reports and analyses that form the basis for the formulation of Austrian positions in EU bodies. 22 Austria in the Institutions of the European Union

As decisions that are taken at European level may have immediate political and legal implications for Austria it is important to inform the Austrian public as early as possible of work on relevant legislative initiatives and developments. The Representation’s press office thus supports the Austrian media’s EU correspondents in Brussels and keeps them updated on the latest developments. The Permanent Representation’s tasks also include providing interested citizens with direct insights into its activities and the work of the European institutions. In 2012, the Permanent Representation’s Visitor Service thus looked after 144 groups of visitors (in total about 4,300 persons). The Permanent Representation also assists Austrians wishing to apply for jobs that are advertised by EU institutions. The services range from providing information about jobs and vacancies that are advertised every month by the Commission for delegated national experts, internship opportunities at ministries, offices of the federal states, universities, etc. to the provision of individual assistance to applicants in handling requests of all kinds and providing them with support in selection procedures.

3.1.3. austrians in the EU Institutions Since 10 February 2010 former Federal Minister Johannes Hahn has been active as a member of the EC. In the Commission Barroso II he has been responsible for regional policy, an area to which a substantial part of the Union’s budget is allocated. Since October 2009 former Federal Minister Maria Berger has been active as a judge at the European Court of Justice (ECJ) in Luxembourg and was reap- pointed for the period from 7 October 2012 to 6 October 2018. Since January 1995 Josef Azizi has been a judge at the Court of First Instance of the Euro- pean Communities (CFIEC). At the European Court of Auditors (ECA) Harald Wögerbauer is the Aus- trian member of the Audit Group I “Preservation and Management of Natural Resources”. In 2012, a total of 428 Austrians (190 women and 238 men) worked at the EC, making up a share of 1.8 % of the EC’s total headcount. A total of 15 Austri- ans (7 women and 8 men) were employed at the ECJ, representing 0.7 % of the Court’s total staff. A total of 77 Austrians (47 women and 28 men) worked in the EP, making up 1.1 % of the Parliament’s headcount. The 26 Austrians (9 women and 17 men) working in the Council’s Secretariat-General account for 0.9 % of its total staff, 27 Austrians (12 women and 15 men) work at the European Bank of Investment (EBI) and 15 Austrians (8 female and 7 male) are employed at the European Court of Auditors (ECA). 23 Austria in the European Union 3.1.4. the European Parliament The European Parliament (EP) has 19 Austrian members. The Austrian MEP Hannes Swoboda has been the president of the Socialists and Democrats Group, the Austrian MEP Othmar Karas was elected vice-president of the EP on 18 January. The German MEP Martin Schulz has been the president of the European Parliament since January. In the context of an official visit he paid to Vienna on 11/12 October, EP President Schulz attended a debate with the EU Main Committee of the National Council in which members of the National and Federal Councils and numerous Austrian members of the EP participated. During his stay in Vienna, Schulz met representatives of the Federal Govern- ment and the National Council and also visited the youth project “spacelab” which is co-funded by the EU. The Transparency Register set up in 2011 combines the lobbying registers of the Commission and the EP which had been operated separately before. By introducing this register the EP and EC laid down clear rules for the work of interest group representatives and lobbyists. In the first year after its introduction more than 5,400 interest group representatives had registered. In order to be granted access to the European Parliament, lobbyists and interest group representatives must first register with the Transparency Register. Prior to establishing contact with the EP and the EC, interest group representatives must register and thus commit themselves to observing the Code of Conduct for lobbyists. Since 1 January a special code of conduct has been in force for all MEPs. In September a consultative committee was set up that deals with rules on financial interests and potential conflicts of interest for MEPs. The committee meets once a month, is made up of seven MEPs representing all parliamentary groups and has been chaired by the Austrian MEP Evelyn Regner since September.

3.1.5. the European Council The European Council, which is composed of the Member States’ Heads of State and Government, the President of the European Council and the Presi- dent of the Commission, is to “provide the Union with the necessary impetus for its development and defines the general political directions and priorities thereof”. Since 1 December 2009 the Belgian Herman Van Rompuy has been the President of the European Council and was re-appointed for a further two and a half years on 1 March by the European Heads of State and Government. He was simultaneously elected Chairman of the Euro Summit for the same period. He represents the EU at international level in matters relating to the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP). In 2012 the European Council held four formal meetings, one extraordinary meeting and two informal meetings of the members of the European Council 24 Austria in the Institutions of the European Union were also held. Three summits of the Heads of State and Government of the euro area were held, which were also presided over by the President of the European Council. At the visit he paid to Vienna on 16 November, the President of the Euro- pean Council Herman Van Rompuy was awarded the European Prize Cou- denhove-Kalergi by the Pan-European Union. Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Michael Spindelegger and EU Commissioner for Regional Policy Johannes Hahn paid tribute to Van Rompuy’s services. The visit took place in the lead-up to the European Council meeting on the multiannual financial framework, a topic which van Rompuy also discussed in his meeting with Federal Chancellor Werner Faymann.

3.1.6. the Council The Council of the EU is composed of the national ministers of the individual Member States’ ministers. Depending on the topic there are currently ten different Council formations. The Council adopts, generally together with the EP, legal acts at European level and together with the EP defines the multiannual financial framework and the annual budget. In contrast to the European Council, the principle of the semi-annually rotating presidency between Members States has been retained. In 2012, the rotating Council Presidency was held by Denmark in the first half year and by Cyprus in the second half year. The Foreign Affairs Council is the only council in which the rotating presidency principle has been replaced by the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy who is elected for a five-year term. A special role is played by the General Affairs Council which is composed of the Member States’ foreign and/or European affairs ministers. It coordinates the other council formations’ activities, prepares European Council meetings and takes decisions of horizontal importance (for instance on enlargement and on the multi-annual financial framework). In 2012, a total of 102 council meetings were held in Brussels and/or Lux- embourg.

3.1.7. the European Commission The European Commission (EC) is a collegiate body composed of 27 members (26 Commissioners and one President of the Commission). It ensures the application of EU law under the control of the Court of Justice and exercises essential coordinating, executive and management functions. The Commis- sion executes the Union’s budget and manages programmes in the individual policy areas. With a few exceptions it has the right of initiative to propose draft legislation. With the exception of the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) the EC ensures the Union’s external representation. 25 Austria in the European Union

As has been the case in previous years, numerous EU Commissioners visited Austria also in 2012. They participated and contributed nationwide to EU events and panel discussions. EU Commissioners paid 47 visits to Austria 26 of which were by EU Regional Policy Commissioner Johannes Hahn. The President of the European Commission José Manuel Barroso paid two visits to Austria. During his stay in Vienna from 4 to 6 March he held bilateral working discussions with Federal President Heinz Fischer, Federal Chancel- lor Werner Faymann, Vice-Chancellor and Federal Minister Michael Spin- delegger as well as the President of the National Council Barbara Prammer. He also visited a learning centre for young unemployed persons in Vienna, the “Jugend am Werk Berufsausbildung für Jugendliche GmbH” which show- cased measures, initiatives and promotional activities launched by Austria in the field of vocational education for young people. At the end of August, President Barroso participated in the European Forum Alpbach.

3.1.8. the Court of Justice of the European Union The Republic of Austria is represented before the Court of Justice of the Euro- pean Union, ECJ, (consisting of the Court and the Court of First Instance) by legal counsels from the Constitutional Service of the Federal Chancellery. In 2012, Austrian courts initiated 20 new preliminary ruling proceedings (i.e. proceedings where a national court refers a question relating to the interpre- tation or validity of Community law to the ECJ). At the end of the year, one proceeding for alleged infringements of Union law was pending against the Republic of Austria. This infringement proceeding concerns the implementation of directives relating to the First Railway package. In three proceedings, the Court of Justice issued a judgement establishing an infringement of Union law by the Republic of Austria in 2012. These judgements concerned the non-conforming implementation of the Data Protection Directive 95/46/EC, the linking of reduced public transport fares for students to family allowance payments and the implementation and application of the Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control Directive 2008/1/EC (IPPC Directive). In 2012, the Court’s rules of procedure and statutes were reformed in order to simplify procedures, increase efficiency and adapt them to common practice. Upon request of the Court of Justice of the European Union its statutes were amended by ordinary legislative procedure. In this context the establishment of an office of Vice-President to assist the President, a new composition of the Grand Chamber of the Court, and the discontinuation of minuting proceeding reports for oral proceedings were adopted. No agreement has been reached, however, regarding another amendment proposed by the Court, namely raising the number of judges at the Court by up to 12 in order to cope with the increased work load. Furthermore, the Court’s rules of procedure were com- 26 Austria in the Institutions of the European Union prehensively revised and adapted in order to also enable quick and efficient handling of the constantly increasing number of pending cases (especially the preliminary ruling procedures) in the future. The amendment included, for instance, the limitation of the length of and/or the definition of formal requirements for requests for preliminary rulings; taking decisions by resolution provided that the issue presented leaves no room for reasonable doubts; no unnecessary oral proceedings and the abolition of obsolete provisions.

3.1.9. the Committee of the Regions The Committee of the Regions (CoR) is a consultative body and as such provides a forum for the representation of regional and local interests in connection with European integration. The Committee is composed of 344 representatives of regional and local authorities from all 27 Member States and prepares its opinions in a total of six thematic commissions. Austria is represented by twelve members. Each of the nine federal provinces has a seat and the towns, cities and municipalities together have a total of three seats. The national Austrian delegation is currently composed of five federal province governors, the President of the Province Parliament of the Federal Province of Tyrol Herwig Van Staa, the Representative of the Salzburg Region to the Committee of the Regions Franz Schausberger, the Styrian Province Council- lor Christian Buchmann, the Deputy Governor of the Province of Vorarlberg and three representatives of the Austrian Association of Cities and Towns and the Association of Municipalities. The CoR is currently in its fifth mandate period which covers the period from 2010 to 2015.

3.1.10. the European Economic and Social Council The European Economic and Social Council (EESC) is a consultative body that involves economic and social interest groups in the EU’s legislative process. At an organisational level, the EESC’s 344 members are subdivided into the Workers’ Group, the Employers’ Group and the “Various Interests’ Group”. Topics are dealt with in six thematic sections. Austria is represented by twelve members – composed of representatives from the social partners and the Austrian Consumer Protection Association.

3.1.11. the European External Action Service The European External Action Service (EEAS) assists the High Representa- tive for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. It cooperates closely with the EU Member States’ national diplomatic services and assists the Commission, the European Parliament and the President of the European Council. The service is in its second year of operation and is composed of civil servants who worked prior to its establishment with those services at the EC and the 27 Austria in the European Union

Council Secretariat-General that were entrusted with foreign relations. The EEAS’ staff also includes staff working with the Member States’ national diplomatic services, who upon expiry of their temporary contract with the EEAS return to their national diplomatic service. By 1 July 2013 at least one third of the positions in the EEAS’ establishment plan are to be filled at all levels by Member States’ diplomatic staff. By the end of the year, 254 members of the EU Member States’ national diplomatic services worked with EEAS (this is equivalent to 28.3 % of all EEAS positions). Of this staff, 112 (20.6 %) work at headquarters and 142 (40 %) in the delegations. Cooperation at European level between staff from the EC, the Secretariat-General of the Council and the Member States’ national diplomatic services is to strengthen the spirit of collaboration and coherence of external action at European level. There is ongoing exchange between the EEAS and the EU Member States’ foreign ministries at Secretary-General level. The EEAS was established based on the principles of cost efficiency and budget neutrality. Compared with its predecessor structures in the Commission and the Council Secretariat the EEAS was therefore equipped with minimal additional staff although it was assigned an additional task when taking over the presidency function. This approach also ensured that there was no dupli- cation by the EEAS of the activities and tasks performed by the EU Member States’ representations in third countries and within international organisations. The FMEIA cooperates with the EEAS and by way of this collaboration ensures that Austria contributes to shaping the external action of the EU in general and of the CFSP in particular. By the end of the year, the EEAS headcount totalled 3,468 individuals of which 1,494 worked at headquarters in Brussels and 1,992 in the worldwide network of the approximately 140 delegations of the Union. To date, eleven Austrian diplomats have successfully completed application processes for temporary positions at senior level in the EEAS and for functions allocated to them. Representatives from Member States were involved in the selection procedures for senior management functions as members of the selection commission. Taking account of all employment groups – including officials from the Commission, the Council Secretariat and staff employed as national delegates – 46 Austrians worked in the EEAS, including the head of the EU delegation to the UN in New York, the head of the EU delegation to Japan, the chairman of the Council working group on “human rights” and the EU Managing Director for North Africa, the Middle East, the Arabian Peninsula, Iraq and Iran.

28 The Role played by the Austrian Parliament at European Level 3.2. the Role played by the Austrian Parliament at European Level and National Cooperation between Parliament and the Federal Provinces The Treaty of Lisbon established new participation rights in matters relating to the EU for the National Council and the Federal Council, which were enshrined in 2010 in the Austrian constitution (Art. 23c to 23k Federal Constitutional Act). The simple legal implementation by amendments to the Rules of Procedure Law of the National Council and the rules of procedure of the Federal Council came into force on 1 January. The new tools, especially the opportunity to submit reasoned opinions in the context of subsidiarity checks, to present communications in the context of political dialogue with EU institutions, to bring an action before the European Court of Justice on the grounds of infringement of the subsidiarity principle and to participate in the “passerelle “ procedure (resolutions on the introduction of a qualified majority voting and/or ordinary legislative procedure) were added to the opportunities for delivering opinions to members of the Federal Government in effect since 1995 under Art. 23e of the Federal Constitutional Act. The opportunity to schedule topical debates on EU matters in special expert committees and to convene EU inquiries and conferences dealing with EU matters was also introduced. The implementation of the new participation rights went hand in hand with a re-organisation of the Federal Government’s duties to inform the National Council and the Federal Council in compliance with the EU Information Act (Federal Law Gazette I No. 113/2011) and, secondly, with the introduction of an annex to the Rules of Procedure Law of the National Council and the rules of procedure of the Federal Council known as the “distribution order – EU”, which regulates the provisions on the handling and distribution of EU documents. Both reforms came into force on 1 January. A number of measures were taken in the course of the year to implement them and will be continued in 2013. The EU database at the Austrian Parliament, for instance, which is now enshrined in national law, was redesigned, made more user-friendly and, as far as possible, accessible to the public. The reforms and improvements aim to specifically assist MPs and to provide better information to the public on the numerous activities launched by the National Council and the Federal Council in matters relating to the European Union. In 30 sessions, the Main Committee of the National Council and its Standing Sub-Committee on Matters relating to the EU as well as the plenary and the EU Committee of the Federal Council adopted four opinions under Art. 23e of the Federal Constitutional Act and thirteen communications under Art. 23f par. 4 Federal Constitutional Act and four reasoned opinions under Art. 23g par. 1 Federal Constitutional Act. Reasoned opinions were adopted by the Standing Sub-Committee of the Austrian National Council on Matters relating to the EU and in the EU Com- mittee of the Federal Council on the following legislative proposals: 29 Austria in the European Union

• Proposal for a Directive of the EP and of the Council on the award of concession contracts (Federal Council 1 February) • Proposal for a Directive of the EP and of the Council relating to the transparency of measures regulating the prices of medicinal products for human use and their inclusion in the scope of public health insurance systems (National Council 17 April) • Proposal for a Directive of the EP and of the Council amending the Direc- tives 1999/4/EC, 2000/36/EC, 2001/111/EC, 2001/113/EC and 2001/114/ EC as regards the powers to be conferred on the Commission (Federal Council 24 May) • Proposal for a Regulation of the EP and the Council on amending the Regu- lation (EC) No. 223/2009 on European statistics (Federal Council 12 June) The formal communications to institutions of the EU adopted by the Stand- ing Sub-Committee of the Austrian National Council on Matters relating to the EU and/or the EU Committee of the Federal Council related to the following topics: • The Union civil protection mechanism (Federal Council 27 March) • Priority substances in the field of water policy (Federal Council 27 March) • Energy Roadmap 2050 (Federal Council 27 March) • Introduction of noise-related operating restrictions at European Union airports (Federal Council 12 April) • “Erasmus for All” (National Council 17 April, Federal Council 12 June) • Reduction of Greenhouse gas emissions resulting from activities related to land use (Federal Council 2 May) • Packaging and packaging waste (Federal Council 25 May) • Issuance of euro coins (Federal Council 12 June) • Electronic identification and trust services for electronic transactions in the internal market (Federal Council 18 July, National Council 4 Septem- ber) • Award of concession contracts (Federal Council 30 October) • European voluntary humanitarian aid corps (Federal Council 28 Novem- ber) With a view to the European Council meeting on 28 and 29 June the Main Committee adopted an opinion, in which it calls upon the Federal Govern- ment to back in the competent bodies a number of proposals for future-oriented investments at European level and to contribute pro-actively to common European approaches that enable the swift implementation of these proposals. 30 Austria’s Contribution to the EU Policy Areas

The opinions adopted by the Standing Sub-Committee of the Austrian National Council on Matters relating to the EU dealt with the following planned legislation at EU level: • Roaming on public mobile telephone networks (31 January) • Electronic identification and trust services for electronic transactions in the internal market (4 September) The Main Committee of the National Council and its Standing Sub-Com- mittee on Matters relating to the EU also made use of the newly introduced opportunity to hold a debate on current issues in matters relating to the European Union. The Standing Sub-Committee on Matters relating to the EU held a debate with EU Commissioner Johannes Hahn (20 March) while the Main Committee met with the President of the European Parliament Martin Schulz (11 October). The participation rights of the provinces and municipalities laid down in Article 23d of the Federal Constitutional Act include the right to be notified of and comment on issues falling within their sphere of responsibility analogous to the rights of the National and Federal Councils. Under the system governing the participation of the federal provinces in the internal decision- making process on EU proposals (EU-Länderbeteiligungsverfahren), a total of 21 joint statements were submitted and five joint statements adopted in line with Article 23d par. 2 of the Federal Constitutional Act. Chaired by the FMEIA, Austria’s positions in the Committee of Permanent Representatives (COREPER) are coordinated on a weekly basis. This process ensures the continuous involvement of the federal ministries, the social partners, the National Bank, the Federation of Austrian Industry, and the provinces and municipalities in the opinion-forming process in Austria. Since November 2004, the individual ministries have submitted reports on their working programme and planned legislation at EU level to Parliament at the beginning of each year. These reports provide information to members of parliament in the lead-up to decision-making processes and enable them to take part in the political opinion-forming process at a very early stage.

3.3. austria’s Contribution to the EU Policy Areas 3.3.1. internal Policies of the European Union 3.3.1.1. Multiannual Financial Framework 2014–2020 Work on the Multiannual Financial Framework 2014–2020 (MFF) was accelerated by a “Negotiating Box” that had gradually been developed since the beginning of the Danish Presidency in the first half year. It outlined the key questions and options and reflected the respective status of orientation debates in the General Affairs Council. 31 Austria in the European Union

The European Council on 29 June adopted procedural Conclusions according to which the Negotiating Box prepared by the Danish Presidency is to be further developed in the second half year during the Cyprus Presidency so that agreement on the MFF can be reached at Heads of State and Government level by the end of the year. The special meeting of the European Council on 22 and 23 November dealt exclusively with the MFF and was based on a revised draft proposal for Con- clusions prepared by the President of the European Council Herman van Rompuy. This draft provided for cuts of about 77.5 billion euros compared with the Commission proposal of about 1,061.2 billion euros and also contained “special allocations” to specific EU Member States in the context of cohesion policy and/or rural development (inter alia for Austria of 700 million euro). Based on this draft the EU Heads of State and Government were not yet able to reach political agreement. However, in their concluding Statement they expressed their confidence that they should be possible to resolve any existing differences of opinions by their next meeting on the MFF at the beginning of 2013. Throughout the entire discussion process on the MFF, Austria had together with a number of other EU Member States always stressed that it considered the EC’s proposal for a MFF a basis for negotiations which in view of the national budget consolidation efforts required clear cuts. Against this background, the cuts to the EC proposal suggested by the President of the European Council van Rompuy were indeed pointing in the right direction. Austria has also regarded and still considers such cuts sustainable solutions in terms of the rebate and rural development.

3.3.1.2. competition, Tax Issues and Harmonisation of National Laws In order to improve economic policy coordination in the EU, the March European Council called for faster progress in tax policy matters as tax policy measures are able to contribute to growth and consolidation. It called in particular for work on the Commission proposals on energy taxation, on the common consolidated corporate tax base, on the financial transactions tax and on the Savings Tax Directive (including savings taxation agreements with third countries) to be carried forward. Council and EC submit regular work status reports, the first such report was provided in June 2012. • Common consolidated corporate tax base The introduction of a common system for calculating the tax base of businesses operating in the EU (Commission proposal for a directive of March 2011) could, according to the Commission, significantly reduce the administrative burden, compliance costs and legal uncertainties that businesses in the EU currently face in having to comply with up to 27 different national systems for determining their taxable profits. Businesses that opt for the Common Consolidated Corporate Tax Base would benefit from a one-stop- 32 Austria’s Contribution to the EU Policy Areas shop system for filing their tax returns and would be able to consolidate all the profits and losses they incur in the EU. Discussions held so far in the Council, however, showed that most of the Member States are sceptical of the initiative and/or reject it. Austria too is rather sceptical of the proposal. During the Irish Presidency in the first half of 2013 an orientation debate on the further procedure will be held in the ECOFIN Council. At the end of September 2011, the Commission had already submitted a (first) proposal of a directive on a common system of financial transaction tax. The proposal aimed at ensuring that the financial sector made a fair contribution to covering the costs of the crisis and at avoiding fragmentation in the internal market for financial transactions. By harmonising taxes on financial transactions, as advocated by the Austrian Federal Government, competitive distortions are to be reduced. After the ECOFIN Council in July had formally stated that it will not be possible to reach agreement on a financial transactions tax (FTT) at the EU 27 level within a reasonable period of time, eleven Member States (Austria, Belgium, Estonia, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia and Spain) moved for the introduction of a financial transaction tax on the basis of enhanced cooperation3. • Amendments to the Savings Tax Directive and application by third countries Negotiations on a proposal for a Council Directive amending the Directive on the taxation of savings income in the form of interest payments that came into effect in 2005 have been held at ECOFIN level since 2008. At the Euro- pean Council of 18/19 October, the Heads of State and Government called for a rapid agreement on the negotiation mandate and directives for savings taxation agreements with European third countries (Andorra, Liechtenstein, Monaco, San Marino and Switzerland). Under these provisions, third countries were to adopt the amended stipulations of the Savings Income Directive which had, however, not yet been adopted but to some extent revised with a view to avoiding competitive distortions. Central aspects are the extension of its scope and the restriction of opportunities to circumvent the directive. Agreement has so far been thwarted by the content of the EC’s mandate for starting negotiations with European third countries. Austria supports both the planned amendments to the directive and the relevant adaptations in the agreements with third countries. The current draft mandate, however, exceeds this goal as it also takes account of international developments, including in the fields of tax cooperation and mutual assistance by the competent authorities of the Member States. For Austria this could subsequently translate into a mandatory transition to the automatic exchange of data. Aus- tria has always rejected the introduction of automatic exchange of data as

3 On 22 January, the ECOFIN Council by qualified majority adopted a decision authorising eleven EU Member States to start negotiations on the introduction of a financial transaction tax through enhanced cooperation. The UK, Luxembourg, the Czech Republic and Malta abstained from voting. 33 Austria in the European Union long as such as system is not also applied by the European third countries (Andorra, Liechtenstein, Monaco, San Marino and Switzerland). The final Austrian position regarding the negotiations on the automatic exchange of data was only defined in the following year. The exchange of views on the further course of action is being continued in the ECOFIN. • Clamping down on tax evasion and tax avoidance According to the EC, around one trillion euros is lost to tax evasion and avoidance every year in the EU. At the European Council in March, the 27 Heads of State and Government invited the Commission to “rapidly develop concrete ways to improve the fight against tax fraud and tax evasion including in relation to third countries”. Subsequently, the EC adopted a Communi- cation in June which outlines the most important issues in connection with tax fraud and tax evasion and also offers concrete solutions. In December, the EC presented an Action Plan which includes a comprehensive set of measures designed to help Member States protect their tax bases and recapture taxes. As a first delivery, the Commission adopted two Recommendations that are directed at Member States and focus on tax havens and aggressive tax planning. In order to further improve the work within the EU on harmful tax competition Member States are urged to put renewed effort into their work on the EU Code of Conduct on business taxation. In order to ensure that the Action Plan is implemented and driven forward the EC plans to introduce new monitoring tools and scoreboards. • Amendment to the Energy Products and Electricity Taxation Directive The Proposal for a Directive amending the Directive restructuring the Com- munity framework for the taxation of energy products and electricity places the focus not only on fiscal aspects but also increasingly on meeting the EU energy and climate targets. Tax rates for fuels and heating fuels are to be determined based on two components – energy content and CO2 emissions. Taxes on fossil products will be higher while the use of clean energy (such as biogenic substances) will be promoted. Negotiations were continued under the Irish Presidency in the first half year of 2013. • Introduction of a quick reaction mechanism against VAT fraud The proposal submitted by the EC in July is aimed at effectively combating value added tax fraud. Agreement on the proposal submitted is to be reached during the Irish Presidency in the first half of 2013.

3.3.1.3. employment and Social Policy Priorities of the EU employment and social policy included activities related to the European Semester that had been redesigned through the “six pack”, the promotion of employment and the fight against youth unemployment as well as preparatory work for the Multiannual Financial Framework 2014– 2020. 34 Austria’s Contribution to the EU Policy Areas

In its meetings the Council of Ministers adopted the employment guidelines, the employment report and core messages on the crisis monitoring report 2011. Common positions were also adopted on social security aspects in the context of the EU Association Agreements with Turkey, Montenegro, Alba- nia and San Marino. General approaches and orientations were agreed on in relation to a proposal for a resolution on a European programme for social change and innovation and on a Directive on minimum health and safety requirements regarding the exposure of workers to the risks arising from physical agents (electromagnetic fields). Progress reports were adopted on the Equal Treatment Directive, the Maternity Leave Directive and the proposal regarding the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund and the Pro- posal for a Directive regarding the enforcement of the provisions applicable to the posting of workers. Conclusions were adopted on policy guidelines for measures in the fields of employment and social policy, on responding to social challenges through enhanced participation in the labour market and society by all, on gender equality and environmental protection, youth employment and fighting child poverty. A Council Declaration was adopted on the European Year of Active Ageing and Solidarity between Genera- tions 2012. The priorities set included the raising of public awareness, the exchange of good practice, the development of strategies and measures as well as support of decision-makers and stakeholders in the creation of necessary framework conditions and in combating age discrimination. The Second Annual Convention of the European Platform against Poverty and Social Exclusion was held in Brussels from 5 to 7 December.

3.3.1.4. economic, Social and Territorial Cohesion EU structural and cohesion policy remains an important tool for investments, growth and the creation of jobs at EU level and for structural reform at national level. Under the “strategy for smart, sustainable and inclusive growth” (EU 2020) it is to contribute towards sustainable growth in Europe. The European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), the European Social Fund (ESF) and the Cohesion Fund (CF) pursue three goals: “investment in growth and jobs” (all funds), “European Territorial Co-operation, ETC” (ERDF) and “investment in projects in the environmental and infrastructure fields” (Cohesion Fund, TEN). • Reforms in structural and cohesion policy for the period 2014–2020 Structural and cohesion policy will continue to account for about 1/3 of the EU budget. Discussions on reforms in structural and cohesion policy were closely linked with the negotiations on the Multiannual Financial Frame- work (MFF) for the period 2014–2020 and started with the publication of six draft regulations on a new legal framework by the EC in October 2011. A preliminary agreement (partial general approach) was reached in the Council on all 17 thematic blocs included in the regulations package. Both the objective 35 Austria in the European Union pursued by the EU structural and cohesion policy and its primary focus on less developed regions remain unchanged. In the future, however, the funds made available will increasingly be granted in the form of loans and guarantees and will be used in a more target-oriented manner by connecting them systematically with the EU 2020 Strategy and linking them to more clearly measureable results. If a state misses targets that are defined in the new Com- mon Strategic Framework (CSF) and in the “partnership contract” agreed with the EC, cohesion policy funds may be suspended. Simplification and harmonisation of the rules governing the various funds (EFRD, ESF, EAFRD, EFF) will enhance their effectiveness. Structural and cohesion policy shall also make a direct contribution to managing the economic and financial crisis: the reduction of the national co-funding share will result in faster absorp- tion of funds from the structural fund, which means that they can be used more effectively in the promotion of growth and employment. • Urban development and urban policy Although urban policy is not a community task as defined by the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU), informal cooperation at intergovernmental level has developed over the last few decades. Relevant examples are for instance the Leipzig Charter on Sustainable European Cit- ies or the Toledo Declaration on Urban Development. Based on community instruments like URBAN and URBAC, the Community has simultaneously promoted the “urban dimension”. By introducing the principle of territorial cohesion, the Treaty of Lisbon has, however, contributed to the unclear division of responsibilities between Member States and the Commission. In the new draft regulations on EU cohesion policy for the period from 2014 the Commission provides for a number of old and new instruments that focus on the promotion of local and urban policies. • Territorial Agenda of the EU 2020 Following the adoption of the Territorial Agenda (TA) 2020 during the Hun- garian Council Presidency in the first half of 2011, the subsequent presidency countries focused on the debate relating to the spatial dimension in the context of EU cohesion policy 2014–2020. No further reaching initiatives were launched in the year under review. The debate mainly dealt with potential cooperation in implementing the targets set out in the TA 2020. Representatives from the Commission participated as observers in this intergovernmental process. Austria holds a generally positive view of this kind of informal cooperation in the EU context. • Macro-regional Strategies Development of the macro-regional EU strategies has given rise to a new framework for European cooperation. The macro-regions covered by these strategies are characterised by common topics, issues and challenges which go beyond the solution competence of one single state or region and which 36 Austria’s Contribution to the EU Policy Areas are best tackled on a joint basis and/or in cross-border cooperation with third countries. The goal is to implement the targets set under the Union’s Growth Strategy EU 2020. Currently two such macro-regional strategies exist, one for the Baltic Sea and the other for the Danube region (see Chapter 3.3.4), an Adriatic-Ionian Initia- tive was adopted at the European Council meeting in December and preparations were launched to develop a strategy for the Alps as soon as possible.

3.3.1.5. internal Market, Free Movement of Goods, Industry and Tourism The past few years have seen various efforts aimed at stimulating the internal market. Measures taken to this end include the 2007 review of the Single Market, Mario Monti’s report on the relaunch of the Single Market of 2010 and the Grech Report. The main goal was to identify and dismantle remaining obstacles. The Single Market Acts I and II subsequently submitted by the EC are a collection of legislative proposals that identify gaps in the Single Market and strive to contribute to making more efficient use of its potential. The implementation of these measures was expected to contribute to boosting economic growth in the EU. The EC presented the Single Market Act I in April 2011. It includes twelve levers or key actions that were to be realised by the end of 2012, the 20th anniversary of the Single Market. In fact, however, agreement had only been reached on half of the – sometimes highly complex tasks (such as the public procurement rules package, the revision of the Directive on the recognition of professional qualifications and EU patents). The Single Market Act II was presented on 3 October and comprises the second set of actions aimed at boosting the Single Market. It consists of four “levers” (integrated transport and energy networks in the Single Market, mobility of citizens and businesses across borders, digital economy across Europe and social cohesion) and twelve key actions. The legislative actions set out in the Communica- tion are to be adopted by the European Commission by spring 2013 – and by spring 2014 by the European Council and the European Parliament. Smart regulation is an abstract-methodological concept that is to be considered in legislation processes in order to develop legal framework conditions that are more consumer and business friendly, but is, however, not focused on immediate results. Smart regulation is based on five pillars – simplification of existing legal provisions, reduction in administrative burdens, impact assessment and public consultations, monitoring the application of community law and ex-post evaluations. Targets to be achieved were set for Member States. By 2012, for instance, administrative burdens faced by entrepreneurs are to be cut by 25 per cent. The relevant national assessment and measurement of administrative costs is based on the EU Standard Cost Model; Aus- tria had already met these requirements in 2010. On 12 December, the EC published a Communication on the regulatory fitness of EU legislation in 37 Austria in the European Union which it defined and launched the work programme in the field ofsmart regulation for the coming years. The modernisation of the Professional QualificationsD irective is part of the Single Market Act I and aims to improve mobility within the Single Mar- ket. The directive’s scope covers access to regulated professions (professions with legally binding qualification requirements) based on vocational training undergone in another Member State. The proposal’s key elements are the introduction of a European Professional Card, transparency and the justification of regulated professions, more online information and e-government for citizens, new forms of automatic recognition as well as the deletion of annexes which evaluate specific types of training. In December, a progress report was submitted to the Council on the Commission’s proposal for a directive. In May, the Council agreed on a partial general approach on the Proposal for a Regulation establishing a Programme for the competitiveness of enterprises and small and medium-sized enterprises (2014–2020, COSME). Following the trilogue negotiations with the European Parliament the programme could be adopted around mid/end 2013. The programme provides an important impetus to growth and entrepreneurship in Austria and the EU by facilitating access to funding, promoting entrepreneurial culture and strengthening internationality of European small and medium-sized companies. The planned budget foresees funding of 2.5 billion euros. The new programme is a continuation of the current Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (EIP), which forms part of the Competitiveness and Innovation Programme (CIP). The business consulting and information network “Enterprise Europe Network”, in which 54 states (including all 27 EU Member States) participate will also be continued under the COSME Programme. The mid-term review of the EU flagship initiative on industrial policy, one of the seven flagship initiatives of the EU 2020 Strategy was presented in October. The measures included in this initiative aim to speed up economic recovery and promote growth and employment in the EU. European industry’s competitiveness is to be improved and the transition to a low-CO2 emit- ting and resource efficient economy is to be facilitated. The focus is on four pillars, i.e. the promotion of investment in innovative and new technologies, the creation of an improved environment that fosters the competitiveness of EU industrial companies, provides improved access to funding and fosters investment in people, skills and qualifications. The necessary framework conditions are to be provided at EU level with a view to stimulating new investment, speeding up the introduction of new technologies and enhancing resource efficiency. In a first step, six priority areas for immediate action were proposed (markets for advanced manufacturing technologies that enable clean production; sustainable industrial and construction policies and the sustainable use of raw materials; clean vehicles; markets for organic-based products; markets for key technologies; 38 Austria’s Contribution to the EU Policy Areas smart grids). Conclusions on the four pillars were adopted at Council level in December. By the spring summit 2013 a contribution by the Competitiveness Council is to be prepared for the European semester 2013. The tourism sector is of enormous national economic importance. Based on the new EU competences laid down in the Lisbon Treaty, the European Commission presented the Communication “Europe, the world’s No 1 tourist destination – a new political framework for tourism in Europe”. A new framework for action was thus created for European tourism. The proposed measures for the promotion of tourism involve four priority areas that were dealt with at Council level. They are grouped as follows: stimulate competitiveness in the European tourism sector; promote the development of sustainable, responsible and high-quality tourism; consolidate the image and profile of Europe as a collection of sustainable and high-quality destinations; and maximise the potential of EU financial policies and instruments for developing tourism. Based on these priority areas a comprehensive action plan involving short, medium and long-term initiatives was prepared by the EC. In implementing the action plan a number of measures were launched in 2012 that are to contribute to improving data quality, level of information and knowledge, framework conditions and networking. The actions include the implementation of a virtual tourism observatory, the continuation of the Eurobarometer surveys on travel behaviour, the development of sustainability indicators for destinations, common communication and advertising activities in third countries and support for cross-border projects (Danube area, European Routes of Culture, European Destinations of Excellence, initiatives to improve accessibility).

3.3.1.6. Free Movement of People, Services and Capital The Services Directive 2006/123/EC, which liberalises the cross-border provision of services and the freedom of establishment, had to be transposed into national law by the end of 2009. In June the EC published a study which, based on a conservative estimate, assumes that the EU gross domestic product will increase by 0.8 per cent as a result of the directive’s transposition. According to its estimates, an increase of 1.6 per cent EU GDP would be possible if all Member States lifted all restrictions on cross-border movement of services and would follow the lead of those five Member States that have already achieved the highest level of implementation. On 8 June, the EC adopted its report on the implementation of the Services Directive (“A Partnership for New Growth in Services”). This services package serves as a basis for the EC’s further course of action in the services sector for the years 2012–2014. The European Council welcomed the proposals and called for their immediate implementation, inter alia through rigorous peer review of national restrictions and swift action to remove unjustified barriers. 39 Austria in the European Union

3.3.1.7. agriculture and Fisheries The priorities in the field of agriculture related to thereform of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP until 2020), the quality package and the adaptations of the agricultural legislation to the Treaty of Lisbon (mainly four CAP Regulations on direct payments, rural development, common market organisation and CAP funding). The legislative proposals for the future CAP submitted by the Commission on 12 October 2011 were dealt with in detail by the various Council bodies and in the European Parliament. During the Danish Presidency the third main chapter, the single Common Market Organisation and the issue of simplification were submitted for debate and policy debate on individual sub- sections of direct payments and rural development continued. In June, the Danish Presidency presented a state of play report on the CAP reform package presenting the most significant areas of progress and positions. During the Cyprus Presidency the texts were further developed in all areas at Council level. A partial general approach, as originally striven for by the Presidency, was, however not possible as agreement could not be reached on the Multi- annual Financial Framework 2014–2020 and on other topics. Furthermore, the vast majority of Member States preferred to adopt the entire package as a whole. In mid-December, the Cyprus Presidency thus submitted a state of play report and revised texts that were based on the discussions held. Following the debates held in 2009 on the Communication from the Com- mission on the agricultural product quality policy, negotiations on relevant legislative proposals have been held since December 2010. Under the Dan- ish Presidency, negotiations on the still open items (optional quality terms, objection period, market management by producer organisations, controls and sanctions, criteria for traditional specialities guaranteed) were continued and agreement was reached in the first reading of the European Parliament. At EU Council of Ministers level, Austria in November advocated the development of a European Food Model and received broad support from sixteen Member States and the European Commission. In fisheries the main focus was on the new European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF) and the Reform of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) including the reform of the Common Market Organisation for Fisheries. During the Danish Presidency, the second reading on the new Basis Regulation for a common fisheries policy and the new market regulation for fisheries products was held. In June, a partial general approach for a new basis regulation and a new market organisation was agreed on and in October for the EMFF. Austria supports the sustainable management of fisheries resources in EU waters and especially the plans for developing inland aquaculture. In May a two-day aquaculture meeting was held in Mondsee (Upper Austria). The meeting was jointly organised by the European Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Maria Damanaki, and Federal Minister Nikolaus Berla- 40 Austria’s Contribution to the EU Policy Areas kovich. The declaration presented by Austria focuses mainly on strengthening the role of a sustainable European inland aquaculture in the process of reforming the Common Fisheries Policy and was supported by 21 Member States. In the area of external fisheries policy the new Protocol to the EU-Maureta- nia Fisheries Partnership Agreement was signed. The Commission resumed talks with Morocco for the first time since the transition protocol had been rejected by the EP in 2011.

3.3.1.8. transport, Telecommunications and Energy Council The Transport, Telecommunications and Energy Council met twice during the Danish Presidency (22 March and 7 June) and twice during the Cyprus Presidency (29 October and 20 December). An Informal Council meeting was held in Nicosia from 16 to 17 June. The Council agreed on a draft regulation on the Connecting Europe Facil- ity (CEF). The CEF is the future funding instrument for the Trans-European Networks (TEN) in the transport, energy and telecommunications sectors. The draft regulation defines criteria, methods and processes for the Union’s financial contributions to the TEN projects. The development strategies, priorities and implementation methods for the individual sectors are, however, defined in the political guidelines which are adopted separately. In March, the Council agreed on targets regarding a long-term strategy for the development of the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) which defines the necessary requirements for transport infrastructure management and priorities for the network’s development. In the area of rail transport, the Council adopted a Directive on a Single European Railway Area, which modernises the regulatory framework for the European railway sector. In order to reduce the pressure which the ongoing increase in passenger volumes exerts on airport infrastructure, the Commission developed the Airport Package. This package focuses on ground handling services, slot allocation and noise reduction at airports. The Council agreed on a draft resolution that is to replace the Regulation on ground handling services of 1996 and enhance competition at larger airports while at the same time meeting defined minimum standards. Agreement was likewise reached on general targets relating to the review of the slot allocation Regulation of 1993 that governs take-offs and landings at airports with capacity problems. Under a new draft regulation airlines will now be allowed to buy and sell slots, while consideration is also given to the introduction of fines for the late return of slots that are not needed. The EU ministers of transport eventually agreed on a draft regulation updating the Regulation on noise-related operating restrictions on EU airports from the year 2002. The Council also resolved to sign EU Air Transport Agreements with Moldova and Israel. 41 Austria in the European Union

The Council dealt with the follow-up on the Blue Belt pilot project that was implemented in 2011 with a view to simplifying administrative processes for maritime transport between EU ports. Agreement was reached on two draft directives relating to flag and port states’ obligations to implement the 2006 Maritime Labour Convention of the International Labour Organisation that aims at securing decent shipboard living and working conditions for seafarers. In December, the EU ministers for transport agreed on general principles regarding a draft directive to update and adapt the common rules on periodic road safety tests for vehicles to meet current requirements. In the field of space the Council agreed on principles regarding a draft regulation on the funding and management of the European satellite navigation systems EGNOS and GALILEO. They govern the activities to be funded, responsibilities regarding the various administrative tasks and procurement matters.

3.3.1.9. environment and Energy Over the years, environment has become a central policy area for the EU. The constantly growing number of policy activities in the field of environment at European level has led to the evolution of a dense network of European legislation that covers many aspects of environment protection (air, water, waste, biodiversity, chemistry, etc.). The central EU policy body in this context is the Environment Council that is composed of the EU Member States’ ministers of environment. It holds four formal and two informal meetings a year and deals with current and long- term EU environmental and climate issues. At its first meeting on 9 March 2012, the Environment Council discussed steps to be taken following the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP 17) held in Durban in December 2011. The Council agreed on a compromise according to which the EU would submit a quantified emission limitation or reduction objective (QELRO) for a second commitment period under the Kyoto Protocol in line with the existing Climate Package. Because of the resistance of one Member State, the Council was, despite intensive negotiations, not able to agree on conclusions on the “low carbon economy Road- map 2050”. The Council Presidency eventually adopted the Conclusion with the support of 26 Member States. Conclusions were also adopted in preparation for the Rio+20 Conference. With respect to the Commission proposal on the right to self-determination in the field of genetically modified organisms (GMO), a political agreement on the compromise proposed by the Presidency was thwarted by a blocking minority of Member States. Regarding the new Regulation on the environmental funding tool LIFE (L’Instrument Financier pour l’Environnement), the majority of Member States held a positive view on the approaches suggested by the Presidency in an orientation debate. 42 Austria’s Contribution to the EU Policy Areas

The second Environment Ministers’ Council was held on 11 June. Conclu- sions were adopted on the 7th Environment Action Programme (7th EAP), for which the Commission announced publication of a draft by the end of the year. In preparation to the COP11 and the COP/MOP6 in Hyderabad (India) regarding the Convention on Biological Diversity and the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety, Conclusions that stressed the importance of maintaining the EU’s pioneering role were adopted. In the orientation debate on the Com- mission’s Proposal for a decision on accounting rules and action plans on greenhouse gas emissions and removals resulting from activities related to land use, land use change and forestry (LULUCF), Member States generally welcomed the phased approach according to which a harmonised EU legal framework for accounting rules was to be established as a first step to the subsequent inclusion in the EU climate change and reduction commitments. In addition, the Council took note of information provided on the status of the Rio+20 negotiations, on the proposed directive on priority substances in water, on the LIFE Regulation and on the inclusion of aviation activities in the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS). The third Environment Council on 25 October 2012 adopted Conclusions on the outcome and follow-up to the Rio+20 UNCSD Summit, a number of Member States also welcomed the agreement reached on the revision of the EU Sustainability Strategy. In the context of its preparations for the forthcoming climate conference in Doha (COP 18/CMP 8) in December 2012, the Council agreed on common Conclu- sions. With respect to the use and carry-over of the surplus AAUs (assigned amount units), the Council reconfirmed the Conclusions it had already adopted in March. Furthermore, the EU Quantified Emission Limitation or Reduction Objective (QELRO of 80) for the second commitment period under the Kyoto Protocol was confirmed and the Council also succeeded in including a signal to developing countries on climate finance after 2012. In the orientation debate on the proposal for a Ship Recycling Regulation, the majority of Member States supported the goal of safe and environmentally sound dismantling and recycling of deep-sea vessels. At the fourth Environment Council on 17 December, Conclusions were adopted on the Blueprint to Safeguard Europe’s Water Resources. In the discussions, a large number of Member States stressed the importance of a flexible legal framework in the field of water policy, the need for improved implementation, enhanced sectorial integration, continued work on the issue of water pricing, promotion of innovation as well as cross-border and further international cooperation. The Water Blueprint will be put into practice in the context of a Common Implementation Strategy under which the necessary priorities will be set. Member States welcomed the discussion on “greening the European Semester” and that the Environment Council will make a contribution to the European Council meeting on March 2013. A number of Member States stressed the potential for shifting the tax burden on labour towards environmental taxes and the importance of phasing out and 43 Austria in the European Union eliminating environmentally harmful subsidies. Some Member States also referred to the earmarking of revenues generated by the auctioning of certificates in the EU ETS. The European Commission welcomed the proposal to expand the Annual Growth Survey with the addition of a separate annex dealing with environmental and climate issues and the suggestion to hold an annual discussion in the Environment Council on the Annual Growth Survey. In the orientation debate on the 7th Environment Action Programme the presentation of the programme by the EC was welcomed by all Mem- ber States. The contribution made by the 7th EAP to establishing a green economy was highlighted and the focus on improving its implementation generally welcomed. In the first half year of 2013 the 7th EAP will be one of the Irish Presidency’s two priorities in the environmental area.

3.3.1.10. energy and Trans-European Networks The “Energy 2020” Strategy defines the framework for the European energy policy and strives to bundle approaches to tackling the challenges in the fields of competitiveness, sustainability and supply security. Development of EU energy policy focused on energy efficiency, free movement of energy, Trans-European energy infrastructure and renewable energies. The adoption of the Energy Efficiency Directive in October, which established a common framework of measures for the promotion of energy efficiency, has proved an important step towards increasing energy efficiency in the EU. The directive focuses on achieving the Union’s 20 per cent headline target on energy efficiency by 2020 and on paving the way for further energy efficiency improvements beyond that date. The Member States are to implement the Energy Efficiency Directive by 5 June 2014. On 15 November, the Commission presented the communication “Making the Internal Energy Market Work” with a view to the completion of the Single Market for Electricity and Gas until 2014. The document assesses the progress achieved so far and discusses the challenges faced both at national and EU level. A need for action was identified mainly in areas such as consumer protection, enforcement and implementation of existing regulations and investment in energy infrastructure. Although the deadline for trans- posing and implementing the third energy package had already expired in March 2011, it has still not yet been fully implemented by a number of Member States. The communication thus calls upon these Member States to quickly transpose and implement the existing EU standards and regulations. In July, the Commission submitted the communication “Smart Cities and Communities – European Innovation Partnership” with a view to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 2020. The initiative supports cities and regions in launching and implementing ambitious measures to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by the year 2020 by 40 per cent through the sustainable use and production of energy. Funding of 365 million euros will be made 44 Austria’s Contribution to the EU Policy Areas available in 2013 to develop urban showcase projects in the fields of energy, transport and information and communication technology (ICT). In an informal trilogue the negotiating delegations reached a compromise on the regulation on the guidelines for a trans-European energy infrastructure. The regulation aims at speeding up the integration of European energy infrastructure by developing, updating and modernising the Trans-European Energy Networks, especially in terms of network interoperability and the transmission, distribution and storage of electricity or gas. The Energy Infra- structure Regulation is supplemented by the proposed Regulation on the Connecting Europe Facility, which provides for investment of 9.1 billion euros in the European energy infrastructure. These targeted infrastructure investments could play a key role in connecting certain Member States to the European gas and electricity networks and in completing a fully functioning, interlinked and integrated Single Market by 2014. The communication “Renewable Energy: A major player in the European energy market” was presented by the Commission in June. The detailed Con- clusions prepared by the Transport, Telecommunications and Energy Coun- cil (TTE Council) based on this communication were adopted in December. Core elements are better market integration of renewable energies, intensification of trade in renewables between Member States, infrastructure, technological innovation and sustainability and, in particular the important role to be played by renewable energies post 2020. In order to improve coordination between the EU and the individual Member States it was decided to establish an Information Exchange for Intergov- ernmental Energy Agreements between Member States and third countries which is expected to facilitate coherent approaches. In October, the Nabucco Committee held a ministerial conference in Vienna. The ministerial declaration adopted at this meeting confirmed political support for the Nabucco West Pipeline project. The stress tests (i.e. risk and safety assessments involving a comprehensive review of the safety reserves) of all 143 nuclear power plants in the EU that were commissioned by the European Council in March 2011 based on an Austrian initiative were implemented during the reporting period. Austria was actively involved in this process. The stress tests were also supplemented with a “security track” relating to external threats such as terrorist acts or airplane crashes. Following presentation of the results, the European Council in June called upon Member States to ensure full and timely implementation of the prepared recommendations. The ENSREG (European Nuclear Safety Regulator Group) that is responsible for the implementation of the stress tests thus called on the operating countries to prepare national action plans that will go through peer reviews in 2013. 45 Austria in the European Union

In the communication presented in October, the Commission did not identify an immediate need to close down nuclear power plants but rather established the need for substantial improvements (30 to 200 million euros per NPP, in total 10 to 25 billion euros). At the level of the Council of the European Union, work on the revision of Directive 96/29/Euratom of 13 May 1996 laying down basic safety standards for the protection of health of workers and the general public against the dangers arising from ionizing radiation continued and is scheduled for completion in 2013.

3.3.1.11. consumer Protection Clear progress was made in the field ofEU consumer protection as agreement was reached in the first reading on the proposal for aD irective on alternative dispute resolution (ADR) for consumer disputes and on the proposal for a regulation on consumer online dispute resolution in December 2012.

3.3.1.12. Health Care Legislative work in the health care sector focused on strengthening and improving pharmacovigilance legislation. Both a directive and a regulation on pharmacovigilance were adopted in the first reading. The legal framework for pharmacovigilance was strengthened substantially by expanding the European Medicines Agency’s coordinating role and by improved opportunities for identifying indications and the implementation of coordinated procedures at European level in response to safety concerns. Work in connection with the Commission proposal for a follow-up programme to the current Health Action Programme was continued. The programme provides the only financial basis for the implementation of the EU Health Strategy and for support to Member States in health policy matters that could otherwise not be implemented at national level. The Health for Growth Programme focuses on four individual objectives with high potential for contributing towards economic growth by promoting citizens’ health. These objectives cover the development of innovative and sustainable health systems, increasing access to better and safer health care for citizens, promoting health and preventing disease, and protecting citizens from cross-border health threats. Work also commenced on a Regulation on clinical trials on medicinal products for human use. This proposal for a regulation aims to adapt the existing EU rules on the dynamics of international clinical research in the medicinal area, to speed up and harmonise procedures especially in the context of multi-national studies thus ensuring that the EU remains attractive as a location for research and to provide consumers with early access to innovative treatments and medicines. 46 Austria’s Contribution to the EU Policy Areas

3.2.1.13. education and Youth The Commission proposal “Erasmus for All” (2014–2020) that was published in November 2011 combines the existing EU programmes Lifelong Learning, Youth in Action, Erasmus Mundus, Tempus ALFA, EDULINK and other international cooperation programmes with industrialised states. For the first time the programme includes a separate component on sports. On 10 May, the Council agreed on a partial approach on the Commission’s proposal. An integrated programme for general education and vocational training, higher education, youth and sports is envisaged that involves three fields of action: opportunities for individuals to study, train or volunteer within the EU and abroad; institutional cooperation between educational institutions, youth organisations, companies, local and regional authorities and non- governmental organisations to establish strategic partnerships; supporting reforms in Member States in order to promote innovation, entrepreneurial spirit and employability. The Council adopted Conclusions on literacy aimed at reducing the share of young people and adults with poor reading and writing skills in order to promote employability, personal development and social inclusion. Innovative, fair and high-quality education systems are a sine qua non for meeting the Europe 2020 targets on growth and employment. Against this background, the Council adopted Conclusions on education and training in Europe 2020. Ensuring that learning outcomes acquired outside of the regular education system can be used for the labour market is an important European goal. The Council thus reached political agreement on a recommendation regarding the validation of the outcomes of non-formal or informal learning. The Strategic Framework for European Cooperation in Educa- tion and Training (ET 2020) defines four objectives: making lifelong learning and mobility a reality; improving the quality and efficiency of education and training; promoting equity, social cohesion and active citizenship; enhancing creativity and innovation, including entrepreneurship, at all levels of education and training. The Council adopted the report by the Council and the Commission on the implementation of the Strategic Framework for Euro- pean Cooperation in Education and Training. The Council also adopted Con- clusions on the employability of graduates from all levels of education and training, calling upon Member States to launch actions aimed at supporting employability and inviting them to promote the implementation of relevant EU programmes and tools. In December, the Commission published a Communication on the Youth Employment Package that aims to move young people into employment and provides for a Council recommendation on introducing a youth guarantee in line with the Austrian model. The goal is to ensure that all young people are offered a quality job, a place in further education, an apprenticeship or a traineeship within four months of leaving full-time education. Against the background of the ongoing rise in youth employment and the gap between 47 Austria in the European Union qualification offer and demand, Member States shall increasingly focus on training and hands-on programmes that aim to facilitate school to work tran- sitions. Standardised quality requirements are to be defined for training programmes. Social partners and trainees will be more closely involved. Aus- tria is mentioned as one of the few Member States with an exemplary dual apprenticeship training system, as this system opens up better prospects for a smoother school to working life transition. Besides projects in the fields of youth participation and democracy, the EU Youth in Action programme also promotes the exchange of youth groups, European volunteers as well as youth trainers and youth multipliers. In 2012, of the 194,000 participants EU-wide more than 5,500 were from Aus- tria. Under the Eastern European Partnership Window, a new element, the Youth Window, was created which Austria was able to use based on existing contacts. Thanks to the EU funds allocated to Austria a total of 180 projects were implemented in 2012. Mobility in the context of vocational training and transfer of professional qualifications (school-leaving certificates or qualifications from a vocational school) is of increasing importance. A new funding priority was defined in 2012 under the company-based apprenticeship promotion system. Compa- nies whose apprentices go on a work placement abroad shall be reimbursed for the pro rata share of the apprenticeship pay for the duration of the work placement. The number of Austrian apprentices who have completed a traineeship in a foreign company rose from 300 in 2011 to 500 young people in 2012. The Vocational Training Act (Art. 27a) provides a flexible system for the recognition of foreign qualifications and certificates in the context of comparable Austrian apprenticeship qualifications. Qualifications and certificates acquired abroad, if necessary complemented with professional experience that has already been acquired, are recognised and/or a supplementary exam may be taken if there are differences in the training systems.

3.3.1.14. research, Technological Development and Outer Space The key topic dealt with by the Research Ministers was the negotiations on the forthcoming EU framework programme for research and innovation: “HORIZON 2020 – The Framework Programme for Research and Innovation (2014–2020)”. The Commission presented its proposal for the HORIZON 2020 legislative package on 30 November 2011. At the beginning of the negotiations in February 2012, the Austrian Federal Government adopted a negotiating position on HORIZON 2020 which forms the basis for the Austrian input in the negotiation process. The Commission’s legislative package includes the proposal for the HORI- ZON 2020 regulation, the proposal for the rules on the participation in and dissemination of research results, the proposal on the Specific Programme Implementing HORIZON 2020 and the proposal for the EURATOM Research Framework Programme 2014–2018. 48 Austria’s Contribution to the EU Policy Areas

With a view to enabling the incorporation of the European Institute for Inno- vation and Technology (EIT), proposals for the respective adaptation of the EIT Regulation of 2008 and for an EIT Strategic Innovation Agenda that is oriented on the goals of HORIZON 2020 were presented. By the end of the year and following intensive negotiations, the research ministers agreed on “partial general approaches” on the HORIZON 2020 Regulation (COMPET Council in May), on the participation rules and the adaptation of the EIT Regulation (COMPET Council in October), on the Specific Programme as well as on the Strategic Innovation Agenda ofthe EIT (COMPET Council in December). These are, however, partially general approaches because the negotiations on the Multiannual Financial Frame- work (MFF) were held in parallel to negotiations on HORIZON 2020. For this reason budget issues had to remain excluded for the time being and will be clarified in 2013 following resolution on the MFF. The Irish Presidency also started negotiations on the EURATOM Research Framework Programme 2014–2018 and the informal trilogues with the Euro- pean Parliament on those texts on which agreement among research ministers had already been reached. The goal is to reach agreement on the HORI- ZON 2020 package before the end of 2013 so that the programme can start in January 2014. Another important topic was the next steps towards realisation of the Euro- pean Research Area (ERA). In July, the Commission submitted a communication on “A Reinforced European Research Area Partnership for Excellence and Growth”. This communication was accompanied by a communication and recommendation on the topic of “Open Access”. The communication on the reinforced partnership in the ERA outlines five areas in which there was a particularly urgent need to remove obstacles and/ or implement reforms with a view to deployment of the European Research Area: (1) more effective national research systems, (2) optimal transnational cooperation and competition, (3) an open labour market for researchers, (4) gender equality and gender mainstreaming in research, (5) optimum circulation, access to and transfer of scientific knowledge. Concrete actions are identified for each of these priorities, which are to be implemented by the Member States, the Commission and by organisations run by research players. In line with Article 189 TFEU, the EU shall establish the necessary measures to implement the responsibilities it shares with the Member States which may take the form of a European space programme. Commission proposals and negotiations with Member States are to be considered in connection with the Financial Framework 2014–2020 and with the preparation of a space industry policy, the proposals for a follow-up programme to the 7th EU Framework Programme “Horizon 2020” and the development of an independent programme for the operation of Galileo and Copernicus (GMES). 49 Austria in the European Union

Under the 7th EU Framework Programme, the Member State’s research institutions and enterprises have the opportunity to submit research projects under Theme 9 “Space”. The main aim of the Space Theme is to develop a common European space policy that brings benefits to citizens and sustains a competitive European space industry. This is carried out in close coordination with the European Space Agency (ESA). Under the 7th EU Framework Programme a budget of 1.4 billion euros is made available (2007–2013) to promote research and development and for associated support activities in this area. In 2012, the sixth and thus last call for proposals was organised under Theme 9 “Space” in the context of the 7th EU Framework Programme. There is also an opportunity to participate in the context of the first operational activities of the European earth monitoring programme GMES (Global Monitoring for Environment and Security) that was officially renamed Copernicus in December. The operational programme builds on the research activities under the 7th EU Framework Programme and the programme for the ESA’s GMES space component. The activities include initial operational services in the fields of monitoring of land surfaces and crisis management (the GMES Emergency Management Service officially became operational in April). Furthermore, accompanying measures aim to support the service’s acceptance among users, contribute to funding access to data and further development of the space component. The launch of the first satellite that was specifically developed for Copernicus (Sentinel-1) is scheduled for autumn 2013. The discussion regarding an independent operational Copernicus programme for the period 2014–2020 was continued during the reporting period. The focus was mainly on whether funding will be provided within or outside of the MFF 2014–2020. Once it is fully active, the operational services provided under Copernicus will give Europe sustainable access to independent information in the fields of: monitoring the atmosphere, monitoring climate change, crisis and disaster management, monitoring the state of the environment on land and at sea, and security. The Space component ensures access to satellite-based monitoring data, while the in-situ component guarantees access to air, sea and ground based complementary data.

3.3.1.15. area of Freedom, Security and Justice The Stockholm Programme adopted by the European Council in December 2009 and the Action Plan implementing the Programme in 2010–2014 continued to represent an important basis for EU policy in the fields of border control, asylum and immigration policy, judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters as well as police cooperation. The mid-term review of the implementation status and the progress report by the Cyprus Presidency were discussed at the Justice and Home Affairs Council meeting in December based on a state-of-play report by the Cyprus Presidency. 50 Austria’s Contribution to the EU Policy Areas

The target of establishing a Common European Asylum System (CEAS) by the end of 2012 was only met to a certain extent. It had not yet been possible to adopt all legal acts included in the Asylum Package, as agreement could not be reached on all items between the Council and the European Parlia- ment. The revised Status Directive 2011/95/EU on harmonising certain provisions in order to create a uniform status for refugees and for persons eligible to subsidiary protection came into effect on 9 January. Political agreement between the Council and the European Parliament was reached by the end of the year on both the Reception Conditions Directive which encompasses a further harmonisation of the conditions for the reception of asylum seekers in the individual Member States, and on the Dublin-III-Regulation aimed at increasing the effectiveness of the Dublin system to determine the Member State responsible for examining an asylum application. Progress was also made in the negotiations on the revision of the Asylum Procedure Direc- tive aimed at further aligning asylum procedures and in the negotiations on the EURODAC Regulation that will also allow law enforcement authorities access to the fingerprints saved in the EURODAC database. Negotiations on this legislation are to be concluded in the first few months of 2013 which will then be adopted all together as a package. Austria is one of the Member States faced with the highest volumes of asylum applications. In the negotiations on the Common European Asylum System special attention was thus paid to ensuring that provisions are defined which enable effective implementation by all Member States in order to more effectively counteract abuse in benefit- ting from national asylum systems within the EU. The illegal migration flows to Europe that tend to go hand in hand with people smuggling, human trafficking and organised crime still represent a major challenge. Austria has successfully advocated a better bundling and focus- sing of all relevant EU activities in the fight against illegal migration. The Roadmap to ensure a coherent EU response to continued migratory pres- sures adopted by the Justice and Home Affairs Council on 26 April covers six priority areas: enhancing cooperation with third countries of origin and transit; strengthening external borders; preventing illegal immigration via the Greek-Turkish border; preventing abuse of legal migration channels; preventing abuse of free movement rights by third country nationals; enhancing migration management (including return practices). On 8 March, the Justice and Home Affairs Council adopted Conclusions inviting the Commission to regularly submit reports on the functioning of the Schengen System. Such reports were submitted in May and in Novem- ber. General approaches were agreed on at the Council meeting on 7 June regarding the proposals for a Regulation on an evaluation and monitoring system to verify and ensure the application of the Schengen acquis and for an amendment to Regulation (EC) No. 562/2006 (Schengen Border Codex) for the definition of common rules that could allow, in truly exceptional situations, for the temporary reintroduction of internal border controls. The sub- 51 Austria in the European Union sequent negotiations with the European Parliament, however, remained at a standstill until late autumn because the Council, when discussing the Regu- lation on the evaluation mechanism unanimously supported an amended legal basis that did not involve the European Parliament’s formal co-decision right. The law-making bodies only resumed negotiations at the end of the year in order to strike a compromise. The Council was still not able to reach the necessary unanimity required for the adoption of a resolution on the full application of the provisions of the Schengen acquis for Bulgaria and Romania. In the field of legal migration, Council and European Parliament continued negotiations on the ICT (Intra-Corporate Transferees) Directive governing cross-border intra-corporate transfers of employees and on the Seasonal Workers Directive which should be completed in the first half year of 2013. In May, the Council adopted Conclusions on the revised General Approach to Migration and Mobility (GAMM), in which the EU defines the goals and tools of its actions in relation to migration, mobility and asylum. With a view to concluding mobility partnerships, dialogues on migration, mobility and security were held with Morocco and Tunisia. Towards the end of the year, the Council agreed on a general approach on a proposed amendment to Regulation (EC) No. 539/2001 (Visa Code), which is still being negotiated with the European Parliament. It includes a suspension clause that would allow the EU in certain exceptional and well-defined circumstances to temporarily and as a last resort suspend the visa-free travel regime towards certain third countries. Austria supports the introduction of this clause – especially with a view to the anticipated discouraging effect it might have on the abuse of visa procedures and unfounded applications for asylum from visa-liberalised third countries. On 17 December, the EU signed a visa facilitation agreement with Arme- nia that is to enter into force at the same time as a readmission agreement that was signed shortly before. In June, the Council adopted Conclusions in which the EU stresses its intention to initiate a long-term gradual visa liberalisation dialogue as soon as Turkey has signed the readmission agreement that had also been initialled in June and is prepared to implement the relevant catalogue of criteria (Roadmap). In April, the Council reached a qualified majority for a general approach on a proposal for a PNR Directive on the use of Passenger Name Record data for the prevention, detection, investigation and prosecution of terrorist offences and serious crime. Austria was not among this majority as its concerns regarding the need for and the proportionality of the encroachments on fundamental rights linked with passenger name record storage could not be dispelled. The negotiations with the European Parliament which is also highly critical of this proposal are due to continue in 2013. When the EU-US PNR Agreement on the exchange of passenger name record data was 52 Austria’s Contribution to the EU Policy Areas eventually adopted, Austria abstained from voting as its doubts regarding an effective data protection guarantee could not be fully removed. Hardly any progress was achieved on substantial issues in the negotiations on a general EU-US Data Protection Framework Agreement. On 25 January, the Commission presented proposals for a comprehensive reform of the EU data protection rules. They relate to a General Data Protec- tion Regulation aimed at defining a general EU legal framework for data protection and a Directive on the protection of individuals with regard to the processing of personal data for criminal prosecution purposes. Austria is in principle in favour of enhanced Union-wide harmonisation of data protection requirements. Key aspects of the proposed legal instruments, however, remained controversial when being discussed by the Council. In the field of criminal law, Directive 2012/13/EU of 22 May on the Right to Information in Criminal Proceedings entered into force on 20 June and is to be transposed by 2 June 2014. Directive 2012/29/EU of 25 October establishing minimum standards on the rights, support and protection of victims of crime came into effect on 15 November and has to be transposed by 16 November 2015. Negotiations were held with the European Parliament based on the general approach adopted by the Council on 14 December 2011 on the European Investigation Order in criminal matters. In July, the Council agreed on a general approach with regards to the proposal for a Directive on the right of access to a lawyer in criminal proceedings and the proposal for a Directive on the right to communicate upon arrest. Based on this approach negotiations were held with the European Parliament in the second half of the year. The Council also agreed on a general approach on the Directive on the freezing and confiscation of proceeds of crime in the European Union and on the Market Abuse Directive on criminal sanctions for insider dealing and market manipulation. In the civil law field, the Succession Law Regulation (EU) No. 650/2012 of 4 July on jurisdiction, applicable law, recognition and enforcement of decisions as well as acceptance and enforcement of authentic instruments in matters of succession and on the creation of a European Certificate of Succes- sion came into effect on 16 August and will in principle be applicable as of 17 August 2015. The recast of the Brussels I-Regulation (EU) No. 1215/2012 of 12 December on jurisdiction, recognition and enforcement of judgments in civil and commercial matters came into force on 10 January 2013 and shall apply from 10 January 2015. The regulation particularly aims to facilitate the enforcement of judgments passed in another EU Member State.

3.3.1.16. culture The Council’s activities focused on the negotiations on two EU funding programmes “Creative Europe” (2014–2020) and “Europe for Citizens” (2014– 2020). General partial approaches were adopted on both proposals for regula- 53 Austria in the European Union tions. Creative Europe (2014–2020) will combine the programmes “Culture” (2007–2013), “MEDIA” (2007–2013) and “MEDIA Mundus” (2011–2013) becoming a new funding instrument for creative industries. The indicative budget available amounts 1.8 billion euros. Under the current EU “Culture” programme, 324 institutions across Europe were supported with 55.6 million euros in 2012. Eight Austrian cultural institutions were granted EU funding of 984,000 euros. Under the current EU programme “Europe for Citizens”, 605 projects organised by civil society organisations, communities, municipalities and cities EU-wide received funding of 28 million euros in 2012. The funding made available to nine Austrian institutions in this context amounted to approx. 672,000 euros. The follow- up programme of the same name was equipped with a budget of 229 million euros for the period 2014–2020 to support town twinning programmes and events focusing on European history and civil society in Europe. The Council also adopted Conclusions on the digitalisation and online accessibility of cultural material and on cultural governance. The title of European Capital of Culture 2012 was shared by Guimarães (Portugal) and Maribor (Slovenia). Under the EU Work Plan for Culture 2011–2014, the EU expert groups on the topics of “the role of public arts and cultural institutions in promoting access to culture”, “mobility of small-scale operators and young artists”, “mobility of collections” and “culture and creative industries in the EU Structural Funds” completed their work and presented their final reports. Austria contributed to the establishment of three new groups on the topics of “the role of public arts and cultural institutions in promoting cultural diversity and inter-cultural dialogue”, “export strategies for culture and creative industries” and “the promotion of creative partnerships”.

3.3.2. the European Union’s External Relations 3.3.2.1. common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) / Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) Under Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP), current foreign policy issues – including the Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP; see Chapter 5.1) – that are of relevance for all EU Member States are dealt with at EU level. The central CFSP topics dealt with included the developments in the Arab world, especially in Syria and the Middle East, in Iran, the humanitarian crisis and the security situation on the Horn of Africa, in the Sahel region, in Sudan and in South Sudan and the continuation of the stabilisation process in the Western Balkans, in particular the issue of international presence in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the dialogue between Serbia and Kosovo. The EU was present worldwide with 15 civil and military CSDP 54 Austria’s Contribution to the EU Policy Areas operations in locations from the Western Balkans through to the Middle East and Africa. On matters relating to the CFSP, decisions are generally taken unanimously (opportunity of constructive abstention) by the External Relations Council based on the strategic guidelines issued by the European Council; in addition the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (EU HR) makes binding declarations on current events on behalf of the EU Member States. The Political and Security Committee (PSC) is composed of representatives from the Member States and regularly monitors international foreign and security policy developments, supervises the implementation of agreed policies and exercises political control and strategic direction in crisis management operations. The Council adapted existing and/or adopted new sanctions against foreign terrorist groups, Afghanistan, Egypt, Belarus, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Eritrea, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Iraq, Iran, Liberia, Moldova, Myanmar (Burma), Somalia, Syria, Tunisia and Zimbabwe. At the suggestion of the EU HR, the Council may appoint special representatives of the EU (EUSR). Currently there are such mandates for Afghani- stan, the African Union (AU), Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Horn of Africa, Kosovo, the South Caucasus and the conflict in Georgia, the Southern Medi- terranean region, the Sudan, Central Asia, the Middle East Peace Process and human rights. In 2012, the CFSP budget amounted to 362.5 million euros. The major share of this funding was used for civil crisis management operations, the EUSR’s activities, the promotion of disarmament and non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.

3.3.2.2. the European Neighbourhood Policy The concept of European Neighbourhood policy (ENP) applies to Algeria, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Egypt, Georgia, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Moldova, Morocco, the Palestinian Authority, Syria, Tunisia and Ukraine. A special system of cooperation was agreed on with Russia. Under this scheme, the EU and its “key partner” Russia develop their “strategic partnership” not within the ENP but by establishing “four Common Spaces”. Cooperation under the ENP is based on the existing bilateral association, partnership and cooperation agreements. Belarus, Libya and Syria are included in the ENP but do not fully participate in it. The aim of the ENP is to enable the neighbouring states involved to benefit from the common area of peace, security and prosperity by defining concrete targets set out in individual multiannual Action Plans tailored to each partner country. 55 Austria in the European Union

The thematic priorities laid down in the Action Plans include areas such as political dialogue and reform; trade, market and regulatory reform; cooperation in the fields of justice and home affairs; transport, energy, information society and the environment, as well as contact between civil societies. For the period 2007–2013, measures launched under the ENP and the Stra- tegic Partnership with Russia are funded based on a more flexible and at the same time standardised European Neighbourhood and Partnership Instru- ment (ENPI), which replaced earlier support programmes such as Techni- cal Assistance to the Commonwealth of Independent States (TACIS) and the MEDA Programme (financial and technical measures to accompany the reform of economic and social structures in the framework of the Euro-Med- iterranean Partnership). Under the ENPI funding instrument, twinning programmes (administrative partnerships) and TAIEX (under which experts are dispatched to provide swift and short-term assistance) reform processes and institution building is supported in the partner countries. The goal is to promote these countries’ approximation to EU standards and policies by sharing relevant expert knowledge. As a very active and successful twinning partner in South East Europe, Aus- tria is also interested in getting more closely involved in European Neigh- bourhood Policy. In 2012, Austria won the proposals for projects in the fields of environmental protection (Georgia), tourism (Azerbaijan) and improvements in road safety (Jordan). The promotion of citizens’ mobility and visa liberalisation in a secure environment are other important aspects of European Partnership Policy. The EU takes gradual steps towards full visa liberalisation as a goal for individual partner countries provided that the necessary requirements for well- managed and safe mobility are fulfilled. A visa facilitation and readmission agreement with Georgia came into force in 2011 and negotiations on visa facilitation and readmission agreements with Armenia and Azerbaijan were also opened. Action Plans for the gradual achievement of the visa liberalisation goal are being implemented with Ukraine and Moldova. Against the background of the Arab Spring, the ENP was adapted in the course of 2011 with special priority given to programmes and measures that promote the building of democratic and rule of law structures in connection with sustainable development and the strengthening of civil societies in the partner countries. The implementation track record presented jointly by the High Representative and the EC on 15 May underlines the good progress the renewed ENP had made in the first year in developing the Partnership for Democracy and shared prosperity with the Southern Mediterranean countries and in implementing the Eastern Partnership. This assessment was also embraced by the General Affairs Council on 25 June. 56 Austria’s Contribution to the EU Policy Areas

The “ENP Package” adopted for the renewed ENP provides for the realloca- tion of existing funds to new institution building programmes in the fields of judicial reform and the fight against corruption and for making available additional resources to support the partner countries’ reform efforts thus supplementing the existing country programme. Using two framework programmes (SPRING for the South and EaPIC for the East), this additional EU support is provided on a “more for more” basis to those partner countries that have made the greatest progress in realising deep democratisation and with a long and lasting commitment to establishing democratic order. To this end, special task forces were established. They cooperate with the partner countries and contribute country-specific knowledge and resources provided by the EU, the Member States, the European Investment Bank, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and other international finance institutions as well as the private sector. In 2012, the EU held task force meetings with Jordan and Egypt. Since March, the EU has also held the co-chair of the Union for the Mediterra- nean (UfM) which is composed of all EU Member States, the Southern Medi- terranean states and Jordan and Mauretania. Using a two-pronged approach based on the UfM and the European Neighbourhood Policy the effectiveness of EU assistance for the Southern Mediterranean is to be strengthened. Since its inception in 2009, the implementation of the Eastern Partnership (EaP) concept has contributed to developing relations between the EU and the EaP countries (Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine). Especially in the context of the ongoing negotiations on association agreements aiming at more mutual opening, gradual integration in the EU economic area and a rapprochement to European regulations and standards, the EaP has contributed to achieving progress. Negotiations on an association agreement with the Ukraine were completed, the agreement initialled and signing is scheduled to take place as soon as possible – provided the Ukraine makes sufficient progress in the fields of human rights and in implementing further reforms. Recent political developments in Belarus, however, render a further deepening of relations with this partner country currently impossible. The annual foreign ministers meeting of the Eastern Partnership countries was held in Brussels in July. In May, a “roadmap” was published that outlines the steps the Eastern Partnership plans to take by its next summit in Vilna in November 2013. As of 2014, the European Neighbourhood Instrument (ENI) will replace the existing European Neighbourhood and Partnership Instrument (ENPI). Through ENI the EU strives to enhance the efficiency of its assistance and to tailor it more to partners’ needs. In the redesigned cooperation, the principles of differentiation and conditionality will play a pivotal role. Those partner countries that make more progress in building up and establishing democracy and the rule of law will henceforth be granted more EU assistance. 57 Austria in the European Union

3.3.2.3. eFTA/EEA and Relations to Western European Non-EU Member Countries The European Free Trade Association (EFTA) was originally conceived as a counterweight to the European Communities. Today, more than 50 years after its foundation it consists of the four Western European Non-EU Member States Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein. The association primarily aims to promote economic cooperation while maintaining its member states full freedom of action. With a view to fully involving the EFTA states in the Single Market, the Euro- pean Economic Area (EEA) was set up by the EU Member States and Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein. The core elements of the EEA Agreement are the “four freedoms” – free movement of goods, services, capital and people. The EEA is regulated by additional protocols and flanking or horizontal policies. Agricultural and fisheries products, indirect taxes and a common external trade policy are on principal excepted. Once Iceland has concluded the EU accession negotiations launched in 2010, it would leave EFTA but, as an EU Member State, continue to be a member of the EEA. The relationship between the EU and Switzerland is regulated by bilateral agreements (known as Bilateral Agreements I and II). The Bilateral Agree- ments I include a package of seven sectoral agreements that relate mainly to mutual market liberalisation. The nine sectoral agreements known as Bilater- als II govern relations that go beyond the economic context and pave inter alia the path towards closer cooperation between the EU and Switzerland in the fields of justice, police and asylum matters and migration. Based on the Bilaterals II package Switzerland also participates in the Schengen area. There are also ongoing talks between the EU and Switzerland on further improving legal certainty, efficient cooperation and opportunities for closer institutional collaboration.

3.3.2.4. eu-Russia The Strategic Partnership between the EU and Russia is further developed based on the realisation of “Four Common Spaces” (the Common Economic Space, Common Space on Freedom, Security and Justice, Common Space on Internal Security and the Common Space on Research, Education and Cul- ture). In parallel negotiations are being held on a new EU-Russia Framework Agreement, which is to replace the existing Partnership and Cooperation Agreement from 1997. In its relations with the EU, Russia is mainly interested in visa liberalisation, energy partnership and European security. Regular summits are held between the EU and Russia. The topics dealt with at the 29th EU-Russia summit in Saint Petersburg held on 3–4 June focused on the implementation of the Partnership for Modernisation set up in 2010 and the discussion of international topics. The goals pursued by the Partnership for Modernisation 58 Austria’s Contribution to the EU Policy Areas include identification of new opportunities for mutual investments in the field of innovation. At the 30th summit, held in Brussels from 20–21 December, the strategic partners again underlined the key political priority enjoyed by their relations. In this context the further implementation of the list of “Common Steps” towards visa-free travel, particularly in the area of document security, border control and migration enjoys special importance. Further summits were the Russian Presidency of the G20 and cooperation with the EU on a number of global challenges.

3.3.2.5. trans-Atlantic Relations 3.3.2.5.1. USA The common agreement between the USA and the EU on the importance of trans-Atlantic relations continued to form the basis for cooperation. The high-level Working Group on Jobs and Growth (HLWG) set up in the wake of the EU-USA summit 2011 to contribute to tapping into the full potential of a deepened trans-Atlantic cooperation in the economic area and to further deepening the strong bilateral trade relations presented its first interim report. The final report on the concrete findings and measures originally envisaged for the end of the year is now expected to be completed in 2013. The Organic Equivalence Arrangement between the EU and the USA was signed on 15 February and came into force on 1 June. Based on this agreement, a product that has been certified as organic in one of the two regions can be marketed and sold as organic in both regions without any further authorisation. The estimated aggregate volume of the organic sector in the USA and the EU is 40 billion euros. The fourth EU-USA energy summit was held in Brussels on 5 December. The USA was represented by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and the Deputy Sec- retary of Energy Daniel Poneman. The topics discussed related to the situation on the international energy markets, shale gas production in the USA, efficient use of energy and cooperation on energy issues between the USA and the EU. From 26 to 28 November, the President of the European Parliament, Martin Schulz, stayed in Washington where he met US Vice President Joe Biden and senior representatives of Congress. Subsequently from 30 November to 1 December, the 73rd interparliamentary meeting of the Transatlantic Leg- islators’ Dialogue (TLD) was held. The main topics on the meeting’s agenda were economic cooperation between the USA and the EU, cyber security, the internet and current foreign policy issues.

3.3.2.5.2. Canada The institutionalised dialogue between the EU and Canada is based on the 1976 Framework Agreement on Trade and Economic Cooperation, the Decla- 59 Austria in the European Union ration on Transatlantic Relations (1990), the Joint Political Declaration (1996) and the related Action Plan as well as the EU-Canada Partnership Agenda of 2004. Numerous meetings at various levels held by working groups, expert groups, senior-level public officials and political representatives create the foundation for the political dialogue between the EU and Canada. The negotiations on a Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) between the EU and Canada that were completed in May 2009 were pushed forward in all areas. In parallel to the CETA negotiations, a separate negotiation process was launched on the updating of the Framework Agreement on Trade and Eco- nomic Cooperation that was concluded 34 years ago.

3.3.2.6. eu-Asia 3.3.2.6.1. ASEM The Asia Europe Meeting (ASEM) process was launched with the first ASEM meeting held in Bangkok in March 1996. Since that time this forum for political dialogue between Europe and Asia has continued to play a major role. At the 9th ASEM Summit of Heads of State and Government held in Vien- tiane (Laos) on 5 and 6 November in Vientiane (Laos) Switzerland, Norway and Bangladesh joined the forum as new members. The topics discussed on the summit focused on economic and financial issues. In the context of the ASEM process a separate meeting of ASEM ministers of finance was held in Bangkok on 15 October. The Singapore-based Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF) is the only permanent institution under ASEM and aims to promote cultural and scientific relations between the ASEM states.

3.3.2.6.2. Japan On 29 November, the European Commission was mandated by the EU For- eign Ministers Council to open negotiations for a framework agreement and a free trade agreement with Japan. In this context, the EU attaches special importance to the elimination of non-tariff trade barriers. Japan is – after China – the EU’s second most important trade partner in Asia. According to studies, the conclusion of an ambitious free trade agreement with Japan could translate into GNP growth of 0.8 % and the creation of more than 400,000 new jobs.

3.3.2.6.3. China The 14th EU-China summit that had originally been scheduled for 2011 and was then postponed was held in Beijing on 15 February. The 15th summit took place in Brussels on 20 September. Both parties agreed to initiate a partnership for sustainable urbanisation, an EU-China water platform, a high- 60 Austria’s Contribution to the EU Policy Areas level dialogue on energy issues, institutionalised talks on innovation, on mobility and on migration and to cooperate in developing rural areas and in the field of disaster management. On 19 and 20 September, the first EU-China Mayors’ Forum convened in Brussels. On 9 and 10 July, EU HR Catherine Ashton met State Councillor Dai Bingguo for the 3rd EU-China High-level Strategic Dialogue. Numerous events were held in China and in Europe to celebrate the EU-China Year of Intercultural Dialogue 2012. A meeting was held in Brussels at the end of May in the context of the EU-China Human Rights Dialogue.

3.3.2.6.4. India The EU is India’s largest trading and investment partner and the country’s most important donor of development assistance. A cooperation agreement was signed in 1994 and since 2004 India has been one of the EU’s Strate- gic Partners. Regular summits and meetings at commissioner/minister and expert level are held to deepen cooperation in a large number of areas. At the 12th EU-India summit in February, both parties agreed on enhancing cooperation in the security area (fight against terrorism and piracy, cyber security) and in the fields of energy, research and innovation. The ongoing negotiations on a free trade agreement first launched in 2007 were continued.

3.3.2.6.5. Central Asia The EU-Central Asia Strategy adopted in 2007 continues to form an important basis for the enhanced commitment by the EU and its Member States in the region as a whole and in each of the five Central Asian countries. By promoting seven priority areas and three regional initiatives, the EU has set itself the goal of contributing to improving stability and security, fighting poverty and intensifying regional cooperation. The Central Asia Strategy was assessed/reviewed in June and the priority areas for further cooperation were defined. Support provided by the EU in the funding period 2007–2013 totals 750 million euros. The EU and its Member States are amongst the largest donors in Central Asia. Maintaining stability and security for the countries in the neighbourhood and/or the immediate vicinity of Afghanistan constitutes a special challenge. The EU programmes on Border Management in Central Asia (BOMCA) and the Central Asia Drug Action Programme (CADAP) that focus on long-term cooperation are thus particularly well-received. The Cen- tral Asia Border Security Initiative (CABSI) under the auspices of the Aus- trian Federal Ministry of the Interior and the European Commission is a common platform and clearing centre for the numerous bilateral, regional and multi-lateral border protection projects in Central Asia. In April, a CABSI ministerial conference was organised by the Federal Ministry of the Interior in Vienna. The energy sector is a central area of EU-Central Asian cooperation. EU partnership and cooperation agreements are in force with almost all of the Central Asian countries. Human rights dialogues were continued with 61 Austria in the European Union individual countries. The EU-Central Asia Ministerial Meeting in which the EU was represented by High Representative Catherine Ashton was held in Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan). EUHR Ashton also held bilateral talks in Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. The former EU Special Representa- tive for Central Asia Pierre Morel and his successor Patricia Flor visited the region regularly.

3.3.2.7. eu-Africa EU-Africa relations were largely dominated by the crisis in Mali and particularly the Union’s participation in the international community’s efforts aimed at resolving the crisis by political means. In implementing its Strategy for Security and Development in the Sahel, the EU adopted the civil CSDP mission EUCAP Sahel Niger. This mission is to assist Niger in building up its own capacities to fight terrorism and organised crime in the Sahel region. The work of the EU Special Representative for the Horn of Africa, appointed in December 2011, builds on the EU Strategy for the Horn of Africa and focuses on supporting political development in Somalia, where the transition period ended at the end of August and a new president took office. The EU Special Representative for Sudan continued her efforts. The EU also has long-standing partnership relations with the African states (and the other ACP states) based on the Cotonou Agreement. The negotiations on economic partnership agreements with African regional organisations that are building on these relations are being continued. These agreements serve to trigger reform processes in the relevant ACP countries, promote sustainable reform and fight poverty. Africa featured consistently on the agendas of the PSC, the External Rela- tions Council and the Development Council. In eight out of the nine meetings it held in total, the External Relations Council dealt with topics relating to Africa South of the Sahara. The main focus was on the situation in Sudan and South Sudan, in Mali and in the Sahel, in Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Other topics related to Zimbabwe, Somalia and South Africa’s role as a strategic partner of the EU. The EU delegations in Africa are increasingly acting as contact points for those EU Member States whose network of representations in Africa is rather small.

3.3.2.8. eu-LAC The EU’s relations with Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) are based on an institutionalised dialogue and summits between the EU Member States and all 33 states of Latin America and the Caribbean. The EU-LAC Process that has been institutionalised for more than ten years now is an important 62 Austria’s Contribution to the EU Policy Areas driver for bi-regional relations. EU-LAC summits are held every two years and define the strategic direction for the further development of relations. Six such summits have been held since 1999. Since its foundation in Decem- ber 2011, the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) has been the EU’s interlocutor in this bi-regional process. The EU-LAC summit that will convene in Santiago de Chile from 26–27 January 2013 was thus re-named the EU-CELAC summit. The EU is one of the largest foreign investors in the region and continues to adhere to the concept of a (sub-)regional approach based on association or economic partnership agreements in order to promote regional integration of LAC partners and to improve legal framework conditions for trade relations and investments. The EU’s central policy focus in this context is on contributing to strengthening stability, prosperity and social cohesion in Latin America and the Caribbean, to establishing a common area of higher education and to fighting drugs and organised crime. On 26 June, the EU concluded a multi-party agreement with Peru and Colom- bia, and on 29 June an association agreement with Central America. The negotiations on an association agreement between the EU und the Common Market of the South (MERCOSUR) were continued. The Hamburg-based EU- LAC Foundation that is headed by former EU Commissioner Federal Minis- ter Benita Ferrero-Waldner took up work in 2011. The foundation’s main task is to foster institutional cooperation between the EU and the Latin American and Caribbean region. The close relations between the EU and the LAC region are also reflected in the diversity of the contractual relations: there are association agreements with Mexico (2000) and Chile (2002) as well as Strategic Partnerships with Brazil (2007) and Mexico (2008). The sixth EU-Mexico summit was held in Los Cabos on 17 June.

3.3.2.9. development Cooperation and Humanitarian Assistance

See Chapters 10.3 and 13.3.1.

3.3.3. the Enlargement of the European Union

In 2012, the enlargement process was again defined by the “principles of renewed consensus on the enlargement” laid down in December 2006. Adopted by the European Council, this strategy is based on the premise of the Union’s capacity to integrate new members and stresses – along with the consolidation of commitments made – the observance of a fair and at the same time rigorous conditionality. 63 Austria in the European Union

As demonstrated by the example of Montenegro, the sustainability of this concept has proved successful: four years after the Montenegrin application for EU membership negotiations were opened in June. On 10 October 2012, the European Commission adopted the annual “Enlarge- ment Package” – a set of documents explaining its policy on EU enlargement and reports on progress achieved by the individual states. It stresses the enlargement policy’s stabilising effect and referring to the progress made in the last few years in Croatia, Montenegro, Macedonia and Serbia describes the EU perspective as the central driver for reform in the Western Balkans region. Key challenges to enlargement policy were still identified in the fields of rule of law and strengthening of public administration, implementation of the right to freedom of expression and freedom of the press, the continuation of enhanced regional cooperation in the Western Balkans and guaranteeing a sustainable economic recovery. In the accession negotiations with Montenegro, the Council resolutions of 2011 were applied for the first time, thus paying even greater attention to the areas of justice, home affairs and fundamental rights. Because of the exact- ing requirements in this field, accession candidates need to deal with the relevant negotiation chapters at an early stage. The Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (IPA) supports the candidate countries Croatia, Macedonia, Montenegro and Turkey as well as the potential candidate countries Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo and Ser- bia in their preparations for EU accession with a funding volume of 11.5 billion euros for the period 2007–2013. Austria supported the pre-accession process in very concrete terms by contributing to regional cooperation and by forming EU-Twinning partnerships thus assisting candidate countries in strengthening their public administration. Austria was particularly active in the areas of taxes and customs. With three projects the geographic focus was on Croatia, one project each was implemented in Montenegro and in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The total funding volume amounted to approximately 3.3 million euros. As the impacts of the international economic crisis had a further detrimental effect on the Western Balkan countries’ pace of reform, the EU provides additional incentives for political and economic reform to ensure that the current enlargement process does not lose momentum. In this context, special importance is attached to the development of state administrative structures and the rule of law and is reflected in increased calls for projects in these areas.

3.3.3.1. croatia, Turkey, Montenegro and Iceland The signing of its accession treaty marked the completion of the accession negotiations with Croatia. The subsequent ratification process has to be completed by the planned accession date on 1 July 2013. By the end of the year, 64 Austria’s Contribution to the EU Policy Areas the treaty was ratified by 16 EU Member States and Croatia. For Austria, the accession treaty was ratified on 9 July by Federal President Heinz Fischer in the presence of the Croatian President Ivo Josipovic. In order to ensure that the benchmarks are fully met, especially on the difficult negotiation chapter 23 (judiciary and fundamental rights), pre-accession monitoring was established for Croatia. This monitoring is performed by the European Commission, which prepares semi-annual reports on its findings. In its October report, the Commission stated that Croatia had made substantial progress and at the same time identified ten specific areas in the fields of competition policy, judiciary and fundamental rights, freedom and security that still require reforms prior to the country’s actual accession. In the context of its relationship with Turkey, the EU was faced with the question of how to take proper account of the country’s role as an important regional player and significant economic power against the background of a standstill in the negotiation process. In Turkey’s bilateral relations with the EU Member State Cyprus no progress was made towards normalisation. The Additional Protocol to the Association Agreement (Ankara Agreement) has still not been implemented and the customs union with the EU in effect since 1995 not yet extended to all states that joined the Union in 2004. The decision to freeze negotiations on the eight related chapters and to refrain from provisionally concluding any of the other chapters as taken by the EU foreign ministers on 11 December 2006 thus remains in force. None of the other chapters has been opened since 2010. Since 2011, the “positive agenda”, developed by the EC, has served as a format which enables addressing topics of mutual interest, such as political reform, foreign policy, energy and trade – outside of accession negotiations. Further progress was made in the accession negotiations with Iceland and by the end of the year 27 of the 35 chapters were opened of which eleven were provisionally concluded. Although the country’s membership of the European Economic Area (EEA) and the existing harmonisation of legislation in many areas facilitate quick negotiation progress, some key issues have not yet been resolved. This includes certain expectations Iceland has regarding special solutions in the fields of agriculture and fisheries and a high degree of uncertainty regarding the requirement for the Icelandic people’s support for accession that is to some extent linked to these solutions. As regards Montenegro (candidate status since 16 December 2010), the EC stated in May that the country had made further steps towards reform and sufficiently met the benchmarks in the key areas. The Commission thus recommended opening accession negotiations. The Council followed this recommendation on 26 June and the first accession conference was held on 29 June. In order to guarantee the effective implementation of the reforms adopted by Montenegro, the negotiation chapters Judiciary, Fundamen- tal Rights and Internal Security were the first to be opened and dealt with 65 Austria in the European Union in great detail. Currently, the major challenges are to be found in the fight against organised crime and corruption and strengthening of the rule of law.

3.3.3.2. the European Perspective of the Western Balkan Countries In its enlargement strategy and progress reports of 10 October the European Commission noted important progress had been made in the majority of the Western Balkan states. The still persisting challenges of enlargement policy named in the reports included independence, impartiality and efficiency of the judiciary, the fight against corruption and organised crime, efficiency and accountability of the administration, and the protection of civil, political, social and economic rights. The Commission also criticized existing deficits in the fields of protection of minorities and freedom of opinion in most of the states in the region. Overall, the enlargement policy has proven a key driver for the implementation of reforms which promote stabilisation and development in the Western Balkans regions. It is therefore fully supported by Austria. Stabilisation and Association Agreements (SAA), which strengthen the EU’s bilateral, political and economic relations with the region and are to pave the way for further reform, are already in force with Macedonia (since 2004), Croatia (since 2005), Albania (since 2009) and Montenegro (since 2010). SAAs have already been signed with Bosnia and Herzegovina and with Ser- bia. They are set to come into effect following ratification by all Member States and in the meantime interim agreements are in force. As was the case in 2009, 2010 and 2011, the Commission recommended opening accession negotiations with Macedonia (candidate status since 2005) to the Council. To date this step has, however, been thwarted by the Greek-Macedonian name dispute. The General Affairs Council of 11 Decem- ber stipulated that accession negotiations are to be opened as soon as Mace- donia has made progress in improving good neighbourly relations and the naming dispute with Greece – in which UN Special Representative Matthew Nimetz is mediating – has been resolved. The General Affairs Council of 11 December held out the prospect of candidate status to Albania as soon as Tirana has completed essential reforms in its judiciary and public administration and has fully revised its parliamentary rules of procedure. The opening of accession negotiations is subject to substantial improvements in twelve of the key areas defined by the Commis- sion in 2010 (all of which are in the field of political criteria). In October 2011, the Commission recommended granting candidate status to Serbia provided that Serbia continues the dialogue with Kosovo and fully implements all agreements made with Kosovo. After the General Affairs Council of 28 February had noted that these pre-requisites had been fulfilled, the European Council followed the latter’s recommendation and granted candidate status to Serbia on 1 March. The General Affairs Council of 11 Decem- ber further specified the conditions for the opening of accession negotiations: 66 Austria’s Contribution to the EU Policy Areas

Serbia has to visibly and sustainably improve relations with Kosovo and cooperate actively with the Rule of Law Mission EU EULEX – especially in North Kosovo. In December, Belgrade implemented an important agreement on integrated border management that had been agreed on in the dialogue with Kosovo. The oversight of Kosovo’s independence was terminated on 10 September and the International Civilian Representative (ICR) recalled. The international community thus recognised that Kosovo had largely implemented the activities laid down in the “Ahtisaari Plan” (Comprehensive Proposal on the Kosovo Status Settlement of 2007). Kosovo has enshrined the principles of the Ahtisaari Plan, which mainly relate to rights of minorities, strengthening of community competences (decentralisation) and the protection of religious and cultural heritage in its constitution and legislation. The General Affairs Council meeting of 11 December noted that the Commission will propose negotiating directives for an SAA once Kosovo meets the requirements in the key areas rule of law, public administration, protection of minorities and trade and has visibly and sustainably improved relations with Serbia. In order to move closer to the EU, Bosnia and Herzegovina need to implement a number of key reforms (constitutional reform, compliance with the Sejdić-Finci ruling pronounced by the European Court of Human Rights, judicial reform). The entry into force of the SAA also requires reform efforts by Bosnia and Herzegovina. Two of the pre-requisites defined by the EU Council on 21 March 2011 – the adoption of a Population Census and a State Aid Law – were met on 3 February. Yet this momentum was not maintained and the country’s progress in relation to the EU again stalled. The international presence in the country was re-configured with the appointment of Peter Sörensen as EU Special Representative (EUSR) and Head of the EU Delegation to Bosnia in September 2011 (Office of the High Representative and/or EUSR/EU Delegation) and the European presence strengthened. Visa-free travel to the EU with biometric passports has been possible since 19 December 2009 for nationals from Macedonia, Serbia and Montenegro and since 16 December 2010 for citizens of Albania and Bosnia and Herze- govina. On 19 January, a visa dialogue was opened with Kosovo. The prerequisite for visa liberalisation is compliance with technical requirements in the fields of document security, illegal migration and readmission, public order and security as well as external relations and fundamental rights. A readmission agreement – which is essential to the opening of a visa dialogue – was initiated with Turkey.

3.3.4. Strategy for the Danube Region At its meeting on 24 June 2011, the European Council gave its approval for the EU Strategy for the Danube Region (EUSDR) and issued an appeal for its immediate implementation to all relevant institutions. 67 Austria in the European Union

The underlying Action Plan is based on four pillars which cover eleven priority areas. Austrian institutions coordinate the following priority areas: “to improve mobility and multimodality – inland water ways” (Federal Ministry for Transport, Innovation and Technology together with Romania), “to invest in people and skills” (Federal Ministry for Education, Arts and Culture and the Federal Ministry of Labour, Social Affairs and Consumer Protection together with Moldova), “to step up institutional capacity and cooperation” (Province of Vienna together with Slovenia). In order to ensure the appropriate national involvement and to accompany the inner-Austrian implementation of the EUSDR in an ongoing manner, the Federal Chancellery in agreement with the FMEIA set up a cooperation platform composed of representatives for the federal ministries, the federal provinces and the social partners. Against this background, the Austrian Federal Chancellery commissioned a national report on the EUSDR that was prepared in cooperation with the relevant Austrian institutions. Entitled “Österreich und die EU-Strategie für den Donauraum – Erste Erfahrungen und Perspektiven” (Austria and the EU Strategy for the Danube Region – lessons learned so far and future prospects) this national report was published in September. The most important findings were summarised in a non-paper and with a view to the strategy’s further implementation were forwarded as a non-paper to the European Com- mission. Together with his Romanian counterpart Foreign Minister Titus Corlăţean, Vice Chancellor and Foreign Minister Michael Spindelegger invited the foreign ministers of the EUSDR participating states to take part in an informal meeting held on 22 October in St. Pölten. The meeting was held following the inter-governmental conference of the ARGE Donauländer (Danube Region Working Community) chaired by the Province of Lower Austria and Province Governor Erwin Pröll. A joint statement outlining concrete ideas for further work on the EUSDR was adopted at this meeting. The positive impressions won at the meeting in St. Pölten were confirmed by the First Annual Forum of the Danube Region Strategy held in Regens- burg (Germany) on 27 and 28 November, where positive stock was taken in a review of the work accomplished so far in building up the EUSDR.

3.4. information on Europe See Chapters 16.3 and 16.4.

68 Europe 4. challenges and Developments on All Five Continents 4.1. europe 4.1.1. austria’s Neighbourhood 4.1.1.1. South Tyrol South Tyrol continues to enjoy special status within Austrian foreign policy. Austria’s protective function for South Tyrol, enshrined in the Treaty of Paris of 5 September 1946, is exercised in a responsible manner by the Austrian Federal Government. It is expressed in an ongoing supportive interest in the autonomy, political and general developments in South Tyrol and in regular talks between those responsible at political level in Vienna, Innsbruck and Bolzano/Bozen. Developments have shown that autonomy may also be considered a common good shared by all three linguistic groups (German, Italian and Ladin) living in South Tyrol and as such is to be preserved and dynamically developed. Austria maintains very amicable, good neighbourly relations with Italy. At European level, the autonomy of South Tyrol serves as a model for the resolution of minority conflicts. The common membership of Austria and Italy in the European Union has given rise to a number of additional links that are also of benefit for South Tyrol. From the South Tyrolean point of view, the year was dominated by the savings and liberalisation activities launched by the Monti administration and their impact on South Tyrol. Bolzano/Bozen holds the view that the burden on South Tyrol is not only disproportionally high but that the Milan Agreement and the Autonomy Statute have repeatedly been violated as the relevant activities and measures have to be decided by mutual agreement. The Monti administration, however, had not sought such consensus. For autonomy policy reasons the SVP MPs – who are considered “non-aligned” in parliament in Rome and whose voting behaviour is driven by a case-by- case approach – had thus at every possible opportunity tabled a motion of non-confidence in the government. Moreover, the Monti austerity packages, like all preceding austerity packages, were also contested before the Consti- tutional Court. An experts hearing was held on 22 March in the South-Tyrol Subcommittee of the National Council on the question of the optional acquisition of the Austrian citizenship in addition to the Italian citizenship. The introduction of the simplified acquisition of Austrian citizenship for South Tyroleans – no settlement requirement, retention of Italian nationality – would be associated with a number of legal, constitutional, international law and practical difficulties and would also require a fundamental and systemic change in Austrian citizenship law. The question is thus still being examined in much detail in Austria. 69 Challenges and Developments on All Five Continents

A number of events were organised to celebrate the anniversaries “20 Years Dispute Settlement” and “40 Years Autonomy”. On 19 June, a ceremony was held in parliament in Vienna which was attended by Province Governor Luis Durnwalder, the entire South Tyrolean Province Government, numerous members of the Province Parliament and guests of honour. In his speech, Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Michael Spindelegger stressed that South Tyrol will remain a central concern and important element of Austrian foreign policy identity. The award of the Grand Order of Merit of the Province of South Tyrol to Federal President Heinz Fischer and President Giorgio Napolitano by Prov- ince Governor Luis Durnwalder in Merano/Meran on 5 September, marked the first meeting of an Austrian and Italian Head of State on South Tyrolean soil. In their acceptance speeches both presidents – as well as the Province Governor – emphasised the value of South Tyrolean autonomy. The Federal President at the same time called for the Milan Agreement and other consti- tutionally agreed special rights and autonomy provisions to be observed also in times of crisis. He stressed that Austria was assuming its protective function in a responsible manner and in dialogue with its partners and friends in Rome. President Napolitano highlighted the importance and the value of the resolution of the South Tyrol issue for Europe. He stated that the protection of minorities and regional autonomies were foundations of the Italian constitution as much as the indivisibility of the republic. The autonomy shall not be undermined or eroded. In view of the large number of South Tyrolean students at Austrian universities, the topic of academic mobility is of major practical importance for South Tyrol. In negotiations with Italy, Austria regularly strives to guarantee the recognition of the equivalence of educational qualifications. The agreement reached by the most recent exchange of notes on further 25 academic degrees and titles came into effect on 1 September. On 14 September, the Toponomastics Act, which had been overdue for several decades, was adopted with the votes of the governing SVP/PD coalition. The goal is to develop a place name register for the Province of South Tyrol. The district communities submit relevant proposals and decisions are taken by an advisory board that is composed of two German-speaking, two Ladin-speaking and two Italian- speaking experts. The Italian government contested the law before the constitutional court. Regarding fascist relics there was no movement with respect to the Mus- solini frieze on the building that houses the financial authority in Bolzano; but below the Victory Monument in Bolzano a documentation centre is being built which puts the monument into its historic context thus turning it into a memorial. On 25 October, the Italian Head of Government Mario Monti stated in an interview that South Tyrol was a national Italian issue and that there was no 70 Europe need for Vienna to exercise competences in this respect. In reaction to this, Austria clearly stressed vis-à-vis Italy and South Tyrol that the Austrian legal position, according to which the protective function is derived from the Paris Treaty and the subsequent legal practice and had not been rendered obsolete by the dispute settlement, remained unchanged. There is an active exchange of visits at all levels between Austria and South Tyrol. On 12 January, the Province Councillor for Education and Culture Sabina Kasslatter-Mur met Federal Minister Claudia Schmied and Province Governor Gabi Burgstaller in Salzburg. Province Governor Luis Durnwalder paid a visit to Federal President Heinz Fischer and Vice Chancellor and Fed- eral Minister Michael Spindelegger on 18 January. On 14 March, State Secre- tary Wolfgang Waldner met Province Governor Durnwalder for talks in Bol- zano/Bozen, where the latter also met the President of the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber Christoph Leitl on 23 March. On 30 March, Federal Min- ister Claudia Schmied met Province Councillor for Education and Culture Sabina Kasslatter-Mur in Bolzano/Bozen. The South Tyrol Subcommittee of the National Council visited Bolzano/Bozen on 26 and 27 April and held talks with Province Governor Luis Durnwalder, the President of the South Tyrolean Province Parliament Mauro Minniti and the group leaders in the South Tyrolean Province Parliament. Province Governor Luis Durnwalder attended the ceremony to celebrate “20 Years of Dispute Settlement” on 19 June and met for talks with Federal President Heinz Fischer, Federal Chan- cellor Werner Faymann and Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Michael Spindelegger. On 5 September, Federal President Heinz Fischer was awarded the Grand Order of Merit of the Province of South Tyrol in Merano/Meran. A delegation of the Federal Council headed by the President of the Federal Council Georg Keuschnigg paid a visit to Bolzano/Bozen on 28 September. On 28 and 29 September, Federal Minister Karlheinz Töchterle participated in a discussion event on science and innovation in Bolzano/Bozen. On 22 and 23 November, a delegation of the South Tyrolean Province Parliament paid a return visit to the South Tyrol Subcommittee of the National Council and the delegation of the Province Parliament headed by the President of the South Tyrolean Province Parliament Mauro Minniti also met the Presi- dent of the National Council Barbara Prammer and State Secretary Reinhold Lopatka. On 30 November, Province Governor Luis Durnwalder together with SVP chairman Richard Theiner paid another visit to Federal President Heinz Fischer and Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Michael Spindeleg- ger. SVP Secretary Philipp Achammer met State Secretary Sebastian Kurz on 18 December. Province Governor Luis Durnwalder was awarded the highest distinctions by a number of federal provinces. In Graz he accepted the award of the Province of Styria on 20 April, in Linz he was awarded the distinction of Upper Austria on 22 May and on 28 September he travelled to St. Pölten to accept the distinction awarded by Lower Austria. Province Governors Gün- ther Platter (Tyrol) and Luis Durnwalder also met several times, including in the context of their cooperation in Euregio. 71 Challenges and Developments on All Five Continents

In 2012, the budget of the Province of South Tyrol amounted to 5.124 billion euros. Economic growth stood at 0.0 % and the inflation rate at 3.7 %. In 2012, South Tyrol’s exports increased by 0.5 % while imports declined by -8.4 % and the unemployment rate reached 4.2 %.

4.1.1.2. austria’s Neighbours 4.1.1.2.1. Germany On 18 March, the Federal Assembly elected Joachim Gauck Federal Presi- dent by a broad majority. He took over as Head of State after the position had become vacant following Christian Wulff’s resignation on 17 February. Elections in Germany’s most populous state North Rhine-Westphalia confirmed the governing red-green coalition in office. In Saarland the outcome of the regional elections led to the formation of a CDU-SPD coalition and in Schleswig-Holstein the new regional government was formed by a coalition between SPD, the Greens and the Voters’ Association of Schleswig-Holstein. By the end of the year the most important decisions on the candidates for the German parliamentary elections 2013 had been taken and the relevant courses set. Multilateralism plays a particularly important role in German foreign policy. Germany was a Non-Permanent Member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the two-year period 2011/2012, where it pro-actively supported peace-building, disarmament, climate protection and development assistance. In implementing its foreign policy agenda, Germany attaches key importance to the EU and NATO. The country is pro-actively involved in numerous military and civil missions and operations abroad. As a leading economic power Germany is an important member of both the G8 and the G20. Not only do Austria and Germany enjoy excellent bilateral relations at political, economic and social levels but the large number of close good neighbourly links at all levels (federal, province and municipal) make their relationship quite unique. The gradual nuclear power phase out Germany has been implementing since 2011 has led to a considerable convergence of the German and Austrian positions on nuclear power. Germany is Austria’s most important economic partner. The close economic interconnection between both countries is reflected in high import and export rates and the development of direct investment. Germany is the most important investor in Austria and is at the same time an important target country for Austrian direct investments. Relations are particularly close in the field of tourism where Germany has always played a central role as most important country of origin. 72 Europe

4.1.1.2.2. Italy The year was dominated by the measures launched by the “technical government” to counter the impact of the economic and financial crisis. Headed by Prime Minister Mario Monti and with the substantial involvement of President Giorgio Napolitano, the technical government had started out in November 2011 to forge ahead with the consolidation of the budget and to contribute towards European crisis management. Equipped with parliamentary support from the “Partito della Libertà” (PdL), the “Partito Demo- cratico” (PD), the “Unione di Centro” (UDC) and the “Futuro e Libertà per l´Italia” (FLI), this government of experts quickly adopted a large number of measures. Yet reform approaches came under increasing pressure from the political parties. After a first phase of budget consolidation, the government in a second phase undertook efforts towards strengthening the country’s competitiveness and stimulating economic growth. Against the background of a recession that was aggravated by the negative impact the immediately effective austerity measures had on the country’s economy, the social situation deteriorated in the course of the year – despite an easing of the interest burden on Italian government bonds. At the beginning of December – a few weeks before the end of its legislative term – former Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi’s party (PdL) passed a vote of no confidence in the Monti government. Immediately after the adoption of the budget law, Prime Minister Monti thus submitted his resignation on 21 December. Following the dissolution of parliament by President Napolitano on 22 December elections were announced for 24/25 February 2013. Mario Monti, who had been appointed senator for life shortly before being assigned the office of Prime Minister, decided to continue his reform agenda and led the centrist coalition that was committed to the “Monti agenda” into the elections. Italy’s foreign policy has traditionally been guided by multilateralism and attaches key importance to cooperation within the EU to which Italy, as a founding member, is especially committed. Apart from supporting a further deepening in the fields of economic policy coordination, the Common For- eign and Security Policy (CFSP), immigration and asylum issues, Italy also advocates enlargement, especially towards the South European countries but also towards Turkey. In this context, Italy considers regional cooperation under the Central European Initiative (CEI) and the Adriatic-Ionian Initiative (AII) as an important vehicle in the pre-accession process for the Western Balkan countries. With respect to the AII, Italy supports the development of a strategy for the Adriatic and Ionian region at EU level by 2014. The country is also open towards the development of a strategy for the Alpine region. Further priorities on Italy’s foreign policy agenda are the entire Mediterra- nean region from North Africa to the Middle East and trans-Atlantic relations. Participation in peacekeeping missions also plays a highly relevant role in the context of Italy’s international identity and commitment. 73 Challenges and Developments on All Five Continents

A thematic priority that is shared by Italy and Austria is the protection of human rights. Like Austria, Italy was elected to the UN Human Rights Coun- cil (UNHRC) for the period 2011–2014 (see Chapter 9.6.1.). The excellent and intensive bilateral relations are characterised by a very active exchange of visits between Austria and Italy, intense economic relations and mutual tourism. Italy remains Austria’s second largest trading partner; trade relations with the Northern Italian regions are particularly close. The majority of the approximately 220 subsidiaries Austrian companies have in Italy are located in the north of the country. For Austrian holidaymak- ers, Italy is still the unrivalled number one holiday destination, which is reflected in about 1.9 million trips and 10.9 million overnight stays annually.

4.1.1.2.3. Liechtenstein On 1 July, Liechtenstein held a referendum on limiting the Princely House’s power of veto. More than two third of the voters (76.1 % with a turnout of 82.9 %) decided in favour of retaining the Prince’s current sanction right, which also enables him to veto decisions made in nationwide popular referenda in the future. The clear result of the referendum also re-confirmed the constitution of 2003. In May, the principality’s Head of Government Klaus Tschütscher announced that he intended to resign from government after the elections to the Landtag (parliament) in February 2013. The country remains focused on its foreign policy goals – i.e. guaranteeing Liechtenstein’s sovereignty and independence, the freest possible access to European and non-European markets and deepened relations with its neighbouring states – which it pursues both in its bilateral relations and as a member of the UN, the OSCE, the Council of Europe, the WTO, the EFTA and the EEA. Austria and Liechtenstein have traditionally enjoyed excellent and close relations that are maintained by a regular exchange of visits. Apart from a very active exchange at expert level, regular visits are paid at high and highest levels. Both countries cooperate in the fields of business, culture and education, in the social and judicial sectors and on foreign and security policy issues. Every day, almost 8,000 people commute from Austria to Liechten- stein und more than 2,000 Austrians live in the principality.

4.1.1.2.4. Switzerland Bilateral relations are characterised by a tightly-knit set of treaties, close cooperation in many areas and the traditionally frequent exchange of visits at all levels. Some 60,000 Austrians reside permanently in Switzerland and about 7,000 commute across the Austro-Swiss border. Switzerland is Aus- 74 Europe tria’s third largest trading partner and an important consumer of Austrian services. At foreign policy level, Switzerland primarily focused on its relations with the neighbouring states and the EU. In this context, financial and tax issues and – especially with regard to Germany and Italy – transport issues played a central role. Switzerland signed and ratified a tax agreement with Austria (Federal Law Gazette. III No. 192/2012) that provides for the collection of a flat rate settlement tax on assets invested in Switzerland and/or held in Swiss bank accounts and capital income generated in the form of a one-off lump sum payment for duties evaded in the past (depending on the asset status between 15 % and 38 %) and a tax of 25 % on future income. The agreement will ensure both banking secrecy for the customer and the state’s entitlement to tax income. Similar agreements were ratified with the United Kingdom and signed with Germany. The German Federal Council (Bundes- rat), however, rejected the agreement. Finance and tax issues also play a major role in the country’s relations with the USA. On 4 December, Switzerland and the USA initialled an information agreement (Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act - FATCA). As regards its relationship with the EU, Switzerland submitted proposals for solutions to institutional questions which are to serve as the basis for further discussions. In 2012, Switzerland celebrates the tenth anniversary of its United Nations membership, in which it actively supports issues related to Security Council reform, human rights policy and disarmament. Switzerland remained highly committed to peace policy and human security as issues of global importance; funding for development policy was increased.

4.1.1.2.5. Slovakia The parliamentary elections on 10 March were won by the Social Democrat SMER party. The government led by Prime Minister Robert Fico was sworn in on 4 April. It is the first time since Slovakia became an independent state in 1993 that the country has had a single party government. The EU, NATO, neighbouring countries and cooperation within the Viseg- rad Group are Slovakia’s foreign policy priorities. The regional focus is on the Western Balkans, EU neighbourhood countries, especially the Ukraine, and Russia. There was again a very active exchange of bilateral visits. On 12 Septem- ber, Vice Chancellor and Foreign Minister Michael Spindelegger and Foreign Minister Miroslav Lajčák jointly opened the new premises of the Austrian embassy in Bratislava. Economic relations have traditionally played a special role in the relationship between Austria and neighbouring Slovakia. After the Netherlands and 75 Challenges and Developments on All Five Continents ahead of Germany, Austria is the second largest foreign investor in Slova- kia. The country has also succeeded in raising its attractiveness as an export market and partner for the internationalisation of Austrian companies. Some 2,000 Austrian enterprises, including many banks and construction, building supplies and metal processing companies, are active in the country and employ some 40,000 Slovakian employees. In turn, a large number of Slova- kians works in the Austrian health care sector; about 25,000 caregivers – i.e. two third of all care assistants employed in Austria – come from Slovakia. The development of bilateral transport infrastructure, especially along the border section that runs along the river March, ranks especially high on the bilateral cooperation agenda. On 22 September, a pedestrians’ and cyclists’ bridge across the March was officially opened in the presence of Vice Chan- cellor and Foreign Minister Michael Spindelegger and Foreign Minister Miroslav Lajčák. By June 2013 another cycling path will connect Slovakia with Austria. A road bridge that will connect Angern and Záhorská Ves is currently in the planning stage. As regards the issues of nuclear energy, and especially the plans for building a new nuclear power plant in Jaslovské Bohunice as well as the resumption of building activities for the reactor units 3 and 4 in the Mochovce nuclear power plant, Austria again reiterated its legitimate safety concerns.

4.1.1.2.6. Slovenia Although the early elections on 4 December 2011 were won by the newly founded “Positive Slovenia” party headed by Ljubljana’s mayor Zoran Janković, a centre-right government led by Prime Minister Janez Janša was eventually established on 10 February following difficult government negotiations. The former Social Democratic Head of Government Borut Pahor was elected new President of State in a run-off election in December. A major event in 2012 was the 20th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Austria and Slovenia in January. The year was also marked by the European Capital of Culture 2012 Maribor, where Austria presented a multi-facetted programme with the mobile art pavilion “White Noise” as its visual highlight. On 9 October – during the “Aus- tria month” – Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Michael Spindelegger visited Maribor and met Foreign Minister Karl Viktor Erjavec for consultations. The historic compromise achieved in 2011 concerning the question of bilin- gual topographical signs was recognised by Slovenia and strengthened the bilateral basis of trust. The recognition of the German-speaking ethnic group as a minority with collective rights in Slovenia, as requested by Austria, was regularly addressed in bilateral contacts. A broad convergence of interests in South East Europe means both Austria and Slovenia are supporters of an EU accession perspective for the West- 76 Europe ern Balkan countries. New and promising initiatives for deeper cooperation were also launched in other areas including, for instance, the quadrilateral dialogue on consular and visa issues and on human rights held jointly with Switzerland and Liechtenstein. Economic relations play a highly significant role as Austria is still the largest foreign investor in Slovenia with a share of 49 %. In turn, Slovenia with a per capita import of 1,100 euro is one of Austrian’s most important export partners.

4.1.1.2.7. Czech Republic The Czech Republic is still Austria’s most important trading and economic partner in Central and Eastern Europe. The relatively even balance of trade stands at a very high level (almost five billion euros each) and the considerable Austrian investment in the Czech Republic (more than ten billion euros) go to show how closely the two economies are interlinked. Against this background, the development of cross-border transport infrastructure remains all the more important. The state visit President Václav Klaus paid to Austria on 13 and 15 Novem- ber marked the highlight of the bilateral exchange of visits. At regional authority level, relations have been strengthened by the increasing intensity of cross-border cooperation between the Czech regions and the federal provinces of Lower Austria, Upper Austria and Vienna – for example within the three existing European Regions. The two countries’ interior ministries also boast a successful cooperation track record, examples are the police cooperation centre in Drasenhofen and “mixed patrols”. With regard to the envisaged expansion of the Temelin NPP by two additional reactor units, Austria focused on its participation in the cross-border environmental impact assessment (EIA) procedure. The public hearing under the EIA procedure was held in Budovice in June and public information events directed at the affected population were held in Austria and Germany. As a next step, Austrian efforts will focus on representing legitimate and legally founded Austrian interests in the subsequent approval procedure. In this context, the focus is on the safety needs and requirements of Austrian citizens who are particularly affected. This also holds especially true for the planning of any permanent repositories in border areas. The Permanent Conference of Austrian and Czech Historians that was set up in 2009 continued its in-depth analysis of the two countries’ common history – especially in relation to contemporary issues. This also includes the project of a common history book that aims to promote coming to terms with some of the more sensitive issues (such as questions related to the Nazi occupation and the expulsion of ethnic Germans). 77 Challenges and Developments on All Five Continents

4.1.1.2.8. Hungary As regards the controversial legislative measures taken by the Hungarian government (such as the media act, the new fundamental law, the central bank act), which also proved a strain on the country’s external relations, the legal amendments introduced in response to international criticism temporarily eased the situation. The Hungarian Forint stabilised and the budget deficit was reduced to a level below three per cent. The relations between Austria and Hungary are – despite occasional differences of opinion and contrary to some sensationalized media reporting – good and intensive. Regular high-level political contacts underline the quality of relations. Thus on 1 June, the new Hungarian President János Áder paid his first official foreign visit to Austria where he was received by Fed- eral President Heinz Fischer, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán visited Austria on 12 June. A major role is played by the bilateral economic relations that have grown enormously over the last 20 years. With some eight billion euros, which cor- responds to 12 % of total foreign investments, Austria is the third largest investor in Hungary. Despite the economic crisis bilateral trade recovered. Due to a slight decline in Austrian exports and growth in imports from Hun- gary the balance of trade has in the meantime practically evened out. Against the background of these close economic links, a predictable and safe investment climate is especially important for the presence of Austrian companies in Hungary, be it in manufacturing, in trade, in the services sector or in agriculture, and therefore remains a recurrent topic in bilateral political contacts. The close relationship with Hungary is further supported by numerous forms of very concrete cooperation at expert level. The Regional Coordination Forum Austria-Hungary set up in 2005 has, for instance, proved a very use- ful tool for dealing with topics that are of direct regional relevance. Further improvements were also made to cross-border infrastructure. Since 2007 the project of a thermal residual waste treatment plant in Heili- genkreuz, Burgenland, has been opposed also by Hungarian environmental- ists. Following the revocation of the permit and also because of the modified economic environment, the project operator stated in November that this project would no longer be pursued. After the controversy in connection with the pollution of the river Raab had been ended, this meant another bilateral problem with potential for conflict had thus been successfully resolved.

4.1.1.3. South East Europe / Western Balkan Countries 4.1.1.3.1. Albania The relaxation of the domestic policy situation that had started to take effect in late autumn 2011 continued until autumn 2012. The otherwise antago- 78 Europe nistic camps in the governing coalition led by the Democratic Party and the opposition grouped around the Socialist Party were able to agree on a common approach regarding appointments to top positions in government institutions and the adoption of important reforms. Of key relevance in this context were the adoption of an electoral law reform in July and the partial lifting of immunity for public dignitaries in September. No consensus was, however, achieved on the election of a president of state. Consequently, the Minister of the Interior Bujar Nishani was elected by simple majority in the fourth round on 11 June and sworn in on 24 July. Like- wise, the new prosecutor-general was appointed in December with the votes of the governing parties only, as the opposition had been opposed not to the candidate but to the election conditions. The European Commission’s Progress Report for Albania, which had been eagerly anticipated, was published on 10 October. The Report confirmed that Albania had made progress in meeting the twelve key priorities for EU integration. The Commission thus issued a conditional recommendation for granting candidate status. Prerequisites for a positive recommendation were the adoption of the amendments to the law on the Supreme Court, on civil service legislation and the revision of the parliamentary rules of procedure. With respect to the twelve key priorities, the country then has to fully implement all reforms before accession negotiations can be opened. By the end of the year, the two parties had, however, not succeeded in agreeing on the adoption of the three above-mentioned reforms, which eventually meant that Albania was not granted EU candidate status. In November, Austria received particular attention during the celebrations marking the 100th anniversary of Albania’s declaration of independence. Austria had not only loaned the Skanderbeg insignia for the occasion, but Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Michael Spindelegger had also paid two visits to the country in this context.

4.1.1.3.2. Bosnia and Herzegovina Although Euro-Atlantic integration continues to be the main foreign policy priority, the reform dynamics, which were initiated in spring, could not be sustained. By adopting legislation on a national census and on state aid Bos- nia and Herzegovina had actually met two of the three conditions for the entry into force of the Stabilisation and Association Agreement with the EU (SAA). Yet government reshuffles initiated as of the end of May at local, federal and government level led to renewed stagnation. Even moves by the EU such as the high-level dialogue on the accession process held with Bosnia and Herzegovina at the end of June were for the time being not able to add any momentum to the stagnated process. By the end of the year, the provisions for filing an EU membership application as laid down in the roadmap (implementation of the Sejdić/Finci ruling passed by the European Court of 79 Challenges and Developments on All Five Continents

Human Rights, agreement on an efficient EU coordination mechanism) had also not been fulfilled. In the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the local elections of 7 October confirmed the local political power situation, while they led to major shifts in the Republika Srpska. In Srebrenica, the political situation was exacer- bated due to the issue of local voting rights for displaced persons who had not returned to their hometowns. In Mostar, local elections could not be held as the election law provisions and the Mostar city statute that had been abrogated by the Constitutional Court were not amended in time. The Office of the High Representative (OHR) continued its difficult mediation efforts towards reaching a negotiated solution among the political powers in Mostar. For post-war society in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the year 2012 was an important year of commemoration that marked the 20th anniversary of inter alia the foundation of the Republika Srpska, the independence of Bosnia and Herzegovina, UN membership, the outbreak of the war and the start of the siege. The prerequisites that would enable a common culture of commemoration have, however, not yet been established. The sustained continuation of a political climate characterised by political stagnation and increasingly nationalist – and to some extent even secession- ist – rhetoric and policies undermining the general government and the state as a whole impeded important reform projects that are pivotal to improving the fragile economic and social situation in the country, further rapprochement to the EU and NATO and the closure of the Office of the High Represen- tative (OHR). The only exemption was the status of the district of Brčko. The Steering Board of the Peace Implementation Council decided to close the OHR office in Brčko and to suspend the powers of the international super- visor as of 31 August. Since 2009, the position of High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina (HR) has been held by the Austrian Valentin Inzko. Ambassador Inzko briefed the UNSC on 15 May and 13 November on the situation in the country. In September, the EU military operation for the stabilisation of Bosnia and Herzegovina EUFOR Althea was reduced from 1,200 to 600 soldiers. With more than 300 personnel, Austria is still the largest provider of troops to the mission that has been under Austrian command since the end of 2009. In October, the EU confirmed its readiness to continue EUFOR Althea with an exclusive mandate. Adopting Resolution 2074 (2012) on 14 November, the UNSC thus extended this mandate by another year with the mission’s focus being on capacity building and training. At the beginning of December, Major General Dieter Heidecker took over from Major General Robert Brieger as Commander of EUFOR Althea. The EU Police Mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina (EUPM) launched at the beginning of 2003 was closed as of 30 June. Some of the mission’s tasks were taken over by a special team in the office of the EU Special Representative 80 Europe

(EUSR) and Head of the EU Delegation Peter Sørensen, while others were assumed by a police cooperation led by Austria in the context of the Instru- ment for EU Pre-Accession Assistance. Austria’s position as first investor and most important trading partner contributes towards promoting the high economic policy profile Austria enjoys in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

4.1.1.3.3. Kosovo Kosovo, which has been independent since 2008, celebrated the closure of the International Civilian Office (ICO) on 10 September, and thus, the end of international supervision as laid down in the Ahtisaari Plan. As its national sovereignty has, however, not been recognised by all states (including five EU Member States), Kosovo continues to work towards achieving international recognition. Kosovo’s most important foreign policy goal is gradual rapprochement to the EU by engaging in contractual relationships and visa liberalisation with the EU-Schengen area. Concrete steps towards achieving this goal were taken in June with the adoption of the “roadmap” towards a visa-free regime and in October with the feasibility study on a Stabilisation and Association Agree- ment (SAA). With a view to normalising the relations between Serbia – which does not recognise the independence of its former province – and Kosovo, a technical dialogue mediated by the EU has been taking place between Belgrade and Pristina since 8 March 2011. In some areas, such as freedom to travel, civil register and the recognition of diplomas, this technical dialogue has already produced joint solutions. Mediated by EU HR Catherine Ashton, the dialogue has continued since 7 November at political level between Serbia’s Prime Minister Ivica Dačić and Kosovo’s Prime Minister Hashim Thaçi. On 4 December, agreement was reached on implementing an Integrated Border Management system. In the long term, it is necessary that a solution is found for the largely Serb- inhabited North Kosovo. The sovereignty of the Kosovar central government is poorly accepted there and undermined by parallel structures. After the end of the international supervision, international organisations are still strongly present in Kosovo and support the young state in the fields of institution building, good governance, the rule of law and economic development. The EU is represented by the former Slovenian foreign minister and EU Special Representative Samuel Žbogar who is also Head of the EU Office. The European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX) assists the Kosovar institutions in building up a functioning legal, police, customs and judicial system. It is the largest CFSP mission to date. Austria seconded up to 32 experts, particularly from the fields of police affairs, justice and human rights, and one diplomat as head of staff to EULEX Kosovo. 81 Challenges and Developments on All Five Continents

The UN Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) set up in line with UNSC resolution 1244 (1999) reduced its presence by handing over competences to Kosovar institutions. However, in the context of the non-recognition of Kosovo it still continues to play a role in certain international fora and is mainly active in North Kosovo. From October 2008 to October 2012, the OSCE mission was headed by the Austrian Werner Almhofer, who was succeeded by the French diplomat Jean-Claude Schlumberger. It is the largest OSCE mission with some 600 staff and focuses on democratic institution building, human rights and local self- administration. The military mission KFOR, which was also established by UNSC resolution 1244 (1999), is an important factor in guaranteeing safety, security and stability. By providing some 600 troops, Austria is the largest non-NATO contributor to KFOR. In February, May, August and November, the UNSC held public debates with the participation of Serbia and Kosovo that dealt with the situation in the country based on the quarterly UNMIK reporting. Austria maintains excellent bilateral relations with Kosovo. The quality of relations is also reflected in the high frequency of bilateral visits, the strong Austrian presence in Kosovo and the constant expansion of Austrian trade relations. Development cooperation plays an essential role in the relations between both countries.

4.1.1.3.4. Croatia Many Croatians expected a significant recovery from the accession to office of the centre-left governing coalition in December 2011. But in spite of the government’s willingness to reform, the economic crisis continues to have Croatia firmly in its grip. The hoped-for reversal of the negative trend (stagnating economy, decline in investments, rising unemployment figures and debt) has not yet materialised. Against this background, surveys showed that popular support for the large governing parties, the Social Democratic Party of Croatia (SDP) and the Croatian People’s Party – Liberal Democrats (HNS), fell clearly behind election results. Yet the largest opposition party too, the right-wing conservative Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ), is also still in the consolidation phase under its new party chairman Tomislav Karamarko. The government’s major success so far was the Croatian people’s clear “yes” in the referendum on EU accession on 22 January. Since then, the ratification of the accession treaty by all EU Member States is the country’s top political priority. As regards the pre-accession monitoring process, Croatia continued to fulfil all political criteria; further progress was determined in the adoption and application of the EU acquis. In some areas, however, the monitoring report identified the need for additional efforts. 82 Europe

The government sees itself as an advocate of EU enlargement in the immediate neighbourhood and is clearly committed to playing a constructive role in the region. Bilateral relations between Austria and Croatia, which have traditionally been very close, are excellent and characterised by an active exchange of visits at all levels. Austria is the largest foreign investor and a strong advocate of Croatia’s accession to the EU.

4.1.1.3.5. Macedonia As has been the case in the last three years, the Commission recommended opening accession negotiations with Macedonia to the Council (candidate status since 2005). The unanimity required for such a decision was, however, again thwarted by the objection of Greece, which makes an agreement on the Greek-Macedonian name dispute a prerequisite. Subsequently, in spring 2013, the General Affairs Council decided to examine, based on a Commis- sion report, to what extent Macedonia has taken measures that are conducive to promoting good neighbourly relations and the achievement of a negotiated solution on the name issue that is acceptable to all parties under the auspices of the UN. If the assessment’s outcome is positive then the Commission shall without delay be mandated to propose a framework for accession negotiations and to open the EU acquis screening process. Austria strongly supported opening negotiations and strove to find a critical mass of supporters within the EU. In 2012, Austria was the largest foreign investor in the country.

4.1.1.3.6. Montenegro The opening of EU accession negotiations on 29 June and the positive assessment of Montenegro’s preparations for possible future membership given at the NATO summit in Chicago on 21 May marked further important steps towards Euro-Atlantic integration. The most substantial domestic policy event was the parliamentary elections held on 14 October, which resulted in another electoral victory for the governing coalition, in power since the country’s independence, and the return of Milo Djukanović as Head of Gov- ernment. The country’s economy managed another crisis year with a growth rate of 0.6 % although substantial structural problems continue to persist. The major challenges in the EU accession process are still the focal areas of rule of law, independent judiciary and human rights as well as strengthening of effective administrative capacities. Neighbourhood and regional policies as well as active multilateralism are the cornerstones of Montenegrin foreign policy. Further progress in fulfilling the NATO Membership Action Plan and committed participation mainly in the 83 Challenges and Developments on All Five Continents

Afghanistan mission have made Montenegro the currently most successful candidate for NATO membership. After years of ambivalent developments, inter alia because of diverging attitudes towards Kosovo, relations with Ser- bia were for the first time free of friction. The friendly relations with Croa- tia, which shares its own integration experience with Montenegro and with which arbitration proceedings on the issue of the maritime border at the Prev- laka peninsula had been agreed, were further expanded. Because of the as yet unresolved issue of the local Montenegrin community, the good relationship with Kosovo has, however, not continued to evolve at institutional level. Relations between Austria and Montenegro are characterised by close collaboration on a variety of levels. Austria supports the Montenegrin accession process with a number of bilateral projects and mainly in the context of EU twinning projects where Montenegro plays a leading role. Austrian companies are among the ten largest investors. Due to the economic crisis and the still ambivalent investment climate, flows of trade and direct investments registered a decline.

4.1.1.3.7. Serbia The parliamentary, provincial and municipal elections on 6 May and the run-off for the presidency on 20 May brought about a profound political change. Following the surprise victory of the former Deputy Chairman of the Radical Party and founder of the national-conservative Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) Tomislav Nikolić over the incumbent Boris Tadić in the presidential elections, the previous opposition party SNS succeeded in forming a new government coalition. The most important priorities defined by the new government include stimulating the economy and fighting corruption. Measures taken to corroborate this approach included legal proceedings against former government members and a well-known businessman, which attracted considerable media coverage. The new government left no doubt about the continuation of Serbia’s EU integration. Both President Tomislav Nikolić, Prime Minister Ivica Dačić and Deputy Prime Minister Aleksandar Vučić described EU integration – while maintaining close partnerships with other countries and especially Russia – as their most important foreign policy goal. On 1 March – at the time still under the previous government – Serbia was granted EU candidate status. A move, which had been advocated by Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Michael Spindelegger and his French and Italian counterparts in a joint letter written to the Council members. By granting candidate status to Serbia, the EU not only honoured the reform course the country had steered so far, but most of all the successful cooperation with the International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia (ICTY) and Serbia’s willingness to engage in dialogue with Pristina. 84 Europe

After the new government had implemented important earlier results of the dialogue (including the participation of Kosovo in regional fora and preparations for integrated border management) and had resumed the dialogue on 18 October with Prime Minister Ivica Dačić as Head of Delegation, the EU Council on 11 December welcomed the progress Serbia had made in the reform process and in normalising its relations with Kosovo. It thus held out to Serbia the prospect of re-evaluating the progress made in the dialogue process and the preparation for accession negotiations in the first half year of 2013 without, however, giving a date for the opening of accession negotiations. Austria was again the largest foreign investor in 2012.

4.1.2. turkey Since 2002, the moderate Islamic Justice and Development Party (AKP) led by Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has been governing the country with an absolute majority. The central domestic policy topics are the Kurd- ish issue, the position of the military in the state’s organisational structure and in politics, the rule of law and human rights issues, especially in the areas of freedom of religion and freedom of the press. The year was marked by special efforts undertaken in the fields of constitutional reform, judicial reform and intensified efforts towards resolving the Kurdish issue. In spite of individual progress on issues relating to the restitution of property to religious minorities and the re-opening of churches and efforts towards an interreligious dialogue there remains some need for reform. Turkey’s geo-strategic position at the interface between the Near and Middle East, Central Asia and Europe requires an increasingly multipolar focus of its foreign policy and enhanced commitment within the multi-lateral framework. The special relations between Turkey and the states of the Caucasus and Central Asia are based on linguistic and cultural communalities. Turkey assumes a bridging function between the region’s energy reserves and the energy markets in Europe and/or their supply security. Apart from the EU rapprochement process (1963 Association Agreement, 1995 customs union, 1999 accession candidate status), Turkey, which has been a member of the Council of Europe since 1949 and of NATO since 1952, is closely integrated in European and/or Euro-Atlantic structures. The transformations in the Arab region have led to intensified political and economic relations with some of the countries in the region while tensions in relations with the Iraqi central government and Israel continued. The situation in Syria has been a central challenge for Turkey, also because of the associated influx of refugees. The Balkans have become a zone of historic-cultural, economic but also political commitment for Turkey. It participates with 800 military staff and 85 Challenges and Developments on All Five Continents civilian personnel in the peace missions in Bosnia and Herzegovina and in Kosovo and has by way of tripartite meetings striven to promote reconciliation among the former conflicting parties. Turkey has for ten years now registered a steep economic upswing. In 2010 and 2011 it generated the highest economic growth in Europe with 8.9 % and approx. 7.5 % respectively. As the sixteenth largest national economy, Tur- key has been a member of the G20, which it will chair in 2015. Through the customs union Turkey has close economic ties with Europe. With almost 40 % in terms of trade volume and 80 % of direct investments, the EU is by far the country’s largest economic partner, although trade relations with the Middle East and North Africa have become increasingly important. With a coordinated opening of new embassies, foreign schools and Turkish Airlines routes, Turkey aims to tap into new markets in Africa, Asia and Latin America. Economic relations between Austria and Turkey have seen a positive development over the last few years. Austrian exports have doubled since 2002, reaching almost 1 billion euros in 2012. Over the last nine consecutive years, Austria has ranked fourth among the largest investors, with the energy sector assuming an exceptionally important role.

4.1.3. cyprus By adopting resolution 2058 (2012) on 19 June, the UNSC extended the mandate of the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) for another year after it had held non-public sessions with the troop contributing states including Austria. The UNSC resolution on the extension of the mandate for the first half year of 2013 is to be voted on in January 2013. The situation in the buffer zone remained calm and stable. The UNSG’s efforts towards adding new momentum to the talks on Cyprus remained unsuccessful. After the last meeting had been chaired by the UNSG’s Special Adviser Downer on 9 January, the UNSG (United Nations Secretary-General) had to note in April that the convention of the originally planned multilateral conference on Cyprus did not seem justified for the time being due to lack of progress in the ongoing negotiations.

4.1.4. russia The most important domestic policy development was the return of Vladimir Putin as President and hand in hand with that the appointment of the then President Dmitry Medvedev as new Prime Minister. In the elections held on 4 March, Putin very clearly defeated his four challengers (the chairman of the Communist Party Gennady Zyuganov, oligarch Mikhail Prokhorov, LDPR leader Vladimir Zhirinovsky and the candidate of Fair Russia Sergey 86 Europe

Mironov) in the very first round. At a turnout of 65.3 %, the share of votes in favour of Putin was distinctly below the national average in Moscow and St. Petersburg. Putin was inaugurated on 9 May. As proposed by Putin, parliament elected the previous President Dmitry Medvedev new Prime Minister the next day. Thus the duumvirate, in effect since Medvedev had taken office as President of the Russian Federation on 7 May 2008 and the appointment of Putin as Head of Government immediately afterwards, was continued with reversed roles. In parallel, the protest movement that had flared up after the parliamentary elections in December 2011 lost a lot of momentum, which is largely attributed to the fragmentation of the opposition and the lack of an appropriate leadership figure. The opposition movement was additionally weakened by the adoption of stricter legislation (on the right to assembly, the registration requirements for NGOs, the broader definition of “treason”, etc.) and also by the government’s targeted crackdown on individual figures such as the well- known investigative blogger Alexey Navalny or the coordinator of the Left Front Sergei Udaltsov. On the foreign policy stage, Russia focused on several areas and inter alia continued its efforts towards strengthening integration in the post-soviet area. As of 1 January, the customs union set up between Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan changed into a common economic area. By enhancing coordination of the participating states’ economic policies and unifying visa and migration provisions a “Eurasian Economic Union”, which may also be joined by other states, is to be created by 2015. The fact that a new government took over in Georgia would in principle open up opportunities to improve the shattered relations between Georgia and Russia. The Russian economy recorded fairly stable developments throughout the entire year. Following ratification by parliament in mid-July, Russia became the 156th member of the WTO in August. In his annual address to the State Duma, President-designate Putin announced on 11 April that Moscow would as a next step undertake intensive efforts towards joining the OECD. By holding the APEC summit in Vladivostok at the beginning of September, Russia intended to deliberately set political and economic signals with regard to the Asian-Pacific region. The effective start of construction works on the South Stream natural gas pipeline in December enables Russia to clearly strengthen its position as a significant energy supplier for (Western) Europe. The first gas will be pumped through the pipeline in December 2015. Full capacity (63 billion cubic metres per year) is to be achieved in 2018. Austro-Russian relations continued to develop positively. This is also reflected in the regular exchange of visits at political level and in the ongoing dynamic development of bilateral trade. 87 Challenges and Developments on All Five Continents 4.1.5. eastern European States

4.1.5.1. ukraine The parliamentary elections held on 28 October in line with the new electoral law resulted in the victory of the governing Party of Regions (PoR) led by President Victor Yanukovych, who in the government reshuffle of 24 December succeeded in consolidating his direct influence on the government by appointing confidants into central positions. In its final report on the Ukrainian parliamentary elections, theinternational OSCE/ODIHR election observation mission concluded that there had been a lack of level playing field between the campaigning groups that had stood for election and recommended measures aimed at improving the transparency of the election process and preventing abuse of state funds for campaigning purposes. Former Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko, who was sentenced to seven years of imprisonment for having allegedly transgressed her powers when signing a contract on Russian gas imports in January 2009, has since May served her imprisonment sentence in a hospital in Kharkiv where she has undergone treatment supervised by physicians from the Berlin Charité hospital. Further legal proceedings were instigated against Yulia Tymoshenko, the court hearings were, however, repeatedly postponed because of the accused’s temporary inability to stand trial. Relations between the Ukraine and the EU are based on a Partnership and Association Agreement (PCA) established in 1998, the EU-Ukraine Action Plan adopted in February 2005 in the context of the EU Neighbourhood Pol- icy (ENP) and membership in the European Energy Community. Negotia- tions on an Association Agreement that includes a comprehensive free trade agreement between the EU and the Ukraine were already completed at the end of 2011. The agreement was initialled in March and is to be signed as soon as possible provided that the Ukraine can prove sufficient progress in the fields of human rights and in implementing further steps towards reform. Relations with Russia were dominated by the Ukraine’s – unsuccessful – efforts towards renegotiating the gas supply contract. In spite of the discount agreed in April 2010 in Kharkiv (in exchange for extending the lease for the deployment of the Russian Black Sea Fleet until 2042), the gas prices charged by Russia exceed Western European levels. Russia increased pressure on the Ukraine to join the customs union with Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan and to enable Gazprom to participate in the Ukrainian gas transit system. Bilateral relations are characterised by a very significant presence of Aus- trian business in the Ukraine. Austria is one of the country’s most important investors. 88 Europe

4.1.5.2. Moldova The election of Nicolae Timofti as President of State in parliament on 16 March marked the end of almost three years of domestic policy crisis in Moldova and enabled the country to stabilise. Moldova is also striving to relaunch the dialogue on the Transnistria issue. Moldova is one of the poorest countries in Europe. In spite of the good economic growth rates it registered in 2011 and the reforms launched in line with the Economic Recovery and Stabilisation Programme 2009–2011, almost 30 % of the country’s rural population lives below the poverty line and many Moldovans continue to emigrate. The governing coalition “Alliance for European Integration” (AEI) led by Prime Minister Vlad Filat and composed of three parties since 30 December 2010 has maintained Moldova’s general foreign policy focus on the EU. The AEI continued to pursue a policy of “maximum approximation to the EU”. Negotiations were also held on an Association Agreement (including a free trade agreement) and on visa liberalisation. The EU strives to assist the country in implementing reforms. Over the last few years it has thus massively expanded assistance provided under the Euro- pean Neighbourhood Policy Instrument (ENPI). Of the ENPI funds increased in the context of the “Eastern Partnership”, Moldova received 209.7 million euros in the 2007–2010 funding period and 273 million euros are earmarked for the period 2011–2013. After a break of almost six years, the first official 5+2 meeting on the Trans- nistria issue was held in Vilnius from 30 November to 1 December 2011. The “5+2 format” (Moldova and Transnistria as parties, Russia, the Ukraine and the OSCE as facilitators as well as the EU and the USA as observers) is the internationally recognised body for resolving the Transnistria conflict. Ongoing differences between the parties had until then been an obstacle to formal meetings which meant it was only possible to hold informal meetings. Further formal 5+2 talks held in Vienna on 17 and 18 April 2012 and in Dublin from 28 to 30 November enabled progress in reaching agreement on the principles and procedures as well as the agenda for further meetings. The OSCE, the UN and the EU are now striving to realise confidence building measures between both parties. The EU Border Assistance Mission to Moldova and Ukraine (EUBAM) established on 30 November 2005 continued its successful work. The mission’s current mandate was extended until 30 November 2015. Since 2004, Moldova has been one of the priority countries for Austrian Development Cooperation (ADC, Österreichische Entwicklungszusammen- arbeit, OEZA). The priorities of the current country strategy for Moldova 2010–2015 are water, vocational education and governance. 89 Challenges and Developments on All Five Continents

4.1.5.3. Belarus Parliamentary elections were held in Belarus on 23 September. In its final report, the international OSCE/ODIHR Election Observation Mission noted numerous violations against the principles of democratic and fair elections. Once again, not a single opposition candidate succeeded in winning a seat in parliament. Belarus’ relationship with the West and the EU remained tense throughout the year. After the EU External Relations Council had in February extended the existing sanctions by imposing a ban on travelling to the EU on 21 Belar- usian judges and law enforcement officers who were considered responsible for arresting and sentencing opponents of the regime, Belarus advised the Head of the EU Delegation and the Polish Ambassador to return for consultations to Brussels and Warsaw respectively. Demonstrating solidarity with their colleagues all 14 ambassadors from EU Member States to Belarus thus left the country and only returned to Minsk at the end of April. In August, an action by human rights activists, who with the support of a Swedish PR agency dropped several hundred teddy bears carrying pro-democratic slogans from an airplane over Belarusian territory, triggered the escalation of conflict between Sweden and Belarus regarding the accreditation of the Swedish ambassador to Minsk. The “Dialogue for Modernisation”, a discussion forum between the EU and Belarusian civil society was launched at the end of March. The travel restrictions and asset freezes imposed against President Lukash- enko and certain officials and/or individuals who belong to the regime and/ or are close to it in response to ongoing repression of members of the opposition and peaceful demonstrators in the wake of the presidential elections of December 2010 were extended to 243 individuals. On 15 October, the EU foreign ministers adopted an extension of the sanctions until 31 October 2013. After a massive foreign trade deficit and the associated depletion of currency reserves had triggered an economic crisis last year with an inflation rate of more than 100 per cent, the economic situation largely stabilised in 2012. Belarus nevertheless continues to be heavily dependent on foreign loans, especially from the Eurasian Economic Community (EurAsEc), Russia and China, as well as on low-priced energy supplies from Russia.

4.1.6. Southern Caucasus 4.1.6.1. armenia The Parliamentary elections on 6 June strengthened the Republican Party led by President Serzh Sargsyan. The Safarov affair strained the relationship with Azerbaijan (see Chapter 4.1.6.2). It not only triggered numerous Arme- nian protests and led to the suspension of the country’s diplomatic relations 90 Europe but also halted progress in the Minsk Process set up to resolve the Nagorno- Karabakh issue. Russia remains a close ally of Armenia. The two countries also concluded a military mutual assistance agreement mainly with a view to the unresolved Nagorno-Karabakh issue. Russia also maintains a military basis in Armenia and plays an important role as an investor. Major progress was made in the talks on an Association Agreement with the EU. The friendly bilateral relations between Austria and Armenia were further fostered by the visit Federal President Fischer had paid as first Austrian Head of State to Armenia from 25 to 27 June. In the context of the Austrian focus on the Southern Caucasus, the country became a new priority country for Austrian Development Cooperation (ADC). Building on the agreement on bilateral development assistance signed during the visit in June, a special country strategy was put together for Armenia and presented in December. Celebrating the 500th anniversary of the printing of the first Armenian book, Yerevan was made UNESCO World Book Capital 2012, while in Vienna the 200th anniversary of the Mekhitarist Order was celebrated. The Austria Library in Yerevan was named after the Austrian writer Franz Werfel. Since October the first-ever Austrian lecturer has been active at the State Univer- sity of Brjusov.

4.1.6.2. azerbaijan The OSCE’s Minsk Group continued its mediation efforts in the Nagorno- Karabakh conflict. Relations with Armenia are, however, strained by the Safarov case (the Azerbaijan President granted amnesty to an Azerbaijan officer following the latter’s transfer from Hungary where he was serving a prison sentence for having killed an Armenian officer) and the announced opening of an international airport in Nagorno-Karabakh. The Gabala radar station operated by the Russian military on Azerbaijani territory was closed after negotiations on a contract extension failed. Azerbaijan benefits from the enormous revenue generated by its oil and natural gas industries, which also form the country’s economic basis. As soon as the planned natural gas pipelines to Europe have been built, Azerbaijan will become one of the EU’s most important natural gas suppliers. Azerbai- jan and Turkey decided to build the Trans-Anatolian gas pipeline (TANAP) to transport Caspian gas to and through Turkey. It will either be connected to the Nabucco-West pipeline, to be built from the West-Turkish border to Baumgarten, or to the TAP pipeline that will lead to the South Italian coast. The decision on which of these two projects will be realised is expected for June 2013. 91 Challenges and Developments on All Five Continents

Bilateral relations have seen a positive development. Azerbaijan is Austria’s most important trading partner in the Southern Caucasus.

4.1.6.3. georgia The parliamentary elections held in October brought an unexpected victory for the opposition alliance “Georgian Dream” led by the billionaire Bid- sina Ivanishvili. This and the fact that serious irregularities in the country’s prisons had been revealed just before the elections and widely reported on by the opposition media further aggravated the polarisation of the political landscape. Since the new government took office on 25 October, a political cohabitation has dominated the situation in Georgia. This cohabitation was, however, very soon put to the test when President Mikhail Saakashvili tried to prevent the release of “political prisoners” which had been approved by the government. In some instances, international observers also expressed their concern over the legal prosecution of some of the former government’s leading figures including the former interior minister Bacho Achalaia and the former Chief of Joint Staff Giorgi Kalandadze. As declared by President Bidsina Ivanishvili, the country’s foreign policy goals are continued rapprochement with the EU and NATO as well as improvement of relations with Russia. As Russia recognises the two separatist provinces Abkhazia and South Ossetia under international law, the special envoy for relations with Russia and former Georgian ambassador to Russia Zurab Abashidze will for the time being focus primarily on improving economic-humanitarian relations. The Geneva talks set up to resolve the issue of the two separatist provinces were continued but failed to produce results. In the aftermath of the armed conflict between Georgia and Russia in August 2008 and the subsequent closure of both the OSCE’s and the UN’s presence in Tbilisi, Abkhazia and South Ossetia, the EU sent a monitoring mission (EUMM Georgia) to Georgia. The mission’s mandate covers monitoring the withdrawal of the Russian troops and the return of the persons displaced by the conflict as well as the respect of human rights. Austria contributes three officers of the Federal Ministry of the Interior and five members of the Federal Army to the total of around 200 observers involved in this mission. Talks on concluding an Association Agreement with the EU were successfully continued. Bilateral relations with Georgia are problem-free. Georgia became a priority country for Austrian Development Cooperation (ADC) and a special country strategy was presented. The development expert deployed in Tbilisi since November 2011 was also entrusted with preparations for the establishment of an ADA coordination office in 2013.

92 Africa and the African Union 4.2. africa and the African Union 4.2.1. general Developments In 2012, the African continent again saw large-scale political changes. The massive changes in the Arab world, which started in Tunisia in 2010, had an almost simultaneous impact in Egypt and Libya in 2011. While Egypt and Tunisia struggle with major economic problems and high unemployment, Libya still suffers from a fragile security situation following the overthrow of the Gaddafi regime. Africa South of the Sahara also experienced major changes and upheaval. An armed uprising of Tuaregs in the north of Mali triggered a military putsch and the resignation of Mali’s president. In the aftermath of the uprising, Islamic-dominated groups took over power in the north of the country. In Guinea-Bissau the president was likewise ousted after a military coup. The situation in Africa’s most populous country, Nigeria, remained tense and was characterised by recurring assaults and attacks. Sudan and South Sudan made only little progress towards settling their differences including the demarcation of the border and security issues. In Somalia, where it had been possible to further pushback the Islamist militants, the transition period that had spanned over many years expired with the adoption of a provisional constitution, the election of a new president and the appointment of a new government. In the east of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, military clashes again flared up between rebels and the Congolese army until a number of regional summits eventually led to the withdrawal of the rebels, an armistice and negotiations. In Zimbabwe, the political parties moved closer to reaching an understanding on a new constitution. Peaceful elections were held in Angola and Lesotho. Political life in South Africa was dominated by lengthy strikes, especially in the mining sector, and the issue of leadership of the African National Congress (ANC), which the incumbent President Zuma again secured for himself at the ANC congress in December.

4.2.2. developments in the Regions 4.2.2.1. north Africa (Maghreb) 4.2.2.1.1. Tunisia The Constituent Assembly which emerged from the peaceful and free elections of 23 October 2011 deliberated throughout the year on the new Tuni- sian constitution, without, however, being able to conclude its work. The new constitution is the prerequisite for holding parliamentary and presidential elections in 2013. A consensus had so far been thwarted mainly by differences of opinion between the largest party, the Islamic-oriented Ennahdha, and the other parties represented in the Constituent Assembly. The contro- 93 Challenges and Developments on All Five Continents versial issues related to national identity, the governing system, legislative bases, family law and the media. In office since the end of 2011, the governing coalition composed of Ennah- dha and two secular social-democratic-inspired parties, namely the Congrès pour la République (CPR) and the Ettakatol (FDTL – Forum démocratique pour le travail et les libertés) was faced with increased dissatisfaction among the general public due to unsatisfactory economic and social developments. The movement Nidaa Tounes (Call of Tunisia) led by former PM Béji Caïd Essebsi increasingly evolved into the most important challenger of the Ennahdha in the parliamentary elections scheduled for 2013.

4.2.2.1.2. Egypt The transition to a democratic system was characterised by alternating progress and setbacks. The parliamentary elections of late autumn 2011 were annulled by the Constitutional Court on 14 June and the parliament elected dissolved. In the first ballot of the presidential elections, held in May, the turnout amounted to 46 %. The candidate of the Muslim Brotherhood, Mohammed Morsi, and the former air force officer and head of government under Hosni Mubarak, Ahmed Shafik, won most of the votes with a share of about 25 % each. The second ballot in June was won by Morsi, securing almost 52 % of votes. As parliament had been dissolved President Morsi also assumed its powers. He also succeeded in asserting politically against the Egyptian army. At international level he mediated successfully between Israel and Palestinians in autumn. On 22 November, President Morsi published a decree that made it inter alia impossible for his decisions to be challenged before the courts. This triggered heavy protests in the following weeks, in the course of which increasing polarisation between the parties with a religious background (the Muslim Brotherhood’s Freedom and Justice Party and the Salafist’s Nour Party) and the secular-oriented opposition parties became apparent. The latter joined and formed the “National Salvation Front”. The judiciary and the media were heavily criticised by the religious camps and charges were repeatedly filed and/or action brought against journalists and opposition politicians. By the end of the year, the Constituent Assembly, composed of 100 individuals, abruptly terminated its work. In December, a referendum was held at very short notice on the new constitution which was criticised for its too overtly Islamist character. The turnout at the referendum, which was held in two parts, only reached approx. 32 %, the constitution was, however, adopted with a majority of about 64 % of the votes cast and will form the basis for the parliamentary elections in spring 2013. The country’s economy did not register a sustainable recovery; improving the economic and social situation for the majority of the population remained 94 Africa and the African Union the most important and most urgent challenge to be managed by the government.

4.2.2.1.3. Morocco Following the adoption of the new constitution by referendum in 2011, substantial powers still remained in the hands of King Mohammed VI. Since the beginning of the year, the country’s government has been composed of a four-party coalition, which is dominated by the moderate Islamist “Justice and Development Party” (PJD) led by Prime Minister Abdelilah Benkirane. The concrete design of the legal framework defined by the new constitution, in the context of which special attention is devoted to guaranteeing and protecting fundamental rights, proved a major task. Substantial need for reform remained in the field of education, the social area, the judiciary and in the fight against corruption. In the context of the new European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP), Morocco, based on its “advanced status”, succeeded in further shaping its profile as partner of the EU.

4.2.2.1.4. Libya After more than 42 years of dictatorship, the elections for the General National Congress held on 7 July were the first free and democratic elections in 60 years, thus marking an important step in the Libyan process of transformation. In a press statement of 10 July, the UNSC welcomed the holding of the elections as a “milestone for Libya’s democratic transition”. On 14 November, most of the members of the new Libyan government led by Prime Minister Ali Zidan were officially sworn in. The country’s new leadership will now have to focus on ensuring an inclusive political process involving the reconciliation of all groups within society, comprehensive control over all armed groups by the government and the respect of human rights. On 12 March, the UNSC adopted resolution 2040 (2012) by which the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) was extended by a further twelve months. In October, Tarek Mitri took over from Ian Martin as new Special Representative of the UNSG and head of UNSMIL. The attack on the US consulate in Benghazi on 11 September, in which the ambassador of the USA to Libya was killed, was condemned by the UNSC in a press statement issued on 12 September.

4.2.2.2. Horn of Africa and East Africa 4.2.2.2.1. Eritrea No progress was made both in the country‘s frozen border conflict with Ethi- opia and in its conflict with Djibouti. Several Ethiopian attacks on Ethiopian rebel groups located on Eritrean territory gave rise to concern over a potential new armed conflict between the two states. 95 Challenges and Developments on All Five Continents

On 5 July, the Human Rights Council strongly condemned the “widespread and systematic violations of human rights” committed by Eritrean authorities and appointed a Special Rapporteur on the state of human rights in Eritrea. In September the confidential complaints procedure against Eritrea was changed into a public one. To date Eritrea has refrained from cooperating with the Special Rapporteur. On 25 July, the UNSC extended the mandate of the Monitoring Group on Somalia and Eritrea for another year. On 27 September, the Monitoring Group submitted a report to the UNSC according to which the importance of Eritrea as a source of financial and military assistance to armed groups had declined in the reporting period.

4.2.2.2.2. Sudan and South Sudan At the beginning of April, the Heglig oil field in Sudan was temporarily occupied by South Sudanese troops. On 24 April, the Peace and Security Council of the African Union (AU-PSC) called upon both parties to immediately cease fighting and to return without delay to the negotiation table. On 2 May, the UNSC adopted resolution 2046 (2012) that supported the calls made by the AU PSC as well as the “road map” prepared by the AU PSC. The subsequent negotiations that were mediated by the AU High-Level Implementation Panel (AUHIP) and chaired by the former South African President Thabo Mbeki culminated on 27 September in the signing of nine landmark agreements by the presidents of Sudan and South Sudan. Ratified by both parties in October they were, however, not implemented by the end of the year. No agreement could be reached on the final status of Abyei and the other contentious border areas. Sudanese troops had previously, on 28 May, pulled out of Abyei. Furthermore, no progress was made regarding the termination of the fighting in South Kordofan and the Blue Nile or with regard to humanitarian access to the local civilian population. According to UNHCR estimates, the number of refugees who sought protection from fighting in Ethiopia and South Sudan increased by the middle of the year to approximately 225,000 individuals. The tense economic situation led to riots against the government’s austerity course, with unrest breaking out from mid-June to August. Protests against a film that was critical of Islam sparked violent protests against the German and the US embassies, whose visa sections subsequently remained closed. As requested by Chief Prosecutor Ocampo, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant against Defence Minister Abdel Rahim Mohamed Hussein on 1 March. The persistent tensions between Sudan and South Sudan, especially in the border regions, were the topic of numerous UNSC consultations. The UNSC issued several presidential and press statements on the ongoing developments. In May, the IUNSC adopted resolution 2046 (2012) on measures towards improving the relations between both countries. In July, the man- 96 Africa and the African Union date of the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) was extended by another year. The mandate of the UN Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) was extended by resolution 2047 (2012) in May and by resolution 2075 (2012) in November for half a year each. The UNSC also concerned itself repeatedly with the situation in Darfur. In February, the UNSC adopted resolution 2035 (2012) on the 1591 sanctions regime. By adopting resolution 2063 (2012), the UNSC extended and adapted the mandate of the AU-UN hybrid operation in Darfur (UNAMID). In the course of the year, the UNSC was briefed both by the Prosecutor of the Inter- national Criminal Court and by the AU-UN Joint Special Representative for Darfur, Ibrahim Gambari. From 10 to 11 October, the conference “Sudan, South Sudan & Europe: Prospects of Cooperation for Regional Peace and Development” was held in Vienna. The conference was attended by the Sudanese Foreign Affairs Min- ister and the South Sudanese Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister.

4.2.2.2.3. Somalia The dominating events in Somalia were the final end of the transitional period, the resignation of the transitional government and the elections to new governmental institutions. The presidential elections of 10 September were won by Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, chairman of the Peace and Develop- ment Party set up by him in 2011. He thus defeated both the favoured transitional president Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmad and former Prime Minister Abdiweli Mohamed Ali who was considered joint favourite but came third. By adopting resolution 2067 (2012) on 18 September the UNSC determined the end of the transition period. The resolution also underlined the numerous challenges the new government, which was appointed by the new Prime Minister at the beginning of November and subsequently confirmed by parliament, has to tackle in the immediate future. In the course of the year, the offensive launched by the African Union Mis- sion in Somalia (AMISOM) was able to make decisive progress and territorial gains especially in the south and in central areas of the country. There were some 17,000 AMISOM troops (from Uganda, Burundi, Kenya and Djibouti) in Mogadishu and in South as well as Central Somalia. The capture without fight of Kismayo, the former stronghold of the Islamist militant Al-Shabaab movement, by Kenyan AMISOM troops was an important development for further progress in Somalia. It will, nevertheless, require ongoing international efforts and investments in order to consolidate the successes achieved. In contrast to the rest of the country, Somaliland, which had declared itself independent, has reached a certain level of stability and democratic maturity and has functioning legislative and executive systems. Local elections were successfully held on 28 November in Somaliland. In the context of these elections, the three political parties to be granted a licence enabling them to 97 Challenges and Developments on All Five Continents participate in all elections over the next ten years were also defined. The new President of Somalia, Hassan Mohamud, welcomed this election and reiterated his commitment to engage in a dialogue with Somaliland. The UNSC dealt repeatedly with the developments in Somalia. In February, the UNSC adopted resolution 2036 (2012) under which the level of forces was increased and AMISOM’s operational scope widened. In July, the UNSC dealt with the 751/1907 sanctions regime on Somalia and Eritrea adopting res. 2060 (2012). In autumn, the UNSC adopted res. 2072 (2012) and 2073 (2012) thus extending AMISOM’s mandate and at the same time expanding the UN logistical support package for the mission. By way of res. 2077 (2012), the UNSC also extended the authorisation of measures aimed at fighting piracy off the Somali coast for another twelve months.

4.2.2.2.4. Ethiopia After 21 years in government, Prime Minister Meles Zenawi died of cancer on 20 August. His former deputy, Hailemariam Desalegn, was sworn in by the Ethiopian parliament as new Prime Minister on 21 September. Ethiopia’s foreign policy remained dominated by its “regional power function” in the politically highly sensitive Horn of Africa. The country’s shift of foreign policy interests away from traditional Western donors towards BRIC states (Brazil, Russia, India and China) was also continued.

4.2.2.2.5. Kenya Despite internal tensions between the coalition partners, the Kenyan government pursued the path towards reform it had embarked on and was also able to make substantial headway. Apart from managing the reform process, Kenya was faced with a large number of other challenges, including threats to security by internal and external powers, as evidenced in terrorist attacks and eruptions of ethnic violence which claimed dozens of lives. In the final few months of the year, public attention increasingly turned to the commenc- ing electoral campaign for the general elections and presidential elections scheduled for March 2013. At the beginning of the year, the International Criminal Court confirmed the indictment against four of the six main suspects for the violence that erupted after the 2007/2008 elections, namely against Deputy Prime Minister Uhuru Kenyatta, the former Minister of Agriculture William Ruto, the former Sec- retary to the Cabinet and Head of the Civil Service Francis Muthaura as well as radio journalist Joshua arap Sang. At the end of the year, Uhuru Kenyatta and William Ruto presented an election coalition for their candidacy in the March 2013 elections. Against this background, the trials against the two scheduled by the ICC for April 2013 attracted a lot of attention, sparking discussions both within Kenya and at international level. 98 Africa and the African Union

4.2.2.2.6. Djibouti In Djibouti, President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh governed with a sound majority in his third term in office. The newly founded opposition party RADD (Rassemblement pour l’Action, la Démocratie et le Développement) led by Abdourahman Mohamed Guelleh was, however, able to score surprising successes in the regional elections of 20 January and 10 February.

4.2.2.2.7. Seychelles Due to a boycott by the opposition, the governing People’s Party (PL, Parti Lepep) was able to win all but one seat in parliament at the latest general elections in autumn 2011 and thus continued to dominate political life in the Seychelles. In the vitally important tourism sector the Seychelles continues to try and tap into new markets, mainly in the United Arab Emirates and China.

4.2.2.3. Southern Africa 4.2.2.3.1. South Africa In South Africa, President Jacob Zuma called a government reshuffle in June. From August onwards the country was shaken by sometimes violent strikes, especially in the mining sector. In the course of these strikes the police shot 34 mineworkers in Marikana. A judicial commission of inquiry was set up to investigate the case and started work. October saw another government reshuffle as Interior Minister Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma had been elected new Chairperson of the African Union Commission. At the National Conference of the governing African National Congress (ANC), which takes place every five years, President Zuma was re-elected leader of the ANC in December. South Africa’s foreign policy focus remained on Africa with the country’s politicians assuming active roles in mediation efforts mainly in Zimbabwe, Madagascar, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sudan, South Sudan and the Central African Republic. In 2012, South Africa terminated its two-year membership of the UN Security Council.

4.2.2.3.2. Madagascar In Madagascar, the High Transitional Authority led by Andry Rajoelina, which is not recognised internationally, continued its efforts towards normalising relations with the international community of states. In line with Article 8 of the Cotonou Agreement the EU resumed political dialogue with the country.

4.2.2.3.3. Malawi Following the unexpected death of President Bingu wa Mutharika on 5 April, Vice President Joyce Banda, as provided for by the constitution, was sworn 99 Challenges and Developments on All Five Continents in as new President of the country on 7 April. On 26 April, she presented her new cabinet which is composed of members of all important parties and no longer includes some of the key figures of the former regime. The president thus tried to bring together the country’s different political groups in a government of national unity. President Banda attached top priority to stabilising the country’s economy. To this end, she urgently required the support of the international community and the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The IMF eventually granted a credit facility of 157 million US dollars over the next three years, which prepared the ground for the renewed commitment of other donors (led by the EU and the UK).

4.2.2.3.4. Zambia Since his electoral victory in the presidential elections in September 2011, President Michael Sata and his governing Patriotic Front (PF) party succeeded in consolidating power in the state both through successes in by- elections and political manoeuvres aimed at weakening the opposition. The budget for 2013 was again brought in line with the governing party’s main targets, namely job creation and improved public services.

4.2.2.3.5. Zimbabwe In Zimbabwe, the Government of National Unity continued its work. Prog- ress in implementing the Political Agreement adopted in 2009, however, remained only moderate. A draft constitution that had been prepared has as yet not been approved by all three governing parties.

4.2.2.4. great Lakes Region 4.2.2.4.1. Democratic Republic of the Congo In April, the Democratic Republic of the Congo saw the split between Kin- shasa and large parts of the former rebel group Congrès National pour la Défense du Peuple (CNDP), which had been integrated into the national army of the Congo as part of a peace agreement in March 2009. Led by Bosco Ntaganda and Colonel Sultani Makenga, several high-ranking generals left the Congolese army with their troops and formed the rebel group M23. Since then heavy fighting between the rebels of the M23 and the national army has claimed hundreds of lives in the province of North-Kivu and tens of thousands have been displaced. In the course of the fighting, the M23 was even able to temporarily capture the province capital Goma, in the context of which the non-intervention of the UN Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) met with heavy international criticism. In the context of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR) that is chaired by Uganda, the Heads of State of the countries in 100 Africa and the African Union the region have since August undertaken efforts to mediate in the conflict and arrive at a solution that provides for the deployment of a neutral force to monitor the border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Having come under increasing pressure in the course of the rebellion, the government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo agreed in December to engage in direct talks with the M23. By adopting resolution 2053 (2012) in June, the UNSC extended the mandate of MONUSCO by one year until the end of June 2013. Over the summer, the UNSC focused on the destabilisation in the east of the country by the rebel movement M23 (March 23) and adopted a Presidential Statement in October in which it condemned any external support for M23. In resolution 2076 (2012), the UNSC strongly criticised the capture of Goma in the east of the country by the M23 in November, which by the end of the year also led to the extension of the sanctions regime to cover additional individuals and entities including the M23. Resolution 2078 (2012) extended the 1533 sanctions regime until the beginning of February 2014. Following the withdrawal of the rebel movement from Goma at the beginning of December, the UNSC concerned itself intensively with the situation in the country.

4.2.2.4.2. Uganda After the elections of 2011, which were overshadowed by sometimes brutal action against the opposition, President Yoweri Museveni was able to further strengthen his power in the country. Corruption is still a major issue and Uganda’s anti-homosexuality legislation remains an explosive domestic policy and human rights issue. On the foreign policy stage Uganda, holding the chair of the International Conference of the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR), strives to mediate in the conflict between the M23 rebel group and the government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

4.2.2.4.3. Burundi As the opposition parties had boycotted the 2010 elections (which international observers had assessed as in principal being correct) for suspected fraud and manipulation on the part of the governing party, the opposition currently does not hold a single seat in parliament. All government institutions are thus controlled by the governing party, which means that the power-sharing system, defined in the Arusha Agreement of 2000, has become obsolete and was in fact replaced by a single party system. Irrespective of the international community’s calls for a general dialogue aimed at improving the political climate in the country, the current system continues to be characterised by insufficient dialogue between the governing party and the peaceful opposition as well as by political violence. 101 Challenges and Developments on All Five Continents

4.2.2.5. West Africa 4.2.2.5.1. Senegal Despite fears raised by violent clashes in connection with the renewed candidacy of the incumbent President Abdoulaye Wade, the presidential elections of 26 February and 25 March were peaceful and transparent, which was also confirmed by national and international election observers (including from the EU). In the second ballot, Macky Sall won 65 % of the votes representing a clear victory over Abdoulaye Wade. In the parliamentary elections of 1 July the broad party coalition called Benno Bokk Yakaar (United in Hope) around President Macky Sall succeeded in consolidating its majority. The democratic maturity of Senegal was acknowledged inter alia by the USA, France and the EU.

4.2.2.5.2. Mali From the beginning of the year, the government in Bamako gradually lost control over the north of Mali as separatist and terrorist organisations drove out the Malian troops and committed serious human rights violations. This development was accelerated by a military coup led by Capitain Amadou Sanogo on 22 March against President Amadou Toumani Touré, which was condemned by the UNSC in presidential and press statements. Reacting to the rebellion and the terrorist activities in the North of the country, a further Presidential Statement adopted in April called for the immediate return to constitutional order and a halt to all hostilities. In June, the UNSC held consultations with representatives of ECOWAS and the AU on a proposal regarding deployment of a stabilisation force that could support Mali in maintaining its territorial integrity. Based on close cooperation between the UN and the Malian transitional government, ECOWAS and the AU, the UNSC in the second half of the year placed a strong focus on putting this proposal in more concrete terms and adopted resolutions 2056 (2012), 2071 (2012) and 2085 (2012). The latter authorises the deployment of an African-led International Support Mission to Mali (AFISMA) for an initial period of one year, while at the same time calling for enhanced military planning in this context. The UNSC also welcomed the appointment of Romano Prodi as Special Envoy of the UNSG to the Sahel. Chaired by Morocco, the UNSC convened on 10 December for a high-level debate on the Sahel and adopted a Presidential Statement on the alarming situation in the region. On the same day, the Prime Minister of the Malian transitional government, Cheick Modibo Diarra, was arrested in order to force him to resign – which the UNSC immediately condemned in a press statement. 102 Africa and the African Union

The EU held out the prospect of dispatching a CSDP mission to provide modernising, military and training advice to the Malian Armed Forces operating under the control of legitimate civilian authorities.

4.2.2.5.3. Mauretania The development of the security situation in Mali triggered a refugee movement which also affected Mauretania. Some 90,000 refugees were accommodated in camps in the region bordering on Mali. In October, President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz was shot and seriously wounded during a road- side check. The government denied that this incident was politically moti- vated. The President was treated over several weeks in France. His return strengthened the opposition in its resolve to call for political change.

4.2.2.5.4. Burkina Faso His role as mediator in the Mali crisis appointed by ECOWAS has added to the foreign political weight Burkina Faso’s President Blaise Compaoré enjoys in the region. In December, parliamentary elections were held in a calm atmosphere free of violence. The elections were again won by the governing party Congrès pour la Démocratie et le Progress, which, however, had to suffer a loss in votes and seats.

4.2.2.5.5. Guinea The situation in Guinea remained comparatively calm although there were frequent demonstrations by the opposition. By newly appointing the Inde- pendent Election Commission, President Alpha Condé accommodated the opposition’s relevant requests. The long overdue parliamentary elections were scheduled for 12 May 2013.

4.2.2.5.6. Guinea-Bissau Guinea-Bissau suffered another setback to democracy when it was taken over by the military on 12 April. The coup took place between the two ballots for the presidential elections that had become necessary following the sudden death of President Malam Bacai Sanha in January. The interim government led by interim president Manuel Serifo Nhamadjo is supported by the military and was recognised by ECOWAS, but not, however, by the international community (AU, UN, EU). The clash of interests between ECOWAS and the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP) increased even further. Military officials in Guinea-Bissau had focused their criticism especially on the presence of Angolan troops – which had been supported by the country’s former Prime Minister Gomes Junior – and eventually achieved their withdrawal. ECOWAS subsequently deployed units in Guinea-Bissau. 103 Challenges and Developments on All Five Continents

In April, the UNSC adopted a Presidential Statement in which it condemned the military coup and demanded the immediate reinstatement of constitutional order. In May, the UNSC adopted resolution 2048 (2012) establishing a sanctions regime to impose travel bans on the leaders of the coup. In July and December, based on reports on the tense humanitarian and economic situation by the Special Representative of the UNSG and Head of the UN Inte- grated Peacebuilding Support Office in Guinea-Bissau, Joseph Mutaboba, the UNSC issued press statements condemning the military’s ongoing interfer- ence in politics and the attack on the Bissalanca air force base on 21 October. The UNSC also expressed its concern over the increase in drug trafficking since the coup and the lack of progress in reinstating constitutional order.

4.2.2.5.7. Côte d’Ivoire The cancellation of almost all of the country’s foreign debt enabled Presi- dent Alassane Dramane Ouattara to consolidate Cote d’Ivoire financially and promote a certain spirit of economic renewal (reconstruction, building up the infrastructure). Yet the impacts of the crisis of 2011 led - especially in the second half of the year - to a deterioration of the security situation and the political climate. The primary focus thus needs to be placed on security sector reform, national policy of reconciliation and inclusive employment policy. In April, the UNSC was briefed by the chairperson of the Security Coun- cil Committee established pursuant to resolution 1572 and subsequently extended the sanctions regime by another 12 months under res. 2045 (2012). In June, the UNSC issued a press statement in which it condemned the attack by armed fighters on UN peacekeepers which claimed numerous lives in the southwest of the country. The UN operation in Côte d’Ivoire (UNOCI) was extended by another year until the end of July 2013 under res. 2062 (2012).

4.2.2.5.8. Liberia The situation largely stabilised following the re-election of President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf in November 2011. Her electoral victory was also recognised retrospectively by her competitor Winston Tubman. In a difficult regional environment (especially along the permeable border with Côte d’Ivoire, across which repeated attacks were launched against Ivoirian territory), the President strives to cooperate closely with neighbouring states, also in the context of the Mano River Union. In September, the UNSC adopted resolution 2066 (2012) extending the UN mission in Liberia (UNMIL) by another year and providing for a three-phase reduction of the Mission’s military component. In December, the UNSC was briefed by the chair of the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1521 on the final report prepared by the Panel of Experts moni- 104 Africa and the African Union toring the implementation of the sanctions. The UNSC subsequently adopted resolution 2079 (2012) extending the sanctions regime by another year.

4.2.2.5.9. Sierra Leone Save for a few exceptions, the presidential, parliamentary and regional elections of 17 November were conducted in a peaceful and transparent atmosphere. President Ernest Bai Koroma was confirmed in office. These were the first elections Sierra Leone had organised itself since the end of the civil war in 2002. Election observation missions were sent inter alia by the EU. The controversy surrounding a contested arms purchase by Sierra Leone was addressed by the Executive Representative of the Secretary-General for the UN Integrated Peacebuilding Office in Sierra Leone (UNIPSIL), Michael von der Schulenburg, in his statement to the UNSC. In April 2012, the UNSC issued a Presidential Statement in which it recognised the clarification provided by the government of Sierra Leone. In September the UNSC, by way of resolution 2065 (2012), extended UNIP- SIL’s mandate to the end of March 2013. In October, the President and the Chief Prosecutor of the Special Court for Sierra Leone, Shireen Avis Fisher and Brenda Hollis, briefed the Security Council on the court’s remaining work and the adoption of a Presidential Statement in which the international community was urged to continue its support for the court. Following the elections of 17 November, the Executive Representative informed the UNSC about their satisfactory conduct. In a Presidential Statement the UNSC subsequently called upon all parties to accept the elections’ outcome.

4.2.2.5.10. Gambia In August, the execution of nine individuals who had been sentenced to death caused an international outcry. President Yahya Jammeh had previously warned that death sentences that had already been passed could also be executed. International protests, inter alia from the EU and international human rights organisations, resulted in agreement to suspend executions of prisoners on death row.

4.2.2.5.11. Cape Verde The Special Partnership agreed in 2007 between the EU and Cape Verde was further implemented and political dialogue continued. Negotiations on a visa facilitation agreement and a readmission agreement with the EU were successfully completed. The visa facilitation agreement was signed on 26 October. Cape Verde pursued sustained efforts towards promoting growth and reducing poverty. 105 Challenges and Developments on All Five Continents

4.2.2.5.12. Nigeria Terrorist attacks by Islamist groups in the north of the country and reac- tions by the security forces giving rise to concern over the respect of human rights dominated political life in Nigeria. Major parts of the country were also affected by a flood disaster whose far-reaching impact on food production in particular cannot yet be estimated. Discussions on a new oil act were not only expression of an aggravating controversy between the regions of Nigeria but also indication of a misjudge- ment with respect to the international energy markets’ development. The production rates granted to the international oil companies were so low that new investments are not to be expected. This would in turn massively impair economic development in Nigeria and be clearly inconsistent with the government’s top priority i.e. promoting foreign investment. The hope that this step would support the fight against high youth unemployment rates which are considered the root cause for the upheavals in the north of the country, has, however, remained unfulfilled. The visit paid by Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Michael Spindeleg- ger to Nigeria in June has added new momentum to bilateral relations. The signing of the readmission agreement as well as the visit of Interior Minister Abba Moro to Vienna in October are initial results.

4.2.2.5.13. Ghana Following the death of President John Evans Atta Mills in July, Vice Presi- dent John Dramani Mahama took over office and was elected president in December winning 50.7 % of the votes. The election campaign was dominated by the discussion on using the oil dividend in order to improve the country’s school system. Both its democratic maturity and the impressive economic growth of about 9 % - in spite of the international economic crisis – confirm Ghana’s attractiveness as a business location in West Africa.

4.2.2.5.14. Niger Niger was hit by famine caused by drought and flooding. Austrian Develop- ment Assistance provided humanitarian aid to the value of 650,000 euros to the population which is also affected by violence. Niger voiced strong support for an international intervention in Mali that would enable stability to be established in its neighbouring country and action to be taken against the terror groups that are active there.

4.2.2.5.15. Central African Republic The advance by armed supporters of the rebel group Seleka towards the capital Bangui in December was indicative of the failure of international and regional peace efforts. Although troops of the Economic Community of Cen- 106 Africa and the African Union tral African States (ECCAS) had been deployed, there still appeared to be some danger that the regime of President François Bozizé may be toppled – but this was eventually prevented by negotiations in January 2013. In a Presidential Statement issued in June, the UNSC welcomed the UN regional strategy on the threat presented by the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) and in two press statements issued in December it condemned attacks carried out by the rebel group Seleka.

4.2.2.5.16. Piracy in the Gulf of Guinea In spite of all regional efforts by ECOWAS and ECCAS no end to the attacks on mainly oil tankers is as yet foreseeable. These attacks are closely connected to criminal networks which are also involved in oil theft of already industrial dimensions in the Niger Delta. As agreed in 2011, Nigeria and Benin continued to cooperate in securing maritime routes in the Gulf of Guinea. On 27 February, the UNSC held a debate on piracy in the Gulf of Guinea in which Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs, Lynn Pascoe, briefed the UNSC on the UN mission launched in November 2011 to assess the threat posed by piracy in the region.

4.2.2.6. Western Sahara On 24 April, the mandate of the UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) was extended under UNSC res. 2044 (2012) for another twelve months. Also in April, the UNSG appointed Wolfgang Weisbrod- Weber new head of MINURSO. The UNSG’s Personal Envoy for Western Sahara, Christopher Ross, continued his efforts towards a resumption of peace talks between Morocco and Polisario. In his briefing on 28 Novem- ber, Ross informed the UNSC about his trip to Western Sahara (Laayoune) in October and that he was by way of “quiet shuttle diplomacy” striving to create a basis for resuming direct negotiations among both parties and the neighbouring states.

4.2.3. regional Integration Issues Chaired by Benin, the African Union (AU) again focused its attention on trouble spots like Somalia, the DR of the Congo, Mali or the negotiations between Sudan and South Sudan following the latter’s independence. The AU’s semi-annual summits under the general heading of “Boosting Intra- African Trade” were dominated by the election of the new AU Commission President and the new AU Commission. The stalemate arising after the AU’s January summit between the incumbent Jean Ping (Gabon) and his South- African challenger Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma ended on 15 July with the latter’s election as Commission President. 107 Challenges and Developments on All Five Continents

Again in 2012, the governments of the East African Community (EAC) took only hesitant steps towards further integration. Differences among member states evolved mainly in the field of eliminating non-tariff trade barriers that had been planned for the end of the year and should have opened up larger markets, promoted trade and reduced costs. The long-term objective of the EAC, whose protocol on a common market came into force in July 2010, remains to establish currency and political union. At the SADC summit held in Maputo in August, Mozambique took over the chair of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) from Angola and intends to continue the focus on economy and infrastructure. Tanzania took over from South Africa as chair of the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation. The SADC continued its mediation efforts towards implementation of the Global Political Agreement, reached in 2009, between the government and the opposition in Zimbabwe and its efforts towards reinstating the constitutional order in Madagascar following the coup of 2009. Special summits were held, but progress, nevertheless, remained modest in both cases. The most important topics on the agenda of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) were the resolution of the crisis in Mali and an appropriate reaction to the military coup in Guinea-Bissau. The President of Burkina Faso, Blaise Compaoré, was appointed mediator for Mali and in Guinea-Bissau ECOWAS succeeded in deploying a peacekeeping mission. The large number of crises somewhat stalled the internal reform process towards improving institutional implementation capability. Negotiations between the EU and ECOWAS on an Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) based on the Cotonou Agreement from 2000 have also as yet failed to produce any results.

4.3. america 4.3.1. uSA 4.3.1.1. general Developments The year was largely dominated by the presidential election campaign. While the incumbent Barack Obama, who again ran with Joe Biden as vice presidential candidate, had no opposing candidate in the Democratic Party’s primaries, the Republican Party went through a long nomination process. Only after the withdrawal of conservative former Senator from Pennsylva- nia, Rick Santorum, and the former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Newt Gingrich, was the way opened up for Mitt Romney, the former Gover- nor of Massachusetts. On 11 August, he nominated Paul Ryan, a Congress- man from Wisconsin, as vice presidential running mate. Since the beginning of 2011 Paul Ryan has also held the chair of the House of Representatives Committee on Budget. 108 America

The main topics of the election campaign were economic development, unemployment, the budget situation and the clearly increased state debt. Social policy issues were also addressed. On 28 June, the Supreme Court of the USA upheld the constitutionality of Obama’s health care reform by a nar- row majority of 5:4 judges. The presidential candidates were officially nominated at the parties’conven - tions. The Republican Party held its convention from 27 to 30 August, while the Democratic Party convention took place from 4 to 6 September. At the elections on 6 November Barack Obama was re-elected for a second term winning 51 per cent of the votes (compared with 47 per cent for Mitt Rom- ney). This time the turnout reached around 57 % (around five percentage points less than in 2008). The congressional elections that were held at the same time led to some shifts, but did not bring any major changes. The Republicans suffered only minor losses compared with 2010 and were able to defend their majority in the House of Representatives winning 234 seats (compared with 201 held by the Democrats). In the Senate the Democrats were able to slightly increase their majority to 53 seats (previously 51). At state level the Republicans were able to further strengthen their position. In 30 of the 50 states, governors are now from the Republican Party and in 27 of the 50 states the Republicans hold the majority in the relevant parliaments. Following the November elections the Congress turned its attention to the fiscal cliff, which at the end of the year would have led to automatic budget cuts, especially in the social and military sectors, and at the same time to the expiry of the tax cuts introduced in 2001/2003 under George W. Bush. While the Republicans called for cuts mainly in the social area and wanted to retain the low tax rates for all, President Obama pushed for generating additional income through tax increases for the rich. At the last minute a compromise was reached that introduced tax increases for annual incomes in excess of 400,000 US dollars and postponed automatic budget cuts for two months (until 1 March 2013). Due to the principal resistance among large parts of the Republican Party – most of all the Tea Party movement – against tax increases, only 89 of the 234 Republican members of the House of Representatives voted in favour of the compromise. At the same time the US administration announced that the USA had reached its statutory debt ceiling of 16,394 billion US dollars on 31 December. In designing its foreign policy the Obama administration continued to focus on diplomacy, dialogue and international cooperation. In the reporting period the priorities on the US foreign policy agenda were Afghanistan, the changes in North Africa, the Middle East in connection with the “Arab spring” and the focus on the Asian-Pacific area (“pivot to Asia”). In Afghanistan the USA pulled out a further 33,000 soldiers. By 2014 all combat troops are to leave the country and the Afghan government should 109 Challenges and Developments on All Five Continents be able to assume full responsibility for the security situation. The main objectives of the US commitment remained the elimination of al-Qaida and other terrorist groups, the training of Afghan security forces and supporting the (re)building of the country and its institutions. In the context of a very brief visit President Obama paid to Afghanistan on 1 and 2 May, a strategic partnership agreement was signed between the two countries. In North Africa and the Middle East, the USA has assumed an important role in the ongoing democratic transition processes in several countries in the region. The administration has adopted a stricter approach towards Iran with respect to the Iranian nuclear programme and under pressure from Con- gress again expanded the bilateral sanctions regime. The focus of interest in Syria was on re-establishing democratic order and the respect of human rights. In Libya, the US ambassador and three other American citizens were killed in a terrorist attack on the UN consulate in Benghazi on 11 September. The USA’s focus on the Asian-Pacific region was again underlined by Presi- dent Obama on 5 January in a brief defence policy keynote address delivered in the Pentagon. At the beginning of April the first US soldiers arrived in Darwin, Australia. In February, the Chinese Vice President Xi Jinping visited the USA, where he met President Obama and Vice President Biden. In March, President Obama paid a visit to South Korea, in November he stayed in Thailand and Cambodia and was the first US President to visit Myanmar. Negotiations on establishing a Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) continued with the 15th round of negotiations in December being attended for the first time by Canada and Mexico. As was the case in the previous year, death sentences were executed in the USA. In the reporting period again 43 persons were executed, while 78 individuals were sentenced to death, which is the second lowest number since the re-introduction of the death penalty in 1976. In California, however, 52 per cent of the electorate voted against the abolishment of capital punishment.

4.3.1.2. Bilateral Relations between Austria and the USA Bilateral relations between Austria and the US continued to develop positively. Besides a regular exchange of visits at diplomatic level, the very good cooperation in multi-lateral bodies (UN, Human Rights Council) is particularly noteworthy. Vienna as a UN and OSCE location has again proven an important turntable for incoming and outgoing visits. As well as at political level, numerous opportunities for cooperation also opened up at scientific level. The Austrian Office of Science and Technol- ogy (OST) at the Austrian embassy in Washington, for instance, not only provided services to an interdisciplinary network of scientists but also promoted cooperation among scientific institutions. The Austrian Marshall Plan Foundation continued its successful cooperation with numerous US 110 America partner universities. Ten US-American experts participated in the Marshall trip on the topic of “Smart Cities – Urban Technologies” organised by the OST Washington and the AC Chicago. The Center for Austrian Culture and Commerce (Center Austria) at the University of New Orleans continued its interdisciplinary programme with great success and welcomed more than 100 Austrian students in New Orleans. The Center for Austrian Studies at the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis/St. Paul also carried on its interdisciplinary study and teaching programme with great success. Ongoing contact with elite universities such as Harvard, Princeton, Yale, Columbia, MIT, New York University and City University New York were further intensified with the involvement of Austrian students and the organisation of lectures by renowned Austrian politicians and scientists (including Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Michael Spindelegger, State Secretary Andreas Schieder and the Governor of the Austrian National Bank Ewald Nowotny). Numer- ous events were organised by all Austrian service units in the USA and contributed to raising awareness of Austria’s role as active political player and essential economic factor in Central Europa, in the Danube region and in the Balkans. The development and expansion of positive and future-oriented relations with the Jewish Community – Jewish organisations, civil society and religious organisations – is a central concern of the Austrian representations in the USA. Considering the density of organisations this holds especially true for the Austrian Consulate-General in New York which has in its jurisdiction the headquarters of the World Jewish Congress, the American Jewish Com- mittee (AJC), the Conference of Presidents of Major Jewish American Orga- nizations, the Anti-Defamation League and B’nai B’rith. Close cooperation is also in place with the Holocaust museums especially in Washington and Los Angeles, where Austrian Holocaust Memorial Service representatives are active. The consecutive issues of the English online newsletter “Jewish News from Austria” from the press and information service are now published in blog format. On the website www.jewishnews.at translations of relevant articles published in the Austrian media are made available online. The website also includes information on and references to all aspects of Jewish life in Austria as well as on activities and institutions in connection with addressing and coming to terms with the Holocaust, Holocaust memorial services and current restitution issues. The dialogue with the “Young Lead- ers” of the American Jewish Committee (AJC, ACCESS-DC) was deepened by the embassy and from 10 to 17 June the embassy together with the Jewish Welcome Service and the AJC organised a trip to Austria for young leaders and university graduates. In December, Chanukka was celebrated together with the AJC-ACCESS in Washington, New York and Los Angeles. The provision of social and legal services to those Austrians who were forced to flee from Nazi persecution to the USA following Austria’s “Anschluss” in 1938 remains an important task for all Austrian representations. The implementation of the comprehensive restitution and reparation measures, which Aus- 111 Challenges and Developments on All Five Continents tria committed itself to under the Washington Agreement in 2001, continues to be followed with much interest by the US administration. The Austrian efforts towards the restitution of art objects, the provision of nursing services funding to needy Holocaust survivors and Austria’s role in the “Task Force for International Cooperation on Holocaust Education, Remembrance and Research (ITF)” are very much welcomed by the USA. The cultural fora in New York and Washington are well-established centres for the ongoing presentation of contemporary Austrian art and culture in their host country. Both cultural fora also belong to the respective local EUNIC cluster in the context of which Europe-related events are organised and presented. Apart from conventional topics, mainly current cross-cultural issues like environmental protection, migration, integration of migrants, intercultural dialogue and linguistic diversity are addressed. The embassy’s press and information service continued to provide a wide range of information and communication services in the field of new media (Facebook, Twitter, Flickr) in addition to ongoing publications. The embassy’s website, www.austria.org, is still one of the most frequently visited pages on the topic of Austria in the USA. Information on and about Austria has also been provided by “Austrian Information”, published quarterly since 1948 by the press and information service. The newly designed print edition currently has a circulation of 11,000 copies. Apart from news on politics, science, environment and culture, information is also provided on Austro-American relations and on the development and careers of Austrians who are successfully active in the United States. The publication also focuses on the presentation, discussion and explanation of Austria’s foreign policy priorities. An American-Austrian exchange of journalists initiated in 2007 by the Inter- national Center for Journalists and the Austrian Board for Journalist Educa- tion was organised for the sixth time in the last quarter.

4.3.2. canada 4.3.2.1. general Developments In its second year of office and equipped with an absolute majority, the conservative government led by Prime Minister Stephen Harper was able to push ahead with its political projects. In this context, the Prime Minister focused particularly on strengthening the economy and on consolidating the budget primarily through public spending cuts. The Canadian economy, and especially the banking sector, has survived the international financial crisis relatively unscathed. The country’s GDP grew by 2.2 % and at 7.4 % the unemployment rate remained almost unchanged compared with previous years. 112 America

The Canadian foreign policy priorities reflected the general government line and focused on economic relations (mainly through negotiating free trade agreements: CETA with the EU, accession to the Trans-Pacific Partnership and the opening of bilateral free trade negotiations with India and Japan), security/sovereignty (close relations with traditional allies, focus on using “hard security”, a more pronounced Arctic policy, a leading role in NATO’s operation in Libya) and strengthening freedom and democracy (human rights, the rule of law, protection of religious minorities).

4.3.2.2. Bilateral Austro-Canadian Relations Bilateral relations are free of problems and frictions. Exchange at economic, cultural and people-to-people levels is quite intensive. Canada is Austria’s fifth largest export market overseas. Austria enjoys a positive image as a cultural nation and is particularly present in the field of classical music; every year some 100,000 Canadian tourists travel to Austria. Some 5,000 holders of Austrian passports and about 70,000 people who consider themselves to be “Austrians at heart” live in Canada. The focus of consular work was on citizenship matters, issuing passports, acquisition of documents and residence titles. Austrian companies have some 100 subsidiaries in Canada while Canadian companies have around 40 subsidiaries in Austria.

4.3.3. latin America and the Caribbean 4.3.3.1. general Developments Presidential, legislative, governors’, regional and local elections were held in Mexico, presidential and regional elections took place in Venezuela, there were presidential elections in the Dominican Republic, local elections in Brazil and in Chile, as well as municipal council elections in Nicaragua. Efforts towards regional integration continued. The Caracas Declaration adopted unanimously at the founding summit of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) of 2 and 3 December 2011 defines CELAC as an organisation for the promotion of political, economic, social and cultural integration. The community’s pro tempore presidency is held by Chile until the end of January 2013. In the second half of the year, Brazil took over the chair of MERCOSUR from Argentina. The 44th MERCOSUR Summit was held in Brasilia on 7 Decem- ber. Important items on the meeting’s agenda were the opening of Bolivia’s accession process and Venezuela’s full membership, while Ecuador was invited to join. Uruguay assumed the chair for the first six months of 2013. During the last few years the region has demonstrated a remarkable resilience against the global economic crisis. Thanks to structural reform, a well- 113 Challenges and Developments on All Five Continents managed banking sector and high commodity prices it was again able to generate economic growth levels that were above the global average. Many of the MERCOSUR member states had taken measures towards strengthening their industries’ competitiveness. Apart from producing economic growth, the economic upswing has also enabled the stabilisation of national budgets.

4.3.3.2. developments in the Individual Countries 4.3.3.2.1. Argentina In Argentina the first year in office of President Cristina Fernández de Kirch- ner, who had been re-elected in October 2011 winning 54% of the votes, was characterised by continuity as well as by domestic policy conflicts, for instance on the new media act and the role of the judiciary. The economic sector was faced with import and foreign exchange restrictions.

4.3.3.2.2. Belize In the border conflict between Belize and Guatemala which for historical reasons claims more than half of Belize’s territory, a break-through was achieved on 27 April. Both countries agreed on holding simultaneous referenda on 6 October 2013 on whether to submit Guatemala’s claim to the International Court of Justice.

4.3.3.2.3. Bolivia Bolivia adopted a number of laws to implement the new constitution based on a “democratic, representative, participative and communitarian form of government”, which includes essential elements related to indigenous values.

4.3.3.2.4. Brazil In Brazil the government led by President Dilma Rousseff focused on stimulating the country’s economy that was suffering from the slowdown effects of the global economic and financial crisis. The wide range of measures adopted included inter alia key interest rate reductions, higher import duties, tax incentives and mandatory reductions in electricity prices. The government’s priorities are fighting poverty, more equitable distribution of wealth and the country’s technological modernisation, inter alia via an ambitious international scholarship programme. Large-scale projects, launched primarily in the transport infrastructure sector – mostly with a view to the forthcoming major sports events (the 2014 Football World Cup, the 2016 Olympic Games) – made only sluggish progress. Brazil’s foreign policy is characterised by continuity: active commitment to regional integration (mainly MERCOSUR and UNASUR), strengthening the country’s role at international level and South-South cooperation still top the 114 America foreign policy agenda. Important fora for Brazil‘s international commitment are alongside the G20, the IBSA (India, Brazil, South Africa) and the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) groups.

4.3.3.2.5. Chile Chile concluded its one year pro tempore presidency of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC), established in 2011, by organising the first EU-CELAC (or 7th EU-LAC) Summit and the subsequent CELAC Summit at the end of January 2013 in Santiago de Chile. At domestic policy level Chile experienced ongoing student protests in favour of an affordable education system.

4.3.3.2.6. Guatemala On 14 January, former general Otto Pérez Molina was sworn in as president of Guatemala. He had clearly won the elections on his promise to improve internal security by cracking down on crime. Following the success of his iron fist policy in the first few months of his term in office, concern over the active role the military was playing in internal security issues grew. Guate- mala holds a seat on the UNSC for 2012/2013. For information on the border conflict with Belize see Section 4.3.3.2.2.

4.3.3.2.7. Haiti Life in Haiti was still dominated by the consequences of the devastating earthquake of January 2010. The reconstruction of the country was continued by its new Prime Minister Laurent Lamothe but suffered setbacks inflicted inter alia by the hurricane Sandy. During a trip in February, the UNSC saw the situation first hand and subsequently in March and October held debates on the situation in Haiti, each time against the background of the briefings given by Special Representative of the UNSG and Head of the UN Stabilisation Mission in Haiti, Mariano Fernández. By adopting resolution 2070 (2012), the UNSC extended the mission by another year in October.

4.3.3.2.8. Nicaragua In Nicaragua, President Daniel Ortega started his third term in office on 10 January. In the presidential elections of November 2011 – that had involved controversy over the constitution – he was able to secure more than 62 % of votes. On 19 November, the International Court of Justice passed its long awaited ruling on the territorial dispute on islands and maritime territory between Nicaragua and Colombia. The latter retained sovereignty over the islands while Nicaragua gained maritime territory. Nicaragua welcomed the 115 Challenges and Developments on All Five Continents ruling while Colombia took a critical view. For information on the border conflict with Costa Rica see Section 4.3.3.2.12.

4.3.3.2.9. Colombia Developments in Colombia were dominated by the new style adopted by President Juan Manuel Santos who had been elected on 20 June 2010. His government of national unity was supported by a broad parliamentary majority. In terms of content, the policy of “Democratic Security” pursued by former President Álvaro Uribe Vélez was further developed into a policy of “Democratic Prosperity”. The peace talks between the Colombian government and the “Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia” (FARC) were formally opened in Oslo on 18 October. To date, two rounds of negotiations have been held in Havana. These peace talks mark the fourth attempt towards resolving the conflict since 1984. For information on the territorial dispute with Nicaragua see Section 4.3.3.2.8.

4.3.3.2.10. Cuba Cuba the government led by Raúl Castro continued along its path of economic reform aimed at promoting small-scale private enterprises by reducing obstacles for small trade and business, drafting of corporate tax and credit legislation and the re-organisation of agricultural cooperatives. The country’s nationalised industry struggles increasingly with infrastructural problems. In December, the National Assembly lifted most of its travel restrictions.

4.3.3.2.11. Mexico On 1 July presidential, legislative, governors‘, regional and local elections were held in Mexico. The presidential elections were won by Enrique Peña Nieto from the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI). The defeated candidate from the leftist alliance, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, contested the election results based on irregularities but his complaint was dismissed by the Federal Electoral Tribunal. On 1 December, Enrique Peña Nieto assumed office and announced that for the time being he would continue with the security strategy pursued by his predecessor Felipe Calderón Hinojosa.

4.3.3.2.12. Costa Rica In spite of the mutually recognised provisional ruling by the International Court of Justice of March 2011, the border dispute between Costa Rica and Nicaragua in the region around the Río San Juan persisted.

4.3.3.2.13. Peru In Peru, Head of State and Government Ollata Humala, who was elected in 2011, continued to focus on promoting economic growth and social inclusion 116 America as the key elements of his programme which also includes intensified efforts in the fight against poverty, broad-based social programmes and investments in the country’s infrastructure.

4.3.3.2.14. Venezuela Since 31 July, Venezuela has been a full member of MERCOSUR. At domestic policy level, the key event was the presidential election of 7 October which was won by President Hugo Chávez. The incumbent was able to secure a clear mandate for his fourth term in office defeating the candidate of the opposition platform which had for the first time run united in a campaign. The question of to what extent President Chavez’s cancer disease influenced his renewed term in office became an increasingly important issue towards the end of the year.

4.3.3.2.15. Paraguay In Paraguay, the senate removed President Fernando Lugo from office on 23 June and replaced him by Vice President Federico Franco. The latter will continue to perform official duties until a new president has been sworn in after the elections scheduled for April 2013. The MERCOSUR and UNASUR states criticised the impeachment proceedings and suspended Paraguay‘s membership in both organisations. The country’s new government was thus isolated in the regional context.

4.3.3.2.16. Uruguay The government led by President José Alberto Mujica Cordano succeeded in implementing the end to impunity for crimes committed in Uruguay during the military dictatorship between 1973 and 1985. It also launched initiatives towards liberalising the sale of marihuana and ensuring equality for same sex partnerships.

4.3.3.3. Bilateral Relations between Austria and the Latin American and Caribbean Countries Since the Fourth EU-LAC Summit was held in Vienna in 2006, bilateral relations between Austria and the region have witnessed ongoing positive development. The number of high-level visits has constantly increased. Aus- tria maintains good and friendly relations with the countries in the region. Austrian business also benefits from the growing economic importance enjoyed by the Latin American and Caribbean region, which is characterised by sound financial structures and an enormous wealth of natural resources. Austrian exports to the majority of the countries in the region have experienced a particularly sharp increase. In the field of energy, Austrian industry has proved highly competitive. Good cooperation with most of the countries 117 Challenges and Developments on All Five Continents in the science and research sectors paved the way for sustainable and long- term relations.

4.4. asia 4.4.1. general Developments Although it again suffered weakened economic growth and numerous natural disasters, Asia succeeded in retaining its role as an economic driver in 2012 and was increasingly recognised as an emerging major player on the international stage. Efforts towards enhanced economic interlinking within Asia, but also with America and Europe were continued. In this context, the focus was placed on both regional and bilateral integration efforts launched by Asian states and negotiations on a Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) as well as several cooperation and free trade agreements between Asia and Europe. Old conflicts in the East and South China Seas flared up again. Trouble spots like Afghanistan and North Korea as well as the developments in Syria, in Iran and lack of decisive progress in the Israeli-Palestinian negotiation process were recurring topics on the international community’s agenda. Impor- tant course-setting events in the region included the elections in Japan and South Korea and the installation of a new leadership in China.

4.4.2. developments in the Regions 4.4.2.1. near and Middle East 4.4.2.1.1. Israel/Palestinian Territories, Middle East Peace Process Although the year brought important changes in the Middle East, it was not possible to achieve decisive progress in the Israeli-Palestinian negotiation process. A significant political development was the recognition of Palestine as a non- member observer state by the UNGA. After the Palestinian application for full membership in the UN was thwarted only last year as the UNSC could not agree on the necessary unanimous recommendation, 138 UN member states (9 votes against, 41 abstentions) voted on 29 November in favour of UN General Assembly resolution A/67/L.28 by which Palestine’s status was upgraded from “observer entity” to “observer state”. Together with 13 other EU Member States, Austria voted in favour of the resolution, while 12 EU Member States abstained from voting and one voted against. Austria considered the resolution also as a mandate for the Palestinian leadership to resume direct negotiations with Israel, which according to a proposal by the Middle East Quartet should have led to an agreement on principle by the end of the year. However, due to continued construction of Israeli 118 Asia settlements and despite initial exploratory talks no substantial discussion had been held by the beginning of 2013. This lack of political progress was also reflected in the renewed escalation of violence between the Israeli army and militant and/or terrorist groups from Gaza in and around the Gaza Strip in the second half of the year which was, however, terminated thanks to mediation by Egypt. Following the launch of the “Operation Pillar of Defence” by the Israeli army, it took eight days until the UNSC was able to agree on a press statement (21 November) in which it welcomed the ceasefire for the Gaza Strip and Israel mediated by Egypt. Previously, on the evening of 14 November – the first day of “Operation Pillar of Defence” – the UNSC had held emergency consultations which had, however, failed to produce any results. On 19 December, the UN reported that by this date the ceasefire of 21 November had largely been observed but remained very fragile. Egypt also undertook efforts towards reconciliation between the two rival political camps in Palestine, which should have enabled new elections in May. Short-term interests, however, conflicted with joint efforts aimed at establishing a peaceful future. In the Conclusions adopted at the Foreign Affairs Councils in May and December, the EU confirmed its policy position on the Middle East conflict and declared peace and stability in the region as a special strategic priority. The Police mission EUPOL COPPS supports the building up of a modern police and judiciary system in Palestine, while the border assistance mission EU BAM Rafah has been largely shut down because of the ongoing closure of the Rafah border crossing between the Gaza Strip and Egypt. The monthly Middle East briefings delivered by the UN Secretariat to the UNSC and the subsequent quarterly open debates were dominated by the standstill in the Middle East Peace Process, the Israeli settlement activities, the deteriorating social and economic situation in the Palestinian territories including the financial crisis faced by the Palestinian Authority (which was additionally aggravated by Palestine’s upgrade to observer status by the UN), the increasing escalation of the conflict in Syria including the latter’s impact on the neighbouring states and the region at large as well as the fragile situation in Lebanon.

4.4.2.1.2. Syria Throughout the year the opposing parties in the Syrian civil war sought an exclusively military solution to the conflict, which claimed a tragic toll of more than 60,000 lives and meant that half a million refugees fled to neighbouring countries and more than 4 million people were directly affected in Syria. The original claim, namely to democratise the political system as in the other Arab Spring countries fell completely by the wayside. 119 Challenges and Developments on All Five Continents

The international community’s mediation efforts undertaken up to the end of August by the Joint Special Envoy of the United Nations and the League of Arab States Kofi Annan, and subsequently by his successor Lakhdar Bra- himi, were not met with a substantial response by the parties to the civil war. With their veto opportunities as permanent members in the UNSC, the Russian Federation and China prevented the adoption of sanctions already in place against the Syrian regime (imposed mainly by the EU, the USA and the League of Arab States) by the entire international community. This meant that it lacked the political pressure which could have led the regime to listen to reason and convince it to stop using the army against its own people.

The international community was also unable to agree on a common approach in its attitude towards the Syrian opposition. The latter had actually succeeded in broadening its basis by forming an opposition coalition, but is, nevertheless, still not considered a convincing alternative to the regime by parts of the Syrian public.

Austria and the EU supported the Joint Special Envoy in seeking a political solution. President Assad was denied any legitimacy and the opposition coalition was recognised as a legitimate representation of the Syrian people.

In the Human Rights Council and in all other fora, Austria has specifically advocated the protection of the civilian population and in this context supports referral of the situation in Syria to the International Criminal Court. With a view to improving the humanitarian situation on the ground and particularly that of the refugees in the neighbouring countries, the Federal Gov- ernment has already made available funding of approx. 4 million euros. Aus- tria also dedicated special attention to the situation of religious and ethnic minorities in the country and, for example, maintained high-level contacts with representatives of Christian churches.

On 4 February, the UNSC’s initiative for a resolution aimed at putting an end to violence was thwarted for the second time by a Russian-Chinese double veto. On 21 March, the UNSC members succeeded in agreeing on a Presi- dential Statement supporting the “six-point plan” prepared by Joint Special Envoy Kofi Annan to terminate the conflict in Syria. In another Presidential Statement issued on 5 April, the UNSC called on the Syrian government to follow through on the pledges it had made on 1 April and, most of all, to cease all use of heavy weapons by no later than 10 April. The parties to the conflict were also called upon to cease armed violence in all its forms within 48 hours of the implementation of these measures in their entirety by the Syrian government. One week after the UNSC had granted a mandate to an UN advance team of up to 30 unarmed military observers by adopting resolution 2042 (2012) on 14 April, the UNSC unanimously adopted resolution 2043 (2012) on 21 April agreeing on the establishment of an UN observation mission in Syria (UNSMIS) for an initial 90-day period. 120 Asia

Despite the expeditious deployment of UNSMIS, the mission’s longer-term extension was thwarted in July by another Russian-Chinese double veto against a draft resolution introduced by France, the United Kingdom, Ger- many, Portugal and the USA. In the light of the escalation of violence in Syria, this draft under Chapter 7 of the UN Charter called upon all parties to immediately stop violence and implement the “six-point plan”. Although the draft had also endorsed the final communiqué adopted by the “Syria Action Group” in Geneva on 30 June, the adoption of the resolution was thwarted not least because it threatened sanctions under Article 41 of the UN Charter against Syrian authorities if the latter did not meet their obligations arising from the resolution within 10 days. After the UNSC had agreed on 20 July on the mission’s final extension by another 30 days, UNSMIS terminated its activities in August. At the beginning of August, Kofi Annan announced his resignation as Joint Special Envoy of the United Nations and the League of Arab States for the Syrian crisis and was succeeded by Lakhdar Brahimi. On 24 September, the UNSC was briefed for the first time by Joint Special Envoy Brahimi on the situation in Syria; his call for a ceasefire and a stop to all violence during the Islamic Sacrifice Feast (Eid Al Adha), which had been supported by a press statement issued by the UNSC on 24 October, was not successful. Violence in Syria instead escalated towards the end of the year increasingly affecting the security situation and the fulfilment of the mandate of the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF). On 29 November, Austrian and Croatian UN soldiers came under fire near Damascus and several soldiers were wounded. In a joint letter to the UNSC Austria and Croatia condemned this inacceptable attack on peacekeepers and within the UN Austria supported enhancing the protection and the equipment of UNDOF. By adopting resolution 2084 (2012) on 19 December, the UNSC extended UNDOF’s mandate by another six months until 30 June 2013 (before the mandate had already been extended by six months following the adoption of resolution 2052 (2012) in June). In resolution 2084 (2012), which condemned the attack of 29 November, the UNSC stressed the need to enhance the safety and security of UNDOF personnel und requested the UNSG to ensure that UNDOF has the capacity necessary to fulfil its mandate.

4.4.2.1.3. Iraq Following the withdrawal of US troops from Iraq at the end of 2011, the domestic policy situation was characterised by ongoing violence and a difficult security situation which impacted the still fragile democratic process. Added to this, the relationship between the central government in Baghdad and the Kurdish regional government deteriorated. Based on a partnership agreement concluded in May, the EU and Iraq agreed to cooperate more closely in the fields of trade and energy and in fighting terrorism. The goal is to also support democratic efforts in Iraq. Since the transfer of the mission to 121 Challenges and Developments on All Five Continents

Iraq, Austria has no longer participated in the Integrated Rule of Law Mission EUJUST LEX aimed at building up a modern police and judiciary system. The Head of the UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) and Special Rep- resentative of the UNSG, Martin Kobler, briefed the UNSC three times on the situation in Iraq. By unanimously adopting resolution 2061 (2012) the UNSC extended the mandate of UNAMI by another year on 25 July. In a press statement issued on 11 September, the UNSC condemned the wave of terrorist attacks that hit Iraq on 8 and 9 September.

4.4.2.1.4. Iran Iran has so far not succeeded in dissipating the doubts that have persisted for several years about the exclusively civilian and peaceful character of its nuclear programme. The negotiation rounds involving the five permanent members of the UNSC plus Germany (E3+3) and Iran have, as yet, not produced any tangible results. The most recent inspection reports by the Inter- national Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), presented in August and November, did not identify any progress to speak of in clarifying the open issues. Due to lack of Iranian cooperation, it has not been possible to verify that there were no undeclared and non-military nuclear activities in Iran. For this reason the IAEA had not been in a position to confirm that the nuclear material in Iran is to be used for exclusively peaceful purposes. On 23 January, the Council of the EU adopted an extended sanctions package which included inter alia the imposition of an embargo on the export of Iranian oil and financial sanctions against the Central Bank of Iran. On 15 October, the Council resolved to further tighten these sanctions. The decision covers an export ban on equipment for the Iranian oil, natural gas and petrochemical industry, export bans on graphite, raw and semi-finished metals such as steel and aluminium, a ban on supply of key equipment in ship building and industrial processing software, an import ban on natural gas, a ban on short-term export credit insurances, restrictions in the construction of oil tankers, and in the banking sector a tightened ban on most EU bank transactions involving Iranian and Iranian-owned banks. The parliamentary elections of 2 March were, by international standards, neither free nor fair: the candidates had to be approved in advance by the Ministry of the Interior and the Guardian Council; there were neither closed polling booths nor was there an independent election commission or independent national or international observers. There have been no improvements in the human rights situation. Especially the poor implementation of minority, women’s and children’s rights and of religious freedom, the oppression of the freedom of opinion and freedom of assembly, and the pressure exercised on journalists and artists, serious deficiencies in court proceedings and detention centres, the increase in public executions as well as the persecution of human rights defenders gave rise to 122 Asia particular concern. Austria has repeatedly urged Iran to respect and observe human rights. Iran is still the country with highest number of executions per capita, where minors are sentenced to death and which denies entry to UN Special Rap- porteurs on human rights issues. In April and May, there was a particularly sharp rise in the number of executions. A fact, which was – on Austria’s initiative – commented on in a press statement published by the press officer of EU HR Catherine Ashton. In October, Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Michael Spindelegger issued a press statement in which he expressed his shock over the new wave of executions which was launched shortly after the World Day against the Death Penalty. On 26 October, the President of the European Parliament, Martin Schulz, announced that this year’s Sakharov Prize for intellectual freedom would be awarded to the lawyer Nasrin Sotoudeh and the film maker Jafar Panahi. At that time, both human rights activists were in prison and/or placed under house arrest in Iran. The scheduled visit to Iran by a delegation from the European parliament was cancelled shortly after as Iran refused to permit meetings with the two award winners. The UNSC was briefed by the chair of the 1737 Committee in quarterly public meetings and extended the mandate of the Panel of Experts by adopting resolution 2049 (2012). In December, the 1737 Committee subjected two further Iranian companies to the regime.

4.4.2.2. arab Peninsula In Yemen the presidential elections of 21 February, which were won by former Vice President Abd Rabbo Mansour Hadi, marked an important step in the political transition process. The key goals pursued by the new president are overcoming the fragmentation of the country, curbing violence and cooperating with all players in order to ensure a process that is as inclusive as possible. In view of a further aggravation of the humanitarian situation, improvements in the living conditions seem absolutely pivotal to the success of the transition process. The Special Adviser to the UN Secretary-General on Yemen, Jamal Benomar, regularly briefed the UNSC on progress and obstacles faced in implementing the political transition process. In its resolution 2051 (2012) of 12 June, the UNSC confirmed the need for full and timely implementation of theGulf Cooperation Council Initiative and its Implementation Mechanism in accordance with resolution 2014 (2011) and supports the efforts of President Hadi and the National Unity Government to further promote the transition process. In this resolution, the UNSC also demanded the cessation of actions aimed at undermining Yemen’s Government of National Unity and thwarting political transition, expressed its readiness to further consider measures and again stressed that all those responsible for the serious human rights viola- 123 Challenges and Developments on All Five Continents tions must be held accountable. In a Presidential Statement issued on 29 March, the UNSC had already expressed concern over the deterioration of cooperation among political players following the handing-over of power to President Hadi. In press statements the USC condemned the terrorist attacks in Sana’a of 21 May and 11 September. In Bahrain there were frequent clashes between demonstrators and security forces. The recommendation to launch a constructive dialogue between government and opposition given in the Bassiouni report have to date not been heeded.

4.4.2.3. afghanistan The withdrawal of international troops from Afghanistan continues despite the instable security situation in large parts of the country. Responsibility was handed over to the Afghan government in the majority of provinces including the capital Kabul. The Taliban and associated groups attacked Western trainers of the Afghan security forces and other targets attracting large media coverage. The international community reiterated its support for Afghanistan beyond the year 2014. By the end of the year the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) had a total staff of about 105,000 troops. Austria currently contributes three staff officers to the ISAF Headquarters in Kabul. The ISAF’s mandate covers provision of support to the Afghan government in enforcing and maintaining internal security and respect for human rights as well as training and supporting the Afghan security forces. In the context of the Civil-Military Co-operation (CIMIC), ISAF also contributes towards providing reconstruction assistance. The EU Police Mission (EUPOL Afghanistan) that has been active in the country since 2007 is mandated with assisting the Afghan government in building up an independent civil police force that meets international standards. Austria supports this mission by seconding up to five police officers. The UNSC dealt with the situation in Afghanistan in quarterly debates and is regularly briefed by the head of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), Ján Kubiš. The UNSC issued a number of press statements condemning attacks in the country. In March, the UNSC adopted resolution 2041 (2012) extending UNAMA’s mandate for another year. The authorisation of ISAF was also extended for another year under resolution 2069 (2012).

4.4.2.4. central Asia 4.4.2.4.1. Kazakhstan Following the parliamentary elections of 16 January, Kazakhstan now has a multi-party parliament. Apart from the governing party “Nur Otan” 124 Asia

(80.99 %), two other parties – the “Ak Jol” party (7.46 %) and the Communist People’s Party (7.2 %) – now hold seats in parliament. When the Common Customs Codex between Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan came into force on 1 July 2011, border controls were abolished between the three countries. Activities towards implementing the Common Economic Area were launched on 1 January. On 18 November 2011, the presidents of the three customs union countries sealed the contract that envisages the establishment of the Eurasian Economic Union by 2015. Due to rising revenue from oil exports, the Kazakh economy again registered a growth rate of 5.2 % and continues to pursue its mid-term and long-term diversification and modernisation programmes. An estimated number of two million migrant workers in Kazakhstan contribute to this development. Astana won the bid for the Expo 2017, which is to focus on “Future Energy: Action for Global Sustainability”; this is the first time that an Expo is being organised by a Central Asian capital. In October, President Nazarbayev paid an official visit to Austria, which underlined the two countries’ good bilateral relations.

4.4.2.4.2. Kyrgyzstan Although the situation in Kyrgyzstan has to some extent calmed down, it cannot be described as stable. Following the resignation of two of the four coalition parties, the coalition government led by Prime Minister Omurbek Babanov resigned on 24 August. On 12 September, a new three-party coalition government led by Prime Minister Jantoro Satybaldiyev was sworn in. Abdylaev Erlan Bekeshovich was appointed new Foreign Minister and Asyl- bek Jeenbekov Speaker of the Kyrgyz Parliament. The path towards democratisation and reform embarked on by interim president Roza Otunbayeva was continued. In March, a memorandum on cooperation in the fight against terrorism was signed by the OSCE Centre in Bishkek and the Kyrgyz National Security Committee. The EU provides funding of 3 million euros to the Kyrgyz vocational training sector.

4.4.2.4.3. Tajikistan Tajikistan is one of the most water-rich countries in the world. More than 55 % of Central Asian water reserves are located on its territory, but due to lack of investment only 10 % can be used. The completion of the 3,660 mega- watt hydro power plant in Rogun, the construction of which started back in Soviet Union times, thus enjoys utmost priority for Tajikistan. The project is, however, met with fierce resistance on the part of Uzbekistan which fears negative impacts on its water-intensive agriculture. Upon the request of the 125 Challenges and Developments on All Five Continents

Tajik government, the World Bank is now conducting a study on the hydropower plant’s profitability and the potential risks involved. The 1,300 km long border the country shares with Afghanistan is difficult to control and the fight against drug trafficking still presents Tajikistan with major challenges. Tajikistan fears that the withdrawal of ISAF from Afghani- stan in 2014 will have destabilising repercussions for its own country and is thus highly interested in an improvement in the economic and social situation in Afghanistan. The assassination of the chief of the National Security Committee of the autonomous region Gorno-Badakhshan (GBAO), General-Major Abdullo Nazarov, triggered fighting between members of various criminal groups and national security forces in Khorog in July and August. These clashes also involved the use of heavy weapons and claimed numerous deaths including civilian victims. After 12 years of negotiations, Tajikistan joined the WTO on 10 December. With 62 million euros for the period 2011–2013, Tajikistan received the highest share of the EU funds earmarked for Central Asia. The EU continues its commitment in Tajikistan focusing especially on the social and health sector, on developing the private economy and on improving public financial administration. The country also takes part in numerous EU regional programmes in Central Asia.

4.4.2.4.4. Turkmenistan In 2012, the volume of Turkmen natural gas reserves was estimated to amount to approximately 24 billion cubic meters, making them the fourth largest in the world. The infrastructure required to extract and transport the natural gas which is mainly located in the south-east of the country, however, still has to be built. President Berdymuckamedov commissioned his cabinet with advancing the exploration of new gas fields and modernising the country’s energy business. Turkmengas and the Chinese CNPC agreed to increase the Turkmen gas export volume to China to 65 billion cubic metres a year. Turkmenistan is interested in further diversification of its sales markets: representatives from Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan and India signed an agreement on the delivery of Turkmen gas through the planned Turkmenistan- Afghanistan-Pakistan-India Pipeline (TAPI), which connects the four countries over a section of 1,700 km and will supply up to 90 million cubic metres of gas daily from 2018. Turkmenistan also sees Europe as a potential partner. The CIS summit was held in Ashgabat in December.

4.4.2.4.5. Uzbekistan Uzbekistan suspended its membership in the Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO) led by Russia, which gave rise to temporary irritations 126 Asia on the part of Russia. At the same time the Uzbek parliament adopted the “Concept Paper on the Foreign Policy Activity of Uzbekistan” which bans the country from becoming a member of military associations and forbids the deployment of foreign military bases on Uzbek territory. With a view to ISAF’s withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2014, Uzbekistan concluded a transit agreement with NATO in June. Uzbekistan fears that the pull-out of ISAF from Afghanistan could have a destabilising effect on its own country. The opening of an EU Representation in January was an outward sign for the gradual normalisation of EU-Uzbek relations. The EU is, however, still critical of the human rights situation, which is only gradually improving. Uzbekistan fears that the realisation of Tajikistan’s Rogun reservoir dam project (see Section 4.4.2.4.3) might have a negative impact on its economy and the region at large, which has given rise to tensions between the two countries. Uzbekistan repeatedly stopped gas supplies to Tajikistan. Rela- tions with Kyrgyzstan have also proved complicated due to tensions in the ethnically diverse Ferghana Valley and Kyrgyz hydropower plant projects. President of State Islam Karimov is striving to convince other Central Asian states of Uzbekistan’s views on water management. Russia supports Kyrgyz- stan and Tajikistan in their hydropower plant construction activities. In the field of bilateral relations, Austria and Uzbekistan have a shared interest especially in the development of economic relations. Uzbekistan is mainly interested in direct investments, Austrian know-how and cooperation in science and education.

4.4.2.5. north East Asia 4.4.2.5.1. People’s Republic of China The 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China was held in mid-November and saw the redistribution of all important party offices. Xi Jinping who had held the office of Vice President was appointed General Sec- retary and Chairman of the Central Military Commission. Membership of the leading body, the Central Politburo Standing Committee was reduced from nine to seven members. Li Keqiang, who had held the office of First Vice Pre- mier was designated Premier of the People’s Republic of China. Elections to the government offices were held at the National People’s Congress in March 2013. The goals of fighting corruption and establishing a moderately prosperous society were confirmed at the National Congress. A further objective is to double the population’s per capita income by 2020. The primary foreign policy focus pursued by the People’s Republic of China is on maintaining and/or re-establishing national unity and safeguarding the process of Chinese modernisation at an external level. Thanks to its permanent seat on the UNSC, China is permanently involved in decision- 127 Challenges and Developments on All Five Continents making processes relating to international security issues. China favours the approach of a multi-polar world including greater involvement of emerging and developing countries. An essential element of Chinese foreign policy is securing the country’s supply of scarce raw materials and sources of energy. The issue of freedom of navigation and access to resources in the South China Sea has played an increasingly important role. In September, tensions rose with Japan over ownership of an uninhabited group of islands called Diaoyu-I by China and known as the Senkaku Islands in Japan. The presidential and parliamentary elections held in Taiwan on 14 January were won by the incumbent Ma Ying-Jeou. Despite losing votes, his Kuomin- tang party was able to retain its clear majority in parliament. The policy of détente with mainland China pursued since 2008 was continued. In Hong Kong Leung Chun-Ying won the elections of 25 March and assumed office as Chief Executive of the Special Administrative Region on 1 July.

4.4.2.5.2. Japan The early elections to the House of Representatives on 16 December were clearly won by the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), which now holds 294 of the 480 seats in the Lower House. Together with its coalition partner the small Buddhist party New Komeito, the LDP holds a two-thirds majority in the House of Representatives but does not have a majority in the House of Councillors (Upper House). With less than 60 % the turnout reached an all- time low. The LDP party leader and former Head of Government Shinzo Abe was appointed new Prime Minister in a joint Upper and Lower House session. After having registered a positive economic development in the first six months, the Japanese economy generated negative growth rates in the second half of the year. The Japanese export economy struggled especially with the strong Yen exchange rate. After his electoral victory, Prime Minister Abe announced that he would focus his attention on managing the economic challenges among which economic recovery and overcoming deflation were named as the top priorities. Measures that stimulate the economy such as investment and infrastructure projects as well as a relaxation of monetary policy are to lead the Japanese economy out of stagnation. By announcing these goals the new government signalled a departure from the previous government’s austerity course and planned tax increases. At foreign policy level, the government led by PM Abe focuses on the two key constants of maintaining and strengthening the security alliance with the USA and managing the difficult relationship with China. In the middle of the year, the resurgence of diverse territorial disputes led to tensions in the country’s relationship with China, South Korea and Russia. Japan strongly condemned the North Korean missile tests as a serious threat to security. 128 Asia

In the field ofenergy policy, Prime Minister Abe announced a revision of the long-term nuclear power phase-out envisaged by the previous government.

4.4.2.5.3. Republic of Korea The situation on the Korean peninsula was temporarily characterised by renewed tensions, triggered especially by the launch of two North Korean long-range missiles in April and December. In view of these circumstances, the six-party talks (Republic of Korea, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, China, Japan, Russia and the USA) were not resumed. As always, the alliance with the USA played a central role in the country’s foreign policy concept. Vis-à-vis its North Korean neighbour, the Republic of Korea strove to continue to pursue a constructive regional policy. The Republic of Korea succeeded in positioning itself on the international stage by hosting the Nuclear Security Summit (26 and 27 March) and with its election to the UNSC for the period 2013/14. By winning the elections on 19 December, Park Geun-hye has become the first female president of the country. During the election campaign she advocated a more flexible policy towards the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.

4.4.2.5.4. Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) In the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), Kim Jong-un formally took over the functions as First Secretary of the Korean Workers’ Party and Chairman of the National Defence Commission and Supreme Commander of the Army from his father who died at the end of 2011. In line with established practice, the UNSC was briefed on a quarterly basis by the chair of the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1718 on the implementation of the sanctions regime. The mandate of the Panel of Experts that assists the 1718 Sanctions Committee was extended by resolution 2050 (2012). The attempted launch of a long-range missile failed on 13 April. On 16 April, the UNSC unanimously adopted a Presidential Statement in which this ballistic missile launch was condemned as a serious violation of resolutions 1718 (2006) and 1874 (2009) and the sanctions regime subsequently extended. The second missile launch attempt succeeded on 12 December. In press elements the UNSC also condemned this launch as a clear violation against the relevant resolutions.

4.4.2.5.5. Mongolia The parliamentary elections held in Mongolia on 28 June were won by the Democratic Party (DP), which subsequently formed a governing coalition together with the Justice Coalition and the Civil Will – Green Party. The 129 Challenges and Developments on All Five Continents

People’s Party that led the previous government joined the opposition. In the local elections on 21 November and 1 December, the DP also won in the majority of provinces and districts. Mongolia’s economic growth is still heavily based on the development of the mining sector. In December, Mongolia for the first time ever issued bonds totalling 1.5 billion US dollars on the international markets. On 21 November, Mongolia joined the OSCE as the 57th state. The basis for further development of the country’s relations with the EU is the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement which is due to be signed.

4.4.2.6. South and South East Asia 4.4.2.6.1. Pakistan Although Pakistan registered some success in combating terrorism, the country was shaken by attacks that claimed many lives. The fight against terrorism ties up a major part of the country’s resources and means, which means that it had not been able to tackle the main economic and social problems adequately. The power struggle between the judiciary and the legislative sector had led to the resignation of the Pakistani Prime Minister. Rela- tions with the USA had deteriorated substantially due to several incidents which led Pakistan to block NATO supply routes running through its territory. The relationship between the two countries improved only gradually in the course of the year. The process of détente between Pakistan and India was continued with great caution, without, however, resolving the major underlying problems. Both countries focused on visa, business and trade issues.

4.4.2.6.2. India In India, government is striving to boost economic growth while at the same time improving social indicators. The domestic policy situation was, however, overshadowed by corruption scandals and reform backlog. Economic growth remained behind expectations and inflation rates are still high. The main topic on India’s foreign policy agenda was strengthening relations with its neighbours. As the regional power in South Asia, India strove to exercise a stabilising impact on crisis-stricken Nepal and focused on further developing its economic and security-policy relations with Bangladesh and Myanmar. It further strove to convince Sri Lanka to seek a political solution to the internal ethnic conflict and to mediate on the Maldives which have been caught up in internal power struggles since February. India also strove to raise its foreign policy profile as a non-permanent member of the UNSC in the period 2011/2012 and as a leading emerging country in the context of the Non-Aligned Movement and in other international fora such as the G20, the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa), IBSA 130 Asia

(India, Brazil, South Africa) and the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC). India also focuses on cooperating closely with the USA especially in the joint fight against terrorism and in the field of civil nuclear cooperation.

4.4.2.6.3. Bangladesh In Bangladesh the centre-left Awami League led by Sheikh Hasina has taken a determined stance against corruption and has started to clarify the war crimes committed during and after the war of independence against Pakistan at the beginning of the 1970s and to hold the perpetrators accountable. The domestic policy climate remains strained by the controversy between the Awami League and the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party.

4.4.2.6.4. Bhutan In the Kingdom of Bhutan, the “Gross National Happiness” government programme launched by the king was continued. In the foreign policy field the country takes its lead from India, which is also Bhutan’s most important economic partner by far, especially in the field of hydropower.

4.4.2.6.5. Nepal The political situation in Nepal remained fragile and the peace process has come to a halt. On 27 May, the Constituent Assembly – and thus the interim parliament too – were dissolved without having adopted a constitution. The integration and rehabilitation of former rebel fighters was formally completed and some development policy indicators also improved. The young republic has, however, not yet succeeded in dealing with other important aspects. The most controversial issues include the country’s form of government, the federal state structure and the election system. Government and opposition were also unable to reach a consensus on the holding of elections.

4.4.2.6.6. Sri Lanka Although Sri Lanka had been able to secure a military victory over the separatist Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in May 2009, it was still faced with the difficult challenge of finding a political solution to a conflict that had persisted over decades between the Tamil minority and the Singhalese majority population. The report published in December 2011 by the Lessons Learnt and Recon- ciliation Commission (LLRC), a commission of inquiry set up by President Rajapaksa, cleared Sri Lanka’s political and military leadership with respect to violations against international law of war and international humanitarian law; at the same time, however, the report calls on the government to pro- 131 Challenges and Developments on All Five Continents mote national reconciliation and to implement numerous constitutional acts granting further rights to the Tamils. In March, the Human Rights Council adopted a resolution in which it urges the government to implement the recommendations given in the LLRC report. The government rejected the resolution emphasising the improvements that had already been achieved in the security and business fields and in reintegrating former LTTE fighters as well as the resettlement of internally displaced persons.

4.4.2.6.7. Maldives Following sometimes violent protests against President Mohammed Nasheed in the capital of the Maldives, the president resigned on 7 February and official functions were taken over by Vice President Mohamed Waheed. Regular elections were announced for 2013 following expiry of the current presidential mandate.

4.4.2.6.8. Thailand The domestic policy situation in Thailand remained generally unchanged compared with the previous year. Socio-political conflicts, which are responsible for the political crisis the country has been going through over the last few years, also continued to persist under the new government led by Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, the sister of toppled former PM Takshin Shinawatra, and were only temporarily forced into the background by the flood disaster that hit the country in autumn 2011. The impacts of what was the most severe natural disaster Thailand has experienced in its recent history have in the meantime been largely overcome. The differences within the country’s political establishment have, however, become even more entrenched and conflicts in the southern provinces with a Muslim majority have also aggravated.

4.4.2.6.9. Cambodia In 2012, Cambodia held the chair of ASEAN and organised the 21st ASEAN Summit on 18 November. The Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cam- bodia (UN-Cambodian tribunal) set up in 2006 to prosecute crimes committed by the Red Khmer continued with its proceedings.

44.4.2.6.10. Myanmar Since the elections in November 2010, the government led by President Thein Sein has implemented large-scale political and economic reforms in Myanmar. Opposition leader and Peace Nobel Prize Laureate Daw Aung San Suu Kyi was able to run in the by-elections on 1 April. She and her party, the National League for Democracy (NDL), won a landslide victory and were 132 Asia able to secure seats in parliament. Since summer 2011 the country, which had been closed off over decades, has been visited by numerous international representatives. In November, US President Barack Obama travelled to Myanmar. Based on the constitution of 2008 the military, however, continues to exercise substantial influence over both Houses of Parliament (the House of Representatives and the House of Nationalities). The sanctions imposed by the EU and USA, which had been in force over a long period of time, have in the meantime largely been suspended or lifted.

4.4.2.6.11. Malaysia In spite of persistent rumours to the contrary, Malaysia did not hold early elections. The third and to date largest mass demonstration organised by the NGO platform BERSIH (“clean”) calling for a fairer election law was held in Kuala Lumpur on 28 April. The demonstration involved the participation of representatives of all ethnic groups and was largely peaceful. Thanks to strong domestic demand the country’s economy continued on its upward trend.

4.4.2.6.12. Indonesia Since the end of the authoritarian regime of long-term President Suharto in 1998, democracy has been increasingly strengthened and more firmly established in Indonesia. The dominant domestic policy issue was the fight against corruption. Joko Widodo, a candidate whose promise of good governance had also raised expectations with regard to other politicians, won the gubernatorial elections in Jakarta. Thanks to strong domestic demand and close links with East Asia, Indonesia suffered hardly any impacts from the global financial and economic crisis. The country’s economic growth was again relatively high at 6.3 % and foreign direct investment increased sharply.

4.4.2.6.13. Timor-Leste Timor-Leste has undergone further consolidation. Presidential elections, the proper conduct of which was welcomed by the UNSC in a press statement, were held on 16 April. The elections were won by former Chief of General Staff of the Armed Forces Taur Matan Ruak, while the incumbent Ramos- Horta conceded defeat in the first ballot. In the parliamentary elections on 7 July the governing party led by José Alexandre “Xanana” Gusmão won 36.7 % of the votes, while the opposition party Fretilin achieved 30 %. Both ballots were conducted correctly in a largely peaceful atmosphere. In February, the UNSC adopted resolution 2037 (2012) thus extending for the last time the mandate of the UN Integrated Mission in Timor-Leste (UNMIT), first deployed in 2006, until the end of the year. Following a trip by several 133 Challenges and Developments on All Five Continents

UNSC members to Timor-Leste and a final debate in November, the UNSC adopted a Presidential Statement on the termination of UNMIT welcoming the progress achieved in the country over the last decade. Upon the mission’s expiry, the local police forces will hold exclusive responsibility for ensuring safety and security in the country.

4.4.2.6.14. Philippines In the Philippines, the Aquino administration continued its efforts towards curbing corruption and fighting poverty. The country’s macro-economic data showed a positive development. With a view to the Philippines’ capability to counter poverty in the long-term, the figures’ sustainability is, however, questionable as they are primarily based on the income of Philippines working overseas and on BPO projects (Business Process Outsourcing). As regards the still unresolved domestic conflicts with Muslim and Communist separatist groups, a framework agreement was signed in Manila on 15 Octo- ber with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front on the establishment of a new autonomous political entity (“Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro”), while the peace process with the leftist separatists has failed to produce any results. The dominant foreign policy issue were tensions with China over sovereignty rights in the South China Sea.

4.4.2.6.15. Vietnam In Vietnam, the year was dominated by the difficult economic situation. Although growth rates were still slightly above 5 %, this level was the lowest since 1999. Regardless of the success in fighting inflation and in eliminating the balance of trade deficit (the first balance of trade surplus since 1992), the mostly loss-making public sector and the debt-ridden banking sector were a major burden. The governing Communist Party of Vietnam addressed these problems largely by fighting corruption and adopting the relevant measures, including the transfer of leadership in the field of anti-corruption activities from the government to the party. At foreign policy, level Vietnam in fact insisted on its position in the island dispute with China; Hanoi’s response to the lack of agreement on the related declaration at the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ meeting in Cambodia on 13 July was, however, comparatively restrained. Relations with China remained generally very close, in particular at party level.

4.4.3. regional Organisations The ten member states (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myan- mar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam) of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) convened for summit meetings on 3 to 4 April and from 18 to 20 November. At the 21st ASEAN Summit in Phnom 134 Asia

Penh, an ASEAN Human Rights Declaration was adopted on 18 Novem- ber. This is the first time that a comprehensive human rights instrument has been adopted in Asia. The step was thus welcomed at international level. At the same time, however, concerns were voiced over the compatibility of parts of the declaration with the universal human rights standards. A declaration signed by the ASEAN Heads of State in the context of the adoption of the Human Rights Declaration in Phnom Penh thus confirms the ASEAN member states’ commitment to implement the Human Rights Declaration in accordance with the international human rights instruments named. The 45th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting held in Phnom Penh on 13 July was the first meeting in the organisation’s history that did not succeed in agreeing on a joint statement because of differences over the South China Sea issue. At the 19th EU-ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting held in Brunei Darus- salam from 26 to 27 April, the new EU-ASEAN Action Plan 2013–2017 was adopted. On 12 July, the EU acceded to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC) with ASEAN, which had required an amendment to the TAC. The EU contributes pro-actively to the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) that deals with security issues in the Asian-Pacific region. At the 19th ARF Min- isterial Meeting in Phnom Penh on 12 July, discussions focused on security issues and cooperation in disaster management. As the preliminary negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement with ASEAN had not produced any result, the EU opened negotiations on bilateral free trade agreements. Negotiations with Singapore were completed in December. Since October 2010 the EU has negotiated with Malaysia and since June with Vietnam. Further agreements with other countries in the region are planned. EU-Partnership and Cooperation Agreements were signed with Vietnam on 27 June and with the Philippines on 11 July (with Indonesia already in November 2009). Negotiations with Brunei were launched in December while those with Thailand, Singapore and Malaysia were continued. The EU participates as an observer in the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) which involves eight member states.

4.5. australia and Oceania 4.5.1. australia In spite of difficult proportions of seats in parliament, the minority government led by Prime Minister Julia Gillard remained in place. On 28 October, the PM presented a white paper entitled “Australia in the Asian Century”. According to this policy document, closer economic ties with Asia will translate into a marked increase in Australia’s GNP over the next few years. 135 Challenges and Developments on All Five Continents

Foreign policy highlights were the country’s elections to the UNSC in Octo- ber and the joint visit to Perth of US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Secretary of Defence Leon Panetta for ministerial consultations in November. The visit paid to Australia by the heir to the British throne Prince Charles and his wife Camilla, representing the common Head of State Queen Eliza- beth II on her Diamond Jubilee, marked the ceremonial highlight of the year. Several members and senior officials of the European Commission visited Australia on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations. The ongoing negotiations on a new framework agreement with the EU were continued.

4.5.2. new Zealand The governing coalition led by Prime Minister John Key continued to focus on stimulating the economy, especially against the background of the terrible earthquake disaster that hit Christchurch in February 2011. The traditionally good relations with Australia were further developed, relations with Asia were intensified and there was an active exchange with the EU. Numerous members and senior officials from the European Commission visited New Zealand. Negotiations on a new Framework Agreement with the EU were opened in July.

4.5.3. oceania The 43rd Pacific Islands Forum( PIF) was held on the Cook Islands in August. The first-ever attendance by a US Secretary of State (Hillary Clinton) added special weight to the meeting and underlined the USA’s return to a greater awareness of the Pacific as announced by President Obama. In Papua New Guinea, Prime Minister Peter O´Neill, who had taken over government in 2011 following a shift of parliamentary alliances, was confirmed in office by the parliamentary elections held from 23 June to 6 July. The efforts towards assisting the Fijis on their return to democracy and the rule of law rule were continued. A mixed Fijian-international commission prepared a draft constitution. In Tonga King Tupou VI succeeded his late brother King George Tupou V on 18 March. The Australia-led Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands (RAMSI) was continued. The projects launched in several Pacific states under the Italian-Austrian programme towards promoting the use of renewable energy projects were successfully continued.

136 Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) 5. Security Policy Dimension 5.1. common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) Upon entry into force of the Treaty of Lisbon on 1 December 2009 the term Common European Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) replaced the term European Security and Defence Policy (ESDP). The CSDP remains an integral element of the CFSP (see Chapter 3.3.2.1.). The Treaty of Lisbon moreover provides for a deepening of the CSDP by introducing a mutual assistance clause among EU Member States, a broadening of the so-called Petersberg tasks, the improvement of cooperation within the European Defence Agency, the possibility of setting up Permanent Structured Cooperation in the military field, and the strengthening of the role of the High Representative of the Union for Common Foreign and Security Policy and – although not regulated in the CFSP framework yet closely connected – the introduction of a solidarity clause among EU Member States. Concrete steps towards the implementation of Permanent Structured Cooperation have not been taken thus far. Consultations on the solidarity clause were completed under the direction of the Political and Security Committee (PSC) and the Standing Committee of the Council on Operational Cooperation on Internal Security (COSI) to which Austria contributed its arguments inter alia by submitting a non-paper at working level. On 21 December, the European Commission and EU HR Catherine Ashton submitted a common proposal for a Council resolution on the solidarity clause that should enter into force in 2013.

5.1.1. ongoing Crisis Management Operations For the individual operations please see the respective country sections in Chapter 4.

5.1.2. development of Civilian and Military Crisis Management Capabilities The civilian and military “Headline Goals 2010”, which define the level of ambition for the EU in civilian and military international crisis management, were extended beyond 2010 by the European Council meeting in Decem- ber 2010. Based on lessons learned in implementing the Headline Goals, the Council decided in December 2011 to continue work on both the military and the civilian capacity building process. EU HR Catherine Ashton was mandated with further developing the CSDP along these lines and with giving due consideration to the “comprehensive approach”. Ashton submitted a report in July. Against the background of increasingly tight defence budgets, the report stresses the importance of the joint use of defence resources (“Pool- ing and Sharing“). In this context, the European Defence Agency is to assume 137 Security Policy Dimension a pro-active role. Austria focuses primarily on regional cooperation with its Central European partners (Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia and Croatia) and identified concrete areas for cooperation, which it presented in the EU context in autumn. Planned cooperation activities involving regional partners relate especially to officer training, special forces training, training in dealing with improvised explosive devices (Counter-IED), and in the field of medical care. In the broader EU context, Austria assumed a leading role in training mountain troopers (Gebirgsjäger), in the field of NBC defence and in joint logistic programmes for the battle groups. Particular importance is attached to the concept of high utility force packages that are available at short notice and can be tailored rapidly to fulfil specific missions (battle groups). Based on semi-annual rotation, two such groups that include approximately 1,500 personnel are available and, if necessary, capable of being deployed within 5 to 15 days. During the second half of 2012, Austria assumed a logistic lead function in the German-led battle group, which also included troops from the Czech Republic, Ireland and the third countries Croatia and Macedonia. In order to improve the capability of battle groups – which have not yet been deployed – consultations based on a working paper prepared by the Politico- Military Group (PMG) were conducted that focused mainly on adding flexibility to the battle group concept. The relevant decision will be taken at the meeting of the European Council at the end of 2013, which will also deal with defence issues. In terms of practical crisis management activities, the EU has to increasingly take into account the involvement of a large number of international organisations dealing with the various aspects of a crisis in the operational theatres. This requires above all enhanced cooperation and burden sharing (“comprehensive approach”) based on the comparative advantages between the EU and other international organisations, especially the United Nations (UN), the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO; see Chapter 5.3.), the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), the Council of Europe (CoE) and the African Union (AU). The Joint Statement on UN-EU Cooperation in Crisis Management (2007) provides for close coordination between the two organisations in the fields of conflict prevention, mediation, peacekeeping and peace building. The implementation of this statement is fostered in regular meetings by the two organisations. Where CSDP and UN missions have been conducted in the same region (in the Democratic Republic of Congo, in Chad or in Kosovo, for instance), experience has shown that efficient and well-functioning cooperation between the EU and the UN plays a key role in maintaining international peace and security. The EU also fully supports the “New Horizon” initiative towards reforming UN peacekeeping operations launched by the UN Secre- tariat in 2009. Based on a working paper on “EU-UN Cooperation in Crisis Management – Actions to Enhance EU CSDP Support to UN Peacekeeping”, 138 OSCE the PSC discussed concrete measures towards operationalizing cooperation. As a very tangible outcome of these discussions the “EU-UN Steering Com- mittee” was revived and an action plan developed for implementing the working paper. Cooperation between EU and NATO was continued. In line with the “Berlin Plus Agreement”, the CSDP operation EUFOR Althea in Bosnia and Herze- govina is carried out by accessing and using NATO capabilities and facilities. EU and NATO are also jointly engaged in crisis management operations in Afghanistan and in Kosovo – the EU with civilian capacities while NATO in both cases assumes military tasks. In the seas around the Horn of Africa there is close coordination between the EU operation Atalanta and the NATO operation Ocean Shield aimed at fighting piracy off the coast of Somalia. When building up military capabilities the EU also works in coordination with NATO – as 21 EU Member States also hold NATO membership. In this context it is assured that the requirements to be fulfilled by the member states’ armed forces in the framework of EU and NATO are compatible with and/or complement each other. Cooperation in the field of cyber security has furthermore taken on increased importance. Cooperation between the EU and the OSCE is especially close regarding activities in the Western Balkans and in the states of the European Neigh- bourhood policy, where both organisations are actively contributing towards building up and strengthening democratic and rule of law institutions. Security policy cooperation between the EU and the AU has since December 2007 been based on the Joint Africa-EU Strategy adopted at the EU-Africa Summit in Lisbon and the peace and security partnership enshrined in the strategy, which has been implemented since 2008.

5.2. oSCE 5.2.1. the OSCE’s Evolution towards a Comprehensive Security Community

Based on the Astana Commemorative Declaration, adopted by the Organiza- tion for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) at its December 2010 summit, the Irish OSCE Chairmanship – in the context of several meetings of the informal Helsinki+40 Dialogue that encompasses all three OSCE dimensions – strove to establish commonalities and shared views that would enable the gradual development of a comprehensive security community in the entire OSCE area. The still unresolved conflicts in the OSCE area (Nago- rno-Karabakh, Transnistria, Georgia) and diverging views regarding the role of the human dimension within the OSCE, however, hampered any real progress. 139 Security Policy Dimension

The Initiative for the Development of a Euro-Atlantic and Eurasian Security Community (IDEAS) launched by Germany, France, Poland and Russia, submitted a report to the OSCE which includes recommendations focusing inter alia on closer cooperation with international organisations, more active inclusion of diverse social levels and the inclusion of the topic of reconciliation in the conflict cycle. The OSCE Ministerial Council in Dublin (6 and 7 December) adopted a Helsinki+40 process which mandates the three consecutive chairmanships (Ukraine 2013, Switzerland 2014, Serbia 2015) with developing concrete proposals for the development of a comprehensive security community. The decision on welcoming Mongolia as the 57th participating State was taken on 21 November prior to the Ministerial Council meeting.

5.2.2. regional Issues and Field Activities The OSCE maintains 17 field operations in South East Europe and the Com- monwealth of Independent States (CIS), to which a major portion of the OSCE budget (60 %) and personnel resources are devoted. Austria seconded 24 civilian experts to over half of these field operations, the vast majority of whom were active in South East Europe. With regard to project funding, Austria focused on those countries with the most urgent need of assistance in consolidating democratic structures, human rights and the rule of law. In the field of border management, Aus- tria contributed to projects in the Central Asian region that were directly related to the stabilisation efforts in Afghanistan. Based on the decision to strengthen the OSCE’s cooperation with Afghanistan, taken in Vilnius in December 2011, Austria was able to support a project aimed at promoting entrepreneurship among Afghan women.

5.2.2.1. South East Europe Although in terms of budgeting account was taken of the fact that the overall situation in South East Europe has improved, the OSCE continues to maintain its major field operations in South East Europe, namely in Kosovo and in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It also maintains OSCE field presences in Albania, Macedonia, Montenegro and Serbia. The mission in Croatia was officially closed at the end of 2011. Responsibility for monitoring the still pending war crimes proceedings was transferred to experienced civil society organisations. The OSCE’s field operations represent an important contribution towards strengthening rule of law and democratic structures and consolidating multi-ethnic societies in South East Europe. The OSCE strives to increasingly shift activities from stand-alone OSCE programmes towards monitoring and counselling of local administrative and political structures. The focus was 140 OSCE inter alia on elections, human rights and minorities, freedom of the media, democratic structures and control mechanisms (at national and local level), an active civil society, law enforcement and judicial systems. The related activities encompass the entire spectrum from the relevant legislation to the implementation and application of provisions. Increasing attention has also been dedicated to the regional approach. Many issues and problems (such as human trafficking, organised crime, drug trafficking, etc.) can be addressed more effectively by bundling the relevant efforts and taking an integrated regional approach. The OSCE’s offices’ presence, monitoring and reporting activities alone make a valuable contribution towards furthering democratic development in the South East European states. This has also given an important impetus to these states’ rapprochement to the EU. The OSCE and the OSCE Mission in Kosovo that was headed until September by the Austrian Werner Almhofer won international recognition for facilitating the Serbian legislative and presidential elections held in May in Kosovo. The support provided by the OSCE enabled Serbian nationals who live in Kosovo to participate in the elections.

5.2.2.2. Moldova/Transnistria The conflict that has been simmering in Transnistria for 20 years now still remains unsolved. The 5+2 format (Moldova, Transnistria, OSCE, Rus- sian Federation and the Ukraine as facilitators plus the EU and the USA as observers) held a total of five formal rounds of talks. Three of these rounds were held on the premises of the FMEIA, which enabled Austria to make a valuable logistic contribution to the successful conduct of these talks. Par- ticipants succeeded in agreeing on principles and procedures as well as on the agenda (subdivision in three areas) and on launching substantial discussions on socio-economic and humanitarian issues. The OSCE Mission in Moldova strives to support the process towards finding a sustainable solution to the Transnistria conflict. The mission focused especially on human rights issues, democratisation, freedom of the media, fighting human trafficking and implementing confidence-building measures. By adopting the “Statement on the Negotiations on the Transnistrian Settlement Process at the Dublin Ministerial Council” the 5+2 talks were for the first time ever endorsed by all OSCE participating States at ministerial level. The paper also includes the mandate to intensify the conflict resolution efforts in the existing format. This statement is at the same time one of the most important achievements of the Dublin Ministerial Council. Austria repeated its offer to host further rounds of talks in Vienna.

5.2.2.3. Belarus Bilateral consultations regarding the OSCE Office in Minsk that had been closed in 2011 did not produce any results. At the same time, however, 141 Security Policy Dimension

Belarus remained interested in further technical cooperation with the OSCE in the individual project areas, especially in the field of human trafficking. A re-opening of the office in Belarus – which had been repeatedly called for by a large number of OSCE participating States – still remained unlikely. The Belarusian parliamentary elections in September were observed by the OSCE. In the final report the following deficiencies were identified: “many OSCE commitments, including citizens’ right to associate, and to express themselves freely were not respected, despite some improvements to the electoral law”.

5.2.2.4. ukraine The OSCE Mission in the Ukraine consists of an office with a Project Co- ordinator, which in close cooperation with local authorities implements projects towards stimulating the economy, fighting human trafficking, promoting democratisation and supporting civil society. The Project Co-ordinator’s Office is active in all three OSCE dimensions. The office regretted that support from the Ukrainian authorities could not always be guaranteed at an optimal level. Activities focused on the administrative-technical preparation for the parliamentary elections in October, which were also observed by the OSCE. In the final report, the OSCE concluded that “while voters had a choice between distinct parties and election day was calm and peaceful overall, certain aspects of the pre-election period constituted a step back- wards compared with recent national elections. In particular, these elections were characterised by the lack of a level playing field, caused primarily by the abuse of administrative resources, lack of transparency of campaign and party financing, and the lack of balanced media coverage”. The proceedings against Yulia Tymoshenko – that ended with the conviction of the former Prime Minister – dominated the headlines in 2012. In the meantime, the Ukraine prepared for its OSCE Chairmanship 2013.

5.2.2.5. Southern Caucasus The vast majority of the OSCE participating States continued to call for a substantial, comprehensive role to be played by the OSCE in the whole of Georgia through the re-establishment of an OSCE mission. The Russian Federation, however, continued to insist on developing a mandate which takes account of its unilateral recognition of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. This remains unacceptable for the vast majority of the OSCE participating States and thus the OSCE’s role remains restricted to that of a Co-Chair of the Geneva Discussions. The informal support of the OSCE Chairmanship in issues relating to the gas and water supply between South Ossetia and the rest of Georgia was continued. The OSCE Offices in Baku and Yerevan supported the two states in implementing the OSCE commitments in all three dimensions with a special focus 142 OSCE on democratisation (constitutional reform, electoral law reform) rule of law, good governance, freedom of the media and assembly as well as support for civil society. Problems in the field of freedom of the media, including the electronic media, were frequently recurring issues in Azerbaijan. In the context of the Minsk Group, which is co-chaired by the USA, France and the Russian Federation, a political solution was sought to the Nagorno- Karabakh conflict. The competent Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairman-in-Office undertook efforts towards mediating in the conflict at technical level and promoting confidence-building measures along the Line of Contact. The Vienna-based High-Level Planning Group adapted proposals for the potential establishment, force structure requirements and operation of a multinational OSCE peacekeeping operation. Meetings of presidents and foreign ministers were continued. At the Ministerial Council in Dublin the participating States, however, only succeeded in adopting a Joint Statement by the Heads of Delegation of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chair countries in which they call upon the parties to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict to demonstrate a greater sense of urgency in the peace process and stress that a peaceful negotiated settlement was the only option for resolving the conflict and reconciliation. The OSCE also called for developing mechanisms that enable the investigation of ceasefire violations and finalising the fundamental principles for conflict resolution. Azerbaijan’s attempt to transfer the conflict resolution efforts to the entire Minsk Group (apart from the three Co-Chairs and the parties to the conflict this includes Belarus, Germany, Italy, Sweden, Finland, Turkey and the respective OSCE troika) failed. The situation along the Line of Contact remained tense, especially as both parties used snipers. Lack of progress in the Nagorno-Karabakh issue lead especially in Azerbaijan to a hardening of positions and a growing scepticism over the planned development of an OSCE-wide security community. Within the OSCE, Armenia heavily criticised the fact that the convicted murderer Safarov was granted pardon in Azerbaijan after he had been extradited by Hungary.

5.2.2.6. central Asia The OSCE stepped up its commitment in the Central Asian states thus again confirming its role as one of the most important players in the region. Apart from the tasks assumed by the OSCE with respect to traditional security issues at politico-military level – like early warning, conflict prevention, confidence and security building measures, mediation and fighting- terror ism – the OSCE field presences strove to place the focus of project activities increasingly and in an ongoing manner on the human dimension. This included inter alia the provision of expertise in the fields of rule of law, building up pluralistic social structures, democratic media policy and the respect of human rights. With respect to security and stability, especially at the national borders, the withdrawal of NATO troops from Afghanistan in 2014 marks a key date for the region. In this context the OSCE field presences 143 Security Policy Dimension with their border management projects play an important role. Especially the OSCE Border Management Staff College in Tajikistan, which is co-funded by Austria and specialises on high-quality training for border officials and staff provided by experienced instructors. The priorities pursued by the OSCE Centre in Astana (Kazakhstan) were on fighting terrorism and organised crime, border management, good governance, support in criminal law reform and equality among women and men. A large number of OSCE activities took place in Kyrgyzstan. The OSCE Cen- tre in Bishkek again focused on topics such as political consolidation, rule of law, good governance, conflict prevention in natural resource management (in particular land and water), as well as Kyrgyzstan’s role in supporting long-term stability in Afghanistan. The OSCE Academy in Bishkek, which is co-funded by Austria, serves as both a training centre and platform for dialogue in the region. In 2012, the new Master degree programme in “Economic Governance and Development” was launched. The confidence and security building measures launched by the Community Security Initiative (CSI), established in 2010, made a tangible contribution towards improving understanding and cooperation between police authorities and local citizens. Due to the increasingly prominent role played by the OSCE in capacity-building in and around Afghanistan, the OSCE Office in Tajikistan has assumed an increasing number of tasks, especially with respect to developing effective border management. The OSCE Office also houses the Border Management Staff College (BMSC), set up in 2009 and co-funded by Austria. By training border police officers from the region and especially from Afghanistan, the BMSC strives to contribute to ensuring secure and stabile borders with a view to the withdrawal of NATO troops in 2014. The smaller OSCE Offices inT urkmenistan and Uzbekistan (OSCE Centre in Ashgabat and Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan) mainly implement projects in the politico-military dimension (such as road safety, transport security and border management) but had only limited opportunities for action in the human dimension. Cooperation with the authorities in Ashgabat improved over the course of the year, which meant that the OSCE Centre was, for instance, able to contribute towards the development of the new media law.

5.2.3. election Observation The OSCE election observation missions are conducted by delegates from the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly (PA) and staff from the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR). One of the main tasks of the War- saw-based ODIHR is to promote democratic election processes, on the one hand by providing technical support in preparing and implementing election law provisions, and on the other hand in conducting election observation missions. ODIHR organised election observation missions for elections 144 OSCE at national level in eight participating States (Russia, Ukraine, Armenia, Lithuania, Georgia, Monaco, Belarus and USA). Election reform recommendations were prepared for the Netherlands, Spain and Tunisia. Austria participated in ODIHR election observation missions by seconding twelve observers in total (eight short-term observers and four long-term observers) for the elections in Belarus, Armenia, Georgia, Ukraine and Rus- sia.

5.2.4. the OSCE’s Human Dimension The human dimension is the core element of the OSCE’s activities which aim to protect and promote human rights, democracy and the rule of law. Its operational institution is the Warsaw-based Office for Democratic Institu- tions and Human Rights (ODIHR). ODIHR assumes an internationally recognised position in the field of election observation. The ODIHR’s scope covers the promotion and observation of democratic elections (see Chapter 5.2.3.), the building-up of democratic structures and the promotion of human rights, tolerance, non-discrimination and the rule of law. Other areas of work relate to the rights of Roma and Sinti as well as broad-based activities in the fields of freedom of association, support for civil society, process monitoring, gender mainstreaming and cooperation with the OSCE’s Mediterranean partners. Another central task fulfilled by ODIHR consists in monitoring the implementation of human dimension commitments. The 16th Human Dimension Implementation Meeting (HDIM) was held in Warsaw from 24 September to 5 October. Traditionally, the HDIM has been the most important forum for exchange between NGOs and OSCE participating States. With 1,072 participants, including 577 representatives from NGOs, attendance was again impressive. The number and quality of moderators was, as always, high. The individual modules dealt with fundamental freedoms, freedom of expression, freedom of the media, freedom of assembly and association, freedom of movement, the role of civil society, human rights education, migrants’ rights, integration, refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs), treatment of citizens of other participating States, rule of law, independence of the judiciary, right to a fair trial, democratic law making, abolition of capital punishment, prevention of torture, fighting terrorism, the rights of Roma and Sinti, human trafficking, tolerance and non-discrimination, equality issues, violence against women, freedom of thought, conscience, religion or belief, freedom of opinion, fundamental freedoms of members of minorities, democratic institutions, election observation, citizenship, LGBT, sexual discrimination and the implementation of the European Court of Human Rights’ (ECtHR) rulings. As was the case in previous years, the HDIM defined the direction developments of the OSCE’s human dimension are to take. 145 Security Policy Dimension

The three annual Supplementary Human Dimension Meetings (SHDM) held in Vienna were dedicated to the following topics: “Combating Racism, Intolerance and Discrimination in Society through Sport” from 19–20 April, “Democratic Elections and Election Observation” from 12–13 July and “Free- dom of Assembly and Association” from 8–9 November. A special seminar held in Warsaw from 14–16 May was dedicated to the topic of the “Rule of Law Framework for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings”. The OSCE’s activities in the field of tolerance were continued to be implemented by the three Personal Representatives of the Chairperson-in-Office: Rabbi Andrew Baker (USA, Personal Representative on Combating Anti- Semitism), Adil Akhmetov (Kazakhstan, Personal Representative on Com- bating Intolerance and Discrimination against Muslims) and Judge Catherine McGuinness who had been newly appointed by the Irish Chair (Ireland, Per- sonal Representative on Combating Racism, Xenophobia and Discrimination including Intolerance and Discrimination against Christians and Members of Other Religions). The three Personal Representatives paid a country visit to Austria in March 2012 and evaluated the situation within their respective scope of activities. They met and discussed with representatives from the Federal Chancellery, the Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs, the Federal Ministry of the Interior, the Federal Ministry of Justice, the National Fund and the Future Fund, with NGOs and the religious communities. The three Personal Representatives were welcomed inter alia by the Archbishop of Vienna and the Metropolitan of Austria Arsenios, the Chairman of the Orthodox Bishops Conference. They also held talks with the Jewish Community and the Islamic Community and representatives of Protestant Communities. Maria Grazia Giammarinaro (Italy) continued in her role as Special Repre- sentative of the Chairperson-in-Office and Co-ordinator for Combating Traf- ficking in Human Beings, June Zeitlin continued as Special Representative of the Chairperson-in-Office on Gender Issues. Former Norwegian Foreign Minister Knut Vollebaek continued in his function as High Commissioner on National Minorities. He is responsible for identifying and seeking early resolution of ethnic tensions that might endanger peace, stability or friendly relations between the participating States of the OSCE. Dunja Mijatović (Bosnia and Herzegovina) has held the office ofO SCE Representative on Freedom of the Media since 2010. It is her task to observe relevant media developments in the OSCE participating States with a view to providing early identification of violations of freedom of expression and to assisting participating States by advocating and promoting full compliance with OSCE principles and commitments regarding freedom of expression and free media. In this context, the Representative on Freedom of the Media increasingly focuses on promoting freedom of expression in digital media such as the internet. As was the case at last year’s Ministerial Council in Vilnius, the conflict between Russia and the Western OSCE participating States dominated the 146 OSCE agenda in the human dimension and again rendered Ministerial Council decisions impossible. Thus the OSCE Ministerial Council in Dublin in December did not reach agreement on Austria’s and the EU’s priority issues including safety of journalists and pluralism in the new media. Austria thus continued to pro-actively advocate freedom of the media, safety of journalists, freedom of assembly and association and democratic elections, the prevention of hate crimes and the protection of religious minorities.

5.2.5. the OSCE’s Security Policy Dimension Apart from the politico-military affairs that are dealt with by the Forum for Security Co-operation in weekly meetings, trans-national threats and issues relating to comprehensive border security, trafficking in human beings, protection of information infrastructure/cyber security and police cooperation have become an increasing focus of discussions in the Security Committee. At the Annual Security Review Conference in Vienna (26–28 June), the Western OSCE participating States continued to stress the importance of further developing the comprehensive OSCE security community approach. Russia warned against zones of different security levels within the OSCE and advocated operational cooperation between the OSCE and the Collec- tive Security Treaty Organisation (analogous to cooperation between the OSCE and NATO). Immediately before the Review Conference, the first-ever OSCE Security Days were held on 24 and 25 June: These Security Days are based on the initiative of the OSCE Secretary General and were developed with a view to involving independent security experts on a broader basis in the OSCE discourse. In his capacity as chairman of the Foreign Policy and United Nations Association of Austria, former Federal Chancellor Wolfgang Schüssel as guest key note speaker delivered the opening address. Austria supported efforts towards improving the implementation of the Code of Conduct on the Politico-Military Aspects of Security (integration of issues relating to the national implementation of UNSC resolution 1325 (2000) on women, peace and security) as well as on the substantial further development of the Vienna Document on Confidence and Security-Building Mea- sures, as slightly amended in 2011. Together with other participating States, Austria supported a reduction of threshold values for the notification of certain military activities and for risk reduction measures and will continue these efforts. Following the failure of the talks aimed at reviving the Treaty on Conven- tional Armed Forces in Europe held in Vienna and the suspension of the contractual information obligations also on the part of the NATO member states, the OSCE focused its efforts increasingly on updating the Vienna Doc- ument on Confidence and Security-Building Measures. Austria supported making the future of conventional arms control in Europe an increasingly important topic on the OSCE’s agenda. 147 Security Policy Dimension

Austria also contributed financially to OSCE projects for the destruction of cluster ammunition stockpiles in Georgia, the mine action programme in Tajikistan, for the regional implementation of projects on the non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction as well as to the OSCE Border Man- agement Staff College in Dushanbe which provides training to Afghan and Central Asian border control staff and officials. At the Ministerial Council in Dublin, the participating States succeeded in adopting a decision on stepping up the OSCE efforts to address transnational threats. The OSCE Secretariat’s capacities in the field of police cooperation, the fight against terrorism, the fight against illegal drugs and precur- sor substances as well as in the field of cyber security are now to be further developed. In April, an informal working group on cyber security confidence building measures was established. Austria participated proactively in this meeting and like the USA and the EU it strove at the Dublin Council of Ministers to bring about a separate decision on an initial list of potential confidence-building measures focusing on enhanced transparency, exchange of information and closer networking among national contact points. The Russian Federation that also wants the OSCE to deal with issues relating to the control of the internet, was the only OSCE participating State that prevented such a concrete decision.

5.2.6. the OSCE’s Economic and Environmental Dimension The OSCE’s economic and environmental dimension was dominated by “Pro- moting Security and Stability through Good Governance”, the topic chosen by the Irish OSCE Chairmanship for the Economic and Environmental Forum 2012. At the two conferences, the focus was on measures against corruption and fighting money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism. The topics chosen by Ireland were met with political interest and supported by all participating States. International organisations and bodies that are active in this area (UNODC, GRECO and Moneyval/Council of Europe, FATF, OECD etc.) also participated very proactively. The newly established Inter- national Anti-Corruption Academy (IACA) based in Vienna, succeeded in presenting itself successfully in the OSCE environment. Building on that it was possible at the December OSCE Ministerial Council in Dublin to adopt a comprehensive political declaration on good governance, which will enable the continuation and deepening of OSCE work in this area. For the second time a conference was held in Vienna at which the implementation of the OSCE’s political decisions in the economic and environmental dimension by field presences and/or the Vienna-based co-ordinator were subjected to a review. Under Ukrainian Chairmanship 2013 mainly the topic of environmental impact of energy policy activities and a potential role of the OSCE in this field will be addressed. 148 North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) 5.2.7. parliamentary Assembly of the OSCE The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly (PA) with its headquarters in Copenha- gen, and since 2002 with a liaison office in Vienna, is made up of 323 parliamentarians of the 57 participating States. The 21st Annual Session was held from 5 to 9 July in Monaco and focused on “The OSCE – Region of Change”. Draft resolutions were prepared by the three committees and dealt with the security challenges, economic and financial issues, pre-requisites and back- ward steps faced by and in the fulfilment of OSCE commitments. Further draft resolutions dealt inter alia with the situation in Belarus, in the Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia, and with minority and gender issues. As was the case in 2011, the PA again focused on the Arab Spring and deliberated on involving the Palestinian Authority in the group of Mediterranean Partners of the OSCE. In June, Riccardo Migliori (Italy) was appointed new President of the PA and replaced Petros Efthymiou (Greece). The 11th Winter Meeting, which has convened annually in Vienna since 2002, took place on 23 and 24 Feb- ruary. Sessions were held by the General Committee on Democracy, Human Rights and Humanitarian Questions and the committees on Political Affairs and Security, Economic Affairs, Science, Technology and the Environment. Hedy Fry, the Parliamentary Committee’s Special Representative on Gender Issues delivered a keynote address. In autumn, cooperation between the PA and ODIHR deteriorated and at the Dublin Ministerial Council the Presi- dent of the PA, Migliori, rescinded cooperation with ODIHR during election observations which is based on the Copenhagen Cooperation Agreement concluded between the two institutions in 1997.

5.3. north Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) 5.3.1. the Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council (EAPC) and Partnership for Peace (PfP) Austria has been a member of PfP since 1995 and a member of EAPC, the forum of cooperation between NATO and its partner countries in the field of security policy, since 1997. With up to 600 soldiers, Austria provided the largest contingent of any partner country under the NATO-led peace mission in Kosovo (KFOR) in 2012 and was overall the third-largest KFOR troop provider in total. Furthermore, Austria also contributed 150 soldiers to the Operational Reserve Force (ORF) until March, during the Serbian elections in May and then again from 1 Octo- ber. Austria also supported the training of the Kosovo Security Force (KSF) in the framework of the Civil Advisory Division by seconding three trainers and since July it has been responsible for ensuring camp security at KFOR headquarters in Pristina. Since June 2009, the forces of operation KFOR have gradually been phased out. At the end of 2012, the entire troop force amounted to some 5,600 per- 149 Security Policy Dimension sonnel including about 700 Operational Reserve troops that will be deployed in Kosovo until mid-January 2013. By the end of 2012, KFOR was still responsible for the protection of two out of originally nine religious and cultural heritage sites guarded by KFOR. Starting in 2012, the main responsibility for protecting these sites was gradually transferred to the Kosovar police. Austria also seconded three staff officers to the headquarters of the NATO- led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan. This UN-authorised peacekeeping operation mainly supports the Afghan government in establishing and maintaining internal security and human rights, delivering humanitarian aid, ensuring the orderly return of refugees and in reconstruction assistance. ISAF is gradually handing over responsibility for security to Afghan security authorities. The process is to be completed by 2014. Beyond that date a NATO-led engagement will provide support to the country. By the end of the year, ISAF troop strength totalled about 105,000 personnel. From 8 to 9 February, a high-level Austrian delegation held staff-to-staff consultations on the topic of cyber defence/cyber security at NATO headquarters in Brussels and at SHAPE in Mons. This marked the second round of talks on these topics, after in November 2011 a high-level NATO experts’ delegation had taken part in informal technical talks in Vienna. Discussions focused especially on possible cooperation between Austria and NATO in the field of cyber security. A NATO summit attended by Federal Chancellor Werner Faymann, Federal Minister Norbert Darabos and State Secretary Wolfgang Waldner was held in Chicago on 21 May. US President Obama invited 13 partners of NATO who had recently made an especially important operational, political or financial contribution to attend a special meeting. In this context, there was special recognition for Austria’s commitment to KFOR. The meeting focused especially on the implementation of the partnership’s reform. Austria underlined the NATO partners’ achievements in implementing NATO tasks in the field of international crisis management, as providers of both troops and additional legitimacy and in the field of cooperative security. Austria has also pledged to provide a total of 18 million euros over three years to strengthen law enforcement (police system) based on the rule of law in Afghanistan. In the EAPC framework, Austria contributed pro-actively to implementing UNSC resolution 1325 (2000) on women, peace and security and the UNSC resolution 1894 (2009) on the protection of civilians in armed conflicts. Like- wise, Austria played an active role in the consultations on the developments in the Balkans, EU-NATO cooperation, NATO partnerships and new threats to security. Within the context of Partnership for Peace (PfP), Austria took part in a number of Trust Fund projects.

150 Council of Europe 6. austria in other European Fora 6.1. council of Europe 6.1.1. political Developments In 2012, having largely completed its process of internal reform, the Council of Europe (CoE) placed a special focus on two political developments: one was the continuation of the reform process of the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) (see Chapter 9.4), which was the key issue dealt with by the British Chairmanship of the Committee of Ministers in the first six months; the second was cooperation between the ECtHR and Mediterranean states, which had been extended substantially as a consequence of the Arab Spring and the CoE’s policy towards its neighbouring regions in general. By pursuing this policy, the Council of Europe strives to assist its neighbouring states in democratic transformation and further development in the CoE’s core areas of democracy, human rights and the rule of law, to promote good governance based on the relevant CoE standards and mechanisms and to strengthen the CoE’s activities in combating transnational and global threats. The tools used in this cooperation include counselling provided by the CoE to the respective countries, election observation, parliamentary cooperation, participation in relevant CoE structures and accession to certain CoE conventions. To date Morocco, Tunisia, Jordan, Israel, the PLO, Kazakhstan and Tajikistan have engaged in a Neighbourhood Cooperation Dialogue with the CoE. Coop- eration priorities have been agreed on and adopted for Jordan, Morocco and Tunisia. For the next three years their funding is covered by the budgetary framework created by the EU. In the context of the 122nd Session of the Committee of Ministers on 23 May, the Brighton Declaration for reform of the ECtHR was formally adopted by the ministers, the CoE’s policy towards its neighbouring regions formally endorsed and its continuation decided on. In 2012, the Ministers’ Deputies in the CoE held five “thematic debates” during which certain topics are discussed in detail and frequently additional CoE activities are adopted. The topics deliberated on in 2012 included freedom of the media, protection of journalists, living together in culturally diverse societies, discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, religious freedom and the situation of religious minorities. In September, the 31st CoE Conference of Ministers of Justice convened in Vienna. More than 39 justice ministers discussed the topic of urban violence and the related challenges for the judiciary. Further conferences of specialised ministers were held in September in St. Petersburg (ministers responsible for youth) and in October in Istanbul (ministers responsible for social cohesion). 151 Austria in other European Fora

For the first time, the CoE organised the World Forum for Democracy, held in Strasbourg from 5 to 11 October. The forum brought together some 1,500 figures from politics, science, civil society and international organisations from 120 countries. Under the heading of “Bridging the gap: Democracy: between old models and new realities”, participants dealt with topical issues of democracy. The list of outstanding participants included inter alia the UNSG, the Peace Nobel Prize laureate 2011 from Yemen, the President of the EP, the Presi- dents of Albania and of Tunisia and the German Finance Minister. Other important CoE activities included the adoption of a CoE Strategy for the Rights of the Child and a CoE Internet Governance Strategy, with which the organisation reacts in a clear and focused manner on existing challenges. In order to promote the effective implementation of existing legal standards, the Strategy for the Rights of the Child 2012–2015 pursues four strategic objectives: promoting child-friendly services and systems; eliminating all forms of violence against children; guaranteeing the rights of children in vulnerable situations; promoting child participation in decisions that affect children. The Internet Governance Strategy 2012–2015 for the protection of human rights, the rule of law and democracy in the internet contains more than 40 lines of concrete actions in six areas including the protection of the internet’s openness, maximising rights and freedoms for internet users, advancing data protection, and issues relating to cybercrime and democracy. In May, the United Kingdom handed over the Chairmanship of the Committee of Ministers to Albania, which passed it on in November to Andorra which will then hold the Chairmanship until May 2013. Apart from the above mentioned reform of the ECtHR, the priorities of the British Chairmanship included the topics of discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, local and regional democracy as well as internet governance. The Albanian Chair- manship pursued an ambitious programme related to all areas of CoE activity and clearly underlined the importance Albania attributed to its first CoE Chairmanship. During its Chairmanship, Andorra focuses on education for democratic citizenship and human rights, on competences for living together peacefully in a democratic environment as well as intercultural dialogue.

6.1.2. relations with other International Organisations Relations between the CoE and the EU continue to be governed by the Memorandum of Understanding, signed in 2007, which defines the formal framework for close cooperation in areas of shared interest – like democracy, human rights, the rule of law, culture, education and social cohesion – and confirms the role played by the CoE as a point of reference for democracy, human rights and the rule of law. At operational level, cooperation was further intensified, especially with respect to common projects. Programmes for South East and East European countries that are jointly prepared and co-funded by the EU and the CoE and provide for a more substantial promo- 152 Council of Europe tion of human rights, the rule of law and democracy, are the major priority of cooperation and make up an important share of the CoE’s programme-related activities. The EU is thus by far the largest voluntary donor with regard to CoE projects. At political level, there is an active exchange and frequent meetings are held between the Secretary General of the CoE and members of the Euro- pean Commission. There are also other high-level encounters that involve the participation of the CoE Chairmanship, the Committee of Ministers, the Secretary General of the CoE as well as the High Representative and Vice President of the European Commission. There is successful cooperation in place with the Vienna-based EU Agency for Fundamental Rights, in the context of which both institutions inform each other in advance about planned activities and act in close coordination. Under the EU’s Eastern Partnership, which is part of the EU’s European Neighbourhood Policy, the CoE participates in two of the four Eastern Partnership Policy Platforms (“democracy, rule of law and stability” as well as “contacts between people”). Apart from regular exchange of information on ongoing activities and projects between the CoE Secretariat and the European Commission at officials’ level, the CoE maintains a permanent Office in Brussels; the EU, which is represented by a delegation in Strasbourg, participates in CoE sessions. Institutionalised cooperation between the CoE and the OSCE was continued in the context of Co-ordination Group meetings held in March and in October. The meetings focused on the central topics of fighting terrorism, protection of national minorities, combating trafficking in human being and promotion of tolerance and non-discrimination. At working level, the two organisations’ secretariats are in constant contact and coordinate the respective activities to the largest extent possible. In 2012, the High Commissioner on National Minorities visited Strasbourg for an exchange of views with the Committee of Ministers at Deputies’ level. Likewise, the representatives of the Chairmanship in the Committee of Ministers generally present the priorities of the respective Chairmanship to the Permanent Council of the OSCE, as was indeed also the case in 2012. The CoE furthermore maintains liaison offices at the OSCE and other international organisations in Vienna, at the OSCE’s Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights in Warsaw and at the Geneva-based international organisations.

6.1.3. Human Rights See Chapter 9.3

6.1.4. Monitoring Respect of Commitments by Member States One of the CoE’s most important tools is monitoring member States’ compliance with the commitments undertaken in the fields of human rights, pluralist democracy and freedom of expression and information. These commit- 153 Austria in other European Fora ments entered into by the member States have arisen as a result of either their accession to the CoE or their accession to specific conventions of the CoE. The Parliamentary Assembly’s Committee on the Honouring of Obligations and Commitments by Member States of the CoE is responsible for monitoring compliance with commitments member states undertook upon accession to the CoE until their full implementation. The Monitoring Committee currently deals with ten states: Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Moldova, Montenegro, Russia, Serbia and Ukraine. A post-monitoring dialogue on strengthening the respective country’s democratic institutions is being conducted with Bulgaria, Monaco, Macedonia and Turkey. Every two years the Committee also prepares country reports as well as recommendations that are adopted by the Parliamentary Assembly. Monitoring by the Committee of Ministers is based either on obligations arising from the accession procedure (as in the cases of Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bos- nia and Herzegovina, Montenegro and Serbia) or on obligations arising from specific difficulties faced by the respective member State following accession (as in the cases of Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine). Added to that, the Commit- tee of Ministers also conducts thematic monitoring. All monitoring processes are confidential and flexible processes that extend over a longer period of time. Monitoring by the Committee of Ministers of the national implementation of the judgements passed by the European Court of Human Rights is based on Article 46 of the European Convention on Human Rights and its Protocol No. 11 and takes place in four annual meetings that extend over several days. The Secretariat furthermore issues quarterly reports to the Committee of Ministers on Bosnia and Herzegovina, on Montenegro and on Serbia; and half-yearly reports on Georgia. In the framework of so-called “stock-taking”, Moldova is also subject to de facto monitoring. Furthermore, the CoE Offices in Baku, Belgrade, Yerevan, Chişinău, Podgorica, Pristina, Sarajevo, Skopje, Tbilisi and Tirana report almost every month on developments in the respective states. The Council of Europe’s activities also focus on the impact of the war that broke out between Georgia and Russia in August 2008. The Council of Europe particularly strives to contribute towards improving the human rights situation in all affected areas. These efforts also involve the activities of the Human Rights Commissioner, the Committee against Torture and dedicated relief projects for traumatised children. Thematic monitoring is undertaken on a multitude of aspects and is related to commitments and obligations arising from member States’ accession to specific CoE Conventions. Thus the European Committee for the Prevention of Torture and Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CPT), to which all member States of the Council of Europe are party, carries out periodic and ad hoc visits to national detention centres, prisons, police stations and psychiatric hospitals. The Group of States against Corruption (GRECO) was established with the goal of prompting legislative reforms at national 154 Council of Europe level through mutual evaluation and peer pressure to ensure that countries comply with Council of Europe anti-corruption standards. In the period under review, membership of GRECO, which is also open to non-member States of the Council of Europe, comprised 49 states (all CoE member States as well as Belarus and the USA). An experts’ committee (GRETA) monitors the implementation of the Council of Europe Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings. The advisory committee of the Framework Convention on the Protection of National Minorities evaluates the national implementation of obligations under the Convention. The third monitoring cycle on the implementation of the framework convention by Austria, based on a country report submitted by Austria and a visit paid by the advisory committee to Austria, was completed on 13 June by the respective resolution of the Com- mittee of Ministers. The third review of the implementation of the European Charter for Regional and Minority Languages by Austria was completed on 28 November by the adoption of a recommendation by the Committee of Min- isters. In fulfilling its tasks, the European Commission against Racism and Intolerance (ECRI) focuses primarily on conducting country reviews (the latest interim review of Austria was conducted by ECRI as part of the 4th round of reviews on 4 December), considering specific topics and cooperating with civil society. The European Committee on Social Rights (ECSR) is to judge whether state parties are in conformity in law and in practice with the provisions of the European Social Charta (the first Austrian national report on the revised European Social Charta was submitted on 31 October).

6.1.5. assistance Programmes Alongside its activities in the fields of standard-setting and monitoring, the Council of Europe mainly assists the countries of South East Europe and the Caucasus as well as Russia in implementing the relevant objectives of the Council. The wide range of assistance programmes covers many areas from the promotion of human rights to the implementation of pluralist democracy and the rule of law, creation of awareness of a common cultural identity in all its diversity, the consolidation of democratic stability in Europe through to the fostering of political, legislative and constitutional law reform, as well as the search for solutions to problems facing European society such as discrimination of minorities, drugs and organised crime. In addition there are a number of “joint projects” – mainly EU funded and jointly implemented – which also focus on these countries and thematic priorities.

6.1.6. the Organs of the Council of Europe 6.1.6.1. the Committee of Ministers The Committee of Ministers is the supreme decision-making body of the Council of Europe. It is composed of the foreign ministers of the 47 Member 155 Austria in other European Fora

States and/or their permanent representatives (“Ministers’ Deputies”). The Committee’s chair rotates on a biannual basis and meetings at ministerial level generally take place once a year. The Ministers’ Deputies convene for sessions once a week. In these sessions they discuss specific issues and take decisions on topics prepared by the numerous thematic committees to which representatives from the relevant Austrian ministries and/or the representations in Strasbourg contribute on a pro-active basis.

6.1.6.2. the Parliamentary Assembly The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) is composed of 318 representatives and 318 deputies from national parliaments, who have amalgamated into five parliamentary groups: the Socialist Group (SOC), the Group of the European People’s Party/Christian Democrats (EPP/CD), the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe (ALDE), the European Demo- crat Group (EDG), and the Group of the Unified European Left (UEL). There are 39 members who are not attached to any group. Austria is represented by six representatives and six deputies, who are appointed by the National Council and the Federal Council. The Parliamentary Assembly meets for four annual plenary sessions each lasting one week and convenes periodically in committees. It issues resolutions, recommendations, opinions and guidelines to the Committee of Ministers, national governments, parliaments and political parties. The PACE also carries out monitoring and election observation activities. Jean-Claude Mignon (EPP) from France is the President of the Parliamentary Assembly.

6.1.6.3. the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of Europe The Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of Europe (CLRAE) was established in 1957 as the Conference of Local Authorities and constituted as the Standing Conference of Local and Regional Authorities of Europe as the consultative body of the CoE. Its 318 members meet twice a year in Strasbourg. The Congress’ scope of responsibility involves formulating recommendations to the Committee of Ministers in the areas of urban and municipal democracy, environmental protection, disaster protection and social cohesion. These issues are followed up in Austria by the Association of Towns and Cities and the Association of Municipalities, the Liaison Office of the Federal Provinces and the relevant ministries. The Congress plays an important role in monitoring municipal and regional democracy and compliance with the commitments undertaken by its member States. The Con- gress has also developed projects for South East Europe under the Stability Pact (focusing on the development and strengthening of democracy at local level). For the southern Mediterranean countries it offers programmes geared towards further development of local and regional democracy. In October, the President of the Tyrolean Diet (province parliament) Herwig van Staa 156 The Central European Initiative was elected President of the Congress, a position he had already held from 2002–2004. This is the first time in its history that a former president was re-elected as President of the Congress. The Secretary General of the CLRAE is the Austrian Andreas Kiefer.

6.1.6.4. the Secretary General The Secretary General is elected by the Parliamentary Assembly on recommendation of the Committee of Ministers for a term of five years and sets the strategic course for the organisation’s work programme and budget. The Secretary General is also responsible for the Council of Europe’s Secretariat with some 2,100 employees. The former Norwegian President of Parliament, Foreign Minister and Prime Minister Thorbjørn Jagland holds the office of Secretary General of the Council of Europe.

6.1.7. the Council of Europe and Austria Austria shows a high level of commitment in the Council of Europe and has already been represented by three Secretaries General and two Presidents of the Parliamentary Assembly. The office of President of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of Europe has also been held twice by an Austrian. In total, about twenty Austrians are employed at the Council of Europe, some in executive functions, including as Secretary General of the Congress of the Local and Regional Authorities of Europe, head of a department of the Venice Commission, heads of two departments of the ECtHR, the chief of protocol, department head at the Secretariat of the Congress, and head of department of the Convention against Torture. Austria is particularly active in ensuring that the highest human rights standards are maintained in the context of the ECtHR reform, especially the right of individual petition to the ECtHR. It also contributes pro-actively to human rights issues, and places a special focus on freedom of expression and freedom of the media, issues related to internet governance and in monitoring South East European and Black Sea countries. Austria’s Permanent Represen- tative to the CoE, Ambassador Thomas Hajnoczi, acts as Thematic Coordina- tor on Information Policy of the Committee of Ministers. The Representation of Austria to the CoE also provides interested Austrians with information concerning the objectives and tasks of the Council of Europe.

6.2. the Central European Initiative Set up in 1989 by Austria, Italy, Hungary and the SFRY (Yugoslavia), the Trieste-based Central European Initiative (CEI) now consists of 18 member states, half of which are EU Member States. The CEI is a political forum that strives to promote regional cooperation among the States of Central, East and 157 Austria in other European Fora

South East Europe and to assist non-EU members on their way towards EU integration. Important tools towards overcoming differences are the CEI projects which receive funding from a range of sources, including the EU, and play an important role as multipliers. The Know-how Exchange Programmes (KEP) are a very distinctive tool developed by the CEI. A special KEP that is funded by the ADC (Austrian Development Cooperation) was also set up in this context. This makes Austria the second largest contributor of funding after the CEI’s headquarters state Italy. At their annual meeting in Trieste in June, the CEI foreign ministers stressed that the CEI’s increasing project focus makes it a successful model of regional cooperation. In this context, the concept of European macro and micro regions is gaining in importance. The CEI also aims to strengthen its economic competence. To this end, for instance, it signed a Memorandum of Understanding on future cooperation with the Vienna Economic Forum. From the beginning of 2009 to the end of 2012 the Austrian, Ambassador Gerhard Pfanzelter, was Secretary General of the CEI. During his term of leadership of the CEI, the initiative was also granted observer status in the UNGA in December 2011.

6.3. the Alpine Convention Together with the other Alpine countries Germany, France, Italy, Liechten- stein, Monaco, Switzerland and Slovenia as well as the EU, Austria has been a Party to the Convention on the Protection of the Alps (Alpine Convention) since 1991. In September, the 12th Conference of the Contracting Parties (Alpine Con- ference) was held in Poschiavo, Switzerland. The main item on the agenda was the development of a “macro-regional strategy for the Alpine region” alongside major challenges in the energy and climate areas that are important to the Alpine region. Based on the findings prepared by the Working Group on the Macro-regional Strategy for the Alps, a comprehensive decision was adopted that provides guidance on the next steps, especially on the bundling of the current activities launched by the European Territorial Cooperation (ETC)/Alpine Space and the Alpine regions as well as those launched by the Alpine Convention. Participants also agreed that “Demographic Change in the Alps” shall be topic of the 5th contribution to a comprehensive Report on the Status of the Alps. Another novelty was the Energy Platform set up to build a thematic bridge to the aspect of climate change in the energy protocol. On 3 December, the Austrian Markus Reiterer was appointed new Secretary General of the Permanent Secretariat of the Alpine Convention.

158 The Danube Commission 6.4. the Danube Commission The Danube Commission (DC) is an international organisation of the Danube countries that provides and develops free navigation on the Danube. The Commission continued its work on standardising the technical and nau- tical rules and provisions. By the end of the reporting period it was, however, not possible to implement the recommendation directed at the DC’s member states to apply the Rules for Navigation on the Danube (DFND) that had been aligned with Revision 4 of the European Code for Inland Waterways (CEVNI), which thus remains a topic on the Commission’s agenda. Under the EU Strategy for the Danube Region, the DC Secretariat cooperated with the coordinator for the Priority Area 1a “To improve mobility and multimodality on inland waterways”. In the context of this cooperation, representatives from the DC’s Secretariat participated in meetings of the steering group and the thematic working groups, and presented documents on the waterway’s infrastructure. No progress was made with respect to the modernisation of the DC Secre- tariat’s structures and the enactment of the revised provisions of the Belgrade Convention. In the context of the Bulgarian Presidency, Ambassador Dimitar Ikonomov was succeeded by Ambassador Biserka Benisheva on 5 June.

159 The United Nations, its Specialised Agencies and Related Organisations 7. the United Nations, its Specialised Agencies and Related Organisations 7.1. introduction Historic changes in the Middle East (Arab Spring), the constantly deteriorating crisis in Syria, the ongoing Israeli/Palestinian conflict which currently seems to lack any real perspective of being resolved, alarming developments in Mali and the entire Sahel region, the acute lack of stability in the East of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the African Great Lakes region, unresolved problems in the relationship between Sudan and the young state of South Sudan as well as ongoing tensions surrounding North Korean nuclear armament dominated the work of the United Nations (UN). On a more positive note, transformation processes were initiated in Myanmar, Libyan, Liberia and Somalia with the support of the UN and are of course grounds for optimism. Substantial progress made in Timor-Leste facilitated the closure of the UN peacekeeping mission there. The Rio+20 Conference on Sustainable Development in Rio de Janeiro in June and the High-Level Meeting of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on the Rule of Law at National and International Levels in New York in September were special thematic focal points. Austria placed much emphasis on its longstanding priorities: the protection of human rights, promotion of the rule of law, protection of civilians in armed conflict (including special protection of children and women) and disarmament issues. On 8 November, Austria was elected by a large majority of votes to the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). It will be a member of this body for a two-year period from January 2013 onwards and will provide its President in 2014. On 18 December, the Austrian candidate Dr. Renate Winter was elected with overwhelming support to the UN Com- mittee on the Rights of the Child.

7.2. the General Assembly 7.2.1. procedural Matters The General Debate of the 67th UNGA took place in New York from 25 Sep- tember to 1 October. Federal President Heinz Fischer and Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Michael Spindelegger headed the Austrian delegation. The theme of the debate was “Bringing about Adjustment or Settlement of International Disputes or Situations by Peaceful Means”. On 24 September, the UNGA held a High-level Meeting on the “Rule of Law at National and International Levels”, at which Federal President Heinz Fischer delivered a statement. On the same day, the Austrian Federal Presi- dent participated in a high-level panel discussion that was co-organised by 160 The General Assembly

Austria on the topics of fighting corruption and economic growth and also delivered a statement at the High-Level Meeting on the “Sustainable Energy for All” initiative launched by UNSG Ban Ki-moon. Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Michael Spindelegger made contributions to the High-Level Meetings on Sahel on 26 September, to the opening ceremony of the initiative “Civil Society and the Education on Human Rights as a Tool for Promoting Religious Tolerance” on 27 September and to the “High-level Meeting on Countering Nuclear Terrorism” and the Ministerial Meeting of the UN Alliance of Civilisations Group of Friends (UNAOC) on 28 September. Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Michael Spindelegger participated in the traditional “Trans-Atlantic Dinner” hosted by US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton on 25 September. In his statement to the General Assembly on 28 September, Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Michael Spindelegger underlined the important role played by the UN as a global forum for the peaceful resolution of disputes. Referring to the conflict in Syria, he condemned the systematic violations of human rights in the strongest possible terms and called upon the UN to assume its responsibility. At the same time he called upon the parties to the conflict to immediately resume negotiations and confirmed Austria’s support for a peaceful political transition in the Arab Spring countries. He underlined that the only way to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict consisted in a negotiated and sustainable two-state solution. Referring to Iran, he stressed that the need to establish a zone free of nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction in the Middle East was more urgent than ever. In this context, Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Michael Spindelegger emphasised that the inability to even initiate substantial multilateral disarmament negotiations was inacceptable and stressed Austria’s commitment to promoting disarmament and non-proliferation. He likewise highlighted Austria’s long-standing tradition in promoting intercultural and interfaith dialogue, drawing attention to the fact that Vienna will host the 5th Global Forum of the UN Alliance of Civilisations (UNAOC) and to the opening of the International King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz Center for Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue in Vienna. He also addressed the key priorities of Austria’s current membership of the UN Human Rights Council (HRC), namely the protection of the freedom of the press, freedom of religion or belief and the protection of children’s rights. In conclusion, he confirmed Austria’s commitment and active role in promoting sustainable global energy supply and welcomed the decision of UNSG Ban Ki-moon to establish an implementation office for his “Sustain- able Energy for All” initiative in Vienna. During the Ministerial Week, Federal President Heinz Fischer and Vice Chancellor Michael Spindelegger held numerous bilateral talks. 161 The United Nations, its Specialised Agencies and Related Organisations 7.2.2. political Affairs 7.2.2.1. Middle East In autumn, the key issue on the agenda was the non-Member UN Observer State Status upgrade requested by Palestine. On 29 November, UNGA resolution 67/19 on the “Status of Palestine in the United Nations” was adopted with 138 votes in favour (9 votes against and 41 abstentions), which accords Palestine “non-Member Observer State status” in the UN. The EU Member States (EU MS) could not agree on a common voting policy. Together with 13 other EU Member States, Austria voted in favour of the resolution, while 12 EU MS abstained and the Czech Republic was the only EU MS to vote against the resolution. On the conflict in Syria, the UNGA adopted resolutions in February, in August and – based on a resolution adopted by the Third Committee of the UNGA – also in December with a clear majority of votes. On 17 August, Lakhdar Brahimi was appointed Joint Arab League – United Nations Special Representative for Syria. In this function he followed Kofi Annan who had presented a six-point plan towards a peaceful solution on 16 March to the UNSC and because of lack of consensus on its implementation resigned from office shortly after the SC had adopted the resolution to terminate the UN Supervision Mission in Syria (UNSMIS). The EU adopted a common voting policy regarding the 67th UNGA’s 19 annual resolutions on the Middle East, the only exceptions being the resolutions on “The Syrian Golan”, the “Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People”, and on a “Division for Pales- tinian Rights of the Secretariat”. Unlike the other EU Member States, which abstained from voting, Malta and Cyprus, which are members of the above- mentioned committee, continued to vote in favour of the two latter resolutions. Cyprus also voted in favour of the resolution on “The Syrian Golan”, while all other EU Member States abstained. The resolution on “Assistance to the Palestinian people”, sponsored by the EU, was the only resolution on the Middle East adopted by consensus by all UN Member States.

7.2.2.2. disarmament and International Security From 2 to 20 April, the UN Disarmament Commission (UNDC) met under the committed chairmanship of Peru for its annual session in New York. At the beginning of the three-day working cycle covering the period 2012 to 2014, the Disarmament Commission resolved to continue its work on recommendations towards reaching the objective of nuclear disarmament and non- proliferation of nuclear weapons as well as on practical confidence-building measures in the field of conventional arms. The positive momentum that had characterised deliberations held in the UNGA’s First Committee (Disarmament and International Security) was 162 The General Assembly maintained during the autumn session. Together with Mexico and Norway, Austria contributed towards this positive atmosphere by submitting an initiative for a resolution on taking forward multilateral nuclear disarmament negotiations. Other important resolutions adopted by the First Committee included the Canadian resolution on a Treaty banning the production of fissile material for the production of nuclear weapons or other nuclear explosive devices (FMCT), which provides for the establishment of a group of governmental experts for 2014 and 2015 to undertake the necessary preliminary work, and a resolution on holding a final intergovernmental conference in March 2013 to negotiate the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) on the basis of the July draft. Based on what was originally a Cuban resolution initiative, the UNGA will convene for a High-Level Meeting on nuclear disarmament in September 2013 on the margins of the UN General Debate.

7.2.3. economic, Development and Environmental Affairs The central item on the agenda of the Second Committee of the UNGA (Economic and Social Affairs) was the Quadrennial Comprehensive Policy Review (QCPR). This review is held every four years and undertakes a comprehensive evaluation of the UN system’s development policy. Discussions focused inter alia on improving the UN system’s efficiency in implementing country strategies, the composition of the funds’ and programmes’ steering bodies, and new evaluation mechanisms and special regulations for the least developed countries. The resolution adopted in this context will substantially influence the UN system’s development policy over the next four years. In addition a large number of resolutions on various issues such as the global economic crisis, environmental aspects, biodiversity, the least developed countries, people with disabilities, follow-up work to the Rio+20 Conference etc. could be adopted, predominantly by consensus. The years 2014 to 2024 were declared the Decade of Sustainable Energy for All. (On international environmental issues please also see Chapter 14)

7.2.4. Human Rights See Chapter 9.2.

7.2.5. international Drug Control The Vienna-based United Nations Office onD rugs and Crime (UNODC) coordinates all drug-relevant UN activities, assists states in implementing the drug conventions and is responsible for planning and implementing programmes aimed at fighting illicit drugs. Austria continued to support UN and UNODC efforts in promoting international cooperation based on a well- 163 The United Nations, its Specialised Agencies and Related Organisations balanced approach which includes respect for human rights and provided voluntary contributions to the funding of numerous international projects and programmes aimed at fighting drugs. The United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND), which meets annually in Vienna, is the leading UN entity (lead agency) for implementing the UN’s drug policy. At the CND’s 55th session, held in Vienna from 12 to 16 March, the UN Member States stressed the importance of UNODC’s work in the field of international drug policy. The UN Member States were called upon to actively implement until 2019 the goals defined under the 2009 Political Declaration and the Plan of Action. A total of 12 resolutions on a wide range of issues, such as new psycho-active substances, alternative development programmes and specific needs of women in the context of drug demand reduction were adopted by consensus. As in previous years, Austria specifically supported activities that are directed at drug demand reduction. In the UNGA’s Third Committee (Social, Humanitarian and Cultural Affairs), Austria contributed actively to negotiations on a resolution on International Cooperation against the World Drug Problem, which the UNGA adopted again by consensus in December.

7.2.6. international Crime Prevention Austria continued to provide significant support to the relevant activities launched by the UN and the Vienna-based UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in international crime prevention and made voluntary contributions to funding numerous UNODC projects and programmes. The United Nations Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice (CCPCJ) at its 21st session from 23 to 27 April in Vienna, conducted a review of the implementation of relevant obligations and commitments by the UN Member States. The Commission dealt with topical questions relating to the implementation of the UN Convention against Transnational Organised Crime and the UN Convention against Corruption, trends in the global fight against crimes such as piracy, cybercrime, illegal trade in cultural objects, and the application of UN norms and standards including in the fields of violence against women and children as well as the treatment of prisoners. This year’s special thematic discussion was dedicated to “violence against migrants, migrant workers and their families”, to which Austria also contributed actively. A total of 10 resolutions were adopted, inter alia on private security services, piracy, violence against migrants, and minimum rules and standards for the treatment of prisoners. Austria also supported side events death penalty and the protection of children’s rights. In the Third Committee of the UNGA, Austria contributed actively to negotiations on the resolution on strengthening the UN crime prevention and 164 The General Assembly criminal justice programme, in particular with regard to its technical cooperation capacity. The UNGA adopted the resolution by consensus in Decem- ber. Austria worked actively towards guaranteeing a coherent and global approach to preventing and fighting terrorism (see Chapter 7.2.12.3.). Austria makes regular voluntary contributions to the Vienna-based Terrorism Prevention Branch (TPB) of the UNODC. The TPB is the leading provider of technical assistance to UN Member States for the implementation of their legal obligations in the fight against terrorism and has already assisted more than 150 states. Fighting corruption is another priority area of Austria’s activities at the international level. Austria provided significant support to the Laxenburg-based International Anti-Corruption Academy (IACA), an independent centre of excellence and post-secondary education institution in the field of anti- corruption issues. On 29 and 30 November, the first Assembly of Parties to the “Agreement for the Establishment of the International Anti-Corruption Academy as an International Organization” convened in Vienna. Follow- ing the entry into force of the Founding Agreement in spring 2011 and the Headquarters Agreement on 1 August, this assembly marked the end of the transition period during which the IACA had been built up by a “transition team” under the leadership of a Provisional Commission which comprised signatories and state parties on an equal footing. At the first Assembly of Par- ties 35 state parties and 17 signatories were represented; 35 non-signatories participated as observers. Among the assembly’s key outcomes were the confirmation of the legal acquis adopted and/or prepared in the transition phase as well as the establishment of the Board of Governors as the international organisation’s central administrative body. The members of the Board were elected at the meeting and subsequently appointed the academy’s first dean. The session also marked the launch of the first two-year Master in Anti-Cor- ruption Studies (MACS) programme, for which 25 participants from around the globe had qualified. In the context of the review mechanism for the implementation of the UN Convention against Corruption Austria will, based on the drawing of lots, be evaluated at the end of 2012/beginning of 2013 by Israel and Vietnam. In 2013, Austria will likewise participate in the evaluation of Luxembourg and Cyprus.

7.2.7. Social Policy Poverty eradication as well as social integration, full employment and decent work was the main theme of the 50th session of the Commission for Social Development (CSocD), held in New York from 1 to 10 February. The CSocD adopted five resolutions on fighting poverty, promoting people with disabilities, mainstreaming disability in the development agenda, the social dimen- 165 The United Nations, its Specialised Agencies and Related Organisations sion of the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD), preparation of the 20th anniversary of the International Year of the Family and the working methods of the CSocD. With just one exception all resolutions on social issues (including on meeting the Millennium Development Goals for people with disabilities, family, social development) dealt with by the UNGA’s Third Committee were adopted by consensus in December. For the first time two draft resolutions were introduced on the topic of ageing. Negotiations on the resolution on the “Follow-up to the Second World Assembly on Ageing” were smooth. Adopted by consensus, the resolution provides for measures aimed at enhanced implementation of the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing and stressed inter alia the relevance of considering the situation of older people in the post-2015 development agenda. The objective pursued by the second draft resolution on the topic – introduced by El Salvador – is the drafting of a convention on the rights of older persons. It provides that proposals for an “international legal instrument to promote and protect the rights and dignity of older persons” be prepared by a working group set up in 2010. The controversial nature of this draft led to a ballot in which the vast majority of UN Member States abstained (including all EU Member States). In 2013, the working group will meet again to discuss opportunities for strengthening the protection of human rights of older persons.

7.2.8. international Women’s Affairs See Chapter 9.2.3.

7.2.9. Humanitarian Affairs For information on general humanitarian affairs in the UN context please see Chapter 10.2. This year, contributions and contribution pledges by UN Member States to the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) totalled approx. 422.6 million US dollars. At a high-level conference on December 11, contribution pledges amounting to around 384 million US dollars were made for 2013. Austria announced that its contribution would, just as last year, amount to 200,000 euros. Resolutions on safety and security of humanitarian personnel, coordination of humanitarian assistance, cooperation in providing humanitarian assistance following natural disasters, participation of volunteers (“white hel- mets”) in UN activities, the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refu- gees (UNHCR) and on crisis preparedness were adopted by consensus by the UNGA. Resolutions with a regional focus related to assistance to refugees, returnees and displaced persons in Africa and assistance to the Palestinian 166 The General Assembly people were also adopted by consensus. In the relevant negotiations, the EU assumed a pivotal role as one of the most important humanitarian players.

7.2.10. peaceful Use of Outer Space The 55th session of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) was held in Vienna from 6 to 15 June and was dominated by the 40th anniversary of the first earth observing satellite mission (Landsat). Austria participated in a thematic panel discussion and in the exhibition organised in the “rotunde” of the Vienna International Centre (VIC) to mark this event. Austria provided continued support to the UN Platform for Space-Based Information for Disaster Management and Emergency Response (UN- SPIDER) of the Vienna-based Office for Outer Space Affairs (OOSA). The annual space symposium in Graz took place from 18 to 21 September and focused on the topic of “Data Analysis and Image Processing for Space Appli- cations and Sustainable Development: Space Weather Data”, which is playing an increasingly important role in the protection of critical infrastructure (satellites, terrestrial radio systems, energy supply facilities) against damage from sun eruptions.

7.2.11. administrative and Budgetary Affairs Negotiations on the scale of assessments for the regular UN budget and the budget for peacekeeping operations (PKO) were one of the main topics of the Fifth Committee (Administrative and Budgetary Affairs). The development of the global economy since the beginning of the new millennium, and especially the comparative growth of countries in transition, led to an automatic reduction of the scale of assessments for the majority of the EU Mem- ber States (with the exception of Poland and Romania). At the same time, the contributions of Brazil, the Russian Federation, India and China (BRIC) as well as Turkey increased. Members agreed not to change the methodol- ogy of the scale but at the same time stressed that in the future the scale of assessments should reflect the gross national income of the UN Member States more accurately. The Austrian contribution to the regular UN budget and to the PKO budget will decrease from 0.851 % to 0.798 % for the period 2013–2015. The UNGA approved additional funds of 243.26 million US dollars to the regular UN budget for the period 2012–2013, which means that the revised assessment bases amount to 5.39 billion US dollars. As in the previous bien- nia, the main part of additional costs for 2013 is used for financing political missions. In contrast to previous years, participants agreed to finance adjust- ments due to inflation or exchange rate fluctuations based on actual expen- 167 The United Nations, its Specialised Agencies and Related Organisations diture rather than in advance. The Austrian contribution to the regular UN budget for 2013 amounts to 20.34 million US dollars. The introduction of a mobility framework for UN staff, sought by the UNSG in order to continue with the human resources management reform, was not achieved and was postponed until March 2013. The annual budget earmarked for UN peacekeeping operations from July 2012 to June 2013 amounts to 7.32 billion US dollars, which is clearly below the previous year’s budget of 7.84 billion US dollars.

7.2.12. international Law The main items on the agenda of the UNGA’s Sixth Committee (Legal Com- mittee) were the debate on the report of the UN International Law Commis- sion (ILC) during the annual International Law Week, the topics rule of law, measures to eliminate international terrorism, the new system for administration of justice at the UN, and the scope and application of the principle of universal jurisdiction. The Sixth Committee also dealt with the status of the Additional Protocols to the Geneva Convention of 1949 on the Protec- tion of Victims of Armed Conflict, the consideration of effective measures to enhance the protection, safety and security of diplomatic and consular missions and representatives, the annual report of the UN Commission on Inter- national Trade Law (UNCITRAL), the criminal accountability of UN officials and experts on mission and the question of whether to grant observer status in the UNGA to international organisations.

7.2.12.1. international Law Week The International Law Week, which was named based on an Austrian proposal, brings together all legal advisers of UN Member States to discuss international law issues in the UNGA’s Sixth Committee. The meeting, which was originally scheduled from 29 October to 7 November, had to be cut short as the UN premises had to be closed due to hurricane “Sandy”. As a consequence, the interactive dialogue between legal advisers and ILC special rapporteurs thus had to be cancelled, while the dialogue between the EU Member States’ legal advisors and the US legal adviser – initiated during the last Austrian EU Presidency – was continued. The main topic discussed during the International Law Week was the ILC report on current international law issues such as customary international law, the expulsion of aliens, protection of persons in event of disasters, immunity of state officials from foreign criminal jurisdiction, provisional application of treaties, the obligation to extradite or prosecute, and treaties over time. 168 The General Assembly

7.2.12.2. rule of Law The “rule of law” was the theme of a UNGA High-Level Meeting on “The Rule of Law at the national and international levels” on 24 September prior to the start of the 67th UNGA’s Ministerial Week, in which inter alia Fed- eral President Heinz Fischer participated. In resolution A/RES/67/97, which defines the topics to be discussed in the next two rule of law debates of the UNGA’s Sixth Committee, reference is made to the High-Level Meeting and the political declaration adopted by the Heads of State and Government.

7.2.12.3. Measures to Eliminate International Terrorism The discussion focused once more on unresolved issues related to developing a comprehensive convention on international terrorism and holding a high-level conference on this topic. Again, however, no progress was made. In line with UNGA resolution 67/99 an Ad-Hoc Committee will again be convened in spring 2013.

7.2.12.4. new System for the Administration of Justice at the United Nations The Sixth Committee of the UNGA analysed the legal aspects of inter alia extending the terms of office of the ad litem judges at the UN Dispute Tribu- nals, discussed the topic of access to justice for all categories of UN personnel and commented on changes to the rules of procedure. During the informal consultations Austria, in its capacity as UN host country, again advocated improvements to the legal status of UN personnel who do not currently enjoy official status as UN staff.

7.2.12.5. Scope and Application of the Principle of Universal Jurisdiction During the discussions on universal jurisdiction, Member States reiterated the importance of enshrining this principle in existing international law and its essential role in the fight against impunity as well as questions relating to its application and potential politicization. A number of delegations (including Austria) supported a referral of the topic to the International Law Commission (ILC). The basis for discussions in the working group was an informal paper prepared by the chair (Costa Rica) on defining the principle of universal jurisdiction.

7.2.12.6. Further Topics As host country Austria coordinated the annual resolutions on the work of the UN Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL). The UNGA adopted resolutions on the criminal accountability of UN officials and experts on mission, on the reports of the Charter and Host Country Committees, on the UN Programme of Assistance in the Teaching, Study, 169 The United Nations, its Specialised Agencies and Related Organisations

Dissemination and Wider Appreciation of International Law, on the status of the Additional Protocols to the Geneva Convention of 1949 and relating to the protection of victims of armed conflicts as well as on measures aimed at enhancing the protection, security and safety of diplomatic and consular missions and representatives. A resolution granting observer status to the European Organisation for Nuclear Research (CERN) in the General Assem- bly, which had been co-sponsored by Austria, was also adopted. The presidents of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the International Criminal Court (ICC), and of the International Criminal Tribunals for the Former Yugoslavia (ICTY) and for Rwanda (ICTR) presented their annual reports to the UNGA.

7.3. the United Nations Security Council 7.3.1. cross-sectional Issues 7.3.1.1. the Reform Debate The debate on a reform of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) ongoing for several years continued as intergovernmental negotiations. The basis of discussions formed a text by the chairman of the intergovernmental negotiations on SC reform containing positions of all UN Member States on the five core issues of reform (membership categories, the question of the veto, the question of regional representation, number of members in the expanded Security Council, Security Council working methods, and relations between the UNSC and the UNGA) in a systematic manner. Discussions on the individual proposals for UNSC expansion, however, produced little by way of anything new. A draft resolution introduced by the “Small 5” (Switzerland, Liechten- stein, Jordan, Singapore, Costa Rica) and containing recommendations for improved working methods to be made to the UNSC was withdrawn due to resistance inter alia by the five permanent members of the UNSC. A new round of negotiations was launched during the 67th session of the UNGA. However, since positions were still far apart and diverged in particular on the question of expansion to include new members, no tangible progress is expected to be made in the foreseeable future.

7.3.1.2. protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict In contrast to previous years, only one open debate was held in the UNSC on the protection of civilians in armed conflict. This debate took place during China’s Presidency of the UNSC in June. Austria, which had made the protection of civilians a priority during its membership of the UNSC 2009/2010, contributed pro-actively to the debate. The UNSC was briefed by the UNSG who presented his 9th report on the topic, by the Under-Secretary-General 170 The United Nations Security Council

(USG) for Humanitarian Affairs Valerie Amos, by Assistant Secretary-Gen- eral (ASG) Ivan Šimonović and by a representative of the ICRC. Discussions focussed on the deteriorating situation in Syria and on the different views held on the NATO operation in Libya. Other topics addressed during the debate were inter alia the protection of journalists in armed conflict, the recent sentences passed by the ICC and the Special Court for Sierra Leone in the Lubanga and Taylor cases as well as the fight against impunity. The central topics addressed by the Austrian statement were protection of journalists, the humanitarian impact of explosive arms in densely populated areas and the importance of the negotiations on an arms trade treaty for the protection of civilians. Austria also contributed to statements by the EU, the Group of Friends on the Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict, and the Human Security Network. In implementing resolution 1894 (2009) adopted during Austria‘s UNSC Presidency in November 2009, an inter-disciplinary training programme for the protection of civilians in armed conflict directed at leaders of peace operations was developed in cooperation with the Federal Ministry of Defence and Sports and the Federal Ministry of the Interior. The first pilot class was held from 2–7 December at the Austrian Study Centre for Peace and Conflict Resolution (ASPR) in Stadtschlaining.

7.3.1.3. Women, Peace and Security – Fighting Sexual Violence in Conflicts In the open debate held on 23 February in the UNSC on conflict-related sexual violence, the latest report by the UNSG on this topic was presented by the Special Representative of the UNSG (SRSG) on Sexual Violence in Conflict, Margot Wallström. In line with UNSC resolution 1960 (2010), the report for the first time contains an annex in which parties that are credibly suspected of committing or being responsible for patterns of rape of other forms of sexual violence in situations of armed conflict on the UNSC agenda are listed. The Presidential Statement adopted in the context of the debate also commended the SRSG’s work. Prevailing differences of opinion among the UNSC Member States meant the debate proved controversial. Apart from contributing to an EU statement, Austria also contributed to the debate through a statement by the Human Security Network. In April, the UNSC was briefed by the Executive Director of UN Women, Under-Secretary-General Michelle Bachelet, and by the Under-Secretary- General for Peacekeeping Operations, Hervé Ladsous, on the efforts undertaken by the UN in the field of women, peace and security. Austria contributed to the annual open debate on this topic – which also involved USG Bachelet and USG Ladsous – held in November. A Presidential Statement was adopted which stressed inter alia the importance of women’s participation in conflict resolution and prevention, the importance of gender perspec- 171 The United Nations, its Specialised Agencies and Related Organisations tives in UN peacekeeping operations (PKOs) and the role of civil society and welcomed the development of national action plans for the implementation of UNSC resolution 1325 (2000). In its national statement Austria, among other topics, emphasized the need to increase the number of women in UN leadership positions, in UN PKOs and in the field of mediation. Austria also presented the efforts it had launched, such as the review of the National Action Plan for the Implementation of UNSC resolution 1325 (2000) and the Action Plan on Combating Human Trafficking, the development of an interdisciplinary training class for the protection of civilians and the secondment of gender advisors. In addition to its national statement Austria contributed to the debate by way of the EU statement too. In June, the UNSG appointed Zainab Hawa Bangura from Sierra Leone to succeed Margo Wallström as new SRSG on Sexual Violence in Conflict.

7.3.1.4. children and Armed Conflict In January, the SRSG on Children and Armed Conflict Radhika Coomaras- wamy gave a members-only briefing to the UNSC. Based on the latest report by the UNSG the annual open debate on children and armed conflict was held in September and chaired by Germany. UNSC resolution 2068 (2012), which was co-sponsored by Austria, was – in contrast to the previous unanimously adopted resolutions – adopted with 11 votes in favour and 4 abstentions. Due to resistance within the UNSC, it was not possible to make substantial progress except for an automatism adopted for the annual report by the UNSG on children and armed conflict. Austria contributed to the debate by way of the statements delivered by the EU, the Human Security Network and the Group of Friends on Children and Armed Conflict. In July, the UNSG appointed Leila Zerrougui from Algeria to succeed Rad- hika Commaraswamy as new SRSG on Children and Armed Conflict.

7.3.1.5. al-Qaida Sanctions Committee Since the end of its membership of the UNSC in 2009/2010 Austria has continued its consistent commitment to strengthening the rule of law in the UNSC such as in particular to support fair procedures and effective legal remedies in the sanctions committees. The Office of the Ombudsper- son, established by the UNSC in resolution 1904 (2009) and substantially strengthened by resolution 1989 (2011), to which natural and legal persons on the consolidated list of the Al-Qaida Sanctions Committee may turn to in order to request delisting, led to important progress in this respect. Apart from numerous other individuals, Yasin Abdullah Kadi, who had for many years contested his listing before the European Court of Justice, was deleted from the consolidated sanctions list on 5 October based on a recommendation by the Ombudsperson. 172 The United Nations Security Council

In the context of an informal group of like-minded States, Austria together with Switzerland coordinated the preparation of a paper setting out proposals for further improvements of legal remedies. The paper, which along with measures aimed at strengthening fair and clear procedures of the Al- Qaida Committee, also suggests extending the competence of the Office of the Ombudsperson to other Sanctions Committees, was submitted to the UNSC and the UNSG at the beginning of November (UN Doc. A/67/557– S/2012/805). On 17 December, the UNSC unanimously adopted resolution 2083 (2012), which contains numerous provisions aimed at improving the procedures of the Al-Qaida Committee and also includes some proposals made in this paper. The Office of the Ombudsperson’s mandate was extended by 30 months (thus far only 18 months), which enabled an important strengthening of the Ombudsperson’s independence and impartiality. A central provision relates to improved cooperation of UN Member States with the Office of the Ombudsperson in connection with the submission of relevant information. The examination of requests for delisting frequently requires the submission of classified information. About one dozen States have already concluded relevant political arrangements with the Ombud- sperson. On 26 July, Austria became the first UN Member State to sign a binding international agreement on the exchange of classified information with the Office of the Ombudsman that entered into force on 1 September (Federal Law Gazette III No. 147/2012).

7.3.2. peacekeeping Operations By the end of the year more than 115,000 troops, police officers and civilian experts were deployed with a total of 15 peacekeeping operations (PKO). The year was characterised by efforts towards optimising the operations’ capacities (“right-sizing” of PKO) and the deployment of the UN Supervision Mis- sion in Syria (UNSMIS) based on UNSC resolution 2043 (2012) of 21 April (in view of lack of agreement within the UNSC on Syria, UNSMIS terminated its activity in August). The UN Integrated Mission in Timor-Leste (UNMIT) was terminated on 31 December. In the year under review, Austria maintained its clear commitment in the field of PKOs. At the end of the year, a total of 534 members oftheAus- trian Federal Armed Forces were serving on the UN Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) in the Golan Heights and on the UN Interim Force in Leba- non (UNIFIL). As of December 2012, eight military observers were deployed with UNTSO and MINURSO as well as four staff officers with UNFICYP. Austria thus continues to rank 34th among the 113 troop-contributing UN Member States (and ranks fourth among the EU Member States). In the course of the year, the situation in Syria also had a negative impact on the security situation and the implementation of the mandate of UNDOF. On 29 November, Austrian and Croatian UN soldiers came under fire near 173 The United Nations, its Specialised Agencies and Related Organisations

Damascus and several soldiers were wounded. In a joint letter to the UNSC, Austria and Croatia condemned this inacceptable attack on peacekeepers and within the UN Austria advocated for enhancing the protection and the equipment of UNDOF. By adopting resolution 2084 (2012) on 19 December the UNSC extended UNDOF’s mandate by another six months until 30 June 2013. In the resolution, which condemned the attack of 29 November, the UNSC stressed the need to enhance the safety and security of UNDOF personnel und requested that the UNSG ensure that UNDOF has the capacity required to fulfil its mandate. As early as December, the Department of Peace- keeping Operations started to review the military capacities of UNDOF. As in previous years, work in the Special Committee on Peacekeeping Oper- ations was mainly characterised by very lengthy negotiations which were dominated by the topic of reimbursement of troop contributing countries for their peacekeeping contributions. With a delay of almost six months, negotiations were completed on 11 September with the adoption of the annual committee report. Agreement reached in the UNGA’s Fifth Committee in June on a (renewed) one-time payment to troop contributing countries of 59.99 million USD by the end of March 2013 and the discussion of the report prepared by the Senior Advisory Group on troop costs and related issues (established by the Fifth Committee in 2011) in the first resumed session of the Fifth Com- mittee at the 67th UNGA (in March 2013) eventually enabled a very late consensus. In the Special Committee, Austria successfully advocated enhanced implementation of UNSC resolution 1894 (2009) on the protection of civilians in armed conflict, supported gender aspects, the protection of children and the increased use of modern technologies in PKOs.

7.3.3. country-specific and Regional Issues The country-specific and regional issues dealt with by the UNSC are addressed in Chapter 4 by individual country.

7.4. the UN Peacebuilding Commission The UN Peacebuilding Commission (PBC) was established in December 2005 by the UNGA and the UNSC as a joint subsidiary organ, thus assuming a special position within the UN system. The PBC was created to support peace efforts in countries emerging from armed conflict and to assist them in post-conflict peace-building, recovery, reconstruction and development in order to avoid relapse into a renewed conflict. It assists countries in bridging the frequently identified gaps between the end of a peacekeeping operation and the beginning of effective development cooperation (DC) efforts. In its sixth session period, the PBC focused on improving its day-to-day work, performance and achievements and especially undertook efforts towards 174 The Economic and Social Council enhancing its country-specific formations in the field. Another focus was placed on intensified cooperation with the UNSC. The PBC’s six country-specific configurations (Burundi, Sierra Leone, Guinea-Bissau, Central African Republic, Liberia and Guinea) have seen quite different developments. While the Canadian chairman of the country- specific configuration on Sierra Leone, of which Austria has been a member since July 2009, took positive stock of the elections held in Sierra Leone in November, the situation in Guinea-Bissau and towards the end of the year also in the Central African Republic was characterised by major political instability.

7.5. the Economic and Social Council 7.5.1. general Information The Substantive Session of the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) was held from 2 to 27 July. The Annual Ministerial Review focused on promoting productive capacity and employment to eradicate poverty in the context of inclusive, sustainable and equitable economic growth. Both UNSG Ban Ki-moon and the President of the ECOSOC called for a new growth model based on sustainable development and enhanced international cooperation. The EU Member States successfully pushed for the inclusion of the concept of “green economy” into the Ministerial Declaration. During the third session of the Development Cooperation Forum (DCF) which was held during the High-level Segment of the Substantive Session discussions focused on the fight against poverty through partnerships with the private sector and/or civil society as the main topic. Other issues addressed included coherence and transparency in development cooperation, financing for development as well as South-South cooperation. An exchange of views was held on the question of how the DCF could best contribute to the preparatory process for the post-2015 development agenda. In addition a high-level dialogue with finance and trade institutions was held during the High-Level Segment. Based on the outcome document of the Rio+20 summit, which foresees the strengthening of ECOSOC, a Special Ministerial Meeting was convened during the UNGA’s Ministerial Week on 24 September in New York that focussed on the long-term reforms of this body. The topics addressed included enhanced cooperation with civil society and the business sector, a stronger cooperation with the Bretton Woods Institutions and the World Trade Organization (WTO), a more pronounced focus on the least developed countries, the establishment of a high-level forum for sustainable development and greater involvement of the private sector. 175 The United Nations, its Specialised Agencies and Related Organisations

On 13 and 14 December, Austria, the UN Department of Social and Economic Affairs and UN Women jointly organised the “Vienna Policy Dialogue” on “Advancing gender equality and the empowerment of women: role of development cooperation”. After the workshops held in 2007 and 2009 this was the third event to be organised jointly by the UN and Austria whose findings are regularly included in ECOSOC deliberations.

7.5.2. the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) The Geneva-based United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) is one of five UN regional commissions. It is a multilateral platform that brings together Europe including all successor states to the former Soviet Union as well as Canada, the USA and Israel. The organisation aims to promote economic cooperation among Member States through the development of regulations and norms, technical cooperation in the field of transport, environment, energy, trade and statistics. Austria supports the UNECE in particular in the thematic fields of energy-efficient housing construction and ageing societies, in projects related to trans-European roads and trans- European railways as well as in the environmental sector. In March, Sven Alkalaj was appointed by UNSG Ban Ki-moon as the new UNECE Execu- tive Secretary and took up his new position on 10 April in Geneva. In 2012, discussions in the UNECE revolved around the review of the reform it had undergone in 2005. In the course of the review process, the importance of the UNECE’s various areas of work will be examined in order to optimise use of resources.

7.6. the International Court of Justice Of the six principal organs of the United Nations, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague is the only one not located in New York. In 1947, the ICJ dealt with its first case and meanwhile 152 disputes have been handled. The number of judgements passed by the ICJ has also increased considerably. Since 1990, it has passed twice as many judgements as in the period before. In 2012 the ICJ passed four judgements and gave one advisory opinion. Currently ten cases are pending before the court. At the beginning of February, the ICJ decided in the case of jurisdictional immunities in favour of Germany and found that Italy had, in contrast to its obligations under international law, failed to respect the jurisdictional immunity of Germany by allowing civil law claims and enforcement measures against Germany for violations of international humanitarian law by the German Reich between 1943 and 1945. In the case of Ahmedou Sadio Diallo, in which a judgement had already been passed in 2010 regarding his unlawful detention and deportation, the Court decided in June that the 176 The United Nations Specialised Agencies and Related Organisations amount of compensation due from the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the Republic of Guinea for the injury was 95,000 US dollars. In July, the ICJ found that the Republic of Senegal must without further delay submit the case of former President of Chad, Hissène Habré, to its competent authorities for the purpose of prosecution for the alleged crime of torture or otherwise extradite him to Belgium. The border dispute between Nicaragua und Colombia brought before the court in 2011 by Nicaragua ended in November with the Court passing a judgement that contained concessions to both countries. Colombia’s sovereignty over several islands was recognised while the maritime border was at the same time defined in favour of Nicaragua. In an Advisory Opinion, the court also dealt with a labour law dispute between the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and one of its employees. In the border dispute between Burkina Faso and Niger the oral proceedings were concluded in October, and in mid-December oral proceedings were concluded for the dispute on the maritime border between Peru and Chile.

7.7. the United Nations Specialised Agencies and Related Organisations 7.7.1. Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) The FAO held a total of five Regional Conferences ahead of the next general Conference scheduled for 2013. The Regional Conference for Europe and Central Asia was held from 17 to 20 April in Baku (Azerbaijan). The conference was preceded by a multi-stakeholder dialogue on the Global Strategic Framework and the 37th Session of the European Commission on Agricul- ture which dealt with the implementation of the current programme of work, the budget and future priorities. The Regional Conference focused on decentralisation in the region and the multiannual programme of work. In its intervention, Austria stressed the importance of preventing loss of harvests in the production process and food waste in general and supported the preparation of voluntary guidelines. After almost three years of negotiations involving civil society representatives, the “Voluntary Guidelines on the Responsible Governance of Tenure of Land, Fisheries and Forests in the Context of National Food Security” were adopted on 11 May in an extraordinary session of the Committee on World Food Security. Against the background of the increasing large-scale land purchases and leases by foreign investors in developing countries – frequently without taking proper account of the customary rights enjoyed until then by the local and indigenous population – the Voluntary Guide- lines provide a legal reference framework for governments responsible for 177 The United Nations, its Specialised Agencies and Related Organisations the national implementation in dealing with land, fishery and forest legislation. The guidelines focus inter alia on: • the recognition, respect and protection of legitimate tenure rights, • the improvement of registration procedures and greater legal certainty in connection with the transfer of tenure rights, • rules for the correct management of expropriations and • rules that aim to ensure that investments in agricultural land occurs trans- parently and responsibly. Apart from this extraordinary session, the Committee on World Food Secu- rity held its regular one-week conference in October in which 112 Member States, 104 civil society representatives and 44 private sector representatives participated. Two round tables were held on the topics of “Social Protection for Food Security and Nutrition” and “Food Security and Climate Change”, a ministerial meeting was convened on the topic of price volatility and an official event was organised to celebrate Word Food Day. The conference also dealt with the first draft for a Global Strategic Framework and agreed on the key consultation elements for the forthcoming negotiations on the Principles for Responsible Agricultural Investment (PRAI), which are to be completed by 2014. In its statement during the round table on “Food Security and Cli- mate Change”, Austria pointed especially to the progressive increase in food waste in the industrialised countries and the post-harvest losses in the developing countries and, as during the Regional Conference in Baku, encouraged the preparation of Voluntary Guidelines on Food Losses and Food Waste. The motto of this year’s World Food Day, which – as already mentioned – is celebrated on the FAO’s founding day 16 October, was “Agricultural Cooperatives – key for feeding the world”. In honour of this date, a discussion event entitled “Food for Whom?”, that was broadcast on the Austrian national radio station ORF Radio Ö1, was held on 3 October. Four experts on the topic highlighted the important role played by women’s participation, organic agriculture and farmers in development cooperation.

7.7.2. international Labour Organisation (ILO) On 28 May, Guy Ryder (United Kingdom) was elected new Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO). He is the first candidate of the worker representatives’ group to be elected to this position. He took up work in his new function on 1 October succeeding Juan Somavia (Chile) who had served for 13 years at the helm of the ILO. Currently, Austria is not a member of the ILO Governing Board but participates as an observer in the meetings. Topics that featured especially high on the meetings’ agenda were – apart from fighting crises (especially in the eurozone) and the problems in the labour markets, including youth employment – also the positive developments in Myanmar. 178 The United Nations Specialised Agencies and Related Organisations

Federal Minister Rudolf Hundstorfer and the President of the Austrian Trade Union Federation (ÖGB) Erich Foglar participated in the 101st Session of the International Labour Conference (ILC) in June. The ILC adopted Rec- ommendation (No. 202) concerning National Floors for Social Protection, which aims at extending the scope of essential health care and basic income security. Due to lack of agreement among social partners on a countries list, the ILC’s Committee on the Application of Standards was not able to fulfil its central task in the ILO monitoring system i.e. the country reviews. The Federal Government reported to parliament on the Maritime Labour Convention adopted at the 94th ILC session in 2006 and on Recommenda- tion (No. 200) concerning HIV and Aids and the World of Work adopted at the 99th ILC session in 2010. In view of the limited importance of maritime navigation in Austria the Maritime Labour Convention will not be ratified. Implementation activities have, however, been launched by Austria on all essential proposals under Recommendation No. 200.

7.7.3. international Telecommunications Union (ITU) The Geneva-based International Telecommunications Union (ITU) is a United Nations agency in which government and industry representatives coordinate the establishment and operation of global telecommunication networks and services, in particular the utilisation of the radio frequency spectrum and the satellite orbit. The ITU World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-12) took place in Geneva from 23 January to 17 February 2012. The most important item dealt with at the conference was the revision of the ITU Radio Regulation which regulates international radio communications. From 1 to 14 December 2012, the ITU World Conference on International Telecommunications 2012 (WCIT) which concentrated on revising the Inter- national Telecom Regulations from 1988 was held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. This event attracted attention as it also dealt with a proposal submitted by several countries, including China and Russia, on the issue of subjecting the internet to stricter control and significant influence by the ITU. The conference’s final document was signed by 89 states while 55 other states (inter alia all EU Member States and thus also Austria) opposed the restriction of freedom on the internet and consequently did not sign the final document.

7.7.4. international Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) The central task of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) is to combat rural hunger and poverty and increase food production. The Fund mobilises the necessary resources for the support of the poor- 179 The United Nations, its Specialised Agencies and Related Organisations est rural populations in developing countries by granting loans with very favourable conditions as well as non-repayable subsidies. Central elements of this strategy are facilitated access to small loans, adapted technologies, fair markets, basic infrastructure, health services and primary education. By placing a stronger focus on profit orientation and cooperation with the private sector, small farmers and small rural companies are to be integrated into existing value added chains. Over the past 30 years, IFAD has funded roughly 892 programmes and projects involving a total value of 13.7 billion US dollars. The IFAD’s services are part of the financial architecture of multilateral development assistance and complementary to the loans granted by the World Bank Group and the regional development banks. Austria is a founding member of IFAD and has so far contributed approximately 53 million euros to the Fund’s capital.

7.7.5. international Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) is a specialised UN agency based in Montreal set up to promote the development of international civil aviation in the fields of aviation safety, business, legislation and environmental protection. Austria participated in the 12th Air Navigation Conference held in Montreal from 19 to 30 November 2012. At this conference, further progress was made towards a global and harmonised air traffic control system for international civil aviation. From 8 to 12 December 2012, representatives from 70 countries met in Jed- dah at the International Air Services Negotiation Conference (ICAN), which served as a forum for bilateral talks on air navigation agreements. The inclusion of air navigation in the EU emission trading system, adopted by the EU for flights from and to the EU from 1 January 2013, was met with massive criticism from third countries. At the end of the year the EU announced it was suspending this inclusion in order to find a global solution for the problem of emissions caused by air transport. To this end, a high-level working group was set up within the ICAO mandated with preparing a relevant proposal for the ICAO General Assembly in September and October 2013.

7.7.6. united Nations Educational, Scientific andC ultural Organisation (UNESCO) The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is a specialised UN agency set up in 1945 and based in Paris. By promoting international cooperation in the fields of education, science, culture and communication/information it strives to contribute to ensuring lasting peace and security in the international community. 180 The United Nations Specialised Agencies and Related Organisations

Guided by the leitmotiv of “Education for All”, UNESCO develops programmes to contribute towards achieving the Millennium Goals in the field of education and in the cross-cutting global priorities “Africa” and “Gender Equality”. Other central areas of UNESCO‘s programme include science and technology in developing countries, culture and development, freedom of the media (including the protection of journalists) and dialogue activities aimed at promoting intercultural and interfaith tolerance. The non-payment of the US contributions following the accession of Pal- estine to UNESCO in 2011 led to a drastic reduction of the organisation’s budget, which translated into a cut in activities but also increased the pace of administrative reform already called for by UNESCO Member States for quite some time. Director General Irina Bokova participated in a Europe-Arab Dialogue Con- ference organised by the National UNESCO Commissions of both regions on 31 May in Vienna. During her stay, she held talks with Vice Chancellor and Foreign Minister Michael Spindelegger, State Secretary Sebastian Kurz and State Secretary Josef Ostermayer. UNSG Ban Ki-moon appointed Director General Irina Bokova chairperson of the steering committee of the “Global Education First Initiative” he had launched in September. In this context, he paid a visit to UNESCO in Octo- ber in order to present the initiative to the Executive Board. The objective of “Education First” is to ensure that every school-aged child can go to school and receives high-quality education that also promotes tolerance and dialogue. In November, UNESCO entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with the EU on future cooperation, designed in particular to promote UNESCO projects in the Arab Spring countries. The UN adopted the first-ever Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists whose implementation will be led and coordinated by UNESCO. Further highlights of the year were the meeting of the World Heritage Com- mittee in St. Petersburg in July and the meeting of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in Paris in December. “Schemenlaufen, the carnival of Imst” and “Falconry” were the first Austrian entries to be included into the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The Austrian contribution to UNESCO’s biennial budget amounts to approx. 4.3 million euros (0.85 % of the regular budget) and the additional contributions to the Cultural Heritage Fund and the Intangible Cultural Heritage Fund amount to approx. 21,500 euros each. 181 The United Nations, its Specialised Agencies and Related Organisations

7.7.6.1. austria on the Executive Board Since its election to the Executive Board, the leading constitutional organ of UNESCO, Austria has contributed pro-actively towards implementing its thematic programme priorities: education, safety of journalists and intercultural/interreligious dialogue. At a ceremony held in Paris on 23 November, State Secretary Reinhold Lopatka handed over the first Austrian artistic gift – a volume of photographs – to UNESCO Director General Irina Bukova. Entitled “Art for Peace”, this volume was specially compiled with a view to Austria’s membership of the Executive Board. The pictures taken by the Austrian photographic artist Lois Lammerhuber show, from an art history point of view, what the most important gifts endowed by other Member States to UNESCO are. With this volume of photographs, Austria strives to contribute to disseminating the ideals of UNESCO – promotion of mutual understanding, intercultural dialogue and peace. Through “Art for Peace”, the largest art collection of the UN is for the first time made accessible to the public in all Member States. Supported by Austria, the United Nations Interagency Meeting on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity was held in Vienna in November. Austria also supported the strengthening of the Intercultural/Interreligious Dialogue programme within UNESCO and the consolidation of programme- related cooperation between UNESCO and the UN Alliance of Civilisations (UNAOC). As a member of the Executive Board, Austria has committedly worked towards promoting the implementation of the organisation’s reform agenda. The Executive Board plays a key role in the context of developing UNESCO’s mid-term strategy, which is to be adopted in autumn 2013 and for the first time designed to cover a period of eight years (2014–2021). Essentially, the reform approach pursued by Director General Bokova strives to overcome the strict division of UNESCO into individual sectors and programmes and to present an efficient, streamlined and interdisciplinary strategy. Together with Slovakia and Hungary, Austria prepared the programme and strategy consultations for the Europe/North America region held in Bratislava in Sep- tember. Another central element of Austria’s membership of the Executive Board is its active cooperation in the Executive Board’s “Human Rights Commit- tee” – the Committee for Conventions and Recommendations – which is the most important forum for the protection of human rights within the scope of UNESCO’s mandate. This includes inter alia the right to education, the right to free access to and/or dissemination of information and the right to participate in the respective country’s cultural life. Apart from being members of the Executive Board for the period 2011–2015, Austrian experts are also represented on the following intergovernmental UNESCO bodies: IFAP (Information for All Programme), MAB (Man and the 182 The United Nations Specialised Agencies and Related Organisations

Biosphere), IGBC (Intergovernmental Bioethics Committee), MOST (Man- agement of Social Transformations) and the Hague Committee (Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict).

7.7.7. World Health Organization (WHO) Federal Minister Alois Stöger participated in the 65th World Health Assem- bly (Geneva, 21 to 26 May), which adopted resolutions on a wide range of health care issues including non-communicable diseases, social determi- nants of health and a global plan of action on vaccination/immunisation. Dr. Margaret Chan (China) was re-elected by secret ballot for a second five-year term (2012–2017) as Director-General of WHO. On the margins of the assembly, Federal Minister Alois Stöger also held bilateral talks with the Swiss Federal Councillor for Health and Social Insurance Affairs Alain Berset and with WHO Regional Director for Europe Zsuzsanna Jakab. At the 62nd session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe held in Malta from 10 to 13 September, the health-policy framework concept “Health 2020”, which enshrines the “Health in All Policies” approach, was adopted following two years of preparation. It serves as the new guideline for the activities of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe and provides guidance for Member States on their path towards better health, greater prosperity and equal opportunities. The head of the Department for Public Health and Medi- cal Affairs at the Federal Ministry of Health, Director-General Pamela Rendi- Wagner, was elected for a three-year term to the Standing Committee of the Regional Committee, which is composed of representatives from 12 Member States. The 5th session of the Conference of the Parties to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) was held in Seoul, Republic of Korea from 11 to 16 November. The meeting adopted inter alia a Protocol to Elimi- nate Illicit Trade in Tobacco Products.

7.7.8. international Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) The Vienna-based International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) was established in 1957 and is an autonomous organisation within the United Nations System. The Agency’s principal task is to promote the peaceful use of nuclear energy, enhance nuclear safety and to verify adherence to the commitments under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). The IAEA Board of Governors continued to regularly deal with the safeguards inspections in Iran and Syria. Fears over the potential military aspects of the Iranian nuclear programme could, however, not be invalidated. North Korea’s nuclear programme which the IAEA inspectors have not been able to access for years was also discussed. 183 The United Nations, its Specialised Agencies and Related Organisations

In the welcoming address he held on behalf of the host country to the delegations at the 56th IAEA General Conference in September, Vice Chan- cellor and Federal Minister Michael Spindelegger stressed Austria’s “anti- nuclear” position and the need to prevent the proliferation of military uses of nuclear technologies. He appealed to all IAEA Member States to contribute towards the swift implementation of the objective of a nuclear weapon free world. Negotiations on topics related to IAEA safeguards again proved difficult. The analysis and processing of the accident at the Fukushima nuclear power station in Japan following the terrible earthquake and tsunami disaster of 11 March 2011 continued in the context of the IAEA’s post-Fukushima Nuclear Safety Action Plan of 2011.

7.7.9. World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) The Madrid-based World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) is the leading international organisation in the field of tourism, serving as a forum for global tourism policy issues and a source of tourism know-how and statistics. Its membership includes 155 full members and six associate members. Austria has been a full member since 1975. From 1995 to 2007, Austria was a member of the Programme Committee which it chaired for the period from 1999 to 2007. On 9 May, the Regional Commission for Europe held its 54th session in Batumi (Georgia). Discussions focused on the implementation of the organisation’s Programme of Work 2012–2013, the positioning of tourism on the global agenda, travel and visa facilitations, the anticipated trends in tourism and the Member States’ tourism strategies.

7.7.10. universal Postal Union (UPU) Established in 1874, the Bern-based Universal Postal Union (UPU) is the oldest international organisation beside the International Telecommunica- tions Union (ITU). Austria is a founding member of the UPU. The Universal Postal Union regulates international postal traffic and recommends measures for increasing postal volumes as well as improving the quality of postal services. The Universal Postal Congress is the UPU’s supreme body and focuses on reviewing the UPU’s sets of treaties and the strategic orientation by defining a roadmap for the Union’s future activities. It elects the UPU’s Director Gen- eral, his Deputy, the Council of Administration (CA) and the Postal Opera- tions Council (POC). Austria was elected to the POC at the Universal Postal Congress held in Doha (Qatar) from 24 September to 15 October 2012. The UPU’s new Director General is Bishar Abdirahman Hussein (Kenya) and Pas- cal Clivaz (Switzerland) was elected as Deputy Director General. 184 The United Nations Specialised Agencies and Related Organisations 7.7.11. World Meteorological Organization (WMO) Established in 1950, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) became a specialised agency of the UN in 1951. It coordinates and supports the global development of a meteorological and hydrological measuring and observation network. In October, the implementation plan for the Global Frame- work for Climate Services (GFCS) was adopted at the World Meteorological Extraordinary Session. The GFCS aims to promote global exchange and simplified access to climate information, the observation and analysis of climate changes and the derived improvement of forecast accuracy for research into climate change and disaster protection.

7.7.12. international Maritime Organization (IMO) The London-based International Maritime Organization (IMO) is a specialised UN agency and comprises 169 Member States. Austria has been a member of the IMO since 1975. The IMO’s Assembly meets every two years, elects the members of the IMO Council and adopts strategy and action plans. The IMO’s next Assembly is scheduled to take place in November 2013. In January, the organisation’s new Secretary General Koji Sekimizu (Japan) took office for the period of 2012 to 2014. Representatives from 58 states participated in a diplomatic conference on the safety of fishing vessels held in Cape Town (South Africa) from 9 to 11 October 2012. At this meeting, new clauses were adopted to facilitate the entry into force of the Torremolinos International Convention for the Safety of Fishing of 1977, which is of special importance due to the standardisation of the safety requirements it contains.

7.7.13. excursus: International Organization for Migration (IOM) Set up in 1951, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) currently has 149 Member States and employs more than 7,800 employees worldwide. With its global network of approx. 450 offices, IOM is an important cooperation partner for Austria as it enables Austria to become active in regions where it lacks the necessary infrastructure. In cooperation with IOM, Austria again implemented a number of projects in the field of voluntary return of refugees and in combating human trafficking. As a result of its internal restructuring process, IOM set up a regional office in Vienna that is responsible for East and South East Europe as well as Cen- tral Asia. The IOM country office in Vienna is at the same time “National Contact Point Austria” of the European Migration Network, set up by the 185 The United Nations, its Specialised Agencies and Related Organisations

European Commission in 2003, and cooperates closely with the relevant Austrian institutions. Until December, Austria held the chair of the administrative Council of IOM. The chairmanship was exercised by the Austrian Permanent Representative to Geneva, Ambassador Christian Strohal. An important task during his term in office was the preparation of the UNGA High-level Dialogue on Migration and Development in 2013. IOM is not a UN specialised agency.

186 The United Nations Specialised Agencies and Related Organisations 8. austria as the Seat of International Organisations and Institutions As home to the offices of many international organisations, Austria serves as a hub for the promotion of peace, security and sustainable development. Along with New York, Geneva and Nairobi, Vienna serves as headquarters of the United Nations. Because of its geopolitical position and its neutral status, Austria already served as a platform for dialogue during the Cold War – and succeeded in strengthening this position with the opening of the Vienna International Centre (UNO City) in 1979. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) was the first to set up headquarters in Vienna in 1957 and with its currently about 2,400 employees it is also the largest of the Vienna-based UN organisations. Since 2009 Yukiya Amano (Japan) has been the Director General of the IAEA. Vienna is also the centre for all UN efforts towards fighting crime, drug abuse and terrorism. The Vienna-based United Nations Office onD rugs and Crime (UNODC) has been headed since 2010 by Under-Secretary-General Yury Fedotov (Russian Federation), who is at the same time Director-General of the United Nations Office at Vienna (UNOV). Another specialised UN agency that established its headquarters in Vienna is the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), set up in 1966 and headed by Director General Kandeh K. Yumkella (Sierra Leone). By providing technical support, counselling services and facilitating research and study programmes, UNIDO supports environmentally sustainable indus- trialisation in third world countries and in Central and Eastern European reform states and fosters industrial cooperation between developing and industrialised nations. Since 1997, the Preparatory Commission for the Comprehensive Nuclear- Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO) to which a high-tech international data centre was attached, has been active in Vienna. The CTBTO PrepCom is headed by Executive Secretary Tibor Tóth (Hungary). A number of other international organisations are located outside of the Vienna International Centre (VIC). One of these is the Organization for Secu- rity and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) headed by Secretary General Lam- berto Zannier (Italy), which has further developed into an operational organisation in the fields of stability and security over the last decade. Since 1965, the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) has been headquartered in Vienna. This intergovernmental organisation is tasked with coordinating and unifying the petroleum policies of its member countries and ensuring the stabilisation of oil markets in order to ensure efficient, economic and regular supply to customers. The OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID) was set up in 1976 by the OPEC member countries to provide financial support for the social 187 Austria as the Seat of International Organisations and Institutions and economic progress of developing countries and is headed by Director- General Al-Herbish (Saudi Arabia). The European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) is also based in Vienna and since 2008 has been headed by Director Morten Kjaerum (Den- mark). In 2011, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), which promotes international cooperation in the field of migration, also established a regional office in Vienna that focuses specifically on the East, South East European and Central Asian region. Austria’s pro-active commitment to promoting international security, disarmament and the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons was continued with the settlement of important institutions that are active in this field, such as the Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP), which opened in February 2011, and the UN Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) that has been based in Austria since November 2011. Austria’s position as home to international institutions was further highlighted with the opening of the International Anti-Corruption Academy (IACA) based in Laxenburg (Lower Austria) in 2011 and the Vienna-based International King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz Center for Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue (KAICIID) in November. In the last two years, Vienna’s role in this context was also enhanced with the establishment of the International Peace Institute (IPI) and the opening of liaison offices by three institutes of the World Bank organisation (Interna- tional Bank for Reconstruction and Development – IBRD, Multilateral Invest- ment Guarantee Agency – MIGA, International Finance Corporation – IFC). The Sustainable Energy for All (SE4All) initiative, launched by the UN in 2011, was strengthened by the appointment of UNIDO Director-General Kandeh Yumkella as Special Representative for Sustainable Energy for All in September and by the establishment of a global support team to coordinate the initiative’s activities around the world. In October, the UN officially informed Austria that the SE4All initiative will be headquartered in Vienna. This decision may be considered a reflection of Austria’s consistent commitment to promoting sustainable energy. The Permanent Secretariat General of the International Commission for the Protection of the River Danube (ICPDR) is based at the VIC. The ICPDR focuses on the sustainable and environmentally compatible use of the Dan- ube and on the implementation of the Danube River Protection Convention of 1994 and the EU Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC). The focus of the Austrian Presidency (Professor Wolfgang Stalzer) in 2012 was on intensifying public relations activities.

188 Human Rights within the United Nations 9. the International Protection of Human Rights 9.1. introduction The global implementation of human rights standards is a key concern of Austrian foreign policy. From 2011 to the end of 2014, Austria holds its first membership of the UN Human Rights Council (HRC), the United Nation’s (UN) human rights body. Until the end of 2012 one of the HRC’s Vice-Presi- dents was Austrian. Austria’s specific priorities during its membership of the HRC include the protection of freedom of religion and conscience, the protection of religious minorities, the promotion of freedom of the media and the protection of journalists as well as the promotion of the rights of the child and the protection of children against violence and exploitation. Austria launched concrete initiatives with regard to these priorities both in the HRC and in the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and also contributes actively to their discussion in other international fora. Austria also develops and advances its traditional priorities in the human rights area. These relate in particular to strengthening human rights of particularly vulnerable persons and groups (minorities, internally displaced persons) and women, strengthening the rule of law in international relations and at national level as well as the fight against impunity. Austria also actively supports the abolition of the death penalty and the fight against human trafficking. In this context Austria places a special focus on strengthening civil society. The implementation and dissemination of international humanitarian law is another priority of Austrian foreign policy. The implementation process for the recommendations made to Austria in January 2011 in the context of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) by the HRC is actively advanced in Austria by a steering group involving also representatives from civil society.

9.2. Human Rights within the United Nations 9.2.1. Human Rights Council In June 2011, Austria was elected for a three year period to the HRC which is composed of 47 members. This subsidiary body of the UNGA is mandated with promoting and monitoring human rights around the globe and holds at least three regular sessions a year in Geneva. In 2012, Austria contributed actively to putting countries that flagrantly vio- late human rights on the HRC’s agenda. The HRC adopted several resolutions addressing the situation in Syria, which continued to deteriorate. The Commission of Inquiry, set up in 2011 by the HRC, carried out important documentation work in order to ensure the future criminal prosecution of those responsible, reported in each of the regular sessions on the situation 189 The International Protection of Human Rights in Syria and also at a special session convened at the beginning of June on the massacres in El-Houleh. Austria also provided financial assistance supporting the work of the OHCHR in Syria. The HRC repeatedly and strongly condemned the human rights violations committed by all parties to the civil war in Syria. But as some HRC members unfortunately failed to agree, it was not possible to reach a consensus. The 19th regular session of the HRC in March was opened by a High-Level Segment in which Austria was represented by State Secretary Wolfgang Waldner. Together with a representative of the American think tank “Pew Research Center” the State Secretary also participated in a high-level panel discussion on the protection of religious minorities. In its March session, the HRC adopted a resolution condemning Sri Lanka’s lack of accounting for the atrocities of the civil war. The mandates of the UN Special Rapporteurs on North Korea, Iran and Myanmar were extended by one year. The situation in Libya was addressed in a resolution focusing on technical support to the North African country. Likewise Yemen, Guinea and Somalia featured on the HRC’s agenda. Several resolution initiatives dealt with the situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territories – inter alia with setting up an International Fact Finding Mission on the illegal Israeli Settle- ments in the Occupied Territories – which were also supported by Austria. A large number of thematic resolutions were adopted by consensus, including the EU’s initiative on freedom of religion and conscience and an initiative by the Organisation of Islamic States (OIC) on the issue of incitement to hatred. For the first time, panel discussions were held in the plenary on the rights of homosexuals to protection against violence and discrimination as well as on human rights and the internet. Austria successfully continued its longstanding initiative towards promoting the rights of members of ethnic, religious and linguistic minorities. A resolution adopted by consensus confirmed the continuity of the annual Forum on Minority Issues initiated by Austria (for further information on the thematic priority see Chapter 9.6.5). Austria also hosted two informal panel discussions, one dealing with the rights of women in detention and the other with the situation of internally displaced persons. Based on an EU initiative, the violation of human rights in Belarus was strongly condemned at the 20th regular session of the HRC in June. The HRC also adopted a number of other country-specific resolutions on the situation in Mali, Côte d’Ivoire, Somalia and Eritrea for which an independent expert was appointed for the first time. Austria made a successful contribution by sponsoring an initiative for a resolution on internally displaced persons, which focused especially on the human rights situation of displaced women and children as well as of internally displaced persons outside humanitarian camps. Austria also organised a cross-regional Joint Statement on the Protection of Journalists and infor- 190 Human Rights within the United Nations mal side-events on this topic, on the rights of domestic workers and on the human rights of internally displaced persons. At the 21st regular session of the HRC in September, Austria in cooperation with a cross-regional group of states, presented the first draft resolution on the safety of journalists, in which all HRC member states clearly condemn acts of violence against journalists. The draft resolution calls on all states to ensure full accountability, without exception, on the part of those responsible for such acts. The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights was mandated with preparing a study on effective mechanisms for the protection of journalists to be presented to the HRC in 2013. The mandate of the Special Rapporteur on Sudan was extended and the High Commissioner for Human Rights was commissioned with preparing a report on the situation in South Sudan. Resolutions on the human rights situation in Mali, Eritrea and Somalia were adopted by consensus. Professor Katha- rina Pabel (Linz) was appointed as a member of the HRC‘s Advisory Com- mittee. Together with Morocco, Austria introduced an initiative in the HRC for holding the first-ever panel discussion on the negative impacts of corruption on human rights. The panel discussion will take place in March 2013 and will involve representatives from the Vienna-based UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the International Anti-Corruption Academy in Laxen- burg (Lower Austria). Every four years, all UN Member States are subject to a review of their national human rights situation, the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) by the HRC. In May, the HRC started its second UPR cycle, which will last until the end of 2016. In total two meetings were held, one in May/June and the other in October/November. In the context of this process, Austria participated actively in reviewing a number of states for which it prepared recommendations on improving their respective human rights situation. The countries thus co-reviewed included Argentina, Bahrain, the Czech Republic, Ecuador, Ghana, Guatemala, India, Indonesia, Japan, Morocco, Pakistan, the Philip- pines, Poland, Sri Lanka, South Africa, Tunisia, the Ukraine and the United Kingdom.

9.2.2. general Assembly A total of 65 resolutions on human rights-related and social issues were dealt with and adopted by the Third Committee at the 67th session of the UNGA. Austria introduced a resolution on human rights in the administration of justice, which was co-sponsored by 72 countries from all regions of the world and adopted by consensus. It was strengthened substantially compared with the most recent resolution on this topic (UNGA resolution 65/213) and focuses on two priorities: the protection of human rights of persons deprived 191 The International Protection of Human Rights of their liberty as well as juvenile justice. From an operational point of view, this year’s resolution acknowledges inter alia the joint activities by the Spe- cial Representative of the UNSG on Violence against Children, the UNODC and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) on violence against children who are deprived of their liberty. The resolution also prepared the ground for a continuation of these joint activities and requested the UNSG to submit a report on developments in the field of human rights in the administration of justice and to analyse the international legal and institutional framework for the protection of persons deprived of their liberty. In terms of Austria’s commitment within the EU, the traditional EU initiatives for a moratorium on the use of the death penalty, on the human rights situation in Myanmar and in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea as well as on the rights of the child were adopted successfully. The EU and its member Austria also supported resolutions on the human rights situation in Syria (introduced this time by the Arab states as main sponsors) and in Iran. It is noteworthy also that the two resolutions introduced by the EU and the Organisation for Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on freedom of religion or belief and religious intolerance respectively could again be adopted by consensus. In the negotiations on a resolution on contemporary forms of racism and glorification of Nazism, the EU was able to achieve improvements, which in contrast to 2011 enabled a common abstention by all EU Member States. In spite of massive opposition, it was possible to make substantial progress with respect to the resolution on extra-judicial, summary or arbitrary executions by explicitly adding “gender identity” in condemning executions on grounds of sexual orientation. For the first time this year, two resolutions were introduced on the topic of ageing. In addition to the traditional resolution of the G77, El Salvador presented a resolution that lays the groundwork for works on an UN convention for the protection of the rights of older persons. The controversial nature of this resolution eventually led the USA to request a vote – and the vast majority of UN member states (including all EU Member States) abstained in the vote. Austria participated actively in the negotiations on EU initiatives, on the country-specific resolutions, on violence against women, torture, racism, prevention of drugs and crime as well as human trafficking. Austria contributed to the debates with a national statement by a youth delegate on the topic of social development that was presented in addition to the EU statements. It participated in the interactive dialogues with the Special Representative of the UNSG on Violence against Children, on Children and Armed Conflict, and with the Special Rapporteurs/Independent Experts on Freedom of Reli- gion or Belief, Internally Displaced Persons, Minorities and Violence against Women. Austria also organised and/or participated in side events inter alia on fighting violence against children in the judiciary and in the administration of justice, and on human rights of internally displaced persons. 192 Human Rights in the European Union 9.2.3. commission on the Status of Women The 56th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) was held in New York from 27 February to 9 March and dedicated to the priority theme “The empowerment of rural women and their role in poverty and hunger eradication, development and current challenges”. The session was, however, disappointing as – despite lengthy and difficult negotiations – it failed to adopt conclusions on this topic. A total of six resolutions were adopted on the following issues: eliminating maternal mortality and mor- bidity; indigenous women; gender equality and empowerment of women in natural disasters; women, the girl child and HIV/AIDS (which is, however, a procedural resolution as negotiations on a substantive resolution failed); women and children held hostage; as well as on the situation of Palestinian women. The Austrian delegation was headed by Federal Minister Heinisch- Hosek. Austria contributed actively to the debate and to the negotiations and organised two side events on the topic of gender budgeting (one in collaboration with Switzerland).

9.3. Human Rights in the European Union 9.3.1. the European Union Human Rights Policy Pursuant to Article 21 of the Treaty of Lisbon, the objectives of the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) include the development and consolidation of democracy and the rule of law as well as the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms. Issues related to the EU’s human rights policy within the European Union are dealt with by the EU Council Working Party on Fundamental Rights, Citizens Rights and Free Movement of Persons (FREMP). Issues related to the EU’s human rights policy towards third countries are addressed by the EU Council Working Party on Human Rights (COHOM), responsible for human rights issues in the EU’s external relations, in cooperation with geographical Council Working Parties. Austria continued its commitment towards better integration of human rights in all EU policy areas, especially for an effective coordination between COHOM and FREMP, in order to ensure a consistent EU human rights policy both inside and outside of the EU. A direct result of the efforts towards strengthening EU human rights policy is the adoption of a new EU Human Rights Policy for the CFSP by the External Relations Council on 25 June in the form of a Strategic Framework and an Action Plan on Human Rights and Democracy. These two instruments aim at further strengthening the EU’s effectiveness and coherence as a global power for the promotion of human rights and to increasingly integrate human rights aspects into other external policy areas like trade, technology, development cooperation, security and defence, justice and home affairs or the fight against terrorism. The Action Plan defines 97 concrete measures that are to 193 The International Protection of Human Rights be implemented by the EU and the Member States. The Austrian proposal for the development of EU Guidelines on the promotion and protection of freedom of religion was also incorporated, as were the measures aimed at fostering the protection and safety of journalists. Other topics in the Action Plan which Austria considers of particular relevance are the EU’s intensified efforts towards protecting the rights of minorities and targeted campaigns on the rights of the child with a specific focus on violence against children, and on the political and economic participation of women with a special focus on countries in transition. Further activities included the appointment of the former Greek Foreign Minister Stavros Lambrinidis as the first EU Special Representative for Human Rights and the continuation of work on the preparation of country specific human rights strategies for the EU’s relations with 150 countries. The EU Guidelines on Human Rights, adopted for eight areas, strive to enable more efficient action. Each of these Guidelines comprises a catalogue of measures for the EU’s permanent commitment towards third countries on individual human rights issues such as the death penalty; torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment; human rights dialogues with third countries; the protection of children in armed conflict; the protection and promotion of human rights defenders; the protection and promotion of the rights of the child; the Guidelines on combating violence against women; and international humanitarian law. Under the EU Action Plan for Human Rights and Democracy, guidelines are also to be prepared with regard to lesbians, gays, bi-and transsexual persons and the freedom of expression online and offline. Austria supports the full implementation and further development of the guidelines. In the context of COHOM, Aus- tria is an active member of the working parties on freedom of religion and belief, the rights of the child, on fighting violence against women and on the implementation of UNSC resolution 1325 (2000) on women, peace and security. The main responsibility for implementing concrete projects and programmes in the field of EU human rights policy lies with the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights (EIDHR). The work of EIDHR is managed by the Committee on Human Rights and Democratisation which is headed by the European Commission. A concrete contribution to strengthening democracy globally is being made by the EU election monitoring missions, conducted since 2000. A total of 17 Austrians has participated in the four missions to Senegal, Algeria, Timor-Leste and Sierra Leone. Austria has been very successful with its candidates and ranks third compared with other EU Member States. Within the EU, the Charta of Fundamental Rights of the European Union is binding when implementing EU law. The negotiations on the EU’s accession to the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) that were opened in 2010 were continued intensively to enable the EU to join as soon as possible. 194 Human Rights in the European Union

The Vienna-based European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) provides advice to the European Commission, the Council, the Member States and the organs of the Union. Austria supports a strong FRA and cooperates closely with it. As it had not been possible to adopt the next Multi- annual Framework (MAF) for the five years from 2013–2017, the Council at the end of December authorised the Presidency to ensure the continuity of the FRA’s work by requesting completion of specific tasks until such time as a new multi-annual framework programme is adopted.

9.3.2. Structured Human Rights Dialogues The EU uses special Guidelines on Human Rights Dialogues with third countries that define various forms of dialogue: structured human rights dialogues, ad hoc dialogues, dialogues with groups of states and expert meetings with like-minded states in preparation for major human rights events. The EU holds human rights dialogues with more than 40 states and groups of states. The respective topics, problematic issues and opportunities for discussion addressed during these dialogues are defined individually on a case by case basis. Topics that feature frequently in these talks are minority rights, women’s rights, death penalty, freedom of religion and conscience, democratisation, the rule of law, children’s rights and civil society development. The EU strives to actively involve civil society in these dialogues, for instance by organising preparatory meetings on the dialogues. The human rights dialogues are held on an alternating basis in the EU and in the respective partner country. In 2012, EU human rights dialogues, consultations and subcommittee meetings were held with all EU candidate countries, the African Union, Argentina, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Brazil, Cambodia, Chile, China, Colombia, Georgia, Indonesia, Japan, Jordan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Morocco, Mexico, Moldova, Pakistan, the Palestinian Authority, the Russian Federation, the Ukraine, the USA, Uzbekistan and Vietnam. In December, the Council adopted the creation of a new human rights dialogue with South Africa. The most recent EU-China Human Rights Dialogue was held on 29 May, this time in Brussels. Besides individual human rights cases, the EU inter alia addressed minority rights, treatment of refugees from North Korea, freedom of expression – also on the internet, civil society, the one child policy, death penalty and detention conditions. In addition, an EU-China human rights seminar was held from 29–31 October addressing among other topics the forced resettlement of Tibetan nomads. The EU-Iran Human Rights Dialogue was established in 2002, but came to a virtual standstill after its fourth round in June 2004. During Austria’s EU Presidency in 2006, efforts were undertaken to resume the dialogue but remained unsuccessful due to the alarming human rights situation in Iran. The human rights situation was also criticised in a resolution co-sponsored by Austria and adopted by the 67th UNGA. Austria is in principle in favour 195 The International Protection of Human Rights of continuing the human rights dialogue with Iran. At the same time, Austria regularly addressed the numerous human rights violations in talks with the Iranian government. Two meetings were held under the EU-Russian Federation Human Rights Dialogue on 4 May and on 7 December in Brussels. The EU addressed those developments that have seriously impaired the human rights situation in the Russian Federation. Apart from individual cases, the EU voiced concerns especially over the developments in the rule of law field, the increasing restrictions of civil society organisations’ room for manoeuvre in the Russian Federation and over numerous alleged attacks on human rights defenders.

9.4. Human Rights in the Council of Europe The European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) and the activities of the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) are – due to the binding nature of the ECtHR’s decisions – the most important pillars of the CoE’s human rights protection system. Over the last few years, a considerable increase of applications has, however, led to a significant backlog of complaints. Proto- col 14 to the ECHR which entered into force in 2010 led to a first remarkable improvement of the effectiveness of the Court. At the same time an additional reform process has been initiated. The Brighton Declaration, adopted by the state parties to the ECHR in April under the British Chairmanship of the CoE, laid down further steps towards reform. Throughout the process leading to the adoption of the Declaration, Austria strove to ensure that the amendments would not lead to a deterioration of human rights protection in general or restrict the right of individual petition. The Declaration provides for the elaboration of two amending protocols to the ECHR, one of them regards minor amendments to the Convention by which it is intended to enhance the effectiveness of the Court; the other one enables state parties to request the Court to give an advisory opinion. The Declaration also envisages improvements regarding the execution of judgments of the Court on the national level in order to substantially reduce those cases which are pending only because judgements on earlier cases of a similar nature have not yet or not fully been implemented by a state party. In the course of the year, the measures adopted by Protocol 14 had already shown positive results and improved the Court’s efficiency; after a trend reversal the number of pending cases has constantly decreased and continues to do so. In 2012, the ECtHR dealt with a total of 41 cases pending against Austria; in 23 cases a judgment was delivered, in 10 cases the Court found a violation of the ECHR by Austria. Under the Treaty of Lisbon, the EU committed itself to acceding to the ECHR. The EU‘s accession to the Convention guarantees that Union legislation is 196 Austrian Priorities in the Field of Human Rights reviewed by the ECtHR for its compatibility with the Convention. It will create the possibility to file an individual application directly against the EU in areas of EU competence in addition to the existing possibilities of applying to the ECtHR. The respective negotiations with the CoE have been led on behalf of the Union by the European Commission within a special working group of the CoE Steering Committee for Human Rights (CDDH). Nils Muižnieks (Latvia) who was elected as successor of Thomas Hammar- berg as Commissioner for Human Rights of the CoE on 24 January, visited Austria and prepared a report. Other countries visited by Nils Muižnieks in his first year of office and/or his predecessor included Andorra, Finland, Iceland, Italy, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Portugal, Switzerland and the Ukraine. Reports and statements prepared by the Commissioner on both country-specific and thematic developments contribute to raising awareness of human rights in the member states. On 1 November, Dean Spielmann (from Luxembourg) took over from Sir Nicolas Bratza (from the UK) as President of the ECtHR. Since 2001, Elisa- beth Steiner has been active as Austrian judge at the ECtHR; Gerald Schöpfer is a member of the European Commission against Racism and Intolerance (ECRI); Julia Kozma is member of the European Committee for the Preven- tion of Torture and Inhuman or Degrading Treatment of Punishment (CPT); Helmut Sax is a member of the Group of Experts on Action against Traffick- ing in Human Beings (GRETA); Dieter Halwachs is member of the Commit- tee of Experts of the European Charter for Regional and Minority Languages; Karin Lukas is a member of the European Committee of Social Rights (ECSR). (For further information also see Chapter 6.1.4)

9.5. Human Rights in the OSCE See Chapter 5.2.4

9.6. austrian Priorities in the Field of Human Rights 9.6.1. Freedom of Religion and Protection of Minorities In view of the global rise in violence and discrimination against religious minorities, Austria has stepped up its commitment to promoting religious freedom and the protection of religious minorities at bilateral and international level. Austria has made this topic a priority of its membership in the HRC. In the context of the 20th anniversary of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Per- sons Belonging to National or Ethnic, Religious and Linguistic Minorities, Austria focused on drawing increased attention to the situation of religious minorities and to initiating discussions on strengthening international pro- 197 The International Protection of Human Rights tection mechanisms in the context of the UN. During the 19th Session of the HRC, Austria organised a discussion event on 27 February in Geneva dealing with “the increasing global trend towards restricting freedom of religion or belief: responses from the international human rights system” aimed at more firmly establishing the topic in the UN system. Austria supports the independent mandate of the UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief (since 2010 Heiner Bielefeldt) and of the Independent Expert on Minority Issues, Rita Izsák, who both focus increasingly on the protection of religious minorities. Both experts participated in the international seminar on “Enhancing the effectiveness of international, regional and national human rights mechanisms for the protection and promotion of the rights of religious minorities”, held in Vienna on 22 and 23 May, and organised jointly by Austria and the OHCHR. The seminar findings were discussed at the 5th UN Forum on Minority Issues that convened in Geneva on 27 and 28 November and are reflected in the forum’s recommendations. A side event hosted by Austria in the context of the Forum on Minor- ity Issues was dedicated to “Strategies to protect and promote the rights of religious minorities – effective participation in public and political life”. Within the EU, Austria continued its efforts towards ensuring that the Euro- pean External Action Service increasingly perceives freedom of religion or belief and the protection of religious minorities as a priority issue. On Austria’s initiative, the Council on Foreign Relations agreed in June on the elaboration of EU Guidelines on Freedom of Religion or Belief in order to be provided with an effective tool as a precondition for a coherent human rights policy in this regard. Vice Chancellor and Foreign Minister Michael Spindelegger participated together with his Italian counterpart in a high- level event on 10 December in Brussels on “ConflictP revention and Human Rights –The Role of the new EU Guidelines on Freedom of Religion or Belief”, organised by Austria and involving the participation of EU experts and civil society representatives. In the context of the OSCE and of the Council of Europe Austria likewise supports initiatives aimed at the protection of religious minorities and freedom of religion or belief. On Austria’s initiative, a thematic debate on freedom of religion or belief and on the situation of religious minorities was held on 13 December in the CoE. The debate came to the conclusion that the CoE may play a key role in this respect. A documentation on the existing standards and expert reports of the CoE’s bodies shall be prepared and used for raising awareness of freedom of religion or belief within and outside of Europe.

9.6.2. Human Rights of Children The promotion and the protection of the rights of children are a priority of Austrian foreign policy. As was the case during its non-permanent membership in the UN Security Council 2009–2010, Austria also made the pro- 198 Austrian Priorities in the Field of Human Rights motion of the rights of children and their protection against violence and exploitation a priority of its membership in the HRC 2011–2014. During the HRC session in March, Austria took a leading role in preparing the text and contributed actively to the negotiations on the resolution on the rights of the child introduced jointly by the EU and the Latin American states. On 8 March Austria also participated actively in the annual full-day meeting on the rights of the child in the HRC that was focused on the topic of “children and the administration of justice”. On 23 and 24 January, Vienna was the venue of an international expert consultation on the prevention of and responses to violence against children within the juvenile justice systems, which was jointly organised with Aus- trian support by the UNODC, the OHCHR and the Special Representative of the UNSG on Violence against Children, Marta Santos Pais. At this meeting, strategies for the prevention and combatting of violence against children deprived of their liberty were discussed and concrete recommendations were prepared to assist states in effectively preventing violence. The outcome of the expert consultation influenced the resolution on human rights in the administration of justice that was introduced by Austria in autumn in the Third Committee of the 67th UNGA (see Chapter 9.2.2). It was, for instance, possible to include in this resolution a call on all states to prevent all forms of violence against children in the justice system and to ban corporal punishment of minors. The resolution also calls on states to ban and repeal life imprisonment without the possibility of release for minors and not to set the minimum age for criminal responsibility at an age level which is too low. On 28 February Austria was one of the first states to sign theT hird Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child in Geneva. The Third Optional Protocol creates the opportunity for filing individual communications to the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child. Austria contributed actively towards preparing this protocol in the UN bodies in Geneva and New York. Austria participated in the annual open UNSC debate on children and armed conflict held on 19 September (see Chapter 7.3.1.4). In negotiation processes in the HRC and the UNGA it repeatedly advocated consideration of the special situation of children in armed conflict, especially in the HRC resolutions on Syria in March, June and September. On 24 September, Austria presented its combined third and fourth periodic report on the implementation of the Convention on the Rights of the Child to the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child in Geneva and responded to questions from Committee members. The delegation led by the Legal Adviser of the FMEIA, Ambassador Helmut Tichy, was composed of high-level representatives from all ministries concerned. The concluding observations and recommendations by the Committee on the Rights of the Child were already submitted to Austria and reviewed with regard to their implementation by 199 The International Protection of Human Rights the ministries concerned. An ongoing dialogue on the topic is planned with civil society representatives. Austria also underlined its commitment in the field of children’s rights with the candidacy of Renate Winter, an experienced international expert on children’s rights and former juvenile judge, for membership in the UN Commit- tee on the Rights of the Child. On 18 December, Renate Winter was elected with a large number of votes for the period 2013–2017. Her term commences on 1 March 2013. On two levels, the Austrian Development Cooperation (ADC) also committedly supports the rights of the child in a targeted manner. On the one hand ADC in all activities, including political dialogue, takes special account of the needs and rights of children (mainstreaming). On the other hand ADC promotes projects and programmes that are specifically tailored to strengthening the rights of children and take account of their needs (for instance safety networks against child trafficking in Albania, protection of children against violence in Kosovo or NGO co-funding as well as the inclusion of children with disabilities). Projects of the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) aimed at strengthening children’s rights in Kosovo are funded by way of multilateral development cooperation. The same holds true for a project jointly implemented by UNICEF and the UN Population Fund (UNFPA) to end the practice of female genital mutilation (FGM) in Ethiopia.

9.6.3. Human Rights of Women Strengthening the rights of women is one of the priority concerns of Aus- trian human rights policy. Austria inter alia supports the promotion of measures aimed at combating violence against women and facilitating the active involvement of women in peace processes. In implementing the Austrian initiatives announced in October 2010 at the tenth anniversary of the adoption of UNSC resolution 1325 (2000) on women peace and security, a revised National Action Plan on Implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1325 (2000) was adopted by the Austrian Federal Government on 24 January. This first comprehensive review of the Austrian Action Plan on Resolution 1325 from 2007 was coordinated by the FMEIA in the context of an inter-ministerial working group and with the involvement of civil society. The revised Action Plan takes account of the follow-up resolutions to resolution 1325 and of the indicators prepared by both the UN and the EU, and strives to further corroborate the Austrian Fed- eral Government’s commitment towards the implementation of resolution 1325 in Austria’s humanitarian, diplomatic, peacekeeping and development policy activities and to strengthen inter-ministerial cooperation. As a member of the EU Task Force on UNSC Resolution 1325, Austria participated in several preparatory meetings for the second report on the EU Indi- 200 Austrian Priorities in the Field of Human Rights cators for a Comprehensive Approach to the EU Implementation of UNSC Resolutions 1325 (2000) and 1820 (2008) to be published in 2013. It also participated in the EU Member States’ annual meeting on resolution 1325 dealing with the topic of “peace negotiations and mediation” held in Brus- sels on 14 June. Austria contributed to the 56th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (see Chapter 9.2.3) and in the open debates of the UNSC on conflict- related sexual violence and on the topic of women, peace and security (see Chapter 7.3.1.3). During the annual debate held in the HRC on the human rights of women on 25 and 26 June, Austria coordinated the EU statement on compensation for women who have suffered violence and delivered a national statement on the rights of human rights defenders. In cooperation with Finland and Senegal, Austria also moderated a side event on the political participation of women and supported a cross-regional statement on “women, peace and security” initiated by the United Kingdom. In the context of the Third Committee of the 67th session of the UNGA (see Chapter 9.2.2), Austria participated actively in the negotiations on a range of resolutions on strengthening women’s rights including in particular the initiative launched by France and the Netherlands on eliminating all kinds of violence against women. Austria also supported a resolution on banning the practice of female genital mutilation (FGM) introduced in the UNGA for the first time by the Group of African States. In connection with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, a symposium organised by the Academic Council of the United Nations System (ACUNS) and supported by the FMEIA on “Femi- cide: The Killing of a Woman because She is a Woman” was held in Vienna on 26 November. As a clear sign of support for the system-wide campaign by the UNSG on fighting violence against women, Austria continued its contributions to the UN Trust Fund to End Violence. At the end of January, an Austrian Junior Professional Officer(J PO) was seconded for a two year period to the office of Executive Director Michelle Bachelet in order to support UN Women. In December, the candidacy of Austrian judge Lilian Hofmeister for the 2014 elections to the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW Committee) was officially announced at the UN in New York.

9.6.4. Freedom of the Media and Protection of Journalists In view of the global rise in targeted attacks against journalists and the problem of widespread impunity, Austria made improving journalists’ safety and defending freedom of the press and the media a major concern of its 201 The International Protection of Human Rights

HRC membership. Building on the findings of a high-level expert meeting on “Safety of Journalists: Towards a more effective international protection framework”, held in Vienna in November 2011, Austria launched a number of activities in the HRC in Geneva. The objective pursued by this event was to gradually build up a supra-regional coalition enabling the introduction of the first resolution on the safety of journalists. To this end Austria, in cooperation with the Geneva Academy for International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights organised a workshop on the topic of “Protection of Jour- nalists: The role of the Human Rights Council” on 23 May. In the context of the 20th regular session of the HRC, Austria on 20 June organised a side event on the topic of “Protection of Journalists: UN and regional approaches for better protection” involving the UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Opinion and Expression (Frank La Rue) and on Extrajudicial, Summary or Arbitrary Executions (Christof Heyns) as well as the regional OSCE Special Representative on Freedom of the Media and Freedom of Expression (Dunja Mijatović) and the Organisation of American States (Catalina Botero) as well as the UNESCO. Austria also coordinated the text of a Joint Statement on the Safety of Journalists, delivered on 2 July by Austria together with a group of 56 other states from all regions in the HRC. The statement stressed the special role played by journalists in society, condemns human rights violations against journalists as well as widespread impunity, recalls the obligation of each state to ensure a safe and enabling environment for journalists and highlights the importance of better cooperation and coordination at international level. In the context of the 21st regular session of the HRC, Austria in cooperation with a core group of states (Brazil, Morocco, Tunisia and Switzerland) introduced a resolution on the safety of journalists, which was adopted by consensus on 27 September. The resolution was prepared in close cooperation with civil society representatives and co-sponsored by a total of 67 states from all regions. The key elements addressed by the resolution are a clear condemnation of all forms of attacks and/or violence against journalists, a call on states to end impunity by ensuring accountability and investigating such attacks, bringing perpetrators to justice and a call on states to prevent such attacks by launching concrete activities towards creating a safe and enabling environment for journalists, including the development of special protection programmes. OHCHR was also requested to compile reports on good practices applied by states in this area and to present them to the HRC in September 2013. Important steps towards improving safety and security of journalists were also taken in the context of UNESCO. The UN system-wide Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity, which is coordinated by UNESCO, was adopted in April by the UN Coordination Committee. Austria contributed actively to the efforts towards effecting implementation of the Plan of Action, inter alia by providing financial support for a meeting of all 202 Austrian Priorities in the Field of Human Rights relevant UN organisations, funds and programmes, regional organisations, states und civil society representatives on 22 and 23 November in Vienna, that defined the implementation strategy for the Plan of Action. Austria also supported a UNESCO study on special risk situations faced by journalists; the study results are expected for 2013. Austria furthermore contributed to the international discussion on the impact of the internet on human rights and their full applicability “online”. The Council of Europe’s Internet Governance Strategy 2012–2015 was adopted on 15 March. Austria had given an important impetus to the preparation of this strategy inter alia by the CoE conference “Our Internet – Our Rights, Our Freedoms” held in November in Vienna. In the HRC, Austria supported the first-ever adoption of a resolution on human rights and the internet, which stresses that human rights are to be respected both online and offline. Austria is also a member of the “Coalition for Freedom Online”, a group of interested states set up by the Netherlands in December 2011 that supports freedom of expression on the internet worldwide. In this connection, Austria participated in the second “Freedom Online” conference in Nairobi on 6 September and in the joint demarches of the coalition members in the lead-up to the World Conference on International Telecommunications (WCIT) organised in Dubai in December. The objective pursued by these demarches was to oppose action against proposals which aim to subject the internet to stricter control. In the context of the Internet Governance Forum that convened in Baku in November, Austria contributed inter alia to a Joint Open Forum on “Safety of Online Media Actors” organised by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), the CoE, the OSCE and UNESCO on 7 November.

9.6.5. protection of Minorities The protection of the rights of ethnic, religious and linguistic minorities has traditionally been an Austrian priority issue within the UN. Austria regularly introduces thematic resolutions on this topic both in the HRC and in the UNGA. In the context of the 20th anniversary of the adoption of the UN Declara- tion on the Rights of Persons Belonging to National or Ethnic, Religious and Linguistic Minorities, Austria further expanded its traditional commitment in the field of minority protection and actively promoted the protection of religious minorities as another priority issue in the UN framework. On Aus- tria’s initiative, a high-level panel discussion was held in March in the HRC to mark the anniversary of the UN Declaration on Minority Rights. Austria supports the mandate of the Independent Expert on Minority Issues, which has been held by the Hungarian Rita Izsák since August 2011. At the 20th regular session of the HRC in March, she presented her first annual report in which she outlined her priorities which include the protection of religious minorities, recognition issues, minority protection in conflict pre- 203 The International Protection of Human Rights vention, women as members of minorities, minorities in the context of reaching the millennium development goals. On Austria’s initiative, an annual Forum on Minority Issues was set up in 2008. The forum is an important platform for reviewing the implementation of the UN Declaration on Minority Rights and involves a large number of government and NGO representatives. The continuation of this forum was ensured by a resolution negotiated by Austria in March and adopted by consensus. Single attempts to restrict the broad NGO participation in this Forum in the future were successfully averted. The 5th session of the Forum on Minority Issues that convened in Geneva from 27 to 28 November was guided by with the 20th anniversary of the UN Declaration on Minority Rights. The outcome of the discussion on the implementation of minority rights twenty years after the declaration’s adoption was reflected in recommendations directed at states, civil society and the UN system: strengthening anti-discrimination legislation, promotion programmes or minorities, complaint and protection mechanisms, awareness raising, mainstreaming of minority issues in the UN system, strengthening the newly established network on racial discrimination and minority protection coordinated by the OHCHR. In the margins of the Forum on Minority Issues, Austria organised a panel discussion dealing with the participation of religious minorities in public and political life. Together with Slovenia Austria opened an exhibition on the Roma minority. The Austrian part of the exhibition shows the situation of Roma in Austria dating from the persecution by the Nazi regime to the recognition of the Roma minority as an autochthonous ethnic group in the 1990s. At the beginning of the year, Austria submitted its report on “An EU Frame- work for National Roma Integration Strategies up to 2020 – political and legal measures in Austria” to the European Commission. This description of the existing policies and projects was jointly prepared by the relevant federal ministries and regional governments, the advisory board for the Roma ethnic group, civil society representatives and in particular Roma associations. To this end, a national contact point was set up at the Federal Chancellery which also reviews the implementation of national concepts for the inclusion of Roma in Austria. The FMEIA participates in the national monitoring process within the dialogue platform specifically established at the Federal Chancellery.

9.6.6. Human Rights Education As a member of the UNESCO Executive Committee, Austria defined human rights education as a priority and supports initiatives aimed at learning more about human rights and the mechanisms in place towards their protection. Human rights education aims to share knowledge and information on human rights and on developing an understanding of the importance of respecting, protecting and actively implementing human rights in one’s own environ- 204 Austrian Priorities in the Field of Human Rights ment. Based on comprehensive and informed understanding, awareness of human rights will be strengthened and implemented sustainably in societies. As in previous years, Austria co-sponsored the resolution on a global human rights education programme, which was again adopted by consensus by all states in the HRC. The current second phase (2010–2014) of the UN World Programme for Human Rights Education, proclaimed by a resolution adopted at the 2004 UNGA, focused on human rights education at universities and training programmes for public officials, especially teachers and members of the military and law enforcement bodies. In preparing the “Understanding Human Rights” manual on human rights education, Austria has provided an important tool that is used worldwide. The manual has already been translated into 15 languages and is used successfully by numerous countries and regions in training and education programmes. The European Training and Research Centre for Human Rights and Democracy at the University of Graz (ETC) contributed to organising an ADA sponsored training workshop for human rights experts from Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania at the Human Rights Centre at the University of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The training programme was also based on the human rights manual. The third updated edition of the manual’s English language version (“Understanding Human Rights”) was published in October.

9.6.7. international Humanitarian Law See Chapter 10.4.

9.6.8. combating Human Trafficking Human trafficking is a particularly grave violation of most fundamental human rights. According to estimates by the UN, several million people – mainly women and children – fall victim to human trafficking every year. In Europe alone some 140,000 cases are registered each year. According to UN estimates profits of 32 billion US dollars are generated with the “human being as a commodity” every year. Alongside arms and drug trafficking, human trafficking is one of the largest and most lucrative fields of organised cross-border crime worldwide. Austria’s geographical location at the centre of Europe means it is affected by human trafficking both as a transit and destination country. Experience has shown that human trafficking in Austria predominantly involves cases of sexual exploitation, slave-like situations involving domestic workers and child trafficking. Austria is a party to all relevant international legal instruments on combating human trafficking, such as the “Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, especially Women and Children Supplement- ing the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organised Crime” 205 The International Protection of Human Rights

(2005) and the “Council of Europe Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings” (2006) and strives to implement its international obligations. In this context, Austria has intensified its cooperation with international organisations, such as the UNODC, the OSCE and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM). On 20 March, the Federal Government adopted the Third National Action Plan on Combating Human Trafficking for the years 2012–2014. This action plan sets out concrete measures in the fields of prevention, victim protection, criminal prosecution and cooperation at both the international and national level. The Federal Government also adopted the Second Austrian Report on Combating Human Trafficking for the period 2009–2012 and the report by the Working Group on Child Trafficking. The National Action Plan is coordinated by the Task Force on Human Traffickingset up in 2004 under the leadership of the FMEIA. The Task Force is chaired by the National Coordinator on Combating Human Trafficking, Ambassador Elisabeth Tichy-Fisslberger, Director General of the Legal and Consular Section at the FMEIA. All public and government institutions, federal provinces and NGOs cooperate closely within the Task Force. In the field of prevention and/or awareness raising, the FMEIA – on the occasion of the EU Anti-Trafficking Day 2012 – organised the annual public event on joining forces against human trafficking at the Vienna Diplomatic Academy on 5 October. The event was opened by State Secretary Reinhold Lopatka, Federal Minister Gabriele Heinisch-Hosek and State Secretary Sebastian Kurz. The exhibition “Human Trafficking – Slavery of the 21st Century” designed under the leadership of the FMEIA was presented at this event and again in December in the Austrian parliament. All Austrian representations abroad, especially in high-risk countries, were encouraged to launch preventive measures against human trafficking, for instance, by distributing information brochures. In the framework of the Aus- trian Development Cooperation, Austria assisted potential victims of human trafficking locally in the countries of origin, for instance, through projects organised by IOM and UNODC in West Africa and South East Europe. In order to enhance the protection of domestic workers of diplomats accred- ited to Austria or international officials, the FMEIA, in cooperation with the other relevant ministries and victim protection institutions, developed a wide range of control measures aimed at preventing potential abuse. Austria has assumed a leading role at the international level in the protection of domestic workers.

9.7. the International Criminal Court The International Criminal Court (ICC), based in The Hague, is a permanent and independent court established by the Rome Statute (RS) of 1998. Its juris- 206 The International Criminal Court diction currently includes crimes of genocide, crimes against humanity and severe war crimes (under certain conditions also the crime of aggression as of 1 January 2017), provided that they were committed after the RS came into force on 1 July 2002, either on the territory of a State Party or by a national of a State Party. The UNSC has the opportunity to refer a situation to the ICC even if the state in question is not a State Party to the RS. The RS, to which 121 States are currently party (including the new State Party Guatemala), states that the ICC be based on the principle of complementary jurisdiction. This means that the Court will only act if the affected states, which are primarily responsible for carrying out investigations or prosecutions, are either unwilling or unable to investigate and/or deal with the crimes in question. Currently, eight situations are pending with the ICC: Uganda, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Central African Republic, Kenya, Darfur/Sudan (referral by UNSC resolution 1593 (2005)); Libya (referral by UNSC resolution 1970 (2011)); Côte d’Ivoire; and the latest situation is Mali (upon request of the government of 13 July). On 14 March, the ICC passed its first sentence: the Congolese rebel leader Thomas Lubanga Dyilo was found guilty of the war crime of conscripting children and using them as child soldiers and sentenced to 14 years of imprisonment. In a second sentence the passed on 18 December, the Congolese militia leader Mathieu Ngudjolo Chui was acquit- ted. Appeals were lodged against both sentences. On 3 April, the ICC Chief Prosecutor Moreno-Ocampo announced that he was unable to continue preliminary investigations regarding Palestine as he lacked the competence to define whether Palestine was to be considered a “state” for the purposes of the RS as this had to be assessed by the relevant bodies of the UN or the Assembly of the State Parties. Provided that the question of whether Palestine is to be considered a state is clarified, the alleged crimes could be further investigated in the future. In January 2009, following the Gaza conflict in 2008/2009 Palestine had made a statement under Article 12 (3) of the RS on the ICC’s retroactive competence from 1 July 2002. In the proceedings against Saif Al-Islam Gaddafi and Abdullah Al-Senussi, Libya contested the ICC’s competence and refused rendition. Following a visit to Saif Al-Islam Gaddafi, four ICC staff were held captive from 7 June for four weeks in Zintan, Libya for alleged espionage. The charges against William Ruto, Joshua Sang, Francis Muthaura and Uhuru Kenyatta for crimes against humanity in the aftermath of the elections in Kenya 2007–2008 were confirmed and court hearings scheduled for April 2013. On 22 November, a warrant was issued for the arrest of Simone Gbagbo, wife of the likewise indicted President of Côte d‘Ivoire. Against the background of the human rights violations and assaults against the civil population in Syria, Austria has since the beginning of 2012 called for holding perpetrators and their commanders accountable and that the situation in Syria be referred to the ICC. Based on an Austrian proposal, the EU 207 The International Protection of Human Rights

Council Conclusions of 10 December for the first time included a passage on the referral of the situation in Syria to the ICC. The new ICC Chief Prosecutor Fatou Bensouda (Gambia) was sworn in on 15 June. On 16 November, James Stewart (Canada) was elected Deputy Pros- ecutor. The 11th Assembly of the State Parties of the ICC was held in The Hague from 14 to 21 November and dominated by the tenth anniversary of the entry into force of the RS. Plenary discussions were held on cooperation and complementarity. Austria contributed to the discussions and in the general debate delivered statements on the topic of cooperation. Austria is among the traditional supporters of the ICC. It was, for instance, the first State Party to sign an agreement with the ICC on the enforcement of prison sentences and holds discussions on conclusion of an arrangement on victim protection. Currently, an amendment of the Criminal Code that foresees the inclusion of crimes prosecuted under the RS is being finalised. Work on the ratification of the amendments to the RS (crime of aggression and preparation of a catalogue of war crimes), adopted in June 2010 by the RS Review Conference in Kampala (Uganda) is also ongoing.

208 Austrian Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief 10. Humanitarian Affairs 10.1. Austrian Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief 10.1.1. Bilateral Humanitarian Aid Bilateral humanitarian aid provided by Austria is funded and overseen by the Austrian Development Cooperation, the Federal Ministry of the Interior, the Federal Ministry for Agriculture, Forestry, Environment and Water Man- agement, the Federal Ministry of Defence and Sports, the federal provinces and municipalities and other public institutions. Bilateral humanitarian aid reacts to exceptional crisis situations mostly caused by natural disaster or provoked by armed conflict whose most evident consequences are refugee flows and famine. In 2012, this held true for the conflict in Syria, which caused massive distress, millions of internally displaced persons and hundreds of thousands of refugees who fled to neighbouring countries. Some 3.6 million euros were made available from the For- eign Disaster Relief Fund (FDRF) and by ADA for the provision of initial medical care to internally displaced persons in Syria and refugees, especially in Jordan and Lebanon. Another priority was managing the severe drought in the Sahel region, which was further aggravated by the crisis in Mali. Austria provided 3.1 million euros in funding from the FDRF, the ADA and the Federal Ministry for Agriculture, Forestry, Environment and Water Management sources to mitigate the food crisis and the plight of refugees and internally displaced persons. Further assistance amounting to 1.85 million euros was provided to alleviate the humanitarian crises in Haiti, Uganda and South Sudan. Funds and assistance provided was channelled through international humanitarian organisations and Austrian NGOs. Bilateral humanitarian aid made available by other Austrian ODA donors, including humanitarian aid for international disaster events coordinated by the Federal Ministry of the Interior, amounted to 11.119 million euros in 2012.

10.1.1.1. international Disaster Relief In response to requests for assistance under the EU mechanism and in direct coordination with the EC/Monitoring and Information Centre (MIC), Aus- tria provided international disaster relief for the refugee crisis triggered by the conflict in Syria under the EU mechanism. In April and in September blankets, tents, tent heaters, kitchen and hygiene sets provided by the Fed- eral Ministry of the Interior and logistics support given by the Austrian Red Cross were made available to refugees in Turkey and in Jordan. An Austrian expert was seconded to the EU coordination team in Jordan. 209 Humanitarian Affairs

Following the floods inN igeria, an Austrian expert participated as a member of the UN Disaster Assessment and Coordination Team (UNDAC) in a mission in the crisis region in March.

10.1.2. Multilateral Humanitarian Aid 10.1.2.1. austrian Food Aid The International Food Aid Convention of 1999, which is implemented by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, Environment and Water Man- agement, expired on 30 June. The parliamentary procedure for its successor, the Food Assistance Convention 2013 was completed. The beneficiary countries were selected in cooperation with the FMEIA and the ADA. Assis- tance was provided for victims of the food crises in Haiti, Yemen, Laos, Mali, Mauretania, Peru, Tajikistan and Tanzania and processed through the UN World Food Programme (WFP) and the UN Food and Agriculture Organiza- tion FAO.

10.1.2.2. international Committee of the Red Cross and International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) was active in more than 80 countries and, together with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and the national organisations, made an important contribution to alleviating humanitarian suffering. Austria supported the ICRC’s operational work for refugees and internally displaced persons in the Sahel region, especially in Mali and in South Sudan. Austria also contributed to the ICRC’s headquarters budget. Funds were made available to the IFRC for the provision of initial care to the population affected by natural disasters in Haiti and assistance to internally displaced persons in Syria. On 1 July Peter Maurer (Switzerland) took over from Jakob Kellenberger as President of the ICRC. On 17 September he met Secretary-General for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Johannes Kyrle, in Geneva.

10.2. Humanitarian Aid in the United Nations Context 10.2.1. office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs( UN- OCHA) is responsible for the development of the UN’s humanitarian policies, as well as advocacy of humanitarian issues with other UN departments and international coordination of humanitarian aid and emergency response. In addition to its headquarters in New York and Geneva, the OCHA operates a network of field offices and regional support offices. Only 5 per cent of the OCHA’s financial requirements are covered by the regular UN budget, the rest 210 Humanitarian Aid in the United Nations Context being made up of voluntary payments by member states including Austria. Since 2010, Austria has been a member of the OCHA Donor Support Group, the central global steering instrument in the field of humanitarian aid. Austria supported OCHA’s work in connection with the refugee crisis triggered by the conflict in Syria.

10.2.2. office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is one of the largest UN relief organisations operating on all continents. UNHCR is headed by the former Portuguese Head of Government António Guterres in his capacity as UN High Commissioner for Refugees. Austria supported UNHCR with an untied contribution to the core budget and by funding UNHCR activities for refugees and internally displaced persons from Syria. The aid organisation also received funding for managing the refugee crisis in western Uganda and in Mali.

10.2.3. united Nations World Food Programme The UN World Food Programme (WFP) is the UN’s largest humanitarian organisation. The Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, Environment and Water Management provided assistance to the victims of the drought disasters in the Sahel region (Mauretania, Mali) and in Yemen via the WFP.

10.2.4. united Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Middle East Austria made core payments to the UN Relief and Works Agency for Pales- tine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) for projects in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. The ADA also provided financial assistance to the UNRWA health care programme.

10.2.5. the United Nation’s Central Emergency Response Fund The UN’s Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) became operational in March 2006. In establishing the CERF, the UN implemented a key reform project in the humanitarian field. It is a major improvement over the system of flash appeals, which were provided with funds by member states only after a disaster or crisis had struck. In contrast to this, the CERF is a standby fund which enables more timely and reliable humanitarian assistance to victims of natural disasters and armed conflicts (please also see Chapter 7.2.9). 211 Humanitarian Affairs

CERF funding is provided by an annual donors’ conference. Austria made core payments.

10.3. Humanitarian Aid in the European Union Context Austria contributed its share to humanitarian aid worldwide through the European Commission’s Humanitarian Aid Office (ECHO) whose budget amounted to some 1.34 billion euros. The largest portion of funds was used to provide aid for the humanitarian crises in Sudan and South Sudan, in the Sahel region, at the Horn of Africa and in and around Syria.

10.4. International Humanitarian Law The year was dominated by the implementation of the outcomes of the 31st International Conference of the Red Cross and the Red Crescent held in Geneva at the end of 2011. The most important outcome was that the Inter- national Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) was mandated with preparing options and recommendations on the treatment of persons detained in armed conflict and with preparing better mechanisms for compliance with international humanitarian law. At this conference Austria had supported efforts aimed at promoting inter-governmental dialogue on enhanced compliance with international humanitarian law, preparing concrete measures in this respect and especially mechanisms towards compliance with international humanitarian law. In this context, informal meetings on the topic of strengthening compliance with international humanitarian law were held in Geneva in July and August. At these meetings, numerous states advocated revitalising existing implementation mechanisms and regular dialogue on international humanitarian law, which will be discussed in detail at follow-up meetings in 2013. The events were organised by the Swiss foreign ministry in cooperation with the ICRC. Austria was represented at expert level at both meetings. On the initiative of the ICRC, a regional consultation on persons detained in non-international armed conflict was held in mid-December in Montreux at which Austria was represented by the Legal Adviser of the FMEIA, Ambas- sador Helmut Tichy. On 21 November, a seminar entitled Nuclear Weapons – the Sword of Damo- cles was held in collaboration with the Austrian Red Cross. In several panels, international and national experts discussed the humanitarian dimension of the use of nuclear weapons, the ICJ’s Advisory Opinion in Nuclear Weap- ons Cases of 1996, the risk and protection situation in Austria and ideas for future initiatives. The interdisciplinary training programme on the protection of civilians in armed conflict directed at leaders in peace operations, which was newly 212 International Humanitarian Law developed in cooperation with the Federal Ministry of Defence and Sports and the Federal Ministry of the Interior, contains a training section that is dedicated specifically to the relevant provisions of international humanitarian law (see Chapter 7.3.1.2). The first pilot class was held from 2–7 Decem- ber at the Austrian Study Centre for Peace and Conflict Resolution (ASPR) in Stadtschlaining. Issues related to International Humanitarian Law were regularly discussed within the Austrian National Commission for the Implementation of Inter- national Humanitarian Law chaired by the FMEIA and the Austrian Red Cross. In 2012, the main focus of these discussions was on the follow-up to the 31st International Conference of the Red Cross and the Red Crescent, nuclear disarmament, the inclusion of crimes under international law in the Austrian Criminal Code and international law aspects to be addressed by the HRC.

213 Multilateral Economic Policy 11. Multilateral Economic Policy 11.1. World Trade Organisation (WTO) In the field of multilateral trade policy, 2012 saw alternative approaches aimed at defining new ways of bringing the Doha Round to a successful conclusion. This mainly involves using the flexibility of Article 47 of the Doha Declaration (opportunity to implement agreements reached at an early stage on a provisional or definitive basis) and developing elements of an agreement in individual sub-areas. Alongside confidence-building measures, this process took up a major share of the year. It is hoped that agreement on those areas of the Doha Round that are considered less controversial shall be reached at the 9th WTO Ministerial Conference in Bali at the beginning of December 2013. According to the current state of affairs, this includes a trade facilitation agreement, various proposals for flexible solutions for developing countries (special and differential treatment), certain elements from the agricultural area (food security, administration of tariff rate quotas) and a reform of the dispute settlement procedure. Agreement on the facilitated access for least developed countries (LDC) was already reached in summer. Other LDC specific issues such as cotton or quota free access have, however, not yet been resolved. An issue of major concern is the question of how the other difficult negotiation items covered by the Doha Round – such as market access for agricultural products, industrial products and service – can be linked to this process. Other topics that need to be discussed apart from the Doha Development Agenda (DDA) are issues related to the extension of the plurilateral agreements on public procurement and information technology. In total, however, negotiations seem to evolve in a more promising manner than a year ago and a clearer perspective for the future can be discerned. The number of dispute settlement cases increased in 2012 – in particular between the USA and China there was a clear rise in the number of disputes, predominantly in connection with protective trade policy measures. The number of contentious cases between the EU and China also increased. In this context, special mention is to be made of Chinese export restrictions in the raw material sector. The first case involving 8 minerals was decided in February – largely in favour of the EU and the USA. Another case involving rare earths was initiated in April with results not expected before the end of 2013. The decade-long banana dispute between the EU and a number of Latin American countries was, however, finally settled. In contrast to that, however, the trade conflict with Argentina has further aggravated. As interventions in connection with various import restrictions had remained unsuccessful over many years, the EU – as well as the USA and Japan – decided to request dispute settlement procedures. In the services area, some of the WTO Member States held exploratory talks on the conclusion of a plurilateral services agreement. The relevant initia- 214 Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) tive had already been launched in the second half of 2011 with the USA and Australia taking the lead. Following completion of the exploratory phase, the start of negotiations is planned for spring 2013. According to the original schedule, the negotiation process was expected to be completed by the end of 2013 but as matters stand right now, it will last at least two years. As decided by the 8th WTO Ministerial Conference Russia, Montenegro and the two LDCs Vanuatu and Samoa joined the WTO in the course of the year. After 18 years of negotiations, Russia’s accession was especially welcomed. However, implementation of the obligations assumed by Russia has already reflected some major deficits, which may necessitate initiation of a dispute settlement procedure. In autumn, the WTO decided to accept Laos and Tajik- istan as new members. At the beginning of 2013, membership of the WTO will thus increase to 159 countries. Prospects for accession post-2013 look good for Yemen, Kazakhstan, Serbia and possibly also for Bosnia and Herze- govina as well as for Azerbaijan. At the end of the year, discussions already started to focus on the election of a new WTO Director General as Pascal Lamy’s term in office will expire after two periods at the head of the organisation on 31 August 2013. By the end of the submission period for candidacies on 31 December, applications from nine countries had been received: Brazil, Costa Rica, Ghana, Indonesia, Jordan, Kenya, Korea, Mexico and New Zealand.

11.2. Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) 11.2.1. developments and General Trends Discussions at the annual Ministerial Council meeting in May, at which Austria was represented at state secretary level, focused on the meeting’s heading “All on Board – Policies for Inclusive Growth and Jobs”. Central issues deliberated on were the importance of professional and social skills for the labour market and growth, the promotion of equal opportunities and a stronger emphasis on youth employment. In view of the current economic situation, the concept of promoting inclusive growth and employment by effective structural reform and responsible fiscal and tax policies, including measures to stabilise the financial sector, was confirmed. As the current crisis has clearly underlined the need for a cross-sectoral policy approach to develop comprehensive answers to current challenges, the OECD has placed a stronger focus on horizontal projects, which are to facilitate an interactive and interdisciplinary approach. This involves collaboration among different directorates and committees in preparing analyses and strategies. As a result of these efforts, the Ministerial Council was thus able to welcome not only new initiatives, such as the skills strategy or the gender initiative, but also ongoing activities in connection with inequality, innova- 215 Multilateral Economic Policy tion, development, green and inclusive growth and new sources of growth – such as knowledge-based capital. The Ministerial Council also launched the NAEC (New Approaches to Economic Challenges) initiative.

11.2.2. economic and Financial Policy Following the IMF, the OECD also admitted that it too had misjudged the crisis, as financial multipliers had, in the course of the crisis and due to very low general interest rates, increased resulting in growth rates that were lower than had been expected. The OECD nevertheless recommended to its Mem- ber States that government spending be revised with a view to its expediency and/or to implement those income and expenditure side measures that are least detrimental to growth. From now on recommendations will include a fixed element drawing countries’ attention to the fact that when taking fiscal measures they also need to consider the distribution effects triggered by such measures. The OECD responded to the call for a response to economic policy errors made in the lead-up to the crisis by developing the NAEC project (described above).

11.2.3. international Tax Policy Against the background of rising profits, some multinational groups have succeeded in massively reducing their effective tax burden by way of tax arbitrage and aggressive tax planning. The OECD reacted to rising public pressure by setting up the Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS) project, which is to investigate both the scope of and the causes behind multinational groups’ tax limitation strategies. In the context of the OECD’s Informal Task Force on Tax and Development, Austria continued to stress the importance of “country-to-country reporting”, i.e. requiring multinational companies to mandatorily report on the tax payments made in the countries they are active in.

11.2.4. investment Work on the revised version of the “Guidelines for Multinational Enter- prises” adopted in 2011 was further intensified and the setting-up of a separate working group on “Corporate Social Responsibility” was discussed. In September, Austria organised a Workshop on Mediation for the National Contact Points in Salzburg.

11.2.5. Social Affairs, Migration, Consumer Protection The slow-down in economic activity, the rise in unemployment rates and the massive problems faced by social systems as a result of the economic crisis 216 Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) were recurring topics on the OECD’s agenda. They were dealt with and analysed in great detail, and opportunities for cushioning their negative impact were explored. At the 2012 meeting of the Council at Ministerial Level, members agreed to take appropriate account of the deteriorating social situation in the course of the ongoing fiscal consolidation and tax reform processes. With a view to stressing the importance of equal opportunities for men and women, the ministers mandated the OECD with preparing a comprehensive recommendation on this topic. Likewise, they invited the OECD to continue its work in the field of financial consumer protection and provision of better information on the financial market. One new element is the internet portal “GlobalRecalls”, which provides an overview of worldwide product recall activities. In the field of migration, the publication “Labour market integration of immi- grants and their children in three OECD countries” (Austria, Norway and Switzerland), which contains country-specific recommendations, was developed in cooperation with the Ministry for Labour, Social Affairs and Con- sumer Protection. The publication analyses the problems facing migrants on the Austrian labour market (such as income disadvantages, recognition of foreign diplomas and degrees) as well as the impact this may have on their children.

11.2.6. environment, Agriculture and Price Volatility In March, a meeting of OECD environmental affairs ministers was held at which Austria was represented at ministerial level. During this two-day conference discussions focused on the “Green Growth Strategy”, the “Environ- mental Outlook to 2050” and preparations for the sustainability conference Rio+20. In the field of agriculture, price volatility issues remained high on the agenda. In cooperation with the G20, the report “Sustainable Agricultural Productiv- ity Growth and Bridging the Gap for Small Family Farms” was prepared during Mexico’s Presidency. Furthermore, work in connection with volatility of food prices continued in the Food Chain Network. Under the heading of Policy Coherence for Food Security in Developing Countries, a global forum jointly organised with the Development Committee dealt with the topic from the perspective of agricultural investment in developing countries.

11.2.7. global Relations Globalisation and the coalescence of the global economy have led to a shift of economic power, which is also taken account of by the OECD. While the OECD Member States’ gross national product (GNP) has experienced an ongoing decline compared with global GNP, that of developing and emerg- 217 Multilateral Economic Policy ing countries has been increasing. In view of this global trend, the OECD thus increasingly seeks to cooperate with non-members – especially such key partners as Brazil, India, Indonesia, China and South Africa – in order to include them in the OECD’s activities. The objective thus pursued by the Council Resolution on Partnerships in OECD Bodies, adopted in October, is to add more flexibility to the provisions governing the participation of non- members in the organisation’s bodies. In the light of this approach, a framework agreement was signed with Indonesia in October. In the course of the year, seven non-member states (Bulgaria, Colombia, Costa Rica, Latvia, Lithuania, Peru and Romania) expressed their interest in becoming members. Internal OECD consultations regarding evaluation, accession criteria and governance are still ongoing. Accession negotiations with Russia, which ratified the OECD Anti-Bribery Convention, were continued. The OECD regional efforts aimed at further developing the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) programme, designed to assist Middle East and North African countries in improving their respective investment climate and political framework conditions, were continued.

11.2.8. Statistics Apart from its routine activity of supplying the OECD with the latest reliable data and timelines, the OECD Statistics Directorate worked on guidelines for measuring subjective well-being. The goal is to inter alia prepare specific “well-being reports” about individual countries. Equally important was the first-ever preparation of data on global value- added chains as supporting information for the general export and import data. For a number of countries including the USA, Germany and Japan, the foreign trade output saw a slight geographical shift from a value-added point of view. This “Trade in Value Added” data will be published in January 2013.

11.3. International Energy Agency (IEA) The IEA’s activities continued to be dominated by fundamental shifts in the global energy landscape. One priority in terms of analysis was the shale gas revolution in the USA, which – together with the discovery of new unconventional oil resources – will, according to the forecast of the World Energy Outlook 2012, make the USA self-sufficient in terms of energy from 2030 onwards and thus lead to substantial changes in global trade flows in energy sources. In this connection, an IEA analysis on regulatory requirements for a sustainable promotion of unconventional gas (Golden Rules for a Golden Age of Gas) attracted much attention. The oil supply situation of IEA Member States remained a major concern. Discussions, that were particularly inten- 218 International Financial Institutions sive in spring, on a renewed release of oil emergency reserves have for the time being not led to any further “collective action”, which might inter alia be attributable to a weakening in oil prices in summer. An IEA report on Iraq’s energy situation, whose mid-term development is expected to be of decisive importance for the global oil supply situation, met with considerable public attention. Analysis activities in the field of renewable energies were further stepped up. The design and intensification of IEA relations with third countries that are of pivotal energy policy relevance, like China, Russia and India, remained a central topic of discussions.

11.4. International Financial Institutions 11.4.1. international Monetary Fund (IMF) The IMF is mandated with supporting the functioning of global economic development by on the one hand laying the groundwork for sustainable economic development based on stable monetary framework conditions, and on the other hand, by assisting countries faced with temporary balance of payments problems in stabilising their economy. In the context of the annual Article IV Consultations, during which it assesses the situation of the respective country’s national economy, the IMF stated in July that Austria had comparatively favourable macro-economic fundamen- tals, which need to be strengthened further, especially in the light of the ongoing crisis in the euro area and the legacy of an overly ambitious east- ward expansion by the banking sector. In this context the IMF commended the Austrian authorities for the progress made so far in tackling these challenges and made the following recommendations. Austria is encouraged to: • Fully implement the envisaged structural consolidation path and continue reforms to contain ageing costs to put public debt on a downward trajec- tory; • Develop a more comprehensive strategy for the disposal of legacy assets in banks with substantial state ownership to minimise final fiscal costs; • Rapidly strengthen the Financial Market Authority; • Reduce in a budget-neutral way the taxation of labour to foster labour supply. The IMF also referred to the various measures taken by Austria to reduce early retirement and recommended continuing on this path of reform in collaboration with the social partners. The IMF considers the European Stability Mechanism, set up on 13 Decem- ber, as representing major progress. Nevertheless, the harmonisation of banking provisions within Europe still needs to make rapid progress. The Euro- 219 Multilateral Economic Policy pean Commission and the EU Member States are invited to evaluate the costs and benefits of various alternatives towards reducing banking complexity and the possible recourse to taxpayers in order to find a coordinated answer to these questions. In December 2010, the IMF Governors had decided to launch a far-reaching governance and quota reform and to implement it by the IMF Annual Meet- ing in autumn 2012. It did not, however, succeed in meeting this deadline and discussions on the reform are still ongoing.

11.4.2. Multilateral Development Banks Again in 2012, the activities of Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs, i.e. especially the World Bank, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Devel- opment, the Inter-American Development Bank, the Asian Development Bank and the African Development Bank) were characterised by enhanced efforts towards forging ahead with the global fight against poverty in order to reach the UN Millennium Development goals. These efforts were, however, impeded by the impacts of the financial and economic crisis and yet another rise in food prices, the incremental challenges of global climate change and the growing number of natural disasters. Political changes in North Africa (Arab Spring) also faced the MDBs with new challenges. During the financial and economic crisis of 2008–2009, the MDBs had already played an important anti-cyclical role in fighting the crisis and quickly increased their loan volumes significantly. For this reason, capital increases were adopted in 2010 (between 50 % and 200 %) by their shareholders, i.e. the international community of states, in which Austria also participated. In 2012, payment of these capital increases was further implemented through the disbursement of the respective instalments (tranches). In terms of both fighting the crisis and reaching the Millennium Development Goals, the MDBs “soft” (i.e. concessional) funds for the poorest development countries play an especially important role as they make available favourable long-term funding with significant grant elements to these countries. In 2012, negotiations on the replenishment of the Asian Development Fund (ADF XI) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) were completed and legally implemented by the IFI Contributions Act (IFI Beitragsge- setz) 2012 (Federal Law Gazette I No. 90/2012). Thus Austria, in line with the principle of international burden sharing, has committed itself to paying contributions that are commensurate with its relative economic output. For historical, foreign policy and foreign trade related reasons the economic and social development of South East Europe is of special concern to Aus- tria and a goal the Austrian representatives in the MDBs have consistently advocated also in 2012. In both the respective voting rights groups and governing bodies, Austria thus pro-actively pressed for the World Bank Group and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) to play 220 International Financial Institutions a continued, active and significant role in this region that was particularly hit by the impacts of the economic and financial crisis. Likewise, Austria co- funded a wide range of technical assistance programmes in this region, such as the EBRD’s Municipal Environment and Infrastructure Programme (MEI) or the IFC Resource Efficiency Programme for Eastern Europe and Central Asia. Reacting to the political changes in North Africa and the urgently needed boost to employment-intensive growth in this region, the EBRD, during its Annual Meeting held in Astana in 2011, adopted the expansion of its operational range to the Southern and Eastern Mediterranean. Egypt and Morocco are already shareholders and Tunisia and Jordan became new members in 2011 and as “countries of operations” they will then be able to apply for loans. This requires a change to the statutes and bylaws to be ratified by all countries, which may take quite a long time. In order to speed up the start of operations, a three-phase-plan was thus prepared. Through co-funded “Cooperation Funds”, the EBRD may already become active in the areas of technical assistance and political dialogue prior to the completion of the ratification process. In the second phase, which was launched in September, investment and equity operations may be funded temporarily via “Special Funds”. In the third phase, after membership and “country of operations” status have been unanimously adopted and ratified, regular operations may finally be commenced. Another priority also pursued by the MDBs in 2012 was the implementation of reform and modernisation activities adopted in the course of the capital increases. This relates specifically to their strategic orientation, the reform of their governance structures, measures aimed at strengthening these institutions’ financial power and/or adapting their funding instruments, the revision and updating of their underlying business models as well as a stronger focus on results and/or performance measurement. A key topic was the important role employment played in the development process and the urgent need to create jobs, which is also the central theme of next year’s World Development Report published by the World Bank.

221 Global Disarmament, Arms Control and Non-Proliferation 12. global Disarmament, Arms Control and Non- Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction and their Means of Delivery 12.1. Arms Control and Disarmament in the Field of Weapons of Mass Destruction 12.1.1. treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons Since it entered into force in 1970, the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) has formed the basis of the international nuclear regime under international law whilst serving as one of the cornerstones of nuclear non-proliferation. The treaty obligates its 189 states parties – with the exception of the five recognised nuclear weapons states China, France, the UK, Russia and the USA – to renounce nuclear weapons and at the same time provides for the peaceful uses of nuclear energy. The five nuclear weapons states, for their part, commit themselves to nuclear disarmament and the goal of full elimination of nuclear weapons. India, Israel and Pakistan are the only states not to have joined the NPT, while the unilateral withdrawal declared by the Democratic People’s Republic of North Korea in 2003 has not been internationally recognised. The state parties meet every five years for a review conference in order to evaluate the state of implementation of the NPT. Following the successful Review Conference held in 2010, the focus is now on implementing the action plan adopted. Chaired by Australia, the first Preparatory Committee Meeting of the Review Cycle was held in Vienna in May. Austria’s contributions focused in particular on the topics of disarmament, the humanitarian dimension of nuclear weapons, education and civil society. Top of the agenda at the traditional joint seminar on international humanitarian law organised by the Austrian Red Cross and the FMEIA on 21 November was the topic “Nuclear Weapons – the Sword of Damocles: the Humanitarian Dimension of Nuclear Disarmament”. While the new NPT review process launched in Vienna had started on a positive note, expectations for holding the planned Helsinki Conference by the end of the year could not be fulfilled as the affected states were unable to reach agreement on the sensitive issue of a Middle East zone free of nuclear weapons and all other weapons of mass destruction.

12.1.2. comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty The Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) provides for a comprehensive ban on all nuclear explosions. Since the adoption of its draft by the UNGA in 1996, the CTBT has been signed by 183 states and ratified by 157, including Austria (as of 7 January 2013). However, as not all of the 44 222 Arms Control and Disarmament in the Field of Weapons of Mass Destruction

Key States listed in Annex 2 have ratified it to date, the CTBT has as yet not entered into force; since ratification by Indonesia only eight of the remaining Key States still have to do so. At the Conference on Facilitating the Entry into Force of the CTBT held in New York on 27 September, ministers adopted a joint final declaration which was also supported by Austria. The Provisional Technical Secretariat (PTS) of the CTBT Preparatory Com- mission for the Organization of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT PrepCom) has been active in Vienna since March 1997. Its main task consists of establishing the International Monitoring System (IMS) provided for in the CTBT. This system covers 337 monitoring facilities worldwide (321 monitoring stations, 16 radionuclide labs) and an International Data Center in Vienna. The process is approx. 85 % complete and the monitoring system is in fact ready to be put into operation. In October, Lassina Zerbo (Burkina Faso) was elected new Executive Secretary, a function which he will take over from Tibor Tóth (Hungary) in summer 2013.

12.1.3. geneva Conference on Disarmament Set up in 1979, the Geneva Conference on Disarmament (CD) is the multilateral forum established by the UN for negotiating disarmament agreements and treaties. For 15 years now, the 65 Member States – including Austria since 1996 – have, however, not succeeded in overcoming the serious political and content-related differences of opinion on disarmament issues and the resulting blockade of substantial negotiations. Again in 2012, members were not able to reach agreement on starting negotiations on nuclear disarmament, the treaty banning the production of fissile material for nuclear weapons or other nuclear explosive devices (Fissile Material Cut-Off Treaty, FMCT), negative security guarantees and the Prevention of Arms Race in Outer Space (PAROS). In this context, Pakistan’s opposition to launching FMCT negotiations is of particular note. In the First Committee of the UNGA, Austria, together with Mexico and Nor- way, presented an initiative for a resolution aimed at adding new momentum to multilateral disarmament negotiations in 2013 by establishing a working group that is open to all UN Member States. The goal is to encourage relevant negotiations as long as the stalemate in the CD continues and substantive progress cannot be achieved due to restrictive procedural rules. The UNGA adopted the resolution by a vast majority.

12.1.4. chemical Weapons Convention The Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), which entered into force in 1997, introduced a ban on all chemical weapons and stipulates their phased destruction. With 188 states parties, the Convention has now come close to 223 Global Disarmament, Arms Control and Non-Proliferation reaching its stipulated objective of having universal effect. The 17th Session of the Conference of the States Parties to the Convention in November stated that three state parties (USA, Russia and Libya) have not yet fully destroyed their chemical weapons stockpiles. The USA has committed itself to reaching the goal of full destruction by 2023, Libya by 2016 and Russia by 2015. In April 2013, the Third Review Conference of the Chemical Weapons Conven- tion is scheduled to meet in The Hague. Since July 2010, the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), based in The Hague, has been headed by Director General Ahmet Üzümcü (Turkey). The EU plans to provide continued support to the OPCW. Until May 2010, Austria was a member of the OPCW’s Executive Council and in line with the principle of rotation it will hold another two-year term as a member of the organisation’s governing body starting in May 2019. In summer, Syria admitted to possessing chemical weapons. Syria is not a state party to the Chemical Weapons Convention but in line with the Geneva Protocol of 1925 is it obliged not to make use of these weapons. In December, Vice Chancellor and Federal Minster Michael Spindelegger issued an appeal to Damascus calling upon it to live up to its relevant obligations.

12.1.5. Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention Signed in 1972, the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention (BTWC) pro- hibits the development, production and stockpiling of biological and toxin weapons. Currently, 166 countries are states parties to the BTWC, while 12 are signatories (as of 7 January 2013). At the Seventh Review Conference in December 2011, the inter-sessional programme for the next review conference in 2016 was defined. The Annual BTWC Experts Meetings and Meet- ings of States Parties deal with measures towards increasing biosafety, monitoring, training and exchange of experience. No agreement has as yet been reached on establishing a special verification regime.

12.1.6. Ballistic Missiles The Hague Code of Conduct (HCOC) against Ballistic Missile Proliferation is the only normative instrument dealing with the non-proliferation of ballistic missiles and cruise missiles. Supported inter alia by the EU, the tenth anniversary of the adoption of the HCOC was celebrated and a number of events were organised in New York, Vienna and in the chair country South Korea. The foreign ministers of the countries that had held the chair as well as Austria as the HCOC’s Immediate Central Contact (Executive Secretariat) adopted a joint declaration that was handed over to the UNSG. An HCOC resolution was adopted by the UN. The UNSG sent a message of welcome to the participants attending the ceremony held on 23 November in Vienna. 224 Arms Control and Disarmament in the Field of Conventional Weapons 12.2. Arms Control and Disarmament in the Field of Conventional Weapons Protection of civilians in armed conflict remains a long-standing thematic priority of Austrian foreign policy. The committed course Austria has pursued for many years now in fighting anti-personnel mines and cluster munitions is a very important humanitarian contribution in this respect as these weapons indeed pose an acute risk to civilians and claim innumerable lives even decades after fighting has stopped. The Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and on their Destruction (Ottawa Conven- tion) was adopted in 1997, and entered into force in 1999. Currently, 161 countries are states parties to the convention (as of 7 January 2013). Austria is one of the leading states in the Ottawa Process and is strongly committed to promoting the prohibition of the use, stockpiling, production and transfer of anti-personnel mines and their destruction. In this spirit, Austria continued to make an active contribution towards the international process for the implementation of the Ottawa Convention. Although the Austrian Mine Action Programme that was launched in 1999 was cancelled as of 31 Decem- ber 2010, Austria again in 2012 continued to provide financial support to clearance of areas infested by anti-personnel mines and cluster munitions. Austria also provided assistance to victims and supported their rehabilitation. In total, some 700,000 euros have been spent on projects in Afghani- stan, Albania, Ethiopia, Cambodia, Lebanon and Libya. Today, the Ottawa Convention is one of the most successful instruments in the fields of humanitarian international law and disarmament. Twelve years after the Convention’s entry into force, both use and production of anti-personnel mines have clearly declined while trade has almost been brought to a halt. Major stockpiles have been destroyed and large contaminated areas have been cleared of mines. This has translated into a marked reduction in the number of new victims (a total of 4,286 registered cases in 2011 compared with 11,700 in 2002). As stipulated by the Cartagena Action Plan adopted in 2009, assistance to mine victims remains one of the Convention’s top priorities. A major challenge in this context is the economic and social reintegration of victims and their families. Austria continued its special commitment to victim assistance also at the 12th Conference of the State Parties in Geneva (3–7 December) in which it took over as Co-Chair of the Standing Committee on Victim Assis- tance. Following ratification by the 39th state, the Convention on Cluster Munitions (Oslo Convention) entered into force at the beginning of August 2010. As of 7 January 2013, a total of 77 out of 111 signatories had ratified the Oslo Con- vention. The Convention on Cluster Munitions is the most important disarmament treaty since the Ottawa Convention of 1997 and makes an essential 225 Global Disarmament, Arms Control and Non-Proliferation contribution to the further development of international law. It provides for a categorical prohibition of the use, development, production, stockpiling and transfer of cluster munitions, which cause unacceptable harm and suffering to civilians. In the field of assistance to survivors, the convention – not least due to Austria’s committed efforts – sets forward-looking standards. From 11 to 14 September, the Third Conference of the States Party to the Oslo Convention was held in Oslo involving active participation of government and civil society representatives. In the field of conventional arms, Austria contributes pro-actively to the UN Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects.

12.3. Export Control Regimes 12.3.1. Multilateral Export Controls The objective of the current five control regimes is to prevent – through the coordination of national export controls – sensitive technology and know- how from falling into the hands of states that could use them for military purposes. The main instruments under these regimes are lists of relevant goods and substances as well as guidelines governing exports to non-Mem- ber States. Austria is a member of all five regimes. The national implementation of these instruments is largely covered by the Foreign Trade Act of 2005 (as amended in 2011, Federal Law Gazette I No. 26/2011). The relevant regimes in the nuclear context are the Vienna-based Zangger Committee (ZC) which comprises 38 members and the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) whose membership is currently made up of 46 participating governments. They draw up and maintain control lists of sensitive nuclear goods and equipment, seeking to prevent uranium enrichment and pluto- nium processing activities for non-peaceful purposes. At the NSG’s Plenary Meeting held in Noordwijk (Netherlands) from 23 to 24 June, consensus was inter alia reached on strengthening guidelines on the transfer of sensitive enrichment and processing technologies. The Australia Group (AG), which currently comprises 41 members, endeavours to ensure, by means of export controls, that certain products will not contribute to the development of chemical and biological weapons. The Mis- sile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) currently has 34 members (partners) who committed themselves to adhering to guidelines governing the controlled proliferation of nuclear-weapons-capable rocket and missile technology (missiles with guidance systems and cruise missiles). Founded in 1997, the Wassenaar Arrangement (WA), whose Vienna-based Secretariat is now headed by Ambassador Philip Griffiths (New Zealand), aims to prevent destabilising accumulations of conventional weapons and 226 Export Control Regimes dual-use goods and technologies by coordinating national export controls and enhancing transparency and accountability. The WA, which comprises 41 participating states, attaches particular importance to engaging in a substantial and informed exchange of views on regional analyses involving the examination of potentially destabilising accumulations of conventional weapons in certain locations or regions. Besides the analysis of current and future threats to regional and international security and stability, discussions within the group focused on the central topic of updating and adapting the existing control lists and guidelines to the technological state-of-the-art, market trends and developments in the international security field. Membership applications submitted by Iceland and Cyprus were again thwarted due to the objection of two participating states. Kazakhstan, Armenia and Bosnia and Herzegovina also expressed their interest in accession.

12.3.2. arms Trade Treaty (ATT) The fact that irresponsible trading in arms has negative impacts on stability, security and human rights as well as on sustainable economic and development policies remains uncontested. Austria and all partners within the EU have therefore been pushing for years for an internationally coordinated approach reflected in an Arms Trade Treaty (ATT). By adopting resolution 64/48 in its 64th session on 2 December 2009, the UNGA agreed on convening a United Nations Conference to meet for four consecutive weeks in 2012 in order to develop a legally binding instrument. This international Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) is to define the highest possible international standards for the transfer of conventional arms. The treaty shall contribute to fighting and/or limiting the negative impact of illicit and irresponsible arms trade on stability, security and human rights as well as on sustainable economic and development policy. Together with its partners in the EU, Austria strongly supported the elaboration of the ATT in the context of the UN, thus continuing its long-standing and pro-active commitment towards promoting disarmament, arms control and strengthening international humanitarian law. Austria actively supports ensuring that the planned international Arms Trade Treaty lives up to the highest possible standards. This includes inter alia human rights as a mandatory criterion for the approval procedures, comprehensive coverage and efficient enforcement criteria. The intergovernmental conference held from 2 to 27 July at the UN headquarters in New York, however, fell short of adopting a treaty text. At the end of the year the UNGA thus resolved to convene another (and final) international ATT conference from 18 to 28 March. Austria and the EU will continue their pro-active support for an effective arms trade treaty and a stringent and more exact formulation of the current text especially with respect to its scope (not 227 Global Disarmament, Arms Control and Non-Proliferation only arms but also ammunition and military technology), approval criteria (human rights, international humanitarian law) and transparency. In collaboration with Saferworld and Switzerland, Austria organised a two-day seminar in Vienna which brought together representatives of ATT friendly states and committed NGOs. This exchange of views focused on content-related issues and standards in order to ensure that the ATT presented at the intergovernmental conference in March 2013 shall live up to the highest possible standards.

12.3.3. national Export Controls In Austria, exports of conventional arms are governed by the Foreign Trade Act (as amended in 2011, previously Foreign Trade Act of 2005) and the War Material Act. Defence equipment subject to approval is defined in the Foreign Trade Act of 2011 and/or the items listed in the agreed EU Common Military List, the Second Foreign Trade Regulation of 2011 in conjunction with its Annex – and the War Material Regulation. Austria is also committed to adhering to the Common Position defining common rules governing the control of exports of military technology and equipment, adopted by the EU Council in December 2008. This legally binding Common Position of the EU contributes substantially to further harmonising national export regimes and implementation activities and also had a positive impact on the EU’s positioning in the ATT process.

228 Introduction 13. austrian Development Cooperation 13.1. Introduction Combating poverty in developing countries, securing peace and human security as well as preserving the environment and protecting natural resources are the key objectives of Austrian Development Cooperation (ADC) and are as such enshrined in the Federal Development Cooperation Act (DCA). The basic principles applied by ADC are the partner countries’ right to choose their own development agenda, consideration for cultural and social conditions, equality between men and women as well as respecting the needs of children and people with disabilities. All relevant activities in the field of development cooperation are coordinated by the Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs, which also holds responsibility for the strategic orientation of ADC and thus the Three-Year Programme of Austrian Development Policy, which is adopted by the Federal Government. The Austrian Development Agency (ADA) implements bilateral programmes and projects in the partner countries. As a member of the EU, the OECD, the UN and the World Bank Group, Aus- tria contributes proactively to shaping international development policy within the relevant bodies.

13.1.1. Budget for Development Cooperation In 2012, according to preliminary data reported to the OECD Development Assistance Committee (DAC), Austrian Official Development Assistance (ODA) amounted to 865.44 million euros or 0.28 per cent of gross national income (GNI). This represents an increase of 66.14 million euros compared with the previous year, which is attributable inter alia to debt relief (9.5 % of ODA) but to some extent also to higher amounts paid to international financial institutions.

13.1.2. policy Coherence Austria regards development policy as a national task. This principle of policy coherence is thus also enshrined in Article 1 paragraph 5 of the Federal Development Cooperation Act. With a view to strengthening this national approach, a consultation process was launched to redesign Austrian Three- Year Programme of Austrian Development Cooperation (2013 to 2015). Both Parliament and civil society welcomed this process and the opportunity to contribute content at an early stage. This approach enabled broad-based substantial acceptance and strengthened national coherence. The Three-Year Programme, which was adopted by the Austrian Ministe- rial Council on 18 December, starts with a mission statement that had been 229 Austrian Development Cooperation negotiated with all Austrian players and was adopted as the leitbild guiding Austrian development policy activities. Thematic priorities are water supply, energy, climate protection, agriculture and forestry, private sector and development, human security, human rights and rule of law. Cross-cutting issues that are consistently taken account of include gender equality, education and capacity development and environment/climate change. The least developed countries, European Neighbourhood countries and fragile states are at the heart of the strategy. Special tools and institutions are in place for the global field. On 16 July and 7 November, State Secretary Wolfgang Waldner and State Secretary Reinhold Lopatka hosted a Development Policy Jour Fixe, which serves as the new central platform for interlinking all Austrian players active in the development policy field. Austria participates regularly in both the EU’s and the OECD’s networks for political coherence.

13.1.3. themes and Sectors Long-term measures are indispensible in efforts aimed at improving people’s living conditions and promoting sustainable, social, economic and democratic developments in developing countries. In the context of decentralisation processes in the partner countries, ADC contributes directly to the national programmes and/or supports them through complementary interventions at decentralised level. Capacity building as a decisive and determining factor of development activities was further pursued under ADC. Challenges in connection with the practical implementation and support of capacity development were, for instance, dealt with in the context of Burkina Faso. In the field of governance & human rights, the one-week long ADA annual meeting, dedicated to “All Human Rights for All”, focused on organisation and exchange of experience. National and international experts discussed challenges faced by ADC in the fields of economic and social rights, right to water and sanitation, gender and rural development, integration of people with disabilities and adopted concrete recommendations. The ADC also contributed to the development of the National Action Plan on Disability, adopted by the Ministerial Council in July. Likewise a contribution was made to Austria’s country report on implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. Consideration of fragility and fragile states and of the document “New Deal for International Engagement in Fragile States”, adopted in Busan (Repub- lic of Korea) in December 2011, was the central topic in the field of peacebuilding and conflict prevention. Current aspects related to this topic as well as their relevance and opportunities for implementation in ADC were dis- 230 Introduction cussed in the “Fragility” working group. The international discourse on conflict prevention and peacebuilding, which is essentially influenced by the “International Dialogue on Peacebuilding and Statebuilding” and the OECD think tank “International Network on Conflict and Fragility” (INCAF) was consistently considered when dealing with the context of ADC projects and programmes as well as in the related counselling and monitoring activities. At national level, the second “3C Retreat” was held at the Austrian Study Centre for Peace and Conflict Resolution in Schlaining. In the context of the implementation of the inter-ministerial Strategic Guideline on Security and Development in Austrian development policy the relevant players made mediation and peace processes, security sector reform and a common West Africa Strategy as well as joint training activities, such as support for the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Center (KAIPTC) (see Chapter 13.2.1.2) specific priorities. Contributions were made towards the completion of the 2nd National Action Plan (NAP) on the Implementation of UNSC Resolution 1325 (2000) and in the context of the inter-ministerial Task Force to the 3rd NAP on Combating Human Trafficking for the period 2012 to 2014. In the field of public finance and administration, the second phase of cooperation with the International Organisation of Supreme Audit Institutions (INTOSAI) was prepared as a complementary activity to the increased use made of the implementing organisations in the partner countries, and the successful collaboration thus continued. Ongoing support was provided to the implementation of the UN Convention against Corruption as well as to the Public Financial Management expert group of the Train4Dev network. Specific reform projects in the field of administration and public finance were prepared in Bhutan. In the gender field, the focus was placed on the evaluation of the ADC Policy Document on Gender Equality and Empowerment of Women 2004–2011. The evaluation report recommends placing a stronger focus on capacity development in order to take better account of equality perspectives in the priority sectors, giving more consideration to gender equality and the empowerment of women as strategic goals and perceiving gender mainstreaming as a common responsibility of all ADC players. A major success was scored in Alba- nia where efforts by the ADC contributed to the inclusion of gender budgeting in the budget cycle 2013. In the education and science sector, the priorities pursued by ADC related to vocational education and higher education. The higher education programme “Austrian Partnership Programme in Higher Education and Research for Development (APPEAR)”, set up in 2010, enables multi-annual partnerships between higher education and/or research institutions in the priority countries of ADC-South and Austria and is aimed at enabling comprehensive capacity strengthening. As a result of the three tenders conducted so far, 17 academic partnerships were selected for promotion and funding. The countries of South East Europe were supported in the reform of their respective 231 Austrian Development Cooperation vocational training sectors, and in cooperation with the Federal Ministry for Science and Research in their integration within the European Higher Educa- tion and Research Area. Strengthening the infrastructure area, which in particular covers the sectors water and sustainable energy, was another focal area of continued activity. In cooperation with the EUWI (European Water Initiative), Austria was able to offer some new approaches. It has, for instance, played a key role in the discussion on the special report prepared by the European Court of Audi- tors on “Development Assistance in the European Union for drinking water supply and basic sanitation in Sub-Saharan countries” within the European Council’s Africa Working Group. Within the framework of the Indirect Centralized Management (ICM) tool, the European Commission entrusted the ADA with funding for three large projects in the water sector to finance relevant activities in Moldova, Alba- nia and Uganda. In Moldova, the project for the rehabilitation of the district water supply system in Nisporeni, involving total funding of more than 11 million euros, was started. In Uganda, negotiations on a contractual agreement on investment in water supply and sanitation development in small towns and rural growth centres, involving a contribution of more than 30 million euros by the European Commission, were successfully completed. Thanks to support from the ADA and after three years of intensive work, the ECOWAS energy centre ECREEE was established in Cape Verde. Following the success in West Africa, the framework conditions for one energy centre each in the EAC (East Africa) and the SADC (Southern Africa) regions are being prepared, involving ADA support. On the topic of environment and natural resources, Austria participated in relevant preparatory meetings ahead of the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development in Rio de Janeiro (Rio+20). In cooperation with the Vienna UNEP representation, a thematic and a financial contribution were made to the “Global Mountain Partnership” pavilion at the Rio+20. Like- wise, statements were adopted on EU preparation for the Conference of Par- ties (COP) to the Convention on Biological Diversity held in October. In the context of the “Dialog Entwickung” (“Dialogue Development”) series of events, a meeting on the topic of “Green Economy” was organised and a focus paper prepared on the same topic. An internal review/stock-taking of the Strategic Guideline on Environment and Development in Austrian development policy was also prepared in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence and Sports. In the activity area of private sector and development, implementation of the three pillars of intervention was continued. These pillars consist of: improvement of the framework conditions for private sector involvement, strengthening of the private sector in the partner countries and involvement of Aus- trian and European businesses in ADC. Furthermore, ADC is a member of the 232 Introduction

Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG), a group of donors set up to mobilise private investment in infrastructure in Africa. Taken together, the donor countries have contributed 646 million US dollars that have already been invested in 200 projects. 41 are already up and running and provide access to new infrastructure for some 56 million people, while quality has already been substantially improved for another 39 million people. Together with the World Bank and its Vienna-based Centre for Financial Reporting Reform (CFRR) Austria has supported reform of the accounting and auditing standards. While the REPARIS programme initiated jointly for the South East European region is in the meantime being financed with funds provided by the EU, the STAR initiative directed at the countries in the Black Sea region and funded jointly with the World Bank was launched. Business partnerships with domestic enterprises were further intensified. A total of 1,215 enterprises and 92,669 individuals will directly benefit from the 12 new projects in the partner countries. In addition to that, the activities launched under these projects will create 193 new jobs. In the past seven years, 95 company projects have received total funding of about 20 million euros.

13.1.4. evaluation Under the sharing of responsibilities agreement, the FMEIA is responsible for selecting the strategic evaluations and their themes, while the ADA is in charge of operational management. Strategic evaluations generally cover specific ADC themes, sectors, instruments or country strategies rather than dealing with individual projects. These strategic evaluations are tendered in accordance with the Austrian Federal Law on Public Procurement and carried out by organisations and companies, which are selected on the basis of a technical appraisal of their content-related and methodical concepts and are then awarded contracts to perform the evaluation. The evaluation of the ADC’s gender policy 2004–2011 was completed and the preparation of a plan for the implementation of the recommendations started. The evaluation on civil society involvement in political dialogue conducted jointly with Denmark and Sweden was also completed. The evaluation process was started for the area of private sector and development, the Austrian Partnership Programme in Higher Education and Research for Development (APPEAR) and the mid-term review of the country strategy for Bhutan. Along with regular updates on the status of implementation of the recommendations given in the context of the 2008 ADA evaluation, preparatory work continued on the strategic evaluation plan. 233 Austrian Development Cooperation

At international level, the FMEIA and the ADA were regularly represented on the competent evaluation bodies and networks within the EU, in the context of the OECD Development Assistance Committee (DAC) and the group of German-speaking evaluation services (DACH), which is composed of Bel- gium, Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland and Austria.

13.2. Bilateral Development Cooperation 13.2.1. geographic Priorities 13.2.1.1. Key Region Central America and the Caribbean Based on the Regional Strategy Central America 2009 – 2013, the ADC supports the process of economic and social integration in Central America. The programmes implemented to this end aim to improve the framework for small commercial and farming enterprises and to enable marginalised populations to call for and claim respect of their human rights. The focus is placed on the countries’ most disadvantaged border regions. Together with the EU und Finland, ADC promotes renewable forms of energy under the Energy and Environment Partnership with Central America. ADC activities in the priority country Nicaragua are based on the country strategy Nicaragua 2011–2013 and involve programmes in the production sector (focusing on value added chains and production increases in the agricultural area) as well as on the health care sector. A special focus continues to be placed on the two poorest regions at the country’s Atlantic coast. The ADC also contributed to basket funding for priority areas with a view to implementing the national health care strategy. Successful cooperation with non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and business partnerships was continued. To ensure their sustainable completion, all bilateral programmes with Nica- ragua as well as the regional programmes with the Central American institution SICA (Central American Integration System) have since the beginning of 2011 been prepared in collaboration with local partner organisations and/ or the handing-over discussed and initiated by local institutions or other donors. In mid-2012, the coordination office in Managua was closed. During the reporting period and until approx. the end of 2013, the remaining bilateral tasks are taken care of by coordination office staff. Cooperation activities will be maintained in the medium term for the Carib- bean region that is especially prone to natural disasters. In this context, ADC continued to focus on strengthening capacities in the field of renewable energies (especially at CARICOM level).

13.2.1.2. Key Region West Africa Austria’s financial contributions to the key region West Africa focused on the thematic priorities of energy and conflict prevention. Along the ongoing 234 Bilateral Development Cooperation projects with civil society organisations in the field of conflict prevention, a project aimed at supporting the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Center (KAIPTC) was prepared in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Defence and Sports. The KAIPTC is a research and training centre for peacebuilding, conflict prevention and crisis management of the West African regional organisation Economic Community Of West African States (ECOWAS). Cooperation between the FMEIA/ADA and the Federal Ministry of Defence and Sports is based on the inter-ministerial Strategic Guideline on Security and Development. The regional centre for renewable energy and energy efficiency (ECREEE), which has been supported by Austria since its establishment, promoted the adoption of four regional policy documents in the field of energy (renewable energy, energy efficiency, small hydro power plants and bioenergy). The policies were adopted by the relevant ministers of the West African states at a regional high-level conference – the Global Forum on Sustainable Energy (GFSE) – that is based on an Austrian initiative. Austria also contributes to the successful implementation of these policies by providing ongoing financial and staffing support to ECREEE. Against the background of the food crisis in the entire Sahel region, the set of issues related to food, food security and securing of livelihoods as well as resilience were made a special priority of ADC and pursued particularly in cooperation with the OECD Sahel and Westafrica Club and ECOWAS. This area of activity involves inter alia cooperation with NGOs, humanitarian assistance and agricultural research. In the priority country Burkina Faso, Austria – based on the bilateral cooperation agreement from 2008 – continued to provide support in the areas of vocational education and training, the promotion of trades and crafts and rural development. As well as promoting the development and implementation of national sectoral policies in these areas Austria, pursuing a systemic and integrated approach, focused its cooperation activities especially on the Boucle de Mouhoun region. The second phase of the regional development programme ended in 2012. The regional development fund set up under the programme proved an efficient tool for promoting autonomy and responsiveness to actual requirements. This focus on people’s needs and the direct involvement of target groups proved to be the fund’s special strengths. The projects funded usually succeed very quickly and have a positive and sustainable impact on people’s circumstances and living conditions. Such successful projects included a dairy, honey production, small-scale infrastructure for livestock and general produce markets, drinking water supply and training in various crafts and trades.

13.2.1.3. Key Region East Africa At regional level, Austria focuses especially on promoting partnerships in the fields of private sector and development, science and research and NGO 235 Austrian Development Cooperation cooperation. From a development policy point of view, a programme aimed at enabling rural innovation (ERI) and generating economic momentum in the rural area proved especially effective. In the priority country Ethiopia, the ADC was mainly engaged in the fields of rural development/food security and health care. Activities also focused on the areas of renewable energy, gender, science and research. The ADC contributed to funding a national multi-donor programme that aims to improve public services in the healthcare, education, agricultural and water supply sectors. In line with the national Poverty Eradication Action Plan, ADC activities in the priority country Uganda focused primarily on water supply, sanitation, law, the justice sector and peace. The ADC also participated in common donor/basket funding programmes in these areas. In the field of law, justice and peace it also strove to support NGOs in their work and to strengthen accountability and access to law in Uganda. The ADC also provided support in the form of study grants as well as study and science programmes. A particular focus of ADC activities was on reconstruction efforts in the country’s civil war-torn northern regions.

13.2.1.4. Key Region Southern Africa The country strategy 2009–2013 for the priority country Mozambique was drafted on the basis of the current Mozambican Government Programme and the Plan for the Reduction of Absolute Poverty PARPA 2011–2014 (before: PARPA II). As agreed with the government of Mozambique, the province of Sofala remains an ADC priority region. The relevant activities are directed at promoting national decentralisation efforts with the thematic focus being placed on rural drinking water supply, sanitation, smallholder agriculture and improvement of local administration. In Mozambique, the ADC makes available both General Budget Support and Sector Budget Support. The latter is a contribution to the budget of Mozam- bique’s Ministry of Agriculture and is earmarked for the implementation of the National Agricultural Development Strategy. In the context of Austria’s membership of the Human Rights Council, ADC also supported initiatives and small projects aimed at promoting human rights, the media as well as peace and security. With a view to fostering Mozambique’s economic prosperity, the ADC has joined forces with other Austrian players with the aim of promoting economic cooperation.

13.2.1.5. Key Region Himalaya – Hindu Kush ADC supports common goals of the region such as sustainable management of pastureland, diversification of income, and the protection of natural resources and energy efficiency launched under the auspices of the Interna- tional Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD). 236 Bilateral Development Cooperation

The country strategy 2010–2013 for the priority country Bhutan forms the basis for the continuation of development cooperation. In Bhutan, ADC focuses on the areas of energy, tourism and governance. In the energy sector, technical assistance was provided to the government of Bhutan as the commissioning body responsible for the construction of the Dagachhu hydro power plant and financial assistance was provided for the electrification of the remote mountain villages of Soe, Lingzhi and Laya. With respect to the tourism sector, the focus was on further developing the curriculum for the Royal Institute for Tourism and Hospitality and the advancement of construction work on the connected training hotel. In the governance sector, cooperation with the judiciary was stepped up and projects were launched with the aim of building up civil society organisations and strengthening the capacities of the Bhutanese Court of Auditors. The education and training programmes directed at Bhutanese experts and hosted in Austria were continued.

13.2.1.6. priority Palestinian Territories Criteria for the selection of ADC programmes and projects are compliance with the Palestinian Reform and Development Plan 2011–2013 and regard for both parts of the Palestinian Territories, i.e. the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. ADC involvement focused on the areas of health, water/sewage and humanitarian aid. ADC programmes are coordinated with the relevant ministries and other bilateral donors and implemented largely through Palestinian ministries, the European Commission and international organisations such as the UNRWA. As the promotion of institutional and staffing capacities is a key element of cooperation, collaboration is continued in the fields of science and research. NGO projects are also co-funded.

13.2.1.7. Key Region South East / Eastern Europe Since 2010, bilateral ADC has been gradually withdrawing from the West- ern Balkans (with the exception of Kosovo) and has in turn stepped up its involvement in the priority countries Moldova, Georgia and Armenia in the Black Sea region/Southern Caucasus.

13.2.1.7.1. Danube Region/Western Balkans Approximation to or integration into EU structures remained an important aspect of cooperation with the South East European countries. Sectoral and thematic priorities were private sector development, education, the environment, water and energy as well as strengthening governance, the rule of law and civil society. The gradual withdrawal of the bilateral ADC from the Danube region/Western Balkans led to the closure of the ADA coordination offices in Podgorica and Skopje in summer 2010. At the end of 2012,the 237 Austrian Development Cooperation coordination offices in Sarajevo and Belgrade were closed while the one in Tirana will remain open until 2014. In the priority country Albania, ADC support focused mainly on the fields of water and sanitation, vocational education, regional development and integration of marginalised social groups. For three years until the end of 2012, Austria was the lead donor in the water area and is thus responsible for the effective coordination of the sectoral dialogue between donors and government. By launching accompanying project activities, the cross-cutting areas of governance and gender equality are being implemented as integral key topics in the ADC priority areas outlined above and also with respect to public finance management. In this context increased transparency and participation are especially promoted. Gender responsive budgeting remains a key factor in promoting gender equality. In the context of delegated cooperation (Indirect Centralised Management, ICM), ADA allocated EU funds to the areas of water supply, public finance management and IPA program- ming. ADC also played a leading role in donor coordination with respect to support for the One-UN Initiative. On 22 November, a ceremony celebrating “20 Years of Austrian Development Cooperation” was opened in Tirana by Prime Minister Sali Berisha and Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Michael Spindelegger. In the priority country Kosovo, ADC support focuses on the fields of education (mainly institutes of higher education), private sector development and rural/regional development. Cross-cutting themes are inter-ethnic cooperation/conflict prevention, gender and good governance. In the sector of ter- tiary education, a new programme was implemented. Co-funded by Swit- zerland and in cooperation with the Ministry of Trade and Industry, a new initiative to improve the situation of small and medium sized companies was launched at the end of the year. Regional development activities implemented in Suhareka/Suva Reka proved successful and additional funding was granted in phase II. Co-funding by the ADC and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation was continued in the context of a trilateral project directed at Roma/Ashkali/Egyptians in Gjakova/Djakovica.

13.2.1.7.2. Black Sea Region/South Caucasus The most important goal of ADC activities in Moldova is creating life perspectives in rural areas, particularly by improving water supply and sanitation. A large-scale project financed by ADC, the Swiss Agency for Develop- ment and Cooperation (DEZA) and the EU is currently being implemented in this important field. Other activities launched towards achieving this goal include labour market-oriented vocational training and the promotion of vocational schools that provide agricultural training. Further priorities of ADC assistance are coordination of return and integration assistance to migrants returning on a voluntary basis, and the EU-oriented strengthening of the country’s public administration. 238 Bilateral Development Cooperation

Since 2010, Austrian development involvement in the South Caucasus has been redesigned and supported by two bilateral country strategies for Armenia and for Georgia that were newly designed during the period under review. In Armenia, ADC focuses on the agricultural sector while in Georgia the focus is placed on agriculture and forestry. In both countries the cross- cutting topic is governance. ADC interventions aim at enhancing productiv- ity, local value added and competitiveness and strive to improve the general investment and business climate. The ultimate goal pursued by these interventions is fighting poverty and promoting social inclusion, especially in the two countries’ border regions. The ADA “antenna”, set up in Tbilisi in November 2011, will be upgraded to a fully-fledged ADA coordination office by 2013. In addition to the activities in the priority countries in South East/East- ern Europe, NGO co-funding projects in the social sector are supported in Belarus, the Ukraine and in Central Asia.

13.2.2. ngo Co-financing Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) are important partners of ADC. NGO co-financing covers project schemes launched on the NGOs’ own initiative and financed by both their own funding as well as funding provided by ADC. The basis for the thematic orientation of NGO co-financing was set forth in the ADC Policy Document on NGO Cooperation. Eleven Austrian NGOs hold framework programme agreements amounting to a total contractual amount of approximately 20 million euros and covering a period of three years. They have implemented important initiatives in the fields of education, training, rural development, food security, healthcare and disaster prevention. Under the staff development cooperation scheme, a programme for the posting of experts and interns was successfully implemented. Within the framework of individual NGO projects, 24 projects were approved in developing countries of the South, in South East Europe, Eastern Europe, in the Caucasus and in Central Asia. Furthermore, four micro-projects of Austrian NGOs were co-financed. In addition to ongoing projects co-financed by the EU, a further 14 new funding agreements for the next few years were concluded. The role of civil society organisations as independent and indispensable development cooperation players has clearly gained in importance at international level. In the context of NGO Cooperation International, the international programmes “Open Forum” (CSO exchange at EU level), “Better Aid” (CSO exchange in developing countries) and the Austrian platform “AG Globale Verantwortung” (WG global responsibility) were supported in their activities aimed at increasing the efficiency of development assistance. The 239 Austrian Development Cooperation events organised focused primarily on exchange of experience, coordination, reflexion on methods and tools as well as advocacy activities. This concerted action approach proved successful, as also reflected in the pro-active participation in the High Level Forum IV in Busan and in follow-up conferences.

13.3. Multilateral Development Cooperation 13.3.1. the European Union The EU (Member States and Commission) is the largest donor of Official Development Assistance (ODA) worldwide. Austria’s financial contribution to the EU’s development cooperation is the largest single item of Austrian ODA. In 2012, Austria contributed 214.09 million euros to development cooperation under the EU budget and the European Development Fund (EDF), which amounts to 24.74 per cent of Austria’s total ODA. Following the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20) in June, the discussion on the post-2015 development agenda developed – much sooner than expected – to become the central topic at international and EU level. This was triggered by the mandate to prepare the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals), which are among the most important outcomes of the Rio conference and at the same time very closely related to the discussion on a follow-up catalogue to the Millennium Development Goals post 2015. Under the leadership of the Directorate-General for the Environment, a common EU position was developed for Rio+20 to which ADC contributed very pro-actively. At EU level there was large-scale consensus among EU Mem- ber States (including Austria) in favour of merging and consolidating these processes into one common framework post 2015. The Austrian position is defined based on interministerial coordination. The re-orientation of EU development policy from 2014 onwards, which will be based on Council Conclusions, was adopted by Member States in May under the heading of “Increasing the Impact of EU Development Policy: an Agenda for Change”. The relevant basis was provided by the Communica- tion from the European Commission of the same name that was preceded by a broad-based consultation process. From there it was then possible to commence work on preparing regulations for the Union’s foreign policy instruments such as the DCI (Development Cooperation Instrument), EDF (European Development Fund), ENI (Euro- pean Neighbourhood Instrument), etc. These regulations provide a detailed description of what can be funded under the diverse EU foreign policy instruments and are of a legally binding nature. During the Danish EU Council Presidency in the first half of the year, Coun- cil conclusions were adopted inter alia on the 2011 Progress Report on Policy Coherence, on budgetary assistance, on the annual report to the European 240 Multilateral Development Cooperation

Council on the EU Development Aid Targets and on strengthening resilience in the Horn of Africa. In the context of the Cyprus Council Presidency Council Conclusions were adopted on democracy and the EU’s engagement with civil society in EU external relations and on Social Protection in EU Development Cooperation. Austria’s contributions focused in particular on strategically important EU development policy aspects and on topics related to water and sustainable energy, which are areas in which Austria has extensive experience and specific knowhow. The establishment of the European External Action Service (EEAS) entailed fundamental structural changes, also in terms of development cooperation. In spite of progress made in building up the new institutional structures, there is still some need for improvement especially as regards sharing of labour between EEAS und European Commission.

13.3.2. the United Nations The dominating topic in the field of UN development cooperation was the post-2015 development agenda. The goal is on the one had to develop a follow-up instrument to the Millennium Development Goals after their “expiry” in 2015 and, on the other hand to prepare the Sustainable Develop- ment Goals as adopted at the Rio+20 Conference. As regards the follow-up instrument to the Millennium Development Goals, an international expert commission set up by the UNSG presented a report entitled “Realizing the Future We Want for All” in June which contains initial ideas on the form such an instrument could take. On 31 July, the UNSG established another high-level panel chaired by the British Prime Minister and the Presidents of Indonesia and Liberia that was mandated with further developing the ideas contained in the expert commission’s report. The panel has convened twice so far, two further meetings are planned and the final report is to be presented at the end of May. Right at the beginning of deliberations it was decided to make poverty reduction the top priority on the post-2015 development agenda. First concrete proposals for Sustainable Development Goals covering economic and social affairs and environmental aspects will be prepared by a high-level intergovernmental working group to be set up in New York. A first sounding-out of Member States’ views by the UN has shown that some items are considered especially important in the context of Sustainable Development Goals, including poverty reduction as the primary objective, the importance of access for all to fundamental goods and services (such a productive work, health care and education), validity of the Sustainable Development Goals for all countries – although a certain level of flexibility 241 Austrian Development Cooperation must be ensured in order to enable developing countries to adapt these goals to their respective national needs. Another decision adopted at the Rio+20 Conference relates to the establishment of a High-level Political Forum that is to replace the Commission for Sustainable Development. The question of where this forum is to be located is subject to discussions. The annual session of the Executive Board of the UN Development Pro- gramme (UNDP), in which Austria participated as an observer, was held in Geneva from 25 to 29 June. The meeting was dominated by the post-2015 development agenda in which the UNDP assumes an important role and which it intends to shape pro-actively. This is also underlined by the new UNDP Strategic Plan 2014–2017. In 2012, Austria made a core contribution of 1.8 million euros to the UNDP and also provided funding for a project aimed at strengthening the democratisation process in Egypt. In 2012, apart from making its mandatory contribution, Austria also provided funding of 1.1 million euros in total to the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO). The funds were used for several concrete projects, such as private sector development in Mozambique, renewable energies in the Pacific islands states, resource efficiency in South East Europe and youth employment in Armenia. From 19 to 23 November, the UNIDO together with the UNDP organised the Global South-South Develop- ment expo on energy held in the Hofburg Palace in Vienna. This platform aims to initiate cooperation and promote exchange of information among the countries of the South. In 2012, Austria was a member of the Executive Board of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). In this capacity it placed a special focus on the rights of the child and maternal health, children’s health, preventing the transmission of HIV/AIDS from mother to child and fighting female genital mutilation. On these priority areas of activity, Austria also funded UNICEF projects in Kosovo, in the Ukraine and in Ethiopia. Austria also provided a core contribution of 1.1 million euros to UNICEF. The UN Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) has been vested with the mandate to eradicate poverty in the 48 least developed countries by granting micro loans and promoting local development. In 2012, Austria supported the work of the UNCDF by providing a core contribution of 1 million euros and is thus one of the fund’s largest bilateral donors. The ADA provided funding of 300,000 euros to a project on micro-financial assistance for renewable energy (financing access to clean energy for the poor) in the priority country Uganda. This CleanStart project was newly developed by the UNCDF and presented together with Austria on the margins of the Rio+20 Conference. Under the heading of “Development-centred globalisation: towards inclusive and sustainable growth and development”, the 13th Ministerial Conference of the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) was held from 242 Multilateral Development Cooperation

21 to 26 April. As the organisation’s supreme decision-making body, the Ministerial Conference deliberated on current issues relating to the interconnection between globalisation, economic growth and development. Ministers adopted the UNCTAD work programme (Doha Mandate) for the next four years and also a political declaration (Doha Manar, Arabic for light- house) which stresses the importance of eradicating poverty worldwide, addresses the risks and opportunities of globalisation, the role played by trade as an engine for global growth, the relevance of national strategies for trade and investments, global partnerships and global challenges (such as climate change). The UN Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) continued the process aimed at revising its structure. Discussions focused on the question of whether UN-Habitat formally remains under the authority of the UNGA or whether a higher degree of independence would not be more beneficial. Such a step would in fact mean more flexible decision-making structures but at the same time might entail financial cuts. At the Nairobi headquarters, Austria became lead negotiator for the EU in the sub-unit on work programme and budget.

13.3.3. oecd/DAC Austria is one of the 24 members of the OECD Development Assistance Com- mittee (DAC), which is mandated with preparing qualitative targets for its members’ development cooperation, analysing their development cooperation performance (Official Development Assistance, ODA), and having quality and quantity of these activities reviewed by other members of the Com- mittee (peer reviews). At the end of 2012/beginning of 2013, the former Norwegian Minister of the Environment and International Development Erik Solheim, took the chair of the DAC. A topic that is currently subject to lively discussions within the DAC is whether low-interest development cooperation loans and credits can be reported as ODA. In its Development Co-operation Report 2012 submitted in December 2012, the DAC pointed out that for the first time since 1997 a real decline in development cooperation funds had to be reported.

13.3.4. assignments of Young Austrians Young Austrian university graduates are given the opportunity to serve on duty tours limited to two years as Junior Professional Officers(J PO) with UN organisations in order to gain first-hand experience of working in a multilateral environment. The FMEIA bears the costs of such placements. In 2012, a total of ten Austrian Junior Professional Officers worked with various UN organisations, such as UNICEF, UNIDO, UNDP, OHCHR, UNOOSA and 243 Austrian Development Cooperation the UN Secretariat. They either served at these organisations’ headquarters in New York, Geneva and Vienna or within the external representation network in Brussels, Mexico, Kosovo and Egypt. The European Commission’s Junior Experts in Delegation Training Pro- gramme enables qualified university graduates to complete a one to two year duty tour with the EU delegations. Two Austrians worked in delegations of the European Union in Algeria and the Philippines.

244 Multilateral Development Cooperation 14. global Environmental and Sustainability Policy

Environment and sustainable development continue to rank high on the international agenda. Annual World Climate Summits, the further development of international conventions, for instance on biodiversity and on chemicals and the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20) regularly raise public awareness of the global responsibility held by the international community.

14.1. UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20) The United Nations Conference on Environment and Development held in Rio de Janeiro in 1992 was a milestone in the field of international environmental policy. Among the key documents adopted at this conference were numerous conventions (on climate protection, biodiversity and desertification) and the leitbild for sustainable development, the Agenda 21. To mark the 20th anniversary of this event, the UN Conference on Sustain- able Development (Rio+20) was convened at Heads of State and Government level in Rio de Janeiro from 20–22 June. The main topics on the meeting’s agenda were green economy in the context of sustainable development and the fight against poverty, and a redesign of the institutional framework for sustainable development on the international level. The final declaration “The Future We Want” defined inter alia acommon understanding of green economy, initiated an intergovernmental process for the definition of sustainability goals, which should apply not only to developing countries but also to industrialised states, strengthened the UN Environ- ment Programme (UNEP) and replaced the UN Commission on Sustainable Development by a High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development. The document that consists of six chapters in total defines the common vision and renews existing obligations, explains the concept of green economy, restructures the institutional framework (ECOSOC, UNEP), introduces the term Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and discusses the area of financing and technology transfer that is so important for developing countries. In the negotiations on green economy, Austria supported in particular issues relating to energy (the “Sustainable Energy for All” initiative launched by the UNSG), mountains, water and food security as well as biodiversity. Aus- tria also acted as a co-facilitator and contributed to designing the chapter on institutions, the ECOSOC upgrade and the development of a High-level Political Forum (HLPF).

14.2. Sustainable Development in the OECD In the follow-up to the Annual Meeting of Sustainable Development Experts (AMSDE), the first OECD Green Growth and Sustainable Development 245 Global Environmental and Sustainability Policy

Forum (GG-SD Forum) convened on 22 November. This forum is the central platform for dealing with cross-sectional topics relevant to sustainable development and green growth within the OECD. It serves as a vehicle for the exchange of experience between the OECD, the OECD countries and the OECD partner countries and strives to promote multi-disciplinary dialogue with the most important stakeholder groups. Another goal pursued by the forum is development and promotion of policy instruments and best practices as well as suggesting topics for the preparation of the OECD committees’ work programmes. The 2012 GG-SD Forum was dedicated to the topic of “Encouraging Efficient and Sustainable Use of Natural Resources: Policy Instruments and Social Acceptability”. Since 2004, Austria has contributed actively to the work of the AMSDE. In 2012 it contributed to shaping the GG-SD Forum. Since 2011 Austria has been a member of the task force preparing the GG-SD Forum. In this context, Austria generally supports the continuation and strengthening of sustainability at all levels and in all organisations and fora. The OECD’s intention to focus on sustainability as an overarching goal and to implement it both within the organisation and in its Member States is especially welcomed.

14.3. The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) In line with its work programme 2012–2013, UNEP’s work is articulated in six subprogrammes: climate change, natural disasters and conflicts, ecosystem management, international environmental governance, harmful substances and hazardous waste as well as resource efficiency, sustainable consumption and production. The 12th Special session of the UNEP Governing Council was held from 20 to 22 February in Nairobi. The meeting was dominated by two topics: the 40th anniversary of UNEP and the preparations for the Rio+20 Confer- ence. The findings produced by the Global Ministerial Environment Forum (GMEF) on green economy and Rio+20 were integrated in the preparatory process for Rio+20. The outcome document “The Future We Want”, adopted at the Rio+20 Conference in June, included the goals of strengthening the role of UNEP and universal membership of the Governing Council. The activities launched by UNEP are mainly directed at two areas. In the normative area it provides global decision makers with scientific data that are to serve as the basis for meaningful and sensible decisions. The second area of activity focuses on implementing concrete projects at country level, especially in cooperation with UNDP. Considering the difficult global economic situation, UNEP was, however, not able to reach its budgetary targets in the past few years and was thus forced to reduce the number of projects and introduce painful cuts in headcount levels. 246 Global Environmental Protection Agreements 14.4. Global Environmental Protection Agreements From 26 November to 8 December, the 18th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC, COP 18/CMP 8) was held in Doha, Qatar. This meeting marked the first time in the history of the negotiations that a state from the Gulf region and an OPEC Member – Qatar – organised a world climate conference. The goal pursued by the conference – whose role can be described as a formal interim stage in the negotiation process towards a global climate protection agreement – was to conclude discussions under the Kyoto Protocol and the Bali Action Plan and to focus work on the “Durban Platform” for a new global climate protection agreement. The package of final documents (The Doha Climate Gateway) participants finally agreed on, contains three key elements: • the decision to formally end work under the Bali Action Plan which had structured negotiations since 2008, • the adoption of a second commitment period under the Kyoto Protocol involving quantified emission limitation and reduction objectives for 37 industrialised states (including the 27 EU Member States with a reduction target of 20 % compared to the values of 1990 for the period 2013 to 2020) and • a concrete action plan for the Durban Platform in 2013. The conference outcome was positive for Austria and the EU. The EU’s willingness to agree to a second commitment period under the Kyoto Protocol contributed substantially to reaching an agreement in Doha and again underlined the EU’s thematic leadership in this area. Austria is party to the Convention on Biological Diversity (1992), the Carta- gena Protocol (2000) and the Nagoya Protocol (2010), which pursue the goals of conservation of biological diversity, sustainable use of its components as well as fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from genetic resources. The 11th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity was held in Hyderabad (India) from 8 to 19 October. Discussions focused on the implementation of the Strategic Plan for Biodiversity 2011–2020 and on reaching the global diversity targets 2020 (Aichi Targets), especially on the mobilisation of financial resources. After lengthy negotiations, the state parties agreed to double global funding for biodiversity by 2015, to maintain funding on this level until 2020 – and to revise this goal in 2014. The adoption of a list setting out 48 ecologically/ biologically sensitive marine areas located especially outside of national territorial waters marks a major success. Thus, an important step towards meeting the goal of effectively protecting 10 % of marine areas by 2020 has been taken. Of the 33 decisions adopted, those on the application of biodiversity safeguards on REDD+ (CO2 impact as a result of deforestation) 247 Global Environmental and Sustainability Policy and the indicators for measuring the impact of REDD+ on the targets defined by CBD are especially worth mentioning. Agreement was reached on applying the precautionary principle in connection with new technologies that might pose a risk to biodiversity, such as synthetic biology. Based on a resolution adopted by approx. 90 states participating as founding members, the Bonn-based Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) was formally established at a conference held in Panama City in April. The meeting also adopted decisions on the platform’s legal status, administrative structures, funding, headquarters, tasks and functions. The remaining open issues relating to the content of the work programme and the procedural rules will be dealt with at the first IPBES plenary meeting in Bonn scheduled for January 2013. Mod- elled on the tasks of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) within the field of the climate process, the IPBES seeks to engage in scientific policy counselling on the topic of biodiversity. Independent information on the status and development of biodiversity will be made available to political decision-makers in order to enable the latter to take well-informed decisions towards its protection. The EU and Austria supported the establishment of the IPBES and Austria is currently examining the question of membership in the platform. At the 6th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety held in Hyderabad (India) from 1 to 5 October, key decisions on risk assessment, socio-economic aspects, liability and compliance were adopted. Since the Cartagena Protocol came into force in 2003, Austria has been committed to promoting efficient procedures and building up the necessary capacities for assessing the risk of GMO transfers. The 64th Annual Meeting of the International Whaling Commission of the International Convention for the Regulation of Whaling, held in Panama City from 2 to 6 July 2012, dealt with institutional issues and overcoming the divide between states that are in favour of whaling and states that are in favour of protecting whales. At the conference, Austria supported the comprehensive protection of all whale and dolphin species, a ban on any type of international trade in whale meat and whale products as well as the discontinuation of all research that employs lethal methods in the study of whales and new protection zones. Negotiations on an International Mercury Treaty were continued. At the fourth negotiation committee meeting held in Punta del Este (Uruguay) from 27 June to 2 July, the content-related aspects of the future treaty were specified in greater detail. According to the schedule, negotiations should be completed in January 2013 and lead to an effective agreement aimed at reducing mercury emissions to air, water and soil, which also includes treatment of mercury containing wastes. The fact that agreement has not yet been reached on a long-term financing mechanism will impact the regulation of activities and the preparation of a compliance mechanism. 248 Global Environmental Protection Agreements

The 3rd Session of the International Conference on Chemicals Management (ICCM3) convened in Nairobi from 17 to 21 September. Progress made in the field of the (politically binding) Strategic Approach for International Chemi- cals Management (SAICM) was reviewed and assessed. A number of new measures aimed at protecting human health and the environment from harmful effect caused by exposure to hazardous chemicals were also included in the strategy, for instance as regards disposal and recycling of electrical and electronic products and waste as well as nanotechnology and nano-materials. Austria and the EU support activities related to “Information on Chemicals in Products” and the continuation of the discussion on endocrine disrup- tors. The Quick Start Programme Trust Fund, established to support capacity building was extended and long-term financing for SAICM implementation measures was discussed in the context of an integrated funding option for the entire chemicals and waste sector. The 8th Session of the Open-Ended Working Group (OEWG), a sub-organ of the Conference of the Parties to the Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal (Basel Convention), was held in Geneva from 25 to 28 September. Deliberations focused on the implementation of the resolutions adopted at the 10th Con- ference of the Parties in October 2011 and the continuation of the Swiss- Indonesian Country Led Initiative of the 9th Conference of the Parties. In the context of the Strategic Framework, decisions on the elaboration of indicators and the further development of the Basel Technical Centre (especially as regards business plans) were adopted. Work on technical guidelines (e.g. on computers and POPs wastes) continued and should be finalised by the next Conference of the States Parties. The 24th Meeting of the Parties to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer was held in Geneva from 12 to 16 November. The topics discussed included relevant technical activities, the preparation for replenishing the multilateral fund and launching measures to restrict hydro- fluorocarbons (HFCs). These substances, which do not deplete the ozone layer but are harmful to the climate, are increasingly used to replace hydro- chlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs). Although the proposal for restricting HFCs was introduced several years ago, it was still not possible to generate broad- based support on this topic at this conference. The 7th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the UNECE Convention on the Transboundary Effects of Industrial Accidents, held in Stockholm from 14 to 16 November, dealt with the Member States’ reports, the working groups’ activities, the new programme of work and the budget as well as with decisions relating to new functions in the Convention’s bodies. In the context of the 30th and 31st Session of the Executive Body for the UN Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) Convention on Long-range Transboundary Long-range Air Pollution held in Geneva from 30 April to 4 May and from 11–13 December respectively, the parties adopted amend- 249 Global Environmental and Sustainability Policy ments to the Gothenburg Protocol and the Protocol on Heavy Metals. The Gothenburg Protocol aims to abate acidification, eutrophication and ground- level ozone. For the first time ever, the Protocol now stipulates reduction targets for particulate matter of 2.5 micrometres (PM 2.5). Under the Protocol on Heavy Metals, states parties are committed to reducing heavy metal pollution and to cutting their lead, cadmium and mercury emissions. The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) focuses on the problem of soil and land degradation leading to the inability of populations in disadvantaged areas to sustain self-sufficiency. The influence of desertification, land and soil degradation and drought on poverty reduction, food security and other global goals were thus also a priority of the Conven- tion’s contribution to the Rio+20 world conference. The Austrian coordinator for the Convention represents the Western European states in his capacity as Vice President of the Conference of the Parties in the Bureau.

14.5. Sustainable Energy for All See Chapters 8 and 13.1.3.

14.6. Nuclear Safety Austria remains committed to maintaining its clear opposition to nuclear power both bilaterally and within international organisations. For Austria, nuclear power is neither a sustainable form of energy supply nor is it a viable or acceptable option for tackling climate change. Taking into account the entire fuel cycle (although the costs of the globally unresolved question of final storage can of course only be estimated) as well as the costs involved in building, operating and finally decommissioning nuclear power plants, nuclear power is – in Austria’s opinion – neither a low carbon nor an eco- nomically viable model. In discussions with its partners Austria therefore presents sound and factual arguments supporting a nuclear phase out. In 2012, Austria has continued to pursue this goal both bilaterally and multilat- erally, at political and at expert level. As a result of the nuclear reactor disaster in Fukushima (on 11 March 2011), Switzerland, Italy and particularly Germany decided to renounce this form of energy. The implementation of this decision differed from country to country, but was in all three cases welcomed by the general public. Against this background, checking and increasing the reactor safety of existing power plants has developed into a key concern in the context of European and international cooperation. At the multilateral level, the Vienna-based International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) launched the so-called post-Fukushima process. The most tangible result produced to date by this process is an Action Plan. Although 250 Nuclear Safety it does not conform with all of Austria’s demands – in particular in terms of transparency and liability rules – it has to be welcomed as a step in the right direction. Introduced on Austria’s initiative, risk and safety assessments (“stress tests”) were performed in all nuclear power plants in the EU as well as in Swit- zerland and the Ukraine. They were conducted along two parallel tracks: a “safety track” focusing on aspects of operational safety and a “security track” focusing on security threats from outside (terrorist acts, aircraft crashes and cyber security). The final reports on tests along both tracks were submitted to the European Council in June. The next step consisted of the drafting of National Action Plans, which are scheduled to undergo peer review processes at expert-level at the beginning of 2013. Within the framework of EURATOM, Austria continues to consistently oppose an EU-funded expansion of nuclear energy. This position was also persistently defended in the negotiations on the Framework Programme for Research 2013/2014. Furthermore, the implementation of the programme is closely monitored in the context of the cooperation in the field of nuclear safety (Instrument for Nuclear Safety Cooperation – INSC). The safety and security dialogues, conducted on the basis of bilateral agreements with those neighbouring states operating or planning to build nuclear power plants, were continued. Within the framework of these nuclear information agreements experts meetings were held with Germany, Switzerland, Slovakia, Slovenia, the Czech Republic, Hungary and Poland. With regard to the planned expansion of the Temelín nuclear power plant in the Czech Republic involving the construction of two additional reactors as well as the expansion of the Mochovce nuclear power plant in Slovakia, Austria continues to make full use of all available means of intervention and influence based on the framework of cross-border Environmental Impact Assessments in line with the relevant international agreements and EU legislation. As a result of objections raised especially by Austria, the European Commis- sion is currently examining the transposition of the EU Directive on transboundary Environmental Impact Assessments into applicable Czech law. In Austria’s view, the possibility provided to Austrian natural and legal persons to exercise their right of appeal in Czech courts in relation to the imminent approval procedures for the planned expansion of Temelín is not compliant with the aforementioned Directive.

251 International Cultural Policy 15. international Cultural Policy 15.1. Objectives and Priorities Culture and especially traditional, prestigious culture contributes substantially to shaping the image Austria enjoys in the world. In order to also position Austria with its rich history and traditions as a future-oriented country, international cultural policy activities focus on communicating the contemporary aspects of Austria’s cultural and scientific achievements. Austria is presented as a modern country, whose creative achievements in the fields of art, culture and science strike a balance between the cornerstones of tradition and innovation. In the context of its international cultural policy activities the FMEIA – together with its network abroad – thus presents Austria as an innovative- creative country that offers a diverse, historically-grown cultural and scientific wealth. Guided by the principle of “unity in diversity”, Austria’s international cultural policy contributes pro-actively to fostering European integration and makes a sustainable contribution to global confidence building and peace building by launching initiatives in the field of intercultural and interreligious dialogue. Another important function assigned to the international cultural policy network is to explicitly serve as a bridge facilitating the participation of creative professionals in international cultural dialogue. Austria’s traditional reputation as a “cultural nation” is clearly underlined by the work carried out by the comprehensive network of currently six independent Cultural Fora, 80 embassies (24 with a Cultural Forum), ten consulates-general, one Austria Office (Österreich Büro), 61 Austria Libraries (Österreich Bibliotheken), nine Austria Institutes (Österreich Institute), and special cooperation offices in Beijing, Lviv, Sarajevo and Washington D.C. The International Cultural Meeting 2012 focused on the topic of “Virtuell oder Real. Orte der Begegnung für die Auslandskultur” (Virtual or Real. Places of Encounter for International Culture). The meeting, hosted in Vienna’s Kammerspiele theatre, dealt with the question of how “virtuality” changes Austrian cultural communication activities abroad. In his keynote address on “Digitale Diplomatie – Chancen und Grenzen für Österreich” (Digital Diplomacy – Opportunities and Limitations for Austria) Viktor Mayer-Schönberger, Professor for Internet Governance at Oxford University, focused on the opportunities digital diplomacy provides for Austria and the limitations it encounters. Apart from presenting the Austria Libraries network, the FMEIA also launched its new literature promotion programme “schreibART AUSTRIA“. The programme aims to raise international awareness for a new generation of Austrian authors making them more accessible to a wider international audience. Cultural activities abroad must be based on clearly definedpriorities . Within a multi-year planning period, the FMEIA thus sets both geographic and 252 Objectives and Priorities content-related priorities, managing them through the allocation of varying annual cultural budgets to the representations abroad. International cultural activities also reflect the geographic priorities set by Austrian foreign policy, i.e. the Danube region, the Black Sea area and the Western Balkans. The cultural, political, economic and human relations that have developed over centuries in the Danube region form a strong foundation for future common development. The important role this European key region is playing in the 21st century is corroborated by the EU Strategy for the Danube Region. Cross-border cooperation involving 14 partners – eight EU Member States and six European countries – opens up new opportunities for joint activities in the fields of politics and business, culture, science and education as well as information and communication. The biennial flow festival, organised in cooperation with the Institute for the Danube Region and Central Europe, took place in September in Ruse (Bulgaria). This third biennial festival was entitled “Activating Spaces, Acti- vating People by Micro-Imagination”. A total of 60 young representatives from the independent cultural and academic scenes in Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, the Republic of Moldova, Romania, Serbia, Slo- vakia, the Ukraine and Austria dealt with current socio-political issues in the Danube region and developed inter-disciplinary projects that will be implemented in 2013. The Working Group on Culture at the European Forum Wachau in Stift Gött- weig also dealt with this geographic priority analysing “cultural diversity and dialogue in the Danube and Black Sea area”. With a view to adding sustainability to the efforts aimed at moving the Ukraine closer to the united Europe which is constantly being further developed under the EU, the Bukovina Dialogue was continued in Vienna. Organ- ised as a regional conference involving representatives from the Ukrainian and Romanian Bukovina and Austrian participants, the first such meeting was held in Chernivtsi in 2011. This year’s meeting in Vienna focused on establishing closer ties between both dialogue partners, particularly in the fields of economic cooperation. In the context of Platform Culture – Central Europe, set up in 2001 on the initiative of Austria, the musical festival “Folkore is alive”, at which the Austrian group Netnakisum performed, took place in the Lviv Philharmonic in May. A documentary film festival featuring contributions from Hungary, the Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia and Austria was organised in Chişinău (Republic of Moldova) in November. Dealing with the fundamental social changes experienced since 1989, the documentaries reflected the strong sim- ilarity among the concerns shared by the people living in these countries. This year, the “Talking about Borders” drama competition organised in cooperation with the Austrian P.E.N. Club in South East European and Black Sea countries focused on Romania. Out of a total of 75 entries the interna- 253 International Cultural Policy tional jury selected “Born in the wrong place” (Nu ne-am născut în locul potrivit) by Alice Monica Marinescu and David Schwartz. In May, the winning drama was presented to a wider audience in a staged reading at the Romanian Cultural Institute in Vienna. Austria attaches great importance to the Black Sea area as one of the future key regions. In line with the relevant EU programmes, the European Agenda for Culture, the Black Sea Synergy, the Eastern Partnership and the EU Strat- egy for the Danube Region, a specific Black Sea priority was developed. In the Russian city of Sochi, which is hosting the 2014 Olympic Winter Games, Austria thus presented a comprehensive and highly diverse cultural festival. This first such event included a display of posters by Viennese artists from around 1900 from the Wien Museum collection and the exhibition “Abstrac- tion.Figuration.Austrian Contemporary Art”. Together with the Vienna Institute for Parliamentarism and Democracy Questions (Wiener Institut für Parlamentarismus und Demokratiefragen) the “Good Governance” series, launched in Odessa in 2011, was continued in Tbilisi with a conference on “The Culture of Governance” held on 8 June. Pol- iticians and scientists from Austria, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Poland, Russia, Turkey, the Ukraine, the Autonomous Republic of Adjara and representatives from numerous non-governmental organisations discussed such topics as understanding and confidence building, tolerance, the rule of law, strengthening of government institutions and democratic culture. The next “Good Governance” conference will be held in Istanbul in 2013. The “Schreibwerkstatt SCHWARZES MEER” (writers’ workshop Black Sea), a studio programme for authors from the Black Sea region, organised since 2010 in cooperation with quartier21 at the MuseumsQuartier in Vienna, this year welcomed writers Dan Lungu (Romania), Sema Kaygusuz (Turkey), Ayfer Tunc (Turkey), Anna Kordsaia-Samadaschwili (Georgia), Radu Pavel Gheo (Romanian), Catalin Mihuleac (Romania) and Tamta Melashvili (Geor- gia). BLACK SEA CALLING, an exchange programme conducted by the Graz cultural association “rotor” on behalf of the FMEIA, promotes professional exchange and contact between artists from Austria and the Black Sea area. Under this programme ten Austrian artists were able to live and work in Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bulgaria, Georgia, the Republic of Moldova, Romania, Russia, Turkey and the Ukraine and artists from these nine countries were invited to Austria. The translation programme Traduki is dedicated to the third geographic priority, the Western Balkans region. The programme was launched in 2008 by the FMEIA, the German Foreign Office, the Swiss culture foundation Pro Helvetia, KulturKontakt Austria, the Goethe-Institute and the S. Fischer foundation. Further programme partners are the Slovenian book agency JAK, the Ministry for Culture of the Republic of Croatia and the Department for 254 Objectives and Priorities

Cultural Affairs of the government of the Principality of Liechtenstein as well as the Kulturstiftung Liechtenstein (Liechtenstein Cultural Foundation). The Croatian cultural association Kurs and the Leipzig Book Fair are also long- standing cooperation partners of Traduki. This translation programme for fiction and non-fiction as well as children’s and adolescents’ books promotes exchange between the countries participating in the programme (Albania, Austria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Germany, Kosovo, Liechtenstein, Macedonia, Montenegro, Roma- nia, Serbia, Switzerland and Slovenia). This includes encounters between authors, translators, critics, academics and librarians as well as translations. By the end of the year, 528 translations had been co-funded by Traduki which thus enabled their realisation. The 120th anniversary of bilateral relations between Austria and Korea was celebrated in both countries with the staging of numerous cultural events. The highlights included the opening of the Korean Cultural Centre in Vienna by Federal President Heinz Fischer, the concert by the Austrian-Korean Phil- harmonic in the Golden Hall of the Vienna Musikverein, a concert featuring Korean Soloists in the Vienna Hofburg, a concert given by the Austrian pianist Rudolf Buchbinder and a performance of the Vienna Boys Choir in Seoul. The 40th anniversary of bilateral relations between Austria and Vietnam was celebrated with two joint concerts given by the Austrian “Acies-Quar- tett” and the Vietnamese music ensemble “Song Hong” in Vietnam and a commemorative publication documenting the history of Austrian consulates in Vietnam in the years 1869–2009. 2012 marked the 150th anniversary of Gustav Klimt (1862–1918). In celebration of this event the FMEIA commissioned the graphic artist Manfred Thumberger and the art historian Sandra Tretter to put together the touring exhibition “Gustav Klimt – a pioneer of modernism”. The exhibition is conceived as a CD in five languages and can thus be easily used worldwide. It documents the most important stages in Gustav Klimt’s life and work, giving brief biographic information underpinned with the relevant visual material and has already been presented with much success in a large number of countries. Austria figured prominently at the European Capital of Culture Maribor 2012 events. In the “Austria month” October, the art pavilion “White Noise”, designed by the Salzburg team of architects “SOMA”, was erected at Liberty Square in Maribor. The pavilion provided an excellent platform for exhibitions, including the “Austrian Design. Surprisingly Ingenious” exhibition presented by the Austrian Economic Chamber. Further cultural capital projects included the photo exhibition “Europe, Europe” by Erich Lessing, the Gustav Klimt touring exhibition, concerts by Harri Stojka and Mia Zabelka as well as an international Robert Musil symposium. 255 International Cultural Policy

In the context of the 40th International Cervantino Festival in Guanajuato, the largest cultural festival in Mexico, Austria – one of the three guest-of- honour countries – presented a multi-faceted programme. The exhibition “Designing the Real” on contemporary Austrian art produced by the Austrian Federal Ministry for Education, Arts and Culture (BMUKK) and the FMEIA’s Gustav Klimt touring exhibition were shown. Other events included a concert by the Camerata Salzburg, the Burgtheater production “Dorian Gray”, the 3D performance “Le Sacre du Printemps” by Ars Electronica Futurelab, “sound:frame”, an audiovisual show combining music, electronics and fine arts, as well as the Mexican tour by the young Austrian jazz musician Diknu Schneeberger and his trio. The Austrian Cultural Forum New York celebrated the 10th anniversary of the opening of the famous landmark building designed by Raimund Abra- ham located near Fifth Avenue in midtown Manhattan. In cooperation with the Austrian Federal Ministry for Education, Arts and Culture, the Cultural Forum commissioned Austrian composers including Bernhard Lang, Kurt Schwertsik, HK Gruber, Gerhard Resch, Manuela Kerer and Thomas Larcher with compositions for premiere performances in the anniversary year 2012. Other activities held in celebration of this event included the anniversary exhibition “Our Haus” presenting works and commissioned works by artists that had left artistic traces in the USA over the last ten years. The works shown were by Sabine Bitter and Helmut Weber, Judith Fegerl, Rainer Ganahl, Matthias Herrmann, Helmut and Johanna Kandl, Mathias Kessler, Fabian Patzak, Rainer Prohaska and the artists’ collective WochenKlausur as well as TIME’S UP. A film series in cooperation with the renowned Anthol- ogy Film Archives presented a cross section of Austrian films produced in the last decade. The priority area of architecture, and especially the professional use of natural materials and ecologically sustainable construction methods that are at the centre of energy policy and cultural construction developments worldwide, was already portrayed in the 2011 touring exhibition “Form and Energy”, produced by the FMEIA and curated by Stiller/Kapfinger. This exhibition was again presented in 2012, inter alia in the context of a special event on energy efficient construction in the Glyptothek in Zagreb involving some 130 experts from Austria and Croatia. It was also shown in Prague as one of three Austrian exhibitions in the context of “Green Architecture II” in the new building housing the Czech national library. The Austrian Cultural Forum Paris presented the Lower Austrian architecture exhibition “Bau/t/en für die Künste” – “Quelle architecture pour la Cul- ture?” curated by Theresia Hauenfels at the “Galérie d´Architecture” in Paris. The highly expressive pictures capturing modern masterpieces of cultural architecture were taken by photographer Bruno Klomfar. Among the highlights shown were the Wolkenturm open air stage in Grafenegg designed by architects Marie-Therese Harnoncourt and Ernst J. Fuchs (the next ENTER- 256 Objectives and Priorities prise – architects), the Festspielhaus St. Pölten by Klaus Kada and the Kunst halle Krems by Adolf Krischanitz. In the context of the group exhibition “Urban Territories” sponsored by the Erste Art Foundation in Sofia, young Austrian artists analysed the interac- tions between architectural conditions in modern cities and their inherent social and economic dynamisms, between utopia and the wishes of residents as well as the reality of a constantly changing environment. Together with Russian and Austrian partners, the Austrian Cultural Forum in Moscow realised a series of exhibition projects. Following the special project “Gute Aussichten” shown at the Moscow Biennale 2011, “Dust” dealt with the topic of dust in arts and science. This extraordinary exhibition, which presented famous Austrian artists such as Erwin Wurm together with less widely known young Austrian and Russian artists, illustrated that Austrian international culture is also able to contribute a decisive impetus in the relevant host country. The Austrian Embassy in Helsinki succeeded in finding a particularly appropriate exhibition space for the FMEIA’s “Culture Matters” touring exhibition. On the walls of the main museum building of the UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site Suomenlinna, the photographs that depict the several centuries old Cultural Heritage Sites of the Balkans were presented in a most perfect setting. With 580 projects in Finland and abroad, Helsinki was also the World Design Capital 2012. In this context the Austrian Embassy in Helsinki and the AußenwirtschaftsCenter (foreign trade centre) Helsinki supported the project “Austrian Design Nite”, at which renowned Austrian design companies were presented in a range of workshops and exhibitions. The “freiraum quartier21 INTERNATIONAL”, a joint project organised by the FMEIA and the MuseumsQuartier in Vienna, launched in 2009 to present primarily international exhibitions and projects focusing on fashion, design and digital arts, again set important impetuses. In 2012, they included “Membra disjecta for John Cage. Wanting to Say Something About John”, an international group exhibition celebrating the 100th anniversary of John Cage and the two exhibitions “Technosensual – where fashion meets technology” as well as “Graphic Detour”. Against the background of the increasing appreciation and recognition of modern dance in Austria both at national and international level, it has become a sectorial priority of Austrian international cultural activities. In cooperation with the TanzQuartier Wien and the Federal Ministry for Edu- cation, Arts and Culture, the FMEIA initiated the innovative promotion programme INTPA (“Internationales Netz für Tanz und Performance Austria”, International Network for Dance and Performance Austria). Event organisers abroad may turn to INTPA for funding when presenting Austrian artists. The network thus serves to raise the international presence of Austrian artists 257 International Cultural Policy in the areas of dance and performance. This funding scheme enabled, for instance, the presentation of five of the best modern Austrian dance ensembles with a total of nine performances at three different venues at the Zagreb Dance Week festival. In the field of literature the 150th anniversary of Arthur Schnitzler, the 70th anniversary of Stefan Zweig and the 100th anniversary of Jura Soyfer were commemorated during the year. Numerous Austrian authors were also invited to give readings including famous authors like Barbara Frischmuth, Josef Haslinger and Marlene Streeruwitz, emerging poets such as Bettina Balàka, Clemens Setz and Maja Haderlap and new literary voices like Ange- lika Reitzer, Thomas Arzt, Milena Michiko Flasar and Michaela Falkner. Activities in the theatrical area included performances of pieces by Austrian dramatists such as Thomas Bernhard, Peter Handke, Silke Hassler, Peter Tur- rini or Rebekka Wild and performances by Austrian theatre groups including Irrwisch Theater, Lalish Theater, Theaterkombinat Wien, Karin Schäfer Figurentheater and teatro caprile. Special consideration was given to commemorating the anniversaries of Arthur Schnitzler, Stefan Zweig and Jura Soyfer. In cooperation with the Austrian Agency for International Coopera- tion in Education and Research) (OeAD), the Cooperation Office Lviv and the literature museum Kharkiv, for example, organised an international symposium commemorating the 100th anniversary of Jura Soyfer in his home town of Kharkiv. On the occasion of the 2012 Olympic Games in London, the Austrian Cultural Forum London organised and co-produced the first English language performance of “A Sports Play” by Elfriede Jelinek that was shown in four theatres in the United Kingdom and in the Chelsea The- atre in London. On the invitation of the Director of the Cultural Olympiad a marathon reading of the entire translation was staged in the Soho Theatre in London’s West End. In the field of music, projects that present Austrian music of the 20th and 21st centuries continue to enjoy top priority. Contemporary musical work, ranging from new music through to jazz, pop, world music and highly exper- imental approaches thus conveys a young and dynamic image of Austria. The action programme for young Austrian soloists and ensembles “The New Austrian Sound of Music” (NASOM), which was launched in 2005 with each programme covering a two-year period, was continued. In the field of film, the participation of Austrian films in international fes- tivals was provided with ongoing logistical and financial support. In cooperation with the Österreichische Akademie des Films (Austrian Academy of Film) selected short films were presented as “Österreichische Kurz- filmschau” (Austrian short film show) at embassies and Cultural Fora. In response to the very positive echo received since its launch in 2011, the cooperation with Ars Electronica Linz was continued in the field of animation film. The presentation of a locally curated selection of the films that are invited to participate in the annual animation film festival in Linz has not 258 Objectives and Priorities only contributed to strengthening Austria’s reputation in this field but also to raising international interest in the Ars Electronica Center Linz. In order to support innovative projects with cultural policy content and to promote awareness of foreign policy and international cultural policy objectives among a broader public, funding is made available for cultural projects in Austria and abroad. In 2012, a sum of 397,000 euros was thus provided for a total of 81 projects in the fields of arts, culture and science. In the film sector, the human rights film festival “this human world”, “Crossing Europe” in Linz, the “Vienna Independent Shorts” and the “EU XXL Film Forum” in Vienna received funding in 2012. Funding for meetings and conferences was provided to the international conference “Staat und Staatlichkeit im albanischen Balkan” (State and statehood in the Albanian Balkans) organised by the Austrian Academy of Sciences and the Jiddische Kulturherbst (Yiddish Culture in Autumn) organised by the Jew- ish Institute for Adult Education. As every year, financial support was again granted to various cultural associations and cultural institutions in Austria and abroad as well as to numerous publications through the co-funding of printing costs. Funds were also made available for commemorative trips to Holocaust sites, for example by the Austrian Trade Union Youth or the IM-MER association. In the musical sector, auditions and foreign tours of the Gustav Mahler Youth Orchestra and the Klangforum Wien’s performances abroad received financial support. A number oftheatre projects including “Die Besten aus dem Osten, Folge 10: Kosovo” (The best from the East, sequel 10: Kosovo) and “Die Besten aus dem Osten, Folge 11: Moldau” (The best from the East, sequel 11: Moldova) at the Vienna Volkstheater were also granted funding. Another substantial priority within international cultural policy is the Inter- cultural and Interreligious Dialogue (in particular the preparation for the Fifth Global Forum of the “Alliance of Civilisations” to be held from 27 to 28 February 2013 in Vienna) and human rights (in combination with Austria’s membership of the UN Human Rights Council 2011–2014). The role played by education and culture for the development of states, social changes and increasingly complex modern societies and the contribution of science to the solution of global problems like climate change or supply of renewable energy is a topic that ranks particularly high on the agenda of UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. Austria was successful in its candidature for one of the rotating seats on the Execu- tive Board of UNESCO. Until 2015 it will thus be represented on the global organisation’s decision-making body that is composed of 58 Member States. Winning 170 of the 181 votes cast, Austria has received the highest approval rate ever achieved in elections to this board. Austria has been a member of UNESCO since 1948 and has already been represented twice on the organisation’s Executive Board (1972–1976 and 1995–1999). On 23 November, State Secretary Reinhold Lopatka handed over the volume of photographs “Art for Peace” to UNESCO Director General Irina Bokova in 259 International Cultural Policy

Paris. The pictures taken by the Austrian photographic artist Lois Lammer- huber show works from the UNESCO’s art collection – which is not accessible to the public – and were designed as an exhibition in book form. Through these photographs this valuable art collection is thus made available to Mem- ber States in virtual form. The electronic version of the book is accessible via the internet to be used as inter-cultural teaching material in schools around the globe. This artistic gift is Austria’s first contribution to the UNESCO art collection endowed to the organisation by its Member States. Austria has been a member of the Council of Europe’s Enlarged Partial Agree- ment on European Cultural Routes since 2010. The Cultural Routes Pro- gramme celebrated its 25th anniversary and registered five new accessions. By appointing an executive secretary, who is at the same time the Director of the European Institute of Cultural Routes in Luxembourg, greater coherence was achieved between the Council of Europe and the institute which also had a positive impact on the work of the body’s executive board which was chaired by Austria. Currently, three cultural routes have been certified in Austria (the Mozart Route, the Transromanica and the European Cemeteries Route). The “Annual Consultative Forum” of the Cultural Routes Programme was held in Colmar, France.

15.2. Bilateral Agreements in the Fields of Culture and Science The XVIth Cultural Work Programme with Italy was signed in Vienna on 9 January. The Mixed Cultural Commission with Albania met in Tirana on 11 April and adopted a work programme for the years 2012 to 2015. The Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Austria and the Gov- ernment of the Kingdom of Spain on relations in audio-visual matters was signed by State Secretary Wolfgang Waldner in Madrid on 18 April. The Mixed Commission for Scientific-Technical Cooperation with India met in New Delhi on 24 April. The Protocol Amending the Convention between the Republic of Austria and the United Mexican States on Cultural Exchange was signed in Vienna on 25 April and has meanwhile come into force. The 1st Meeting of the Austro-Macedonian Mixed Cultural Commission was held in Skopje on 26 April. The programme runs over a four-year term. A Convention on Scientific-Technical Cooperation with Albania was negotiated, signed on 2 May by Federal Minister Karlheinz Töchterle and has already come into effect. The 19th Meeting of the Joint Committee on Sci- ence and Technology was held in Budapest on 15 June. The relevant basis is formed by the Convention between the Republic of Austria and the People’s Republic of Hungary on Co-operation in the Fields of Science and Culture of 28 May 1969. After a three-year break, the Austro-Turkish bilateral cultural discussions at head-of-department level were resumed in Ankara on 25 June. In connection with the Skanderbeg objects given on loan by Kun- 260 Austria Libraries sthistorisches Museum Wien to Albania, an Agreement on the Loan of Cul- tural Objects and the Protocol Amending the Cultural Convention with Alba- nia were signed on 29 August by the Head of the Cultural Department at the FMEIA, Ambassador Martin Eichtinger, and have both come into force. Negotiations on scientific and technical cooperation with Montenegro were held in Vienna on 10 September. A new Cultural Work Programme for the years 2012 to 2015 was signed with the Russian Federation in Vienna on 26 September. Negotiations on scientific and technological cooperation with the Ukraine were held in Vienna on 18 October. On 21 November agreement was reached in Zagreb on a new Cultural Work Programme with Croatia for the years 2013 to 2015. On 13 December, negotiations on scientific and technological cooperation with China were held in Beijing.

15.3. Austria Libraries The Austria Libraries abroad are a well-established platform of inter-cultural dialogue. Set up in 1989, they have made a special contribution to overcoming the mental division of Europe into East and West and are primarily located in Central, Eastern and South-East Europe, the Caucasus, the Black Sea region and Central Asia. Institutionally linked to universities and national libraries, the Austria Libraries are popular among students, teaching staff and academics and are also used by interested members of the public. Alongside their role as Austria’s scientific satellites abroad, they are increasingly developing into information and cultural centres that organise cultural and scientific events in cooperation with the local cultural fora and embassies. Being an indispensable and integral element of Austrian international cultural policy they provide important and sustainable impetus fostering the sharing of Austrian culture, philosophy and arts as well as promoting multi- faceted bilateral and multilateral cultural and scientific relations. The network of Austria Libraries abroad currently consists of 61 libraries in 28 countries and registered more than 142,000 visitors in 2012. The libraries’ stocks comprise some 380,000 books, 4,500 audio items, 2,250 CD- ROMs, 3,170 videos and 3,595 DVDs. Besides providing classical library services, the Austria Libraries organised some 900 events that attracted around 110,000 visitors. Accessible via the Austria Libraries web portal (www.oesterreich-bibliotheken.at), the database already includes more than 13,746 foreign language translations of Austrian literature (international austriaca) without counting the external databases in Japan, Russia and Italy. The translations produced in the context of Austria Libraries frequently win translation awards sponsored by the Federal Ministry for Education, Arts and Culture and receive distinctions in the respective host countries. The Austria Libraries at the Departments for German Studies abroad are often managed by lecturers of the Austrian Agency for International Coop- 261 International Cultural Policy eration in Education and Research) (OeAD), who are highly valued by the heads of Austria Libraries as competent networkers in matters relating to Austrian cultural, educational and scientific activities. Facilities which house Austria Libraries also award the Austrian German Language Diploma (Österreichisches Sprachdiplom Deutsch, ÖSD) and conduct the relevant exams. In a long-standing and successful cooperation with the Federal Ministry for Education, Arts and Culture, Austria Days are organised at selected locations abroad. These short seminars, which are conducted in close cooperation with local institutions such as local German teachers associations, focus on topics that relate specifically to Austria and are also conceived as further education opportunities for German teachers abroad. Regular meetings are organised to promote networking between Austria Libraries and ongoing professional training. Since 2009, publications produced in the context of the Austria Libraries network have been published in the series on “Transkulturelle Forschungen an den Österreich-Bibliotheken im Ausland” (trans-cultural research at Austria Libraries abroad). In Sep- tember, their third cross-border conference trip led heads, staff and scientific advisors from Austria Libraries abroad to Timişoara, Belgrade and Novi Sad. In the context of this trip, symposia on “Pluralität als kulturelle Lebensform – Österreich und die Nationalkulturen Südosteuropa“ (plurality as a cultural way of life – Austria and the national cultures of South-East Europe) were held and provided participants with the opportunity to discuss the current role of Austria Libraries as a communication hub in these pluri-cultural regions. Ceremonies, symposia, lecture series, exhibitions and concerts that were attended by political and scientific representatives from the relevant host country were organised in celebration of the 20th anniversary of the Austria Libraries in Bucharest, Liberec, Olomouc, Poznań, Znojmo, Szombathely and Timişoara. The Austria Libraries in Kharkiv (Ukraine) and Bitola (Mace- donia) were re-opened. On the occasion of the second anniversary of its foundation in October, the Austria Library in Yerevan was re-named “Öster- reich-Bibliothek Franz Werfel”. The following books were published in the series of volumes on “Forschun- gen zur Geschichte des österreichischen Auswärtigen Dienstes” (Research on the history of the Austrian foreign service) edited by Rudolf Agstner: “Austria (-Hungary) and its consulates in the United States of America since 1820” (volume 4); “Vom k.u.k. österreichisch-ungarischen Honorarkonsulat in Saigon zum österreichischen Honorarkonsulat in Ho Chi Minh Stadt 1869– 2009” (volume 5); “Von Kaisern, Konsuln und Kaufleuten – volume 2 – Die k.(u.)k. Konsulate in Arabien, Lateinamerika, Lettland, London und Serbien” (volume 7); and published as volume 6 by Andrea Heuberger: “Rot-Weiß- Rot in der Regenbogennation – Geschichte und Geschichten österreichischer Auswanderer in Südafrika”. 262 Science, Education and Language 15.4. Science, Education and Language 15.4.1. austrian Professorships and Centres of Austrian Studies Abroad Established at universities mainly in Europe, the USA and Israel, these facilities aim to initiate, deepen and coordinate the study of Austria- and Europe-specific topics in the respective host country’s academic life and to stimulate academic research in the respective subject area as well as encourage publication of the relevant findings. Regular collaboration with embassies, consulates general and Cultural Fora contributes substantially towards enabling chairs and centres for Austrian studies to fulfil their tasks. Through networking with the relevant local and Austrian institutions, the Austrian chairs also strengthen Austria’s involvement in the international scientific, academic and cultural network.

15.4.2. Scholarships and Mobility Programmes in the University Field The OeAD-GmbH provides services to scholarship and grant holders and administers the various mobility programmes such as Erasmus, bilateral grant programmes, Austrian Development Cooperation programmes and scientific and technical cooperation programmes. In implementing these tasks the OeAD-GmbH acts as partner of the FMEIA, which is in turn responsible for relevant coordination and information sharing activities involving Aus- trian representations abroad and foreign representations in Austria.

15.4.3. language The Österreich Institut G.m.b.H. (Austria Institute Ltd.) organises German language courses, supports and promotes German language instruction abroad, and cooperates with national and international organisations. It was founded in 1997 to further develop German courses on an independent basis. These courses, which are an important element of Austria’s international cultural policy, had up to that time been offered at the Austrian Cultural Institutes. Based in Vienna, the organisation maintains institutes in Bel- grade, Bratislava, Brno, Budapest, Krakow, Ljubljana, Rome, Warsaw and Wroclaw. All of the Österreich Institut facilities see themselves as centres for the promotion of the study and cultivation of the German language as it is written and spoken in Austria. The Austrian German Language Diploma (Österreichisches Sprachdiplom Deutsch, ÖSD) is an examination system for German as a foreign and second language and is directed at adolescent and adult German students both in Austria and abroad. The examination system is based on international framework guidelines and offers candidates the 263 International Cultural Policy opportunity to have their German language skills certified at several different levels. Lecturers and language assistants are recruited and assigned to their posts by the OeAD-GmbH. The chair of the Department of German as a Foreign Language at the University of Vienna selects and advises German as a Foreign Language (GFL) trainee teachers, while the OeAD is responsible for the programme’s administration. There are currently lectureships in some 120 locations, language assistant posts in nine countries and GFL teaching placements in some 45 countries. Cultural events are frequently organised in cooperation with Austrian representations abroad.

15.5. Multilateral Scientific and Technical Cooperation Austria has continued to place a special focus on multilateral scientific and technical cooperation both inside and outside of Europe in order to strengthen its position as a location for high-tech industry and research. Austria thus participates in numerous programmes including the European Cooperation in the Field of Scientific and Technical Research (COST) in Brussels, the European Organisation for Nuclear Research (CERN) in Geneva, the Euro- pean Space Agency (ESA) in Paris and the European Organisation for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT) in Darmstadt. Austria is represented in these organisations by the FMEIA, the Federal Ministry for Transport, Innovation and Technology (BMVIT) and the Federal Ministry of Science and Research (BMWF). In addition, Austria’s foreign policy interests are also represented through its involvement in the European Molecu- lar Biology Conference (EMBC) in Heidelberg, the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA) in Laxenburg, the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) in Reading (United Kingdom) as well as the European Space Policy Institute (ESPI) in Vienna. In this context, efforts aimed at fostering the coordination of activities launched by international scientific institutions headquartered in Austria play a particularly important role. Since 1971, Austria has been a member of COST whose 35 member countries (and Israel as a cooperating state) are engaged in scientific and technical cooperation in the field of pre-competitive research with a special focus being placed on natural sciences such as chemistry, nano-sciences and interdisciplinary research. Austria attaches particular importance to promoting third-country participation. Funding is also provided for a dedicated COST Fund, established to enable the participation of scientists and researchers from the Western Balkan countries. Aus- tria also contributes to the European Space Agency (ESA), whose convention enables selective participation in ESA programmes with a guaranteed return on investment. Participation in these ESA programmes provides an excellent launching pad for industrial production geared towards commercial applications. Through the ESA, Austria is thus involved in the construction of the European satellite navigation and positioning system GALILEO and in 264 International Cultural Activities in the Context of the European Union the future European satellite-based Global Monitoring for Environment and Security (GMES) system.

15.6. International Cultural Activities in the Context of the European Union According to Article 167 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU), competence for cultural policy lies exclusively with the Member States. The EU is only assigned a supportive and coordinating role in order to promote cooperation among Member States in this field. In this context, the current EU Work Plan for Culture (2011–2014) explicitly men- tions the promotion of cultural diversity, intercultural dialogue as well as culture in the Union’s external relations as priority areas. Chaired by Denmark, the informal meeting of directors-general at the EU Member States’ cultural and foreign ministries, convened annually since 2010, was held in Copenhagen from 13 to 16 June. The central topic discussed at the meeting was the role played by culture in the EU’s external relations with a special focus on the Union’s relations to China. The Euro- pean Commission also set up a special expert group on the role of culture in the EU’s external relations. The group, which is composed of representatives from the Member States’ foreign and cultural ministries, prepared a report on a common European strategy aimed at making efficient use of culture to strengthen the Union’s relations with third countries. The draft for the new EU programme “Creative Europe” aimed at promoting the cultural, film and creative sectors from 2014 to 2020 was adopted in parts by the EU Education, Youth and Culture Council. It is the first such programme that explicitly provides for the participation of both candidate countries and countries covered by the European Neighbourhood Policy. Participation is linked to the fulfilment of certain pre-requisites that are still being negotiated. In the EU context too, the FMEIA’s international cultural policy activities are also based on the current Austrian international cultural policy concept. “Austria’s contribution to the further development of European integration” is one of three explicit objectives defined in this concept. In keeping with the dual role of culture in the EU, Austria contributes with its international cultural activities to EU cultural initiatives that strengthen a common EU awareness. The Austrian representations abroad cooperate closely and on a regular basis with the other EU Member States’ representations and EU delegations. The network of European National Institutes for Culture (EUNIC) is a very concrete form of cooperation at cultural level. Founded in 2006 as an informal network it was constituted as association with relevant articles in 2011. Currently, 29 Institutes for Culture from 24 EU Member States form part of EUNIC. Worldwide, more than 80 EUNIC Clusters have formed as coopera- 265 International Cultural Policy tion networks of local EU Institutes for Culture. Nine of these Clusters are chaired by the heads of Austrian Cultural Fora and/or embassies. In 2012, EUNIC’s activities focused particularly on inter-cultural dialogue with China and the development of a regional project in the context of socio-political developments in the non-European Mediterranean region. Of the 30 Austrian Cultural Fora 14 are active in the EU and the same holds true for 33 of the 61 Austria Libraries and for eight of the ten Austria Insti- tutes worldwide. Within the European Union, they work pro-actively towards promoting cultural exchange, European multi-lingualism, and especially the German language as it is spoken and written in Austria. Moreover, they foster Austrian artists’ career opportunities on the European arts and culture market which is of particular importance for the former.

15.7. Intercultural and Interreligious Dialogue The internal European and global developments of the past few years have underlined the necessity for dialogue among and with the major world religions – as first initiated by Austria some three decades ago. At the same time, it has become evident that dialogue strategies must go far beyond promoting interreligious dialogue; indeed they must encompass issues spanning the spectrum from migration to integration as well as the central political challenges of democracy, the rule of law, respect of fundamental rights and freedoms as well as promotion of societal and cultural diversity. This makes dialogue an important tool for diversity management and sustainable prevention and resolution of conflicts. Austria is thus interested in a comprehensive dialogue of cultures and religions, especially in connection with the development of Islam in Europe and a European model of life. In dialogues with predominantly Muslim societies, particularly in Asia, the Arab world and Turkey, special attention is paid to a stronger involvement of women, their participation in societal and political life as well as the inclusion of young people. In cooperation with the Turkish Directorate for Religious Affairs (Diyanet), the Turkish Islamic Union for Cultural and Social Cooperation in Austria (ATIB Union), the Austrian Integration Fund and the University of Vienna, the FMEIA organised the fourth Applied Geography and Culture Training Event for Turkish Religious Representatives. Held from 24 to 28 March, this annual training event serves to prepare those imams who will work at ATIB mosque associations for their service. The training programme consists of presentations, seminars and excursions and aims to familiarise the religious representatives with history, politics, the legal system, society and counselling institutions in Austria. This year’s agenda focused on the topics of women, family and education as well as intercultural dialogue in Austria and Europe. As in the previous year, applied geography and culture training events were also organised for voluntary women’s representatives in Austrian mosque 266 Task Force for International Cooperation on Holocaust Education associations (13 to 19 October) and dialogue officers for intercultural and interreligious cooperation (10 to 16 November). These events were organised in cooperation with the Islamic Religious Community in Austria, whose President Fuat Sanac participated together with the Secretary-General for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Johannes Kyrle, in the closing event and the diploma award ceremony on 16 November. The Islam Act came into force on 15 July 1912, which means Islam has now been legally recognised in Austria for a hundred years. In this context, several events were organised during the year, including a symposium held at the School of Law at the University of Vienna on 27 June and a ceremony held in the Vienna City Hall on 28 June. The FMEIA published the brochure “100 Years of Austrian Legislation on Islam” by Professor Richard Potz that was distributed through the global network of Austrian Cultural Fora, embassies, consulates-general and Austria Libraries where it was also used in project-related work. The 2nd Arab-European Young Leaders Forum (AEYLF II) was held in Cairo from 11 to 15 November. This event, organised by the League of Arab States (LAS) and the FMEIA, is an essential dialogue initiative launched by the FMEIA in the Arab region. The forum was attended by 25 participants, twelve women and thirteen men, eight from the Arab region (without Egypt), five from Egypt and twelve from Europe. Feedback received was extremely positive and participants especially appreciated the agenda’s focus on best practices in project management and the development of new cooperation schemes. The EEAS (European External Action Service) and the local EU Member States’ representations also showed much interest in the project. On 26 November, the International King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz Interna- tional Centre for Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue was officially opened in Vienna. The opening ceremony was attended by the UNSG and the foreign ministers of Austria, Saudi Arabia and Spain. The centre aims to provide a permanent platform for dialogue among representatives of religious communities and philosophies. It strives to develop and/or support communication, understanding and concrete cooperation between people of different cultural and religious background and affiliation by hosting and organising conferences, seminars and further training projects. The centre is committed to the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights and to the promotion and respect of fundamental rights and freedoms.

15.8. Task Force for International Cooperation on Holo caust Education, Remembrance and Research (ITF) Set up in 1998 on the initiative of Sweden, the Task Force for International Cooperation on Holocaust Education, Remembrance and Research (ITF) is an international institution whose Permanent Secretariat is based in Berlin. 267 International Cultural Policy

It was established with the purpose of becoming an international network promoting Holocaust education, remembrance and research at national and international level. In accomplishing its tasks it is able to draw on the support of renowned international scientific experts. By establishing its committee on countering anti-Semitism and Holocaust denial and by placing an additional focus on Roma inclusion, the ITF has responded to current developments. Influential diplomacy used by both the Chair and the ITF Member States – which have increased to 31 following the admission of Slovenia, Ireland and Serbia – is playing an increasingly important role in countering revisionism. Admitted in 2001, Austria held the ITF Chair in the commemorative year of 2008 and has since been one of the central players within the Task Force. The reform initiatives launched by the Austrian Chair were continued also by the Belgian Chair in 2012. Most noteworthy are, besides the progress made in the Member States’ reporting system and the inter-disciplinary multi-annual programme, the agreement reached at the autumn plenary meeting in Liège (10 to 13 December) on the Permanent Secretariat’s definitive legal status. Furthermore, the multi-annual discussion over a new name was successfully completed by amending a name-change adopted during the Dutch Chair in 2011. From now on the ITF will be known as the “International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance”. The Austrian delegation played a key role in reaching this compromise. The Austrian delegation is headed by the FMEIA and the National Fund of the Republic of Austria. Austrian government representatives as well as experts from the Austrian Academy of Sciences, the National Fund of the Republic of Austria, the Documentation Centre of Austrian Resistance as well as the organisation “_erinnern.at_” participate in the permanent working groups. Projects launched by Austria in the fields of Holocaust education, awareness-raising and research are highly regarded within the ITF.

15.9. Prague Holocaust Restitution Process The European Shoah Legacy Institute (ESLI) was set up in 2009 as a follow-up to the Prague Holocaust Era Assets Conference (HEAC). The ESLI, on whose Advisory Council Austria is represented, is to serve as an international research institution and voluntary forum for states, organisations representing Holocaust survivors and NGOs that strives to promote various aspects related to the coming to terms with the Nazi past, especially the restitution of Jewish property and provision of support to Holocaust survivors. The Immovable Property Review Conference (IPRC) convened in Prague from 26 to 28 November as a conference implementing the Terezin Declara- tion that had been adopted by the HEAC and the 2010 international guidelines on the restitution and/or compensation for property confiscated or wrongfully seized by the Nazi regime. Austria had contributed actively to the 268 Future Fund of the Republic of Austria preparations for the IPRC which dealt with the developments that had taken place since 2009 in the fields of restitution of property and the handling of heirless and/or unclaimed property and possible solutions. In keeping with its mandate, ESLI announced its intention to organise a conference on social welfare in Brussels in June 2013, which will focus on ways to improve social welfare measures for Holocaust survivors and victims of the Nazi regime and should also encourage resolution of the issue of heirless property

15.10. Future Fund of the Republic of Austria The Future Fund of the Republic of Austria was set up at the end of 2005 as a fund assuming the residual funds of the Fund for Reconciliation, Peace and Cooperation (Reconciliation Fund) that had been established in 2000 and was closed on 31 December 2005. The fund’s mandate covers the promotion of projects and academic work in the interest and in commemoration of the victims of the Nazi regime, serving as a reminder of the threat posed by totalitarian systems and dictatorships and promote the respect of human rights and mutual tolerance in these areas. The Fund was also responsible for the administration of the residual funds and the final settlement of the remaining services to be provided by the Reconciliation Fund. This scope, however, expired at the end of 2010. The FMEIA provides technical and administrative support to the Future Fund. In a large number of the international projects promoted by it, the FMEIA and its respective representations cooperate closely with the Fund. Such projects include, for example, the re-design of the exhibition at the Aus- trian memorial site in the former concentration camp Auschwitz-Birkenau, the education initiative on Holocaust and genocide prevention launched by the Salzburg Global Seminar and collaboration in the context of the Vienna Conference of the United Nations Alliance of Civilisations (UNAOC). In the reporting period cooperation also included training courses for master degree students from Israel, Palestine and Jordan that were organised by the Diplomatic Academy. The “workshop talks”, organised in cooperation with the Diplomatic Academy to present selected projects funded by the Future Fund, were continued.

269 Media und Information 16. Media und Information 16.1. Press Work Informing the public via electronic, print or other media on European issues and international policy developments as well as on crises and consular assistance for Austrians in need of assistance abroad is an essential element in the range of services provided by the FMEIA. At peak times, FMEIA staff handle more than 100 media enquiries a day. In order to provide an optimal service for journalists representing national and international media, the FMEIA not only organised press conferences led by Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Michael Spindelegger and State Secretary Reinhold Lopatka but also held a number of background information briefings on important issues. Staff also provided support and services to media representatives at international conferences and other events.

16.2. PR, New Media and Web Presence Social media are evidently set to play an increasingly important role in foreign policy. On the one hand, they may be used as a tool to present one’s own work and to communicate content quickly and on the other hand to reach out to increasingly wider groups of the population by opening up new channels for discussion and dialogue. Nowadays social media need to be actively integrated in modern and professional PR. Pro-active presence and involvement in Web 2.0 and in social media is thus a necessary continuation and logical consequence of the FMEIA’s philosophy according to which service to Aus- trian citizens is one of its central tasks (in line with its motto “Worldwide at Your Service”). While the FMEIA is already playing a pioneering role in terms of using social media within public administration, it is clear that efforts in this area will have to be stepped up even further. First steps in this direction were, for instance, the opening of a Twitter account (with more than 2,500 followers to date), the YouTube channel, and the FMEIA smartphone app. Since autumn, the FMEIA has been on Facebook to provide insights into the Ministry’s work to a broader, mainly younger, audience. The Facebook page is an ideal complement to the FMEIA’s established online presence, which is also confirmed by the interaction with this social media platform and the regular enquiries received through it.

16.3. Information on Europe: “EU Town Hall Meetings”, Europe Information Tour Based on a joint initiative by the European Commission Representation in Austria and the FMEIA, a new type of EU – citizens’ dialogue was launched 270 Information on Europe: “EU Town Hall Meetings”, Europe Information Tour on 22 June. In the context of the “EU Town Hall Meetings”, events are organised in the federal provinces at which politicians and representatives from the social partners exchange views with and answer questions posed by the interested public. This series of events was kicked off on 22 June in Mautern an der Donau, where Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Michael Spin- delegger, Commissioner Johannes Hahn, representatives from the provincial government, the municipal authorities and the social partners answered EU- related questions posed by citizens. The second EU Town Hall Meeting was held in Steyr on 21 September, and on 5 November another event convened in Graz where Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Michael Spindeleg- ger and the Vice-President of the European Commission, Viviane Reding, answered questions posed by more than 400 citizens. The EU Town Hall Meetings will be continued in 2013. In the context of the FMEIA’s “DARUM EUROPA” information offensive, State Secretary Reinhold Lopatka set out on a “Europe Information Tour” in Vienna on 21 November. On this tour, which runs until July 2013, he will visit all federal provinces, introduce himself as primary point of contact for all EU questions and engage in an open dialogue on Austria and the EU. These events are intended to provide employees with the opportunity of engaging in direct contact with the State Secretary and to ask questions about Europe and current European policy developments. Following the kick-off event, further discussions were held with employees in Neudörfl (Burgenland) on 10 December and in Frantschach (Carinthia) and Zeltweg (Styria) on 13 December. During this Europe Information Tour, 28 discussion events will be held in various companies across all Austrian provinces until July 2013. Alongside his Town Hall Meetings, Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Michael Spindelegger will also participate in “DARUM EUROPA” discussion events. On 20 November, Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Michael Spindeleg- ger delivered a European policy keynote address on the future role and functioning of the EU at “Europahaus” in Vienna. The FMEIA’s website not only provides the latest updated information on the EU but also brief videos in which Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Michael Spindelegger and State Secretary Lopatka regularly summarise the voting behaviour in and the decisions taken by the Foreign Affairs and Gen- eral Affairs Councils. The FMEIA continues to contribute pro-actively to EU information events at schools, especially in the context of the travelling exhibition “Die EU und DU – eine Erfolgsgeschichte mit Zukunft” (“the EU and YOU – a success story with a future”) that was jointly developed by the European Commis- sion Representation in Austria, the Austrian Society for European Policy and the FMEIA. This exhibition has been touring schools all across Austria since 2008 and provides pupils with the opportunity to engage in a discussion on the exhibition content and current European integration issues. In 2012, it 271 Media und Information was shown at 46 schools and reached more than 5,400 pupils. During the many visits by school classes to the FMEIA, the ministry’s staff – on pupils’ request – also give presentations on EU topics and FMEIA staff frequently participate as guest speakers at EU information events. Information on the EU was also the key topic at the Open House event hosted by the Foreign Ministry on 26 October, the Austrian National Day: original documents on Austria’s EU accession were exhibited and visitors were invited to learn more about current issues relating to European integration.

16.4. The “Municipal Councillors for European Affairs” Initiative The initiative “Europa fängt in den Gemeinden an” (”Europe starts on the local level”), which was launched at the beginning of 2010 Federal Minister Michael Spindelegger and the European Commission Representation in Aus- tria, aims to win committed citizens as “Municipal Councillors for European Affairs” in as many cities and municipalities as possible. They will then act as the local population’s central contact partners on topics related to the EU – as people usually tend to turn first to mayors and municipal councillors when they have concrete questions about the EU or wish to share their concerns. By the end of the year, 500 mayors and municipal councillors across all federal provinces were involved in this initiative in the context of which regular articles and features providing EU information are published in the municipal papers, EU events for children are held in schools and EU round tables, discussion events or special EU committees are organised in municipalities. The services offered by the FMEIA for Municipal Councillors for European Affairs include a central contact at the FMEIA which councillors can turn to for quick and unbureaucratic answers, an email information system providing concise facts on current EU issues, an electronic EU information platform enabling Municipal Councillors for European Affairs to network with one another, EU training seminars for initiative members lasting several days and information trips to Brussels. From 29 to 30 March, an EU training seminar was held in Salzburg which was attended by a large number of Municipal Councillors for European Affairs. Over the course of the two-day seminar, councillors met with experts from federal as well as provincial government, from representations in Brussels and from other institutions for an exchange of views and discussed opportunities for active local community involvement in European policy, concrete EU funding programmes for towns, cities and municipalities as well as current issues and developments in the EU. In cooperation with the Vorarlberg Association of Municipalities and the Europe Direct Office Dornbirn, an EU seminar aimed at Municipal Council- 272 Press Officers’ Meeting lors for European Affairs and other interested municipal councillors from Vorarlberg was organised on 12 November. From 30 May to 1 June, 25 Munic- ipal Councillors for European Affairs participated in what was already the third information trip to Brussels. Another such trip will be organised in 2013 and – like the multi-day seminars – will be co-funded by the European Partnership Initiative. At the second annual meeting of Municipal Councillors for European Affairs held on 17 December at Palais Niederösterreich in Vienna, the 500th member of the Municipal Councillors for European Affairs initiative was welcomed in the presence of Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Michael Spindeleg- ger, State Secretary Reinhold Lopatka, the Head of the European Commission Representation in Vienna Richard Kühnel, and the Austrian MEPs Ulrike Lunacek, Paul Rübig and Josef Weidenholzer.

16.5. Publications In line with its goal of always providing information that is as comprehensive and up to date as possible, the FMEIA issues publications on various issues. One such source of information is the annual Foreign and European Policy Report, in which Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Michael Spindeleg- ger informs the Austrian Parliament and the public about all aspects of the FMEIA’s activities and the international and European policy developments during the year under review. This report is published both in a printed as well as in an electronic version available on the FMEIA’s website in German and in English. Other publications included the revised and updated edition of “Advice for Travellers Abroad” and a folder providing key facts and figures about Austria for the year 2012.

16.6. Press Officers’ Meeting Acknowledging the important role played by the press and PR work carried out at Austrian representations abroad, the FMEIA organises annual meetings of press officers working at embassies, consulates and cultural fora. The 2012 event again offered opportunities for a mutual exchange of views, lectures were presented and a special media training seminar was held focusing on the role of social media.

273 The Austrian Foreign Service 17. the Austrian Foreign Service 17.1. Introduction 2012 marked the second phase of the FMEIA’s multi-annual austerity course, which again brought significant budget cuts. Following the first round of cuts to the Ministry’s budget in 2011, a budget that was nominally smaller than in the previous year had to suffice. Moreover, increases beyond the Ministry’s control (such as crisis management, rent increases especially in Asia and Africa) had to be absorbed by making cuts in other areas. In April 2012 a “Stability Pact” was adopted by an amendment to the Fed- eral Finance Act (Bundesfinanzgesetz, BFG), which defined further reduction targets – involving additional cuts of 13 million euros for the FMEIA. This meant that the budget had to be reopened during operation and reduced to a total of 409.4 million euros. Compared with 2011, the budget allocated to the FMEIA had thus seen cuts that amounted – in nominal terms alone – to about 18 million euros. With respect to the targets defined by the Federal Medium-Term Expenditure Framework Act (Bundesfinanzrahmengesetz), the FMEIA is half way along its cost-cutting path. While in 2010 the Ministry still had a budget of 440 million, funds were cut to 409.4 million in 2012 and according to the current budget framework the FMEIA will only have a budget of 380 million in 2014. In 2012, the reduction in expenditure was implemented by using a mix consisting of reductions in administrative expenses as well as transfer payments and contributions. The reduction in administrative costs was achieved both by a comprehensive range of measures in the general administrative field (such as the renegotia- tion of rental and service contracts, enhanced efforts aimed at “co-location” or sharing facilities with other Austrian and European partners and reductions in expenses associated with removals and relocations) as well as by individual measures – such as the closure of the embassy in Colombia or the sale of the consular building in Rio de Janeiro. In the field of transfer payments and contributions, both international contributions and funding for development cooperation were reduced based on the decisions taken by the Federal Government at a meeting held in Loipersdorf in October 2010. Successful applications from FMEIA staff for positions with international organisations, for example with the United Nations or in the European Union’s diplomatic service, led to several Austrian diplomats taking periods of leave. Therefore, new staff were hired in all career schemes in autumn and a further such hiring process is planned for spring 2013 while at the same time taking into account the strict personnel targets defined in the Stability Pact. Another administrative priority in 2012 was the implementation of the budget law reform. This meant that the ministry’s budget was given a completely 274 Working at the Foreign Ministry – Human Resources new structure, targets and indicators were introduced and each Federal Min- istry presented an opening balance sheet as of 1 January 2013. Another challenge in 2012 was to ensure the highest-possible service quality in terms of human resources and infrastructure in a year that was characterised by numerous crisis situations. After the embassies in Tokyo and Tripoli had to be temporarily relocated in 2011, the team at the Austrian embassy in Damascus had to be moved to Beirut in 2012. By steering a sustainable cost cutting course and observing strict budgetary discipline, the Ministry was able to meet all budgetary targets defined for 2012. The burden on the budget was to some extent reduced by the fact that the UN moved certain contributions for peacekeeping operations to 2013. Other factors were the revenue generated by the sale of the consulate building in Rio de Janeiro, reduced consumption of additional funds made available by the Ministry of Finance for crisis management and the implementation of the budget law reform. Looking to the future, continuing successful management of foreign policy and consular challenges while at the same time meeting increasing demand for services abroad with fewer staff will require a high level of flexibility and mobility. Despite tight budgetary resources, the FMEIA, by re-channelling funds, again strove to invest in employees in 2012. This included an expansion of the range of available training activities, with a special focus on foreign languages in 2013, and health related projects. Other relevant investments were made in further optimising working conditions abroad (such as new office premises in Pretoria, Abu Dhabi, Islamabad, Doha and Bratislava), enhancing safety and security at representations abroad, pilot projects aimed at adding flexibility to administrative processes, modernising the IT infrastructure and IT-related activities in the context of mobility and “green IT”.

17.2. Working at the Foreign Ministry – Human Resources The mobility principle applied within the FMEIA makes rotation an essential element of the job description of Ministry staff. Apart from requiring a high level of flexibility on the part of the individual employees and their families, this concept also involves substantial organisational planning. In 2012, some 250 FMEIA staff were transferred to new positions in different cities. At the end of 2012, FMEIA staff totalled 1,169 employees, 540 (46 %) of whom worked at headquarters and 629 (54 %) abroad.

275 The Austrian Foreign Service

Staffing levels at the FMEIA 2012 by career scheme and gender Career scheme Men Women Total Women in % Austria Abroad Austria Abroad

A1/v1, A/a 133 148 66 73 420 33.1 (diplomatic staff) A2/v2, B/b 46 82 66 38 232 44.8 (consular administrative staff) A3/v3, C/c 89 99 120 189 497 62.2 (technical staff); A4/A5/v4, D/d, (qualified support and office staff); A7/v5, E/e (auxiliary service staff) IT specialists 14 0 6 0 20 30.0 Subtotals Austria/ 282 329 258 300 1.169 47.7% Abroad Total 611 558

Employees in the diplomatic missions abroad were supported by 692 local employees (as of 31 Dec. 2012) who are employed under the labour law provisions of the respective host country. As far as employees with disabilities are concerned, the FMEIA exceeded the compulsory total of 48 by one person (as of 31 Dec. 2012). In the diplomatic service, the share of female staff reached 33.1 per cent in 2012.

Share of female employees at the FMEIA in% 60 45,9 47,3 47,7 48 48,6 48,4 48,5 48,2 47,7 50 46,7 46,1 40 33,6 28,8 29,7 30,2 32,7 33,3 Total 30 24,9 26,5 26,5 33,1 33,6 20 Diplomatic 10 0 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

In recent years, the total number of staff declined and in 2012 more than 100 employees left the FMEIA either for other reasons than retirement or to take unpaid leave. Consequently, the FMEIA was below the maximum target

276 Working at the Foreign Ministry – Human Resources set by the Federal Chancellery in terms of permanent posts and/or full time equivalents (FTEs; FTEs as of 31 Dec. 2012: 1,153.85, FTE target defined by the Federal Chancellery for 2016: 1,182). Taking into account all relevant framework conditions, it was decided in 2012 to hire new staff in all career scheme groups in order to address staff shortages in Austria and abroad created by resignations and leaves of absence (for staff currently serving at the European External Actions Service or the United Nations). The FMEIA not only attaches utmost importance to comprehensive training of newly hired staff but in 2012 placed a special focus on training activities directed at the mid-career segment. Thus (future) directors of representations abroad, for instance, took part in interview training courses. Young university graduates are offered the opportunity of traineeships in Austria and at embassies abroad to gather first-hand experience and insights into the FMEIA’s scope of work. As unpaid internships in the federal administration were abolished by an amendment to the Public Service Act in 2011, the FMEIA introduced paid traineeships abroad in addition to the paid traineeships in Austria. The FMEIA offers such traineeships abroad in order to provide young university graduates, students and high school graduates with the opportunity of gaining pre-professional training experience by working at Austrian representations abroad in the context of a paid internship.

Year 2012 Career scheme Male Female Total Austria v1/v2 38 35 73 Abroad v1/v2 68 174 242 Total 106 209 315 Since autumn 2009, the FMEIA has also trained trainees to become “administrative assistants”. As of the end of 2012, six trainees were undergoing this form of training. In 2012, the average retirement age of public officials at the FMEIA was 61.15 years (women: 60.13 years, men: 61.83 years). As can be seen in the table below, over the last ten years the average retirement age has always exceeded 60 years.

Retirement age 65 60 Age in years 55 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

277 The Austrian Foreign Service 17.2.1. diplomatic Passports The year 2012 brought a far-reaching revision and reorganisation in the field of diplomatic passports. As the legal provisions in Art. 6 Passport Act 1992 had met with public criticism, the Passport Act was revised and the amended act entered into force on 25 July 2012 (Federal Law Gazette I No. 60/2012). Compared with the previous legal situation, this amendment led to a substantial reduction in the number of persons entitled to hold a diplomatic passport. In the course of this amendment, the FMEIA requested all individuals who held a diplomatic passport but were no longer permitted to do so under the amended act to return their diplomatic passports. Consequently, 970 diplomatic passports were invalidated. As a result of this new law, the number of diplomatic passports issued was reduced by one third – from approx. 3,050 to 2,080.

17.3. The Foreign Ministry’s Budget

Head office ADA and Foreign 16.3 % Disaster Relief Fund 20.0 %

Contributions to international organisations 21.7 %

International Austrian representations Conferences abroad 0.4 % 40.0 %

Cultural projects 1.6 %

The budget for the FMEIA in 2012 was initially set at 422.815 million euros. The adoption of the Federal Medium-Term Expenditure Framework Act Amendment of 12 April led to the introduction of the Stability Package and reduced the budget to 409.4 million euros – which translated into a consolidation of approx. 13.4 million euros for the FMEIA. 278 The Foreign Ministry’s Budget

These 409.4 million euros were broken down into 66.740 million euros for head office expenses, 163.725 million euros for Austrian representations abroad, 6.438 million euros for cultural projects, 1.593 million euros for international conferences, 88.840 million euros for contributions to international organisations and 82.025 million euros for the Austrian Development Agency GmbH and the Foreign Disaster Relief Fund.

Budget 2003–2012 in million euros Share of FMEIA budget in federal Year FMEIA budget budget in % 2003 307.000 0.50% 2004 340.928 0.54% 2005 380.000 0.59% 2006 388.000 0.59% 2007 388.109 0.56% 2008 388.087 0.56% 2009 435.675 0.56% 2010 440.902 0.62% 2011 427.100 0.61% 2012 409.361 0.56%

The budget law reform of 2012 brought numerous challenges. The requirement to prepare an opening balance made it necessary to re-assess the entire real estate and equipment worldwide and re-design inventory management. With a view to implementing the reform it was necessary to adapt data processing at the representations abroad to meet the federal government’s requirements and to ensure fast data processing for the electronic budget accounting system of the Austrian representation network worldwide. This required investments in hardware and software as well as in data connections. The benefit of the new accounting system is that accounting data from all Austrian representations is interlinked with the federal government’s accounting system and is available in real time in Austria and abroad. Furthermore, several training and further education events were held for FMEIA staff working on this system worldwide.

279 The Austrian Foreign Service 17.4. Worldwide Infrastructure 17.4.1. real Estate Management and Construction Projects The FMEIA manages a real estate portfolio of approx. 350 premises in more than 80 countries worldwide. The premises are mainly used as office facilities for embassies, consulates-general, cultural fora, representations with international organisations and for residential purposes. These premises include historic buildings such as those in London, Paris and Rome as well as modern buildings such as those in Djakarta, Berlin and New York. Just over half of these premises are owned by the Republic of Austria, the rest is either rented or leased. A team of facility management specialists is in charge of the real estate. Their work ranges from project development to new construction, conversion and renovation activities, evaluation of structural changes in the portfolio to comprehensive real estate management. The properties are managed in the context of a Facility Management Strategy that is based on the principles of functionality, economic efficiency, security and safety. The general austerity course requires innovative, far-sighted and future-oriented approaches in strategic investment planning in order to ensure the financial viability of maintaining Austrian representations abroad also in the future. Ongoing market and location analyses determine the strategy’s focus on purchase or sale. In the reporting period the consulate-general in Rio de Janeiro, which had been closed in 2009, was sold in a best bidder process. Ownership of the Austrian embassy in Berlin passed over to the FMEIA through compensation payment to the Austrian Federal Real Estate Agency. The FMEIA increasingly seeks co-locations or shared premises – both with other Austrian institutions and other European countries – with a view to improving utilisation of the available space and to achieving synergy effects. Thus, a Latvian diplomat had an office at the Austrian embassy in Nicosia for the period of the Cyprus Presidency. An agreement was also concluded with Hungary on the shared use of consular facilities at the embassies in Riga and Luxembourg and an office of the Austrian Economic Chamber was established on the premises of the Austrian embassy in Podgorica. In the context of real estate management, ecology and sustainability are playing an increasingly important role. After the first Austrian low-energy embassy in South-East Asia was opened in Djakarta in 2011, plans were drafted for the building of a “green embassy” in Bangkok. Suitable premises have also been equipped with solar and photovoltaic systems. Apart from producing energy, these systems also ensure a crisis-proof energy supply for the embassies’ telecommunications facilities. The goal is to achieve a positive energy and CO2 balance based on ongoing modernisation of equipment and facilities and on an efficient monitoring process by using a new database covering all premises (Liegenschaftsdatenbank, LIDA). 280 Worldwide Infrastructure

Safety and security are a key priority to the FMEIA. Therefore, several security improvements ok were implemented at embassy buildings and residences in a number of locations with the aim of increasing the level of protection for staff. The FMEIA’s real estate strategy was adapted with the goal of increasing security at offices in high-risk locations. Furthermore, high-protection vehicles were also purchased for certain high-risk service locations. More- over, measures were taken to raise the safety and security levels of privately rented apartments. Mobile alarm systems were also made available to staff working in areas with high crime rates.

17.4.2. information Technology Information and communication technology (ICT) projects in 2012 included: The MOVE-IT project aims at modernising and updating electronic data processing at all missions abroad The new solutions adopted include increasing the system’s reliability and failure safety, memory expansion, a back-up concept by which data is replicated at headquarters and unified communications involving interlinking of all communication opportunities for greater convenience and improved reachability. After completion of the procurement process in 2012, rollout is scheduled for the second quarter of 2013 and project completion for 2015. In 2012, cyber security was again a priority topic: The FMEIA has close links with relevant institutions and contributes to the development of a nationwide ICT safety and security strategy. Numerous technical and organisational measures – focused in particular on prevention – were implemented in the course of the year. Voluntary registration of Austrian citizens abroad: Austrian citizens abroad and their relatives can voluntarily register with embassies by entering their data into a standardised data system. Thereby, the FMEIA can easily get in touch with Austrian citizens either by email or by post. Data may also be col- lated at headquarters and – in the event of a crisis – used and processed by crisis unit staff. Contact with individuals in a crisis situation is established either by email or by text message sent to their mobile phones. Scheduling system for visa and residence permits: An online appointment scheduling system was developed and introduced in order to improve applications handling and to enhance efficiency at the embassies while at the same time improving standards of service for applicants. Meeting the relevant requirements of high-frequency locations was a further focus of the system. Key aspects were ensuring that the system provided the highest level of flexibility, security and safety and was multilingual. The online scheduling system was made operational in May 2012 and by the end of the year 38,283 appointments had been booked by a total of 61,570 applicants and demand for the service continues to grow. 281 The Austrian Foreign Service

VIS: Since the Visa Information System came into effect and was made operational in line with the respective EU Regulation (EC, No. 767/2008) on 10 October 2011, a further eleven representations in the Middle East and the Gulf region and for the first time external service providers too (who are responsible for taking and initial registration of finger prints in the visa process) were connected to the system in 2012. Mobility: In order to enable staff to access data anytime and from any location when out of the office, since 2012 about 20 % of workstations have been equipped with a “mobile client”, i.e. a notebook with a docking station instead of a desktop PC. The office mobile devices made available to staff at the FMEIA are generally smartphones featuring email access. A common feature shared by all projects is the increasingly important role played by green IT principles, such as the use of virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI). By using VDI, the FMEIA was able to reduce both the desktops’ primary energy consumption and energy operating expenses in general.

17.4.3. information and Knowledge Management At the end of November, an inter-ministerial working group developed a “Guideline on Knowledge Management in Federal Administration”. The goal is to ensure that when staff leave the FMEIA their knowledge remains accessible to their successors. The guideline therefore recommends several methods for securing and safeguarding knowledge. A questionnaire was designed that meets specific FMEIA requirements and takes account of frequent changes of locations and workplace. To this end internal databases were continuously expanded and developed: • FIPS database (Fully integrated Personal System) shows the organisational structure and headcount level at the FMEIA and is updated on a daily basis. • ELBA (Electronic Basic Information Foreign Policy) ensures that staff are provided with up to date country information. • PEDAS (Personnel Data System) is an HR database set up to ensure efficient HR management in the FMEIA. • HAD (Handbuch für den Auswärtigen Dienst, Manual for Foreign Service). • Database containing the dates when diplomatic relations between Austria and other states were established as well as the duration and form of relations. • Access was also provided to external information databases (RDB, official directory) and foreign online, news and analysis services. The changeover from printed editions of daily newspapers to electronic versions is ongoing. 282 Austrian Representations Abroad and Honorary Consulates

In 2012, the Foreign Policy Library (Außenpolitische Bibiliothek) continued to expand and now includes some 106,256 volumes. Cooperation with the Diplomatic Academy was intensified and new volumes were added with a special focus on meeting the requirements for a particular year. The cultural fora, which are serviced by the Foreign Policy Library, have increased their stocks and entered their inventory in the general catalogue of scientific libraries in the German-speaking territories (ALEPH). The entry of magazine articles that are only available at the Foreign Policy Library into ALEPH was continued. In the field of archiving, special attention was placed on the examination of electronic files. In 1995, the FMEIA was the first ministry to introduce electronic files, which means files from the first years need to be examined and analysed in order to prepare the relevant files for hand-over to the Austrian State Archives.

17.5. Austrian Representations Abroad and Honorary Consulates

Diplomatic and other missions of the FMEIA As of 31 Dec. 2012 Bilateral Embassies 80 Permanent Representations at international organisations 5 Consulates-General 10 Independent Cultural Fora 6 Other Representations 1 Total 102

Against the background of the budget and austerity measures adopted by the Federal Government, the network of Austrian representations abroad was reduced following in-depth evaluation and based on objective criteria (including the number of consular services provided to Austrians abroad, political visits, trade volume and investments). In 2011, the diplomatic missions in Muscat (July 2011), Harare (December 2011) and Zurich (September 2011) were closed. At the same time a joint office was set up in Doha (Qatar) under a pilot project with the Austrian Economic Chamber in 2011. The representation in Bogotá was closed in September 2012. In addition to the representations that fall directly under the FMEIA’s responsibility, Austria’s international presence also includes the Austrian Development Agency (ADA) and the services it provides in the field of development cooperation. In 2012, the ADA maintained nine coordination offices abroad and one implementation office forEU funded projects in Belgrade. There are also further organisations including the Austria 283 The Austrian Foreign Service

Institutes (set up by the Österreich Institut G.m.b.H.) which have offered German language courses at nine different locations abroad since 1997 as well as specific other representations abroad (like the Austrian Mission to the OECD in Paris) that operate independently of the FMEIA. The Austrian Foreign Service also receives valuable support from 300 Honorary Consuls around the world. Honorary Consuls, who are eminent figures in their respective countries with close ties to Austria, workfor Austria on an honorary basis and provide the necessary infrastructure to offer consular services. Thanks to their commitment and dedication, they extend the network of Austria’s international consular presence and contribute to the promotion of economic and cultural relations between Austria and the respective host country.

284 Austrian Representations Abroad and Honorary Consulates

285 The Austrian Foreign Service

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7 o u . 2 2 2 4 7 7 1 9 7 1 1 3 3 3 5 I o ...... I I I I I I A I I I I t C I I I I I 287 The Austrian Foreign Service 17.7. Excursus: The Diplomatic Academy of Vienna Established in 1754 during the reign of Empress Maria Theresia as the Ori- ental Academy, the Diplomatic Academy of Vienna (DA) is one of the oldest schools of its kind. After having been closed during the 2nd World War, it was re-established in 1964 under its current name as a postgraduate training institution. In 1996, having until then been run and funded by the Austrian federal administration, it was granted the status of an independent public training institution. The following postgraduate academic programmes were offered in 2012: Programme Number of No. of Participants Austrians 48th Diploma programme 28 (graduates) 13 49th Diploma programme 23 12 15th Master of Advanced Interna- 44 (graduates) 15 tional Studies (MAIS) programme; joint degree of the DA and the Uni- versity of Vienna 16th MAIS programme 63 17 17th MAIS programme 64 15 4th Master of Science in Environ- 14 (graduates) 9 mental Technology and International Affairs (ETIA) programme; conducted in cooperation with the Vienna Uni- versity of Technology 5. ETIA programme 23 8 6. ETIA programme 23 10

In the academic year 2012/13, a total of 173 students from 50 countries stud- ied at the DA. In the context of diplomatic training and further training programmes (Executive Training Programmes), the DA offered special courses tailored to the needs of diplomats and other civil service officials from the following countries or groups of countries: South East Europe, Danube region, Black Sea region, Kazakhstan, the Caribbean, Libya and the Middle East. The DA also conducted training modules for diplomats and administrative officers in Serbia and other seminars including for the OSCE, the European Patent Office and the Regional School of Public Administration of Montenegro. A negotiation skills training seminar was also offered for professionals.

288 Excursus: The Diplomatic Academy of Vienna

The Summer Course in German Language and Austrian Studies was attended by 69 participants from 32 countries worldwide. Summer Schools were also organised for the European Studies Institute of MGIMO University (Moscow) and the Free University of Brussels. The DA is also a very popular venue for conferences. In 2012, it hosted some 100 public events including lectures and panel discussions involving the President of Bolivia, ministers inter alia from Austria, Andorra, Belgium, Kosovo and the autonomous region of Iraqi Kurdistan, numerous ambassadors, EU representatives, the Secretary General of the OSCE, the Lord Chan- cellor and Secretary of State for Justice of the UK, and the High Representa- tive for Bosnia and Herzegovina. The conferences held dealt inter alia with the topics of “A changing European Union in a changing world”, “Auf den Spuren Wallenbergs” (Traces of Wallenberg) and the fight against human trafficking. The conference programme also included events organised in connection with the anniversaries of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Austria and the Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Georgia and Vietnam. The annual Milton Wolf Seminar on Media and Diplomacy dealt with “Transi- tions Transformed: Ideas of Information and Democracy Post-2011”. Four other events were organised in the context of the series of “workshop talks” with the Future Fund of the Republic of Austria. The 40th meeting of the International Forum on Diplomatic Training (meeting of Deans and Directors of Diplomatic Academies and Institutes of Interna- tional Relations chaired by the DA and Georgetown University, Washington D.C.) was held in September, hosted by the Azerbaijan Diplomatic Academy in Baku (Azerbaijan), bringing together some 100 participants from almost 60 countries. Apart from its Yearbook of the Diplomatic Academy of Vienna, the DA also published two Favorita Papers on the topics of “Nachhaltigkeit fassbar machen: Entropiezunahme als Maß für Nachhaltigkeit” (making sustainability tangible: the increase in entropy as a yardstick for sustainability) and “The European Union – A Major International Player? The Common Security and Defence Policy under the Lisbon Treaty”.

289 Selected Documents 18. Selected Documents Note: Check against delivery. Selected Documents

18.1. “Austrian Foreign Policy Today – Challenges at European and International Level”. Address by Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Dr. Michael Spindelegger to the Foreign Policy and United Nations Association of Austria, Vienna, Parliament, 26 November 2012 Mr President, My dear predecessors, dear Wolfgang, Ladies and Gentlemen, A year ago, almost to the day, I also gave a keynote speech on Austrian international and European policy here in Parliament at the invitation of the For- eign Policy and United Nations Association of Austria. Just one week ago, I outlined my European policy principles. Today, I would like to take the opportunity to talk about some of the most pressing foreign policy challenges. 1. The “Arab Spring” and the Middle East 2. Disarmament 3. Dialogue and human rights 4. South East Europe and the Black Sea region Many of the issues and questions we focused on over the past year remain as topical as ever – and in many respects, sadly so.

1. The “Arab Spring” and the Middle East At international level, again events in the Middle East keep us in suspense. Every day there are shocking images of terror – from Syria, Gaza or Israel. These images act as a powerful reminder to us Europeans, who have enjoyed decades of peace, just how fragile stability and security can be. However, they also show us very clearly that foreign policy is not some high-faluting concept reserved for experts – and that it is by no means a marginal subject. Today, no less so than 50 years ago, should living in peace, security and prosperity be taken for granted. It is in fact something to be worked for on a daily basis – here in Austria just as much as in our immediate neighbourhood and further afield. Foreign policy thus stands for security policy in its broadest sense. 290 Selected Documents

Our efforts in the multilateral field aimed at promoting human rights and disarmament for instance – just as our commitment in the Balkans and in the Middle East – are an investment in our own security, in our own prosperity. Such commitment is just as essential as the work we are engaged in within the EU. It is particularly as a smaller country with an export-based economy that Austria must be involved and establish networks at international level. We cannot and must not be indifferent to events in other countries, be they nearer to home or further afield.

Ladies and Gentlemen, Not even two years ago, many believed that in the Arab world there was no place for freedom and democracy. Yet, starting with Tunisia at the end of 2010/beginning of 2011, a number of Arab countries set out to prove the opposite was true. Nothing symbolises this Arab awakening and the hopes of the people better than the term “Arab Spring”. However, it still remains to be seen if this spring will be followed by a lasting summer. As yet, no one can say if the high expectations will in fact be fulfilled – and if the last of the regional despots, as in Syria, will soon be a thing of the past, paving the way for the establishment of sustainable democratic and tolerant systems. Just a few days ago, I attended the second Ministerial Meeting between the EU and the League of Arab States in Cairo. The conversations and encounters I had there gave me some further insights into the challenges facing the new governments in the Arab Spring countries. And these challenges are huge indeed. It is about setting the course in the fields of politics, democracy and human rights – but it is also about making progress towards developing economic policy framework conditions. We would be making a fatal mistake in thinking we can afford to sit back and just lecture people on what to do. We must take an active role in view of these revolutionary changes happening on our doorstep. We must lend our support to offer people clear prospects for the future. This is the only way we can make radical alternatives less attractive and deprive them of their feeding ground. The radical change and upheaval in the Arab region make it all too clear – Europe is no isolated island. Revolutions and instabilities in our indirect vicinity have direct consequences for us too. That means we have to get involved, we have to contribute towards securing stability in the region – both at bilateral level and as part of the EU.

Ladies and Gentlemen, In Syria, there is a tragedy unfolding before our very eyes. Civil war, over 40,000 fatalities, 400,000 refugees in neighbouring states and there is still no sign of the fighting coming to an end. Quite the opposite in fact – the fighting is becoming increasingly brutal. Once again, it is civilians who suffer the most. 291 Selected Documents

We are not indifferent to the plight of the people in Syria. That’s why we have considerably increased our humanitarian aid, bilaterally and as part of the EU. But at the end of the day it is still just a drop in the ocean. It is and shall remain our aim that the fighting is stopped and that President Assad is removed from power. Particularly in view of the human tragedy unfolding in Syria, the continuing blockade of the UN Security Council by Russia and China is incomprehensible. Russia and China should finally live up to their responsibility in the Security Council and enable the international community to join ranks in striving to work towards a peaceful solution for Syria. At the same time, preparations need to be made for the day when Assad is no longer in power. The formation of a new, broad-based opposition coalition is an encouraging sign. We hope that what will emerge is a credible, democratic alternative to the current regime, reflecting the interests of all groups and offering all the people in Syria a joint vision of the future for the time after Assad’s fall from power. Because we need to be aware of the fact that opposition to Assad will only be successful if it involves all social forces in Syria – and if all groups of society can identify with it. In concrete terms, this means that Kurds, Christians and Alawites need to feel their interests are represented. I also expect the Syrian opposition to ensure that it has credibly put the respect for universal fundamental rights, the rule of law and the protection of minorities at the very top of its agenda. Only then will it be possible to maintain a pluralist system in Syria so that one minority is not played off against the other. In view of this, allow me to make another thing quite clear – Austria will continue in its commitment to ensure that all those forces that are guilty of war crimes or of crimes against humanity in Syria will be brought to justice and shall be answerable to the International Criminal Court. And this of course applies equally – regardless of the side crimes have been committed on!

Ladies and Gentlemen, Recently, we have again been cruelly reminded of the unresolved conflict between Israel and Palestine. The missile attacks on Israel as well as the bombardment of Gaza bore sad testimony to the fact that hardly any progress has been made in resolving this conflict in the 20 years since ratification of the Oslo Agreements. The stalemate in the Middle East Peace Process has bitter consequences. In view of the continuing Israeli settlement building some are already questioning if the two-state solution still has any possibility of succeeding – or if it would not be more honest to admit to the failure of the Middle East Peace Process. But we must not let that happen! I fully expect the re-elected US administration, in conjunction with the EU, to undertake renewed efforts towards 292 Selected Documents overcoming this stalemate in the Middle East and to open up new prospects for a diplomatic solution. In three days’ time, the UN General Assembly will vote on the recognition of the status of Palestine as a non-Member State. I see this as an act of desperation on the part of the Palestinian Authority, which is no longer able to offer its people any prospects for the future. Much has already been said about it and there is little doubt as to what the result of the vote will be. What remains to be seen is, if this vote will be used as grounds to bury the Middle East peace process – or rather act as an incentive for a new beginning. When President Abbas says that there would be no remaining prerequisites for starting negotiations after the resolution has been adopted – not even a settlement freeze – he should be taken at his word. But Israel too needs to prove its genuine will to engage in serious peace negotiations. Holding negotiations just for the sake of holding negotiations is no use to anyone. All those involved are aware of what the solution must be. Now, finally, is the time for mustering the political will to make it happen. The latest horrific images from Gaza and Israel should act as a wake-up call for us all. Violence is not the solution to the problems in the Middle East. Any attempt to fight violence with violence is destined to fail. What I would wish is that both sides see the fundamental changes currently underway in the region as an opportunity to seek and agree on new approaches towards finally resolving the conflict that has been simmering for such a long time now. The fact of the matter is that both sides, Israelis and Palestinians, bear responsibility for securing a peaceful future for generations to come. Of course, the international community cannot impose peace on the warring parties. But what it can do is to put pressure on both parties to commit themselves honestly and in a spirit of good will to making a new attempt. I know the EU is ready to support that. I hope that the USA too will bring its political weight behind such efforts in order to reverse the negative spiral of events. There is no question that Israel has the right to live in peace and security. This concerns the daily threat of missile attacks just as much as the danger imposed by the Iranian nuclear weapons programme. Here, the EU, represented by Catherine Ashton, within the E3+3 continues to be the driving force behind the mediation efforts. With the EU sanctions we have provided her with a form of leverage that is already having an impact. We must maintain this pressure in order to make Iran to see sense. If Iran really has no nuclear weapons programme or any intention of developing such a programme then the country can surely have no problem with the relevant restrictions and controls imposed on its civilian programme. Iran finally needs to put its 293 Selected Documents cards on the table. It is high time to make use of the window of opportunity that has opened up following US President Obama’s re-election.

2. Disarmament Ladies and Gentlemen, There are many who still seem to hold the erroneous view that more weapons mean increased safety. This is precisely why the international community’s efforts towards securing a zone that is free of nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction in the Middle East are failing to make headway. What is called for here is courage and political foresight. I therefore suggest striking out on a completely new and innovative path – why not establish a collective security system, a kind of OSCE for the Middle East? A multilateral structure of this kind would indeed bring the most sustainable form of security for Israel and the entire region. What succeeded in being achieved between the formerly hostile blocks of the Cold War days must be possible to achieve in the Middle East as well. This system could build on the Arab peace plan. In return for a peace agreement between Israel and the Palestin- ians the Arab states would hold out the prospect of complete normalisation of relations with Israel. With regard to collective security and disarmament, however, we here in Europe also need to make progress and lead by example. After all, we too continue to live with this sword of Damocles, the ongoing threat of nuclear weapons. We have a tendency to ignore it, but the fact is that such weapons are actually only a short distance away – in neighbouring Germany for example. Just because Austria is a neutral country doesn’t make us immune to the possible consequences. Have we simply come to accept the existence of nuclear weapons and the threat they pose? Are such weapons our inevitable fate? I say, no – absolutely not! All nuclear weapon states have declared it their aim to work towards a world free of nuclear weapons – in theory at least. So, let’s take them at their word. Let’s start by getting rid of nuclear weapons in Europe. This would be a huge confidence-building measure on our continent. The days of the Cold War are long gone – a fact that should finally be reflected in military doctrines too. Whether we’re talking about NATO, neutrality or the Collective Security Treaty – if the people in Europe were to be asked, I have no doubt at all that they would support this idea. But nobody asks them. Instead, we continue to adhere to the dogma of nuclear deterrence – which begs the question of: against whom? Is Europe – or a world – without nuclear weapons pure utopia? By no means! We simply have to want it. And we need to act accordingly. 294 Selected Documents

Back when Austria, together with like-minded countries, promoted a ban on inhuman weapons systems such as anti-personnel mines or later on cluster munitions we were initially met with a degree of ridicule. And today? Today over 80 % of countries worldwide have ratified the Anti- Personnel Mine Ban Convention and almost half of all countries worldwide have also joined the more recent Convention on Cluster Munitions, which is much harder to implement due to the requirement for destroying existing stocks. And the tendency is positive. Recently, we were able to achieve another breakthrough in this context – a resolution, we jointly initiated together with Mexico and Norway, on adding new momentum to the multilateral nuclear disarmament negotiations was adopted by the UN General Assembly. With a view to serious nuclear disarmament negotiations at global level, we thus expect to be able to set the wheels in motion from 2013 onwards. We also strive to foster a similar dynamic development with respect to the abolition of other nuclear weapons and devices. Over the years Austria, with a mix of persistence and credibility, has gained a strong reputation in the fields of multilateral disarmament and non-proliferation of weapons. And I can promise you that Austria will continue to work with persistence and consistency in this area.

3. Dialogue and Human Rights Ladies and Gentlemen, We are proud that today Austria is the official seat of and home to many international organisations, first and foremost of course the UN. This evening there will be a ceremony at the Hofburg Palace in Vienna to mark the official opening of another organisation – the King Abdullah Inter- national Centre for Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue. This dialogue centre will serve as a platform facilitating communication and cooperation among representatives from religion, civil society, universities, governmental and non-governmental institutions as well as experts from a range of fields. This project, which has my fullest support, has far-reaching implications. Indeed, an institutionalised dialogue of world religions can make an important contribution to the sustainable solution of conflicts. It is no coincidence that this centre has been established here in Vienna, in Austria – and I believe that it is most ideally located here. The dialogue centre is the logical extension of the many initiatives in the area of intercultural and interreligious dialogue, building on the groundwork laid by Cardinal König and Alois Mock. They aim to foster mutual understanding and respect for one another. They are the basis for all successful and peaceful relations on our planet. This is a tradition we consistently uphold, 295 Selected Documents for instance by hosting of the UN Alliance of Civilisations Global Forum at the end of February 2013 in Vienna. This spirit is also reflected in our worldwide efforts to promote human rights. The democratic, and as such the sustainable, development of mankind is not possible without the protection and implementation of human rights, without respect for the dignity of all human beings. We are also currently working actively in this regard within the UN Human Rights Council. The Council plays a much bigger and more pivotal role than one may think. This was very clearly illustrated with respect to Libya and Syria, for example – in both cases the Council was quick to adopt a clear position and establish commissions of inquiry to investigate human rights violations and make concrete suggestions as to how they may be properly addressed. We want to use our Council membership over the next two years, until the end of 2014, to make concrete progress in several key areas. These include the protection of religious minorities, freedom of religion, the promotion of the freedom of the media and the protection of journalists, the promotion of the rights of children and their protection from violence and exploitation. In particular the protection from religious intolerance and violence against religious minorities – not least against Christians – are matters that are a special concern of mine and which I address very openly on my trips abroad. I have also put freedom of religion on the EU agenda and ensured that an action plan on freedom of belief was adopted by the EU as part of its Human Rights Package. The issue of freedom of religion or belief has thus become accepted as an integral element of EU human rights policy.

Ladies and Gentlemen, Austria has traditionally been a country that thinks and acts in a strongly multilateral context. Particularly in this respect, we are not afraid to fight outside our weight class so to speak and assume an active role in shaping policies by being represented in key positions within the UN system. After our membership of the UN Security Council we are now on the Human Rights Council until 2014, and until 2015 on the UNESCO Executive Board. Austria will also chair the Council of Europe from November 2013 to May 2014. Today, Austrian foreign policy also means having a say in and assuming shared responsibility for European foreign policy. The awarding of the Nobel Peace Prize to the European Union was first and foremost a recognition of the historical role the European Union plays in ensuring peace, freedom and prosperity in Europe. Yet I also regard it as recognition of the key role Europe plays for the rest of humanity. The EU has, after all, developed into an exporter of stability and peace with effects reaching far beyond its borders. 296 Selected Documents

So this award should act as an incentive, encouraging us to think even further out of the box. Burying our heads in the sand or simply going along with the policies of others will not put us in a position to ensure our own security in a globalized world. Austria thus has a vested interest in playing an active role in European crisis management and is strongly committed to activities in the Balkans and in the Middle East. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the almost 1,500 Austrian soldiers, police officers and civil officers – men and women – who are currently working in the name of securing peace, often under extremely difficult circumstances, all over the world. Even in the face of necessary budgetary restrictions, we must not curb our relevant efforts. We will, particularly in our neighbourhood, remain committed as long as necessary, be it in the Western Balkans, in the Middle East, in the Caucasus or even in Africa. Austria will continue to make its contribution – in the interests of the Austrian citizens.

4. South East Europe and the Black Sea Region Ladies and Gentlemen, Our active involvement in the Western Balkan region is and remains a core element of Austrian foreign policy. Approximation to the EU has proved itself – as illustrated by Croatia and Montenegro – as the most important instrument in our stability-oriented policies and activities. For us, EU membership of the entire region is thus never mere lip service. We will continue using all available means to support the region as its friend and advocate. In Brussels, we have just started to discuss the progress reports prepared by the European Commission. There are some challenging decisions on the EU’s agenda right now. Austria will enter these talks with very clear positions and goals and press strongly for positive decisions. This week, I will once again travel to Tirana to participate in the celebrations for the 100th anniversary of the Albanian state. The country has made impressive progress over the last few years. However, plenty remains to be done, in particular with regard to the fight against corruption and the reform of the judiciary. It would be an important signal if this country that had been seg- regated from Europe for such a long time were to receive candidate status in recognition of its enormous reform efforts. We will thus support the granting of candidate status to Albania and hope that, together with more sceptical EU partner states, we will find a solution that takes existing concerns into account, while at the same time providing incentives for continued reform efforts in Albania. For the fourth time now, the Commission has recommended to initiate accession negotiations with Macedonia. Every time, the decision was blocked due to the 20-year-old dispute over the name of the country. I cannot believe that 297 Selected Documents

Europe is not capable of finding a compromise that would be acceptable to both sides! The EU integration process must not be hindered by bilateral or regional differences. For this reason, I fully second the Commission’s recommendation to start accession negotiations under the provisional name of “FYROM” and to strive for a lasting resolution to the name issue at an early stage of the accession negotiations. At the end of this week, I will also visit Serbia. Both Belgrade and Pris- tina must be made aware of the fact that their approximation to the EU will not advance a single step without a credible normalisation of the relations between Kosovo and Serbia. I am confident that the dialogue led by Cathy Ashton is the right approach. For Serbia it could pave the way towards the opening of EU accession negotiations. This is another goal that we fully support. Let me also say a few open words on Bosnia and Herzegovina. During my last visit in May, I once again felt the desire and the willingness, especially on the part of the young people in the region, to be part of a joint Europe. Unfortunately, developments in recent months have been disappointing. My wish would be for those who hold political responsibility to commit themselves as fully to the European future of the country as they do to the fight for power and personal influence. The country belongs in the EU. The road there may be stony, but it is not impassable – a fact, the people in Bosnia and Herzegovina are aware of. We are now waiting for the political class to also realize that and act accordingly. Our initiatives in the Danube and the Black Sea regions constitute the logical continuation of our efforts in the Balkans. The EU Strategy for the Danube Region, which we initiated, is currently being implemented by 14 states, including non-EU countries. In Austria alone, no less than 275 projects are either in the pipeline or have already been approved or implemented. For us, the added value of the strategy is indisputable: the increased interlinking and integration of Austria within a growth region and the increased positioning of Austria as a player in South East Europe. At the Foreign Ministers meeting in St. Pölten on 22 October we therefore set ourselves a very clear goal: We want the Strategy for the Danube Region to be implemented as a constant policy for this region in all EU programmes to help the Danube region realise its true potential.

Ladies and Gentlemen, Austrian foreign policy has its traditional priorities and areas of interest, several of which I have addressed today. Many more, for instance our commitment to the Eastern Partnership, our long-standing relations with the Ukraine and Russia or our engagement in Sudan, were not mentioned today for time reasons. 298 Selected Documents

Ladies and Gentlemen, International politics is confronted with new, complex challenges that we must cope with on a daily basis. We don’t always have the right answers to these questions and challenges up our sleeve. Like all other areas of politics, foreign policy is the art of what is possible, and what is possible often turns out to be much less than what is desirable. This can often be disappointing. Austrian foreign and European policy puts a considerable share of its efforts and energy into pushing the boundaries of what is possible a little further every day – thus continuing to make way for a world that may be more desirable than the reality we are faced with today. As Austrians, we are positive, active and committed players in the global community – and we will continue in this role. Thank you for your attention.

18.2. “Responding to European and International Challenges: Austria’s Foreign Policy”. Speech by Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Dr. Michael Spindelegger at the JFK School of Government, Harvard University, Harvard, 24 September 2012 Mr. Executive Dean, Excellencies, Dear Students, Ladies and Gentlemen, It is a great pleasure and honour for me to speak to you today, here at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. The name of President Kennedy will forever be linked to Austrian foreign policy. It was the legendary summit in June 1961, when the newly elected John F. Kennedy met Nikita Khrushchev in Vienna. This summit reinstated Vienna as a platform for peace and dialogue, two goals Austria is pursuing ever since with diligence and passion. In the country of opportunity, you know better than anybody else that opportunity is often borne out of challenge. Already in the past Austrian foreign policy tried to live up to the challenges it was facing by turning them into opportunities. After the end of the Second World War, Austria was – like Germany – occupied by foreign forces including the Soviet Union. The price for the withdrawal of the Red Army was our declaration of neutrality in 1955. But we interpreted our neutrality not as neutralism. Directly neighbouring the former Eastern Bloc and facing the Iron Curtain we embedded ourselves 299 Selected Documents into the Western world, without severing our relations with the East. Austria recognized that the challenging place history had assigned it also bore some opportunities. Vienna became a meeting place during the Cold War culminating in becoming the third headquarter of the UN and numerous other international organizations. Austria also – unlike Switzerland – interpreted its neutrality as an active one. We became a member of the United Nations right away in 1955, participated soon thereafter in UN peacekeeping missions and have ever since been continuously and actively involved in the organization’s work. Since 1960, more than 90,000 Austrians have served in UN peacekeeping missions all over the world. Currently, we are participating in six UN missions, our priority being the Middle East, The Golan heights and Lebanon. Austria learned to appreciate a strong and effective multilateral system which remains to date a pillar of our foreign policy. The fall of the Berlin Wall changed the political environment in Europe again dramatically. The challenge was to adapt rapidly to the new realities. With joining the European Communities only a few years later in 1995 Austria firmly anchored itself in a zone of stability, security, freedom and growth, positioning itself well for the opportunities offered of a re-uniting Europe culminating in the European enlargement rounds of 2004 and 2007. Austria returned – from a position of periphery during the Cold War – to the centre of the European continent. The continued enlargement of the Euro- pean Union is in our very interest. Besides the transformative powers to the acceding societies and the economic benefits, we must not forget that the European Union was and is – above all – a peace project.

Ladies and Gentlemen, Challenges never cease. Today it is globalisation and the European financial crisis. What can a small country like Austria contribute to fundamental Euro- pean and global issues? Obviously, there are limits to what Austria can do. However, being small does not mean being without resources. Austria is – in relative terms – one of the wealthiest countries in the EU and the world. It places 3rd in the EU and 8th in the world in GDP per capita. Aus- tria has the lowest unemployment and the lowest youth unemployment rate in the EU. Austria disposes of excellent infrastructure, high-skilled workers, a well-developed R&D sector and a stable social and economic framework. Austria benefited enormously from its accession to the European Union. For the last ten years, Austria has significantly outperformed the EU average growth and this trend continues in 2012. Austria is one of the 11 net contributors to the EU budget. Austria has been able to establish itself as an 300 Selected Documents important investor in the Central, Eastern and South-Eastern Europe, continuously looking to new frontiers: • Austria is the biggest foreign direct investor and played a pioneering role in Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Macedonia. • For the last 3 years, 2009 through 2011, Austria has been the single biggest direct investor in Turkey – whose population is about 10 times higher than the Austrian. Thus, Austria may be small, but in economic terms, in terms of the resources the country and its population provide, it outperforms many a country of bigger size.

Ladies and Gentlemen, Our experience within the UN and the EU confirm to us that small states can punch above their weight in the multilateral environment. They can be a player when they act as confidence builders, as mediators, as advocates of dialogue and as defenders of international law. Small states pursue less geo- strategic goals and are more credible as impartial brokers. Yet we are not acting in a void. Being a committed and active member of the European Union adds a specific angle to our foreign policy. During the last 15 years, the EU Member States have gradually stepped up their cooperation on international issues and have created a genuinely European Foreign and Security Policy Cooperation. Austria nowadays puts its foreign policy efforts to a large degree to the service of a European Foreign Policy. We send our experts and diplomats to join the new European External Action Service (EEAS). We co-shape European foreign policy decisions. These are taken by unanimity, our voice counting as much as Germany’s which has a population ten times larger than the Austrian. Admittedly, it is sometimes difficult to find a consensus among the 27 Mem- ber States – soon 28 with the accession of Croatia next year. Non-EU-partners sometimes wonder about a European cacophony of voices when the EU fails to unite on a certain issue. However, when speaking with one voice, the European opinion is very powerful. Being small you have to be smart, flexible and you have to specialize. Aus- tria concentrates on regions and areas where we have special expertise and interests. These are in particular South-East and Eastern Europe as well as Northern Africa and the Middle East. The EU-Strategy for the Danube Region was designed on the basis of an Aus- trian and Romanian initiative. The Strategy will provide us with better possibilities to fully benefit from the region’s growth potential. Austria is also working on closer ties with the countries of the Black Sea Region. Equally, Austria is a proud champion of “soft issues”. 301 Selected Documents

The experience of the Cold War has made Austria very sensitive to the threat vast nuclear arsenals constitute for the family of nations. Consequently, Aus- tria has been a long-standing supporter of nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament. Austria is also in the vanguard in the conventional disarmament, be it in banning landmines or cluster ammunition and in fighting the illicit trade of small arms and light weapons. Austria is also proud to be in the first line of defenders ofHuman Rights and the Rule of Law. For us these are the very basic prerequisites for democracy, stability and sustainable development. Austria is setting high standards to itself but also to others. With like-minded partners we are pursuing our goal vigorously, currently also on the UN Human Rights Council (2011–14) or in our upcoming chairmanship of the Council of Europe (2013).

Ladies and Gentlemen, Let me now turn to some very recent and fundamental European and international challenges and illustrate the Austrian and European way of tackling them. In our Southern Neighbourhood, some Arab countries may be in a long phase of instability; but they could also become part of an enlarged zone of democracy and growth encompassing both shores of the Mediterranean. The road of transition these countries have chosen so courageously will be very difficult in each and every case and will be marked by setbacks. Libya, for example, seemed to be on a good track, when suddenly disaster struck. Allow me to express at this occasion my sincere condolences for the murder of Ambassador Christopher Stevens and three of his colleagues in Bengasi two weeks ago. On the day of the killings, I condemned this heinous crime – like so many of my colleagues around the world – and I added: the new Libya which received so much help from the international community during its quest for liberty, must take those responsible for this despicable act to account and prove through actions in the future what the new Libya truly stands for. But it is our duty and in our self-interest to assist those countries to embrace democratic pluralism, the rule of law and individual freedoms. The EU has thus developed a comprehensive approach, encompassing economic, security and democracy support. Challenges remain, of course, one of the biggest being the situation in Syria. After more than 25.000 victims and daily suffering for many more, including 2,5 million Syrians who depend on humanitarian assistance, the international community stands at a crossroad. The UN Security Council is unable to fulfil its responsibility, being blocked by certain powers. Equally concerning is the situation in Iran. The longer Iran is unprepared to give credible assurances that its nuclear program is for peaceful use only, 302 Selected Documents the more the risk of a military strike increases. This risks plunging the entire region neighbouring Europe into disarray. For Austria, there is thus no alternative to a peaceful solution. The sanctions we imposed serve the purpose of changing Iran’s attitude on the nuclear issue. Austria and the European Union stand ready to step up the pressure in this respect even more.

Ladies and Gentlemen, Austria’s outstanding economic performance which I referred to before was and is challenged by the crisis in the Euro zone. The Euro is embedded in theEconomic and Monetary Union which was designed about 25 years ago. Monetary integration subsequently evolved faster than economic integration. This gap is also one of the reasons for the current crisis. To counter the crisis, the EU has implemented a number of unprecedented policy measures during the last two years, measures of enhanced financial, fiscal and economic cooperation, discipline and solidarity. The EU has also agreed to a series of significant Governance Reforms: in future, Government budgets, by constitutional provisions, will have to be balanced or in surplus. Eurozone members will coordinate more closely on their economic and budgetary policies. European institutions will oversee the budgets and implementation of fiscal policies of member states. Economic growth will be the key driver to resolving the crisis. Hence, a Euro- pean „Pact for Growth and Employment” was adopted at the European Coun- cil in June this year. Structural changes in the Eurozone countries will take their time to be fully realized – currently, crisis countries are expected to see a decline in economic output both this and next year. On the other hand, we see that the massive structural reforms are bearing their first fruits. Allow me to remark that despite all the negative financial news of these last weeks and months, the euro remained pretty strong, at around 1.29 US dollar / 1 euro. This proves the resilience of our currency. However, the crisis has revealed how insufficient the existing banking supervision is. We must end the vicious circle between sovereign debt and bank debt. There should be a single rule book for financial services. Therefore I believe that we need to create a Single European banking supervision, a Banking Union. We need to complete and deepen the EU Single market. This should comprise better regulation, support for small and medium-sized enterprises, and in particular EU funds for job creation. Trade and double-taxation agreements with third countries, including the United States, are also of key importance for progress. 303 Selected Documents

At the same time, national measures are necessary, such as structural reforms, fight against unemployment and modernisation of administration. This includes reforming social policies, in particular health and pension systems. Austria is taking steps in this direction.

Ladies and Gentlemen, I am deeply convinced that the euro crisis is not putting the future of the European Union at risk. On the contrary, out of what may have been the biggest challenge the European Union had to face so far, an opportunity for an even better and stronger EU may arise. During the last 60 years the EU had to master already a number of serious challenges and mostly came out stronger in the end. The EU is not an accomplished project but rather a continuing integration process. Europe-wide polls confirm the support of European citizens for further unification of Europe. Austria is therefore actively involved in an internal and external debate on how to create an ever closer Union. One week ago, a group of 10 EU foreign ministers, including myself, tabled a plan for the future of Europe. Our absolute priority is, at this stage, to strengthen the Economic and Monetary Union. Nevertheless, once the immediate crisis has been overcome, we must also improve the overall functioning of the EU. First, we see a need to improve our institutions so that the EU can act faster without losing its democratic integrity. The European Commission with its supranational powers should be strengthened so that it can improve its service as the engine of European integration. Within the Council of Ministers, we could extend the scope of decisions that are taken by qualified majority. The European Parliament should boost its democratic visibility by the nomination of a European top candidate by each political group for the next elections to the European Parliament in 2014. Then, we want Europe to become a stronger actor on the world stage. To that end, we propose to strengthen the European External Action Service. We want the EU to act more united in international organizations. And we want more effective relations with our strategic partners, first of all the United States. I am confident that our proposals will give a new impetus to the European integration process.

Ladies and Gentlemen, The US was and is the crucial strategic partner of the EU. The EU-US relationship is indeed a unique partnership. The US and the EU account for 60 % of world’s GDP. Taking goods and services together, we account for 40 % of world trade and we are still each other’s largest foreign investors. The vital 304 Selected Documents nature of this partnership goes far beyond the economic dimension, however. It is a relationship based on a shared understanding of the values we wish to promote and secure. Our combined economic and political power places us at the centre of the international system and gives us a special responsibility. Today’s global challenges are challenges we face together – and I am sure we will together be able to find the opportunities therein. It was here in Boston, and in a few other cities such as Philadelphia, where the Founding Fathers of the United States of America developed their concepts. Their ideas led to reshaping this part and many other parts of the world, including Europe. Without their vision and their wisdom the world would have taken a different direction. We need very similar qualities in our days.

Ladies and Gentlemen, Allow me end by quoting Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Austria’s most popular artist and composer: “To talk well and eloquently is a very great art, but an equally great one is to know the right moment to stop.” I thus prefer to stop here and am looking forward to your questions. Thank you very much.

18.3. Address by Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Dr. Michael Spindelegger at the Commemoration Ceremony “New Departures – New Beginnings – Europe”, Vienna, Federal Chancellery, 8 May 2012 Ladies and Gentlemen, The 8th and 9th of May stand alongside each other in the calendar as silent witnesses to our common European history. The 8th of May 1945 marked the day of liberation from the Nazi regime and the day our continent was able to breathe freely again after the end of a terrible war. And five years later – on the 9th of May 1950, the presentation of the Schuman Plan marked the laying of the foundations for the peace project Europe and the birth of the European Idea. Two dates symbolizing both the sea changes and the new beginnings our continent had seen, the end and the new start. Although the years during that new beginning were far from easy, characterised by great uncertainty and extreme hardship – for Europe as a whole and for Austria in particular, which, divided into four occupation zones, faced an uncertain future: 305 Selected Documents

For the times of economic reconstruction were hard times indeed – there were fundamental social changes – and there was still a long way to go on the path towards independence, sovereignty and freedom – which in fact was only accomplished with the signing of the State Treaty. Yet, the 8th of May stands for a new departure, a turning point – the end of a time of great tragedy and the beginning of a time of hope. Today, we want to commemorate this day of hope. And to those few people who want to misuse the event today for their own purposes – to sow the seeds of intolerance and discord and to play people in Europe off against one another – I say loud and clear: That is not what we want! What we need are ideas and visions for tomorrow and not antiquated thinking propagated by die-hards stuck in the dark and distant past of torch- light processions. Today, Austria stands firmly on the foundations of the rule of law, democracy and human rights. We live in a free society where no one is persecuted for his or her beliefs, ethnic origin or opinions. We live in a country in which every man and woman can freely develop his or her potential; in a country that offers people opportunities, opens doors and enables people to reach their personal goals in life. We also live in a Europe free of war and misery, where stability is guaranteed, growth and prosperity are promoted and peace is secured. These are great achievements of which we can be justifiably proud, achievements that we must preserve, that we must strive to develop further and pass on to future generations. For they are in no way to be taken for granted. Each and every day we must fight to defend our fundamental values. Peace, freedom and security require our ongoing commitment, our efforts and the deep conviction that – in spite of all difficulties we may encounter – the only way forward is by standing together. Particularly in times such as these this is no longer an easy task. While those who witnessed the Second World War know all too well what it means to defend peace, this may today no longer be taken for granted. Because how can we explain the European Peace Project to a generation for whom – thank goodness – war and mass destruction sound like tales from some far away countries and from a time long gone? How can we really get across to the young people of today – and what is even more difficult – to the young people of tomorrow, the importance of being able to sit at a table with people from different countries and work together in partnership. What it means to shape the future – as opposed to senseless fighting on the battle fields destroying all that has been painstakingly built up? 306 Selected Documents

How can we get across to young people that a united Europe is not something to be taken for granted? That lasting peace in Europe is not possible without unity within Europe? And that there is no security without peace and no prosperity without security? I believe this is one of the growing challenges facing us today. Because it is particularly at a time when day-to-day life proves difficult in Europe, at a time when we have to make decisions and introduce measures that may be unpopular and sometimes difficult to explain – that it is difficult to communicate a vision of Europe that goes beyond everyday issues. Europe has been badly hit by the economic and financial crisis. Numerous states have had to resort to harsh and painful cost-cutting measures. In many countries this means that particularly young people don’t have an easy start – which is reflected only too clearly in unemployment figures all over Europe. In Spain and Greece, for example, they have skyrocketed to over 20 per cent and Portugal is not far behind at 15 per cent. In many places youth unemployment rates are, however, even higher – and there is hardly anything worse for a young person to hear than “Our society doesn’t need you. We don’t have a job for you.” These are surely most unfa- vourable starting conditions. As if that wasn’t enough, growth forecasts are poor and inflation is rising in the euro area. But other developments too, pose great challenges for Europe: • Migratory movements from neighbouring regions – (such as from North Africa triggered by the Arab Spring); • Integration of new Europeans in our society – and even that is all but free of conflict; • And then, of course an increasingly aging population with all the associated issues, such as safeguarding our health care, pension and social welfare systems. These are the key challenges, the all-important questions for our future, to which we as responsible politicians must find the right answers. And what is more – it is our duty to tell people again and again: Believe in this Europe, in this European concept. Because we must join forces if we want to come up with the right answers to these questions today. For it is only by acting together – and definitely not by going it alone – that we can find solutions to the questions that are key to our common future and react to the major challenges facing us. And whatever the everyday difficulties we may face, Europe provides us with unparalleled freedoms and guarantees: 307 Selected Documents

The four freedoms: • Free movement of persons • Free movement of goods • Free movement of services • Free movement of capital And the four guarantees we may enjoy thanks to Europe today: • Stability • Growth • Sustainability • And of course and above all – peace Because Europe is a peace project that is unique throughout the world. Nowhere else around this globe is there an area which – irrespective of national borders – is a guarantor for life in peace, security and freedom. And that is also the strong foundation on which we stand today and that will carry us into the future. Without this foundation, we have no future – but thanks to this sound basis we stand strong in the face of all challenges. We need to make this vision of Europe more tangible – people must not forget this pivotal achievement. And that is why we remember and look back today – to a time that was before and that must never come again. We look back to the laying of the foundation stones of our community, on the 8th of May 1945 and on the 9th of May 1950 – to new departures and new beginnings. Because, although Europe is much more today than the peace project of yes- teryear, the 8th of May still serves as an urgent reminder that – whatever may happen, however our society and the Union may develop – it must never be allowed to become anything less than that. Because the peace that is guaranteed by Europe and on which we continue to build is the highest asset and the central foundation stone our common future is built on. Thank you very much.

308 Selected Documents 18.4. Address by Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Dr. Michael Spindelegger at the opening of the International King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz Centre for Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue, Vienna, 26 November 2012 Your Holiness, Eminences, Secretary General of the United Nations, Your Royal Highness, Foreign Minister of Spain, Chief Rabbi Goldsmith, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, It is my great pleasure to address this distinguished audience on the occasion of the Inauguration Ceremony of the King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz Interna- tional Centre for Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue tonight. Let me start by emphasizing the significance of continuous and constructive dialogue between cultures and religions. Dialogue is not only a priority of the Austrian foreign cultural policy, but has also become an important instrument of diplomacy on a global scale. With a longstanding tradition as a hub for intercultural and interreligious dialogue and exchange, Austria enjoys broad international recognition. Spearheading a number of decisive initiatives that are designed to promote democracy and the universal respect for human rights and basic human freedoms, Austria provides neutral ground for fruitful exchange. In the light of changing geo-political conditions and increased polarisation, the necessity arose to extend dialogue beyond “cultural” and “religious” lines. Dialogue has to be “issue-driven” and to focus on topics that are of mutual concern and relevance. At the same time, dialogue constitutes the indispensable fiber that holds our pluralistic and versatile societiestogether and has to be recognized as prerequisite for the peaceful co-existence of different cultures and religions. Against this backdrop, I truly welcome the inauguration of the Centre in the midst of Vienna. Originating as a farsighted initiative by His Majesty King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz, the Centre builds upon the premises that fostering respect, reconciliation, and peace will counteract the abuse of religion, which must never serve as a justification for oppression, violence, and conflict. The significance of dialogue has been widely recognized and thus initiatives and projects have increased steadily. While I most certainly appreciate this positive development, efforts on a global scale have varied greatly in priority, objective, and impact. 309 Selected Documents

The Center provides a unique opportunity in the sense that it offers a concrete structure for dialogue. Based on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights enshrined in the Preamble of the Founding Agreement, the Centre will realize its projects and initiatives in a conceptual framework of internationally recognized principles. Moreover, by means of augmenting and expanding expertise, the Centre shall function as a hub for other organizations currently active in the field of dialogue and thus further structure and reinforce joint endeavours. In addition, the Centre provides the means to develop a network of experts, scholars, and civil society representatives, so as to establish an indispensable platform for open and constructive exchange. Representatives of different faiths, civil society, and academia will work together in a truly interreligious and interdisciplinary manner. Initiatives and projects aimed at exchange, awareness-raising, and communication shall foster a culture of understanding and respect. Strengthening the capacity of people and organizations will allow for the development of more responsive efforts that address these issues which are of utmost concern to all of us. Combining the ability to complement dialogue efforts with structure and to reach a wider public audience by encouraging broad participation of people with different backgrounds, expertise and experience leads me to my final point: Continuity and sustainability. The Centre carries the potential to develop expanding and sustainable networks and thus promote the concept and significance of interreligious and intercultural dialogue across different societies and communities. I am strongly convinced that the founding of the Centre constitutes a decisive milestone for dialogue. The next few years present an important period for the Centre, to translate its Mandate into action and deliverables. Together with Spain and Saudi-Arabia and relying on the support of the Holy See, I want to underscore our firm commitment to respond to this challenge and joint responsibility of enhancing co-operation, respect for diversity, and justice. Let me conclude in expressing my gratitude to Secretary General Faisal Bin Muammaar and Deputy Secretary General Claudia Bandion-Ortner for their untiring efforts devoted to this noble cause. The Secretariat of the Centre and its outstanding Board of Directors have achieved remarkable success so far. I greatly look forward to seeing the Centre flourish and contribute to a safer and more peaceful world.

310 Selected Documents 18.5. Opening address by Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Dr. Michael Spindelegger at the conference “Sudan, South Sudan & Europe: Prospects of Cooperation for Regional Peace and Development” delivered in the presence of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Sudan, Ali Ahmed Karti, and of the Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of South Sudan, Prof. Elias Nyamlell Wakoson, Vienna, 10 October 2012 Dear colleagues and friends, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, Today’s conference takes place at a moment of hope. Things took a significant turn about three weeks ago. The signing of a series of agreements between Sudan and South Sudan in Addis Ababa on 27 September represents a historic step for both countries. I congratulate both Governments on the leadership and spirit of compromise they have shown in reaching these agreements. It is now essential for both sides to implement the agreements without delay. It is particularly important that oil start flowing and that cross-border trade resume as this will benefit both economies and improve the lives of ordinary people. The agreement on security arrangements will also contribute to stabilising the border area. As the EU’s High Representative, Catherine Ashton, has said, the EU stands ready to support the implementation of the signed agreements. Since today’s conference also has an important economic dimension, we need to bear in mind that trade and investments require security. The economy is the driving factor for growth and prosperity. This is why the news about the agreements reached in Addis on 27 September is also important in economic terms, not just politically.

Ladies and Gentlemen, You sometimes hear politicians hold speeches saying: “Much still needs to be done”. This also holds true for the relationship between Sudan and South Sudan. There are still some outstanding issues to be resolved. Resolving the final status of Abyei is a critical part of the AU Roadmap and UN Security Council Resolution 2046 (2012), on the situation in Sudan and South Sudan, adopted on 2 June 2012. In my statement to the press on the aftermath of the signing of these agreements in Addis Ababa I have expressed my gratefulness to President Mbeki for his tireless efforts. 311 Selected Documents

The international community is looking forward to the recommendations by the AU High Level Implementation Panel to the African Union for taking this matter forward. We all hope that a process will also be agreed as soon as possible for addressing the disputed and claimed border areas. One thing, however, is clear: The signing of the Addis agreements has been a milestone. The dominating factor now, when it comes to Sudan’s and South Sudan’s future, is hope: Hope for lasting peace, hope for stability, prosperity and development. I think the motto of today’s conference has been very well chosen: Peace and Development.

Ladies and Gentlemen, I have said that much remains to be done. I remain gravely concerned about the ongoing conflict in Southern Kordofan and Blue Nile states and the resulting humanitarian situation. The fighting has caused human suffering on a massive scale. It is imperative that international humanitarian agencies be allowed to deliver immediate assistance to civilians caught up in the fighting. Direct talks between the parties concerned should start immediately and unconditionally with the aim to agree on a cessation of hostilities, to recommit to the delivery of humanitarian assistance to all those affected, and to find a lasting political solution to the conflict in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 2046. Sudan and South Sudan are multi-ethnic countries. The diversity of their respective peoples might at first sight appear as a burden but can in reality be considered as an asset. Look at Europe, look at the European Union. Diversity is not an unknown phenomenon to us. The driving force behind the building-up of the European Union has been the will for peace. A will which all European peoples share and which has been the basis for development and prosperity for many decades up till now.

Ladies and Gentlemen, You will have realised that I have mentioned the United Nations and the European Union several times in my remarks. It comes as no surprise and it is not a coincidence. You all know that Austria is particularly attached to a functioning multilateral system based on the Rule of Law. This is a factor that has shaped our thinking in international politics, not only regarding Sudan but also globally. Vienna is home to several international bodies, among them agencies of the United Nations. International treaties on diplomatic and consular relations include the name of this city. I would like to particularly highlight the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations dating back to 1961. Recent attacks on diplomatic personnel and diplomatic premises in places such as Benghazi, Cairo, Tunis, Sana’a but also Khartoum have underlined the importance of respecting international obligations based on this treaty. 312 Selected Documents

The Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations is very clear about a country’s obligations to adequately protect diplomatic personnel and diplomatic premises. The full respect of this treaty is an unconditional basis for diplomatic relations in a modern world. I would once again like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to the victims of these attacks. I would also pay tribute to the four UN troops killed in Dar- fur last week. I would like to make clear that we will never be one the side of those who commit violence, who condone violence nor those who encourage violence.

Ladies and Gentlemen, Before concluding my remarks let me say a word about civilian victims of conflict, another issue close to our hearts and minds. For many years Aus- tria’s engagement with this issue in multilateral fora has been marked by our commitment to create appropriate frameworks for those who need to be protected from violence. On 11 November 2009 under my chairmanship, the UN Security Council adopted Resolution 1894 (2009) on the protection of civilians in armed conflict.

Ladies and Gentlemen, Dear Colleagues and Friends, Respecting international obligations is no easy task. In particular, cooperation with international judicial bodies has been and is set to remain a challenge for every country. Austria has adopted a very clear and principled position when it comes to supporting the work of the International Criminal Court. We consider this as a very important element of our overall commitment to the Rule of Law. Europe’s position in this respect is based on lessons of its own history. With this in mind let me come back to the topic of today’s event, Peace and Development. Dear friends from Sudan and South Sudan, some of the tasks ahead of you will not be easy to deal with. But what matters in politics is not to do the easy thing. What matters is to do the right thing. I can reassure you: You are not alone. You can enjoy the support of the international community if your will for peace is a genuine one. This is what the EU Foreign Ministers clearly stated in the Council conclusions of 23 July this year: Namely that full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 2046, including the outstanding issues, would lead to improved relations with the EU, allowing the EU to consider further support.

Dear Friends, We are ready to help. Today’s conference is an expression of our readiness to help. I wish you all a successful conference. Thank you very much.

313 Selected Documents 18.6. Address by Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Dr. Michael Spindelegger at the European Union – League of Arab States Foreign Affairs Ministerial Meeting, Cairo, 13 November 2012 Excellencies, Dear Colleagues, I would like to thank the League of Arab States for organizing this important and timely meeting of Arab and European Foreign Ministers. We have come together to discuss developments in the Middle East and Europe and how we can enhance and strengthen our cooperation. We listen to each other and try to find solutions through dialogue and reason. Regular dialogue is the basis on which we can build solid co-operation and friendship, as regions, countries or individuals. However, the ultimate success of our work depends on the extent to which we bring similar values and principles to the table. The Arab Charter on Human Rights and the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union both highlight that the respect for human rights and democratic principles are shared values of the League of Arab States and the EU. While diversity of cultures, traditions and religions has to be taken into account, Human Rights are universal, indivisible, interdependent and interrelated. This is of central importance for us and has to be respected by all of us at all times. The Arab world has experienced dramatic changes since the beginning of 2011. Driven by their legitimate desire for a life in dignity and peace, Arab citizens have successfully pushed for democratic participation as well as for the end of oppression and corruption. These changes are only the beginning of a long road towards the point where democracy and civil rights become ingrained and unquestioned by the whole society. It will however still take great efforts and patience on all sides until the gains won by the courageous protesters can be fully realized. The welcome changes that have already taken place, would not have been possible without the active and courageous support of women. It is therefore of utmost importance that women can hold an equal share in all spheres of society and that their right to fully participate in all political processes is respected. Democratic transition can never succeed if half of the population is excluded from decision making. The so called Arab Spring has also shown us that those belonging to minority groups warrant our particular attention. Hatred and violence directed against people who belong to a different religion or who have a different ethnic background can never be tolerated. Only in a society that is free of discrimination and that provides for equal opportunities for men and women, will lasting peace be possible. 314 Selected Documents

Let me briefly return to the subject of dialogue. Even as we regularly practice it in the political sphere, we must not forget the importance of intercultural and interreligious dialogue, especially in times of political transformation. I consider it so essential that we have made this topic a clear priority of Austria’s foreign policy. Our dialogue initiatives are designed to promote democracy, the universal respect for human rights and basic human freedoms, including the freedom of religion or belief. By launching and supporting dialogue initiatives we want thus to offer sustainable contributions to building trust and peace and combat the spread of stereotypes. On 26 November we will have the honor to inaugurate the “King Abdullah Center for Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue” in Vienna. This new International Organization, founded by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Spain and Austria upon the initiative of His Majesty, King Abdullah, will become a platform for new initiatives, a meeting place for religious leaders and a hub for the exchange between cultures. Thus, it complements and reinforces Austria’s long standing tradition in interreligious and intercultural dialogue. The most recent of our dialogue initiatives is taking place right now here in Cairo, organized by the Arab League Secretariat in co-operation with the Austrian Foreign Ministry, namely the 2nd Arab European Young Leaders Forum. May I express in this context our appreciation to the Arab League Secretariat for their excellent work in the preparation of the Forum. After a first round in Vienna in 2010, this second round of the “Arab-European Young Leaders Forum” is entitled “Responsible Leadership for Transforma- tion towards Democracy and Prosperity- Innovative Forms of Cross-Cultural Cooperation”. This is the first initiative of its kind, focusing on young leaders of excellence and experience in the EU and the Arab world, with the objective to enhance responsible leadership skills. By supporting such future leaders I am sure that the Euro-Arab relations will enhance sustainably in the future. Thank you for your attention.

315 Selected Documents 18.7. Address by Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Dr. Michael Spindelegger to the Kosovar Parliament on the occasion of the closure of the Office of the International Civilian Representative, Pristina, 10 September 2012 Dear Madam President, Mr. President of the Assembly, Prime Minister, Foreign Minister, Ministers, Deputies to the Assembly, Citizens of the Republic of Kosovo, President Ahtisaari, International Civilian Representative Feith, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, Today is a historic day for the Republic of Kosovo, its citizens as much as for the friends of Kosovo and the International Community. With the legal and constitutional decisions of this Parliamentary Assembly the international supervision of Kosovo’s independence is coming to an end. Kosovo is opening a very new chapter in its statehood. The Kosovars can be proud of what they have achieved in those few years since declaring independence. Austria is honored to have been able to accompany Kosovo on its path to statehood as a close partner and advocate of your rightful aspirations. From the very beginning – the dark days of the Milošević suppression – through the most difficult times of war, and in the state formation, we have always walked alongside our Kosovar friends, giving them every support possible. Let me just mention one small example: when Kosovar students were driven out of universities into underground facilities, it was Austrian universities offering them study places. It is with pride that I note that also many government members and parliamentarians present here have benefited from these opportunities. Or our contribution to a safe and secure environment all over Kosovo through KFOR, where Austria is the largest troop contributor from a non- NATO country. Or Austria’s diplomatic engagement: Ambassadors Wolfgang Petritsch and Albert Rohan are two most known personalities in this respect. Given our commitment for Kosovo it was only logical that we offered Presi- dent Martti Ahtisaari to host his office in Vienna. Thus the bilateral talks with Serbia were conducted and the Comprehensive Settlement Proposal (CSP), the basis for the independence of your country, was drafted in our capital. Equally, it was in Vienna, two months ago, where the International Steering Group determined that Kosovo had implemented the CSP, so that we could 316 Selected Documents all meet here to celebrate. It is thus with great satisfaction that I can state that what was started in Vienna could also be successfully closed In Vienna.

Madame President, Mister President (of the Assembly), Prime Minister, The path Kosovo took over the past years is indeed remarkable. This was also due to the support the young state has received from the many countries represented in this Assembly Hall today. And it was to a large part thanks to the vision, skills and dedication of Presi- dent Ahtisaari and his team. Let me thus take this opportunity, as representative of the International Community, to express our profound gratitude and appreciation to President Ahtisaari. Thank you so much, Mr. President!. I would also like to take the opportunity and acknowledge the man, who as our International Civilian Representative successfully led the international efforts, together with the institutions of Kosovo, to implement the so-called “Ahtisaari-Plan”: Mr. Pieter Feith. Pieter, many thanks to you and all your colleagues!. But foremost, ladies and gentlemen, Kosovo’s progress and development since the adoption of the Comprehensive Settlement Proposal are not owed to us internationals, but to the functioning of your institutions, to the work and guidance by your leaders and, most importantly, by you, the citizens of this young country.

Dear Citizens of Kosovo, With the departure of the International Civilian Representative and the closure of the International Civilian Office, the International Community is not going to leave Kosovo. On the contrary, we are here to stay. Only the quality of our relationship is going to change fundamentally. Today, the international community is transferring full sovereignty from the international to the national level. We Austrians can feel with you. Follow- ing World War Two it took ten years until we regained our full sovereignty. But we look back on Austria’s foreign supervision as a benefit creating the solid base for what Austria developed in today.

Ladies and Gentlemen, A transitional period has ended for Kosovo and a new era starts in earnest, your path towards the EU. Some day in the not so distant future it will be Kosovo herself transferring in turn some of her regained sovereignty to a supranational authority, or in the words of late President Ibrahim Rugova: “My vision is that our country should be integrated in the EU, to transfer a part of our independence there.” 317 Selected Documents

With the European Union Special Representative, my former colleague and friend Samuel Zbogar, with EULEX and with our embassies – we will, supported by our American friends, continue seconding you actively on your Euro-Atlantic path. Whether it is your reforms towards visa liberalization, your strife for contractual relations with the EU, your quest for more recognitions and for membership in international organizations – you can count on the continued assistance of Austria in this respect!

Dear Colleagues and Friends, The granting of full sovereignty to Kosovo is a clear sign of confidence in Kosovo’s institutions, leaders and people. But with this empowerment and ownership comes also full responsibility. And the challenges ahead are manifold: managing the dialogue with Ser- bia, the integration of the North, consolidating the democratic institutions and state structures, the fight against widespread corruption and organized crime, creating a more favorable economic and investment climate. There is no time to lean back now. Be ambitious in your reform path. Not to please us internationals, but to create a better life for your citizens. A life in safety and dignity for all, regardless of ethnicity, creating jobs and opportunities including for the many young, ambitious and talented people you have in your country – in short: build a positive perspective for the future. In the light of this new beginning, I am reminded of the words of Mother Teresa when she said: “Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow has not yet come. We have only today. Let us begin.” In this sense, dear friends, let me congratulate you once again on this day. Let me commend you for your hard work, your passion, your endurance. Continue in the same spirit when tackling the challenges ahead. With the clear vision of becoming a part of the united Europe. I can assure you that Austria will stand by your side also in this endeavor! Thank you very much.

318 Selected Documents 18.8. Statement by Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Dr. Michael Spindelegger at the 67th Session of the General Assembly of the United Nations, New York, 28 September 2012 Mr. President, Excellencies, dear colleagues, Distinguished delegates to the 67th General Assembly of the UN, Events of recent months have once again illustrated the importance of the United Nations as a multilateral forum to address today’s crises and challenges: the conflicts in Syria and Mali and the ongoing reform processes in many parts of the Arab World demonstrate that we can face those challenges only through concerted action.

Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen, In Syria, thousands have lost their lives in their struggle for freedom and reforms through crimes committed by a regime that denies them every basic human right in order to stay in power. Austria condemns the systematic human rights violations and bloodshed in Syria in the strongest possible terms. More than 27,000 victims and some 2.5 million people in dire need of humanitarian assistance are a stark reminder for each and every one of us that it is high time for the United Nations to finally act. The Security Council in particular must assume its responsibility for the ever aggravating situation in the country. Violence has to stop immediately and both sides have to engage in a meaningful dialogue facilitated by the Joint Special Representative Lakhdar Bra- himi. There will be no solution unless President Assad steps aside and gives way to forces of reason and reconciliation.

Ladies and Gentlemen, Austria continues to fully support the ongoing transition processes in the Arab World. We welcome the efforts undertaken so far to lay the foundation for more open, inclusive and prosperous societies. We encourage the newly empowered authorities to fulfil their mandate for democratic change responsibly. The aspirations of the people for dignity and freedom must be satisfied, thereby contributing to peace and stability in the region. In this context, let me reiterate my strongest condemnation of the recent attacks on diplomatic missions and personnel, especially the murder of ambassador Chris Stevens and three of his colleagues in Benghazi. Violence is never an acceptable response to the fundamental right for freedom of speech. To attack an embassy and its personnel is not only contrary to international law but an attack on the very idea the United Nations stand for, namely the peaceful cooperation of member states to jointly build a better future. 319 Selected Documents

Mr. President, The still unresolved Israeli-Palestinian conflict continues to gravely desta- bilize the Middle East. The terms of a negotiated and sustainable solution – two states with secure and mutually recognized borders – have been discussed over and over again and are broadly supported by the people and the international community. And yet we experienced a complete lack of progress in the last year. We thus call on the leadership on both sides to finally assume their responsibility and enable lasting peace and security for their children and future generations. The situation in Mali also continues to be a matter of grave concern. Austria has been dismayed by the political turmoil with its disastrous effects on the Malian population. Growing insecurity and the continued deterioration of the humanitarian and human rights situation are calling for concerted action. The High-Level meeting on Wednesday was an important signal that we are moving in that direction. We fully support the efforts by ECOWAS and the African Union to try and find – together with the UN – a lasting political solution to the crisis in Mali and the Sahel region as a whole. Austria will advocate for increased support of the European Union to contribute to this end.

Ladies and Gentlemen, In light of the crises and challenges the international community is facing, Austria welcomes President Jeremic’s timely choice to highlight the peaceful settlement of disputes in this year’s general debate. Prevention is always better – and cheaper – than cure. Progress made in Sierra Leone, Kyrgyzstan, Nepal, or Myanmar testifies how successful sustainable mediation efforts can be. The peaceful settlement of disputes can only be achieved through open dialogue based on mutual respect. Austria has a long-standing tradition of promoting intercultural and interreligious dialogue and are proud to host the 5th Global Forum of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations in Vienna. This will take place on the 27 and 28 of February 2013 under the title “Respon- sible Leadership in Diversity and Dialogue”. Austria highly values the contribution of youth as a transformative force. Therefore, the day before the Global Forum will be dedicated to the UNAOC Youth Event to benefit from their views. In this context, I am also pleased to inform that the King Abdullah Bin Abdu- laziz International Centre for Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue will be inaugurated on November 26, 2012 in Vienna. The Centre, a joint initiative by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Kingdom of Spain and the Republic of Aus- tria, will certainly offer a significant contribution to the promotion of dialogue.

Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen, We need to be clear: sustainable peace and development go hand in hand with the respect for human rights, democracy and the rule of law. These are 320 Selected Documents universal values no human being should be denied. We must not falter until this goal is achieved. In 2011, Austria was elected to the Human Rights Council. We fully support the Council and its mechanisms, especially the Universal Periodic Review. The Council is best placed to react swiftly in case of human rights emergencies. Its special sessions on Syria and Libya illustrated that the international community will not turn a blind eye on gross human rights violations and indiscriminate attacks against the civilian population. Human rights abuses must not go unpunished. Violations have to be thoroughly investigated and perpetrators must be held accountable before credible judicial institutions including the International Criminal Court. Our membership of the Human Rights Council is an opportunity to continue working on the key priorities Austria pursued during the Security Council membership in 2009/2010: the protection of civilians, the safety of journalists, the implementation of resolution 1325 on women, peace and security, the freedom of religion and belief, as well as the protection of children from violence and abuse. The High-Level Meeting of Monday was an important opportunity to renew our commitment to the rule of law at the national and international levels. It now needs an adequate follow-up. As chair of the Group of Friends of the Rule of Law, Austria will provide concrete proposals for the upcoming report of the Secretary-General.

Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen, The UN Headquarters in Vienna are a hub for promoting peace and security. The work of the IAEA is more relevant than ever. I am pleased that we can now also draw on additional services from the new Vienna Office for Disar- mament Affairs. Austria is deeply concerned about weapons of mass destruction programs and proliferation activities in several regions of the world. The creation of a Zone free from Nuclear Weapons and other Weapons of Mass Destruction in the Middle East is more urgent than ever. In this respect, let me underline that Iran must finally give credible evidence for the peaceful nature of its nuclear program and engage in earnest in the talks with the E3+3. The continued inability to even initiate substantive multilateral disarmament negotiations is unacceptable. Austria is committed to working with other interested states to move forward on this crucial issue. In this context, I would like to thank the Secretary-General for his continued support in this matter. We need to move beyond a strictly military security approach that originates from the cold war period. It is time we change the discourse on nuclear weapons. Any use of nuclear weapons would be devastating for the whole world in its humanitarian and environmental effects. In the 21st century, such an 321 Selected Documents existential threat to humankind can no longer be handled exclusively by a few states as a national security matter. Austria is committed to strengthening and further developing international law and a humanitarian approach to advance the global disarmament and non-proliferation agenda. A lot has been achieved in the past two decades, as evidenced by the successful conclusions of the conventions to ban anti- personnel mines and cluster munitions. We hope that similar progress can be achieved in the Arms Trade Treaty in the coming months. Other member states should join the emerging consensus on regulating the trade in arms in a comprehensive manner.

Mr. President, Vienna and its UN Headquarters also serve as a platform for the discussion on sustainable development. We welcome the decision of the Secretary Gen- eral to establish an implementation office for his “Sustainable Energy for All” initiative. This will help advancing this important agenda. Universal access to energy, the improvement of energy efficiency, as well as a higher share of renewable energy are goals that will help bring electricity to the billion and a half people worldwide lacking access. Equally, it will help control greenhouse gas emissions and global warming, which is threatening the very existence of many a UN member state. This year’s Conference on Sustainable Development marked the beginning of a new era, renewing the perspectives for future generations via the Sus- tainable Development Goals, tailored to the needs of different countries or groups of states and regions. While implementing these new global goals, we should not cease our efforts towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals by its target date 2015.

Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen, Austria remains fully committed to an effective multilateral system. There- fore, we will support your efforts, Mr. President, and that of the Secretary General to further increase the effectiveness of our organization in order to better enable us to face the challenges of our time.

322 Selected Documents 18.9. Statement by Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Dr. Michael Spindelegger at the 56th Regular Session of the IAEA General Conference, Vienna, 17 September 2012 Mr. President, Mr. Director-General, Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates, First of all let me first express my deep and sincere condolences for the victims of the shocking events last week in Libya. Having the privilege of being the representative of the host country, let me continue my tradition of starting with a hearty welcome to all delegates to Austria. We are proud of hosting such an important organisation, and I congratulate you, Mr. President, on your election to preside over the 56th Gen- eral Conference. In addition, let me also very cordially welcome the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago that has recently decided to join the Agency.

Mr. President, At this General Conference, I would like to highlight Austrian positions on three thematic areas: 1. First: Austria stands for responsible uses of nuclear science and technology. 2. Second: Austria supports all efforts to prevent the proliferation of military uses. 3. Third: Austria calls on all States to join in creating a nuclear weapon free world quickly and effectively. Let me expand on these three points: (1) On the peaceful uses of nuclear power, I would like to stress that, also in times of increasing demand for energy and while respecting international law and national sovereignty, Austria feels obliged and entitled to voice its concerns regarding the safety and security of nuclear installations. The protection of the Austrian population and the environment is of paramount importance for the Austrian government. In all cases of nuclear installations that might have a negative impact on Austria, we will use all legal means available to protect our safety interests. This also means supporting all measures to ensure maximum transparency and participation. I reiterate that a key objective of Austrian nuclear safety policy remains the creation of high and binding safety standards for nuclear power plants and other fuel cycle facilities. We take note that – even after and despite the “Fukushima nuclear catastrophe” – there is still interest in nuclear power in a number of countries. We follow the discourse and the pertinent developments with great attention. However, if a 323 Selected Documents country decides to use nuclear power, we are of the firm conviction that it has to do this under the highest safety, security and non-proliferation standards. On the peaceful uses of nuclear science and technology, I would like to add that Austria has – for a very long time – been home to nuclear scientists, physicists and researchers, including Nobel prize winning ones like Erwin Schrödinger. Another scientist, Lise Meitner, refused to bow to political pressure to work on the atomic bomb. Nowadays, it is clear that Austrian nuclear scientists work “to harness the atom for peace”, to use a phrase we are all familiar with. This year’s scientific forum on “Food for the Future”, which high-lights joint activities of the Agency with the FAO in Rome, gives another good example of the many peaceful applications of nuclear energy. Other applications in climate science, health and related to water management also show the valuable contribution nuclear science can make in addressing the world’s pressing social, environmental and development needs. Over the years that I have been in office, I have come to highly appreciate the central role this organisation plays in global nuclear developments. I am very conscious of the central role which the host country of an organisation can play in assuring the smooth functioning of its work. Therefore, Austria has continuously been providing in-kind contributions for the Agency’s facilities in Vienna and at the laboratories at Seibersdorf. Today, Austria also pledges to continue to support the Technical Cooperation Fund in full and on time with its assessed contribution in 2013.

Mr. President, (2) “Harnessing the atom for peace” also means preventing its use for military purposes. We cannot afford to add to the existing risks of civil nuclear energy those related to growing global nuclear weapons arsenals and a rising number of nuclear armed states. Alongside the continuous efforts to remove the root causes of nuclear proliferation, we must extend the existing non-proliferation tools, in particular also the additional protocol to comprehensive safeguards agreements, to all countries around the globe. We must ensure their implementation without any loop-holes and thus eliminate any possibilities to break away from civilian uses and turn to a military night-mare. On this way, we will need to take several hurdles, find creative solutions for the interim in specific situations and contexts; but the final commitment must be equally strong for each and every country.

Mr. President, Austria fully endorses the positions of the European Union also in this context. One area of particular concern that I would like to mention is the situation regarding the nuclear programme in the Islamic Republic of Iran. It is frustrating and disappointing that uncertainties about the peaceful nature of 324 Selected Documents this programme still remain after so many years of negotiations and attention. The tools necessary to be able to assure the world of Iran’s peaceful intentions exist. I appeal to Iran to allow the Agency to make substantive progress in its verification work to be able to close this deeply worrying file soon.

Mr. President, (3) Let me now turn to my last point. The arguments I used for non-proliferation hold also true for nuclear disarmament. The only guarantee against the risk of proliferation of nuclear weapons is their complete elimination. Moreover, the arguments in favour of non-proliferation, and the support by the international community for such measures, depend on credible steps towards nuclear disarmament. Nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation must go hand in hand. The catastrophic accidents at the power plants at Chernobyl and recently at Fukushima have demonstrated clearly that Murphy’s law is applicable also in the nuclear field: “Whatever can go wrong, will go wrong.” However, we cannot afford to wait until something goes wrong with nuclear weapons. The humanitarian costs would be overwhelming. There is no justifiable reason why the whole world should continue to be exposed to such a risk. The path to a world without nuclear weapons may be complex and difficult but reason demands that we take this path. We already have legal instruments like the NPT and strong institutions like this Agency and the CTBTO that help us in this endeavour. We also have growing global support for nuclear disarmament and the goal of a world without nuclear weapons. Furthermore, there is hope that the countries of the Middle East will follow the examples of nuclear weapons free zones and be able to start a process towards the creation of a zone free from nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction in the Middle East. Austria strongly supports this process. There is no reason why such a project should not be extended to the whole world.

Mr. President, Director-General, Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates, The General Conference of the Agency, and in fact the Agency itself, represent unique opportunities, unique global forums for all of us Member States to discuss and negotiate important nuclear issues in a constructive manner. We cherish such a unique forum. We have seen on numerous occasions, how constructively we can work together and achieve results. I am fully aware that delegates will have a week full of hard work ahead of them. Therefore, let me conclude by expressing my best wishes to all delegates for a successful General Conference. Thank you. 325 Selected Documents 18.10. Statement by State Secretary Dr. Wolfgang Waldner at the 19th Session of the UN Human Rights Council, Geneva, 27 February 2012 Madame President, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, Let me start my remarks by addressing the human rights crisis in the Syrian Arab Republic. The mounting death toll is a source of grave concern for all of us. I am shocked by the reports and evidence presented by High Commis- sioner Navi Pillay and the International Commission of Inquiry that crimes against humanity have been committed by the Syrian government. I call on the Syrian authorities to immediately end the brutal assault on their own people. Austria welcomes all steps by the international community to end the suffering of the Syrian people. In this respect, I welcome the appointment of Kofi Annan as Special Envoy on the Syrian crisis. Austria also fully supports tomorrow’s urgent debate in this respect. It is our duty to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable for these crimes. The International Criminal Court should start proceedings against these perpetrators. We support the Commission of Inquiry in the pursuit of its mandate and call on the Syrian Government to provide it with all cooperation and information required. I am pleased to announce that Austria will support the important work of the OHCHR in Syria with a voluntary financial contribution.

Madame President, Let me turn to some of Austria’s priorities for the work of the Council: The year 2012 marks the 20th anniversary of the adoption of the Declara- tion on the Rights of Persons belonging to National or Ethnic, Religious and Linguistic Minorities. We appreciate the work of the Independent Expert on minority issues in promoting the implementation of the Declaration. Austria is proud to be the main sponsor of a panel on 13 March which will focus on achievements, best practices and challenges in the Declaration’s implementation. It will also collect ideas on how to integrate more effectively the rights of persons belonging to minorities into the work of the Council. I would like to invite all of you to actively engage and participate in the discussion. At this session of the Council, Austria will introduce a resolution on the Forum on Minority Issues. The first four sessions were successfully completed and have addressed the right to education, the right to effective political participation, the right to effective participation in economic life as well as the rights of minority women and girls. We hope for your support to ensure 326 Selected Documents that the Forum remains this unique platform for dialogue and cooperation involving a wide range of stakeholders. Austria is committed to contributing to the respect of freedom of religion or belief. We are thus deeply concerned about growing discrimination and the rising number of violent attacks against members of religious minorities and their places of worship in many parts of the world. Especially those who have chosen a religion that differs from the majority often face enormous difficulties, sometimes even putting their own life at risk. Wethus urgently need to step up our common efforts to make human rights policy more responsive to these pressing needs.

Madame President, Another source of concern for Austria is the worldwide increase in attacks against journalists. It is unacceptable to see a steadily growing number of journalists threatened, arbitrarily detained or forced to leave their country. The increase in targeted killings is of particular concern. Such attacks constitute a serious threat to fundamental freedoms, democracy and to the cause of human rights as a whole. Under international law there is a clear duty and responsibility of governments to protect journalists. This is a fundamental pillar of the universal, inalienable right to press freedom. Impunity for those responsible for attacks is a major obstacle for the effective protection of journalists. The fact that more than 90 % of reported cases of abuse remain unresolved speaks for itself. The current climate of impunity is prompting fear and leads to self-censorship of journalists. The Human Rights Council needs to send a strong message to perpetrators who kill, assault, intimidate or lock away journalists: These acts have to stop and perpetrators must be brought to justice. In this context, Austria organised expert consultations in Vienna last Novem- ber that resulted in a road-map towards a more efficient protection framework. Let me highlight some of the concrete elements: 1. We need to be more systematic and vigorous in condemning attacks against journalists and violations of their rights; 2. We need to devote more efforts to fighting impunity and to holding the perpetrators of attacks against journalists accountable; 3. We need to ensure better cooperation and coordination among the various international, regional and local actors, including in establishing effective early warning mechanisms; 4. We need to call on all relevant actors to comply with existing standards on the protection of journalists; 327 Selected Documents

5. Finally, we need to ensure full cooperation with existing protection mechanisms, in particular with Special Rapporteurs and Representatives, who play a crucial role in monitoring compliance. Besides a series of further activities, our ultimate objective is to achieve a substantial resolution by the Council with a view to placing the protection of journalists firmly on the international agenda. In the months to come we will continue to engage in a dialogue with all of you on how to move forward the discussion and ultimately ensure that journalists can report without fear of being attacked, harassed or even killed.

Madame President, The protection of the human rights of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) is a longstanding Austrian priority in the Human Rights Council. Millions of IDPs are still waiting for durable solutions that ensure full respect of their human rights. Austria remains committed to advance their cause in the Council. At this session, we are looking forward to holding a side-event, together with OHCHR and the Special Rapporteur, on the role of women in peace processes and durable solutions to internal displacement. We are also looking forward to introducing a resolution during the next session of the Council.

Madame President, The promotion and protection of children’s rights is a key priority for Austria during our membership in the Council. I am proud to announce that tomorrow Austria will be among the first states to sign the optional protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child adopted during the last session of the General Assembly. We are looking forward to soon receive the necessary clarification from the Committee on the procedures it seeks to apply for the treatment of complaints launched under this protocol. Austria aims at contributing to an increased protection of children from violence and abuse worldwide. It is in the administration of justice where states have a particularly clear duty to set norms in accordance with their human rights obligations and where they must abide by these norms in their application. Unfortunately, in reality, it is in the administration of justice where human rights are often violated. Children are particularly vulnerable. The focus of our resolutions on the administration of justice has thus been on juvenile justice, underlining the importance of restorative justice and rehabilitation as its aims. In January this year we supported the Special Repre- sentative on Violence against Children, Ms. Marta Santos Pais, in hosting an interagency consultation on violence against children in detention in Vienna. In order to further enhance our support to the promotion of children’s rights, Austria is now presenting our first ever candidate to the Committee on the 328 Selected Documents

Rights of the Child, Justice Renate Winter. Justice Winter has over 30 years of hands-on national and international experience in juvenile justice and child protection, working with State parties from diverse legal cultures on the implementation of the Convention on the Rights of the Child. As an international judge in post-conflict situations, she successfully tackled challenges in the protection of women and children, including the rehabilitation and reintegration of children affected by armed conflict. I am confident that Jus- tice Winter will enhance the high professional standing and contribute significantly to the work of the Committee.

Madame President, All these initiatives pursue one overriding objective of Austria’s international engagement: fostering the rule of law. It is only through the vigorous pursuit of the rule of law in all countries that a life in dignity and freedom will be ensured for everyone. The recent developments in the Arab world are witness to this fundamental principle. Thank you.

18.11. Speech by Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister Dr. Michael Spindelegger at the International Cultural Meeting 2012, Vienna, 4 September 2012 Ladies and Gentlemen, Dear friends of international culture, In times of change, Austria’s international cultural policy acts as an important international sensorium. It provides us with an idea of Austria’s position in the world and answers important questions with regard to the image Austria enjoys internationally. Our image in the world is indeed to a large extent shaped by culture. We are often perceived primarily as a nation of culture. It is very pleasing to note that Austria’s innovative-creative potential enjoys impressive international success, that Austria’s former cultural achievements continue to be celebrated and that Austria’s cultural traditions are perpetuated while at the same time new, innovative steps are being taken. This year’s International Cultural Meeting focuses on virtual and real cultural activities. We have ventured into new dimensions of communication. Since the internet revolution we have experienced a further increase in the ubiquitous availability of information. The virtual world has also had an impact on the way we work, on our daily lives, on our societal structures, and yes – it has perhaps even changed the way in which we perceive our environment. And at the same time, thanks 329 Selected Documents to social media, millions of people experience new relational levels, which influence lifestyle and consciousness. Today’s conference has shown that it is culture in particular that is able to make a qualitative difference in countering our fast-paced modern lifestyles with slowness and profundity. An example of this quality is the project “schreibArt”, which is being presented here today. The project puts the spotlight on contemporary literary work in Austria and focuses on the longevity of written texts in contrast to the transitoriness of virtual communication. In his novel “Das Fenster” (The Window), one of the authors participating in “schreibArt”, Richard Ober- mayr, focuses on the phenomenon of speed when he says (and I quote): “What if the past were to store everything up, ready to return it all to us one day in the future? If a second day were to be following in our trail, gathering up all the things we thoughtlessly overlook as we rush on by, the things we, in our haste to keep up with the present, end up leaving along the wayside?” Despite all the experiences in the virtual worlds of culture, I remain convinced of the important role played by real creative activity. There is no substitute for true, profound cultural dialogue and personal engagement of society with works of art and for intellectual exchange with artists. There is a need for personal encounters and for the physical locations that we make available for this purpose.

Ladies and Gentlemen, Just as we are perceived throughout the world in terms of our cultural heritage and our contemporary art, it is our aim to ensure that we maintain our global reach within the international cultural network. In an interview that recently appeared in the “Standard” newspaper, Maja Haderlap pointed out that it is “the duty of cultural policy to create institutions that facilitate artistic work and provide the framework conditions that help to give rise to the emergence of art.” This is of course no easy task given the pressure on public funds in times such as these – and yet we can find ways to make improvements in terms of logistics and enhanced efficiency. It can be achieved through organisational measures, for example, which do not automatically result in costs to the tax payer. It can be achieved, for example, with the help of private funds and funds from private industry. I am pleased to tell you that our cultural fora and representations abroad are not only very active, but also very successful indeed in attracting third-party funding. Over the previous year, for every euro of their operational cultural budget, the cultural fora and representations abroad succeeded in raising 75 cents in sponsorship funds. This marks a considerable increase compared with the 45 cents of 2010 – an increase, which is all the more remarkable in the midst of crisis-ridden global economic developments. 330 Selected Documents

I have also decided on taking a step that reflects the broad network of Aus- trian international cultural policy work and to expand the range of services provided to our creative artists. In addition to the currently existing 30 cultural fora, we will thus establish points of contact for culture at all of our international representations – Austrian Cultural Contact Points. At each of our embassies or consulates general a member of staff will be clearly identified as “cultural officer”. This person will be responsible for cultural affairs and the designated contact person for our artists. All of our representations abroad are thus involved in supporting artistic and cultural activities. In cooperation with the network of the Austria Libraries, the Austria Insti- tutes and the OAD lecturers, Austria enjoys a global presence, which suit- ably reflects our commitment to Austria as a nation of culture. This does, of course, require the securing of public funds. I am committed to public sector funding of culture, which is an important element of cultural policy and thus also of international cultural policy. I am therefore very pleased indeed to be able to report that – despite the current intensive cost-saving measures being implemented in my Ministry – it has been possible to ensure that next year’s budget for international cultural activities will remain at current levels. Austria’s cultural fora and representations abroad also play an important role in managing relationships in the scientific field – an area, which has gained in importance since the adoption of the Federal Government’s Research, Technology and Innovation Strategy last year.

Ladies and Gentlemen, A year ago, here at the International Cultural Meeting, I presented the new International Cultural Policy Concept. With its clearly defined goals it has also proven successful in its implementation. Through their ambitious programmes, the cultural fora and the representations abroad have opened up the way, providing Austrian creative artists access to international cultural discourse and supporting them in forming international networks. We celebrated the 10th anniversary of the Austrian Cultural Forum in New York with a comprehensive programme of events, including large-scale exhibition projects and a series of composition commissions awarded to outstanding composers. As part of events marking Maribor’s nomination as the European Capital of Culture 2012, October will be “Austria Month” during which we will be presenting a highly ambitious programme. A large Austrian cultural festival in Sotschi, which is due to start in just a few days’ time, is organised in the context of our focus on the Black Sea region. Together with Poland and Switzerland, Austria will be hosting the Cervan- tino Festival, the world’s largest Latin-American cultural festival, where we present one of the largest cultural programmes ever to have been presented 331 Selected Documents at a cultural festival in Latin America, covering the whole range of Austrian creative arts. In the EU Member States culture is an important element in the coalescence of the people of Europe – and for further steps towards integration due to be taken over the next few years. We are approaching 2014 – the “Year of European Contemporary History” as it is occasionally called – in which we will commemorate three important historical events: the outbreak of the First World War, the beginning of the Second World War and the fall of the Iron Curtain. In view of the numerous events that are planned to take place – in particular with regard to the 100th anniversary of the outbreak of the First World War – and in which Austria will play an active role, I have asked our former Ambassador to Washington and Berlin, Christian Prosl, to act as coordinator for the projects being organised by my Ministry. The internet has opened up huge opportunities but has at the same time left us more vulnerable. The internet and social media played an important role in the Arab Spring. On the other hand, it has provided dictatorships and repressive regimes with new forms of censorship. They use communication channels, which are originally democratic, and now seek to develop them further in order to increase their control over the population. In recent years, Austria has played a proactive role in defending human rights and fundamental freedoms as a member of the relevant international bodies. During our membership of the United Nations Security Council we celebrated a major success with the unanimous adoption of resolution 1894 on protecting civilians in armed conflict. Austria has been a member of the United Nations Human Rights Council since 2011 and we are currently working on a resolution on freedom of the press and the safety and protection of journalists. Having become a member of the Executive Board last year, we are also focusing on this issue within UNESCO. Activities in the field of intercultural dialogue are of particular concern to me. Indeed, the Global Forum of the United Nations Alliance of Civiliza- tions due to take place in the Hofburg Palace in Vienna in February 2013 will mark the highlight of Austria’s international efforts to encourage intercultural dialogue. Outstanding personalities and civil society organisations will gather in Vienna to exchange ideas and share their experiences of intercultural dialogue. By then, the newly established Dialogue Centre in Vienna, which is dedicated to fostering interreligious and intercultural dialogue, will also have opened and will be able to make its contribution to this summit meeting.

Ladies and Gentlemen, I hope that today’s International Cultural Meeting has given you the opportunity to gain a proper overview of the Austrian international cultural policy 332 Selected Documents network’s capabilities. I would like to thank Director General Martin Eich- tinger, the staff of the International Cultural Policy Department and everyone both on stage and behind the scenes for all their hard work in making this year’s International Cultural Meeting such as success. I also thank the remarkably talented artists who have taken part today. And, last but not least, I would also like to thank everyone in the audience who, in one form or another, endeavours to support aspects and concerns of international cultural policy.

18.12. “Austrian Development Cooperation in response to a changing environment”. Address by State Secretary Dr. Reinhold Lopatka at the international panel discussion “Change and Challenges for Development Cooperation”, Vienna, Parliament, 11 October The world of development cooperation is a world of significant changes in recent years. These changes are based on alterations like the new global distribution of power and wealth, the growing population, the financial and economic crisis, migration or climate change. Consequently, because of the global nature of the challenges ahead of us, politics have to globalize as well in order to find appropriate answers. No country, not even the biggest one and certainly not one the size of Austria, can find a solution on its own. Only through collective action can we foster the creative, outside-the-box type of thinking which allows us to shed old imperatives of policy making and find innovative solutions to global challenges. While there are several ways of approaching these challenges, we believe that development cooperation offers a unique opportunity to address many of them. As such, development does not only help to improve the lives of the around 900 million people that live in poverty today, it is a way to tackle problems that concern the world at large. It is an opportunity to sustain global goods, and to overcome global “bads”. Since 2000, the MDGs – Millenium Development Goals – have provided the main framework for global development cooperation. However, looking beyond their expiration date in 2015, a new paradigm will be required. A paradigm that we believe should be built on human rights, inclusivity and sustainability, and that integrates the Sustainable Development Goals we are discussing right now into the process. The success of the ongoing post-2015 debate will depend to a large extent on the strength and sincerity of our global collaboration. Only through the spirit 333 Selected Documents of a global partnership, as was laid out in Busan, will we be able to find sustainable answers to the challenges facing us.

Ladies and Gentlemen, This understanding of development cooperation has important consequences for Austria and our future engagement in this field. While building and strengthening partnerships is crucial for all countries, it is of particular importance for a smaller country like Austria. The kind of partnerships we seek will foster inclusivity by integrating and linking the increasing number of development actors. Naturally, partnerships are not only built on rights, but also on responsibility. We attach great importance to this aspect and it guides our engagement in partnerships at all levels. At the multilateral level, much of our engagement will be channelled through EU institutions and in particular the EU-Africa partnerships. However, we also consider the United Nations system, the International Financial Institu- tions, the Busan Global Partnership and other working streams of the OECD as very important frameworks. Through our engagement with these institutions, we want to advance the integration of new development actors like the BRICS-States. At the same time, while the integration of new actors is crucial, the development community must upheld certain standards. Our goal has to be an improvement of the accountability mechanisms to monitor abidance by these standards. Many of the principles Austria supports at the multilateral level also guide our policies at the bilateral level. The cooperation with our partner countries will continue to reflect the spirit of Busan and the Paris Declaration. As such, we aim to empower our partner countries to take ownership and drive their national development agenda. For our part, we will approach each country with an open mind and with the understanding that no two situations are alike and can be solved with one and the same recipe. We will listen to our partners and make every effort to remain a reliable and accountable counterpart. In addition to multilateral and bilateral partnerships, we also attach great importance to cooperation at the domestic level. Given the range of development actors, including parliament, civil society organizations, the private sector and academia, a coherent, coordinated and complementary approach is essential. Policy coherence for development is the key word and I am pleased to say that we have achieved considerable progress in this area. In particular, our hosts today, the Austrian Parliament, deserve credit for their efforts in this context. Yet, there is still a long road ahead of us and we need to continue to strengthen coordination at the domestic level. 334 Selected Documents

Ladies and Gentlemen, For taking on an influential role on the international stage, we first have to be very clear about our overall objectives, as laid out in the Austrian Develop- ment Act. Subsequently, we need to identify the areas in which we possess comparative strengths and can therefore make a difference in attaining these objectives. The Austrian 3-year-program of development policy is central in this regard, as it outlines our areas of specialization and thus prevents a fragmentation of our funding. In the coming years, we will continue to focus on the nexus of water, energy, agriculture and forestation, on the development of the private sector and on the promotion of human rights. In line with our overall vision of sustainable and future-oriented development, we take environmental and gender considerations into account in all aspects of our work. Likewise, we consider training and education as the foundation for a promising future and therefore as a key element towards achieving the development goals. As an active contributor to the Busan process, we commit ourselves to results transparent and mutually accountable cooperation. Finally let me point out the importance of continuous innovation for the field of development. This includes complementing traditional financing sources of ODA with more innovative mechanisms, such as the financial transaction tax, which will be introduced now by eleven members of the EU. And it also means improving coherence and synergies between development cooperation and policies in other areas, such as trade, agriculture or energy.

Ladies and Gentlemen, development cooperation has been a challenging area in the past and it will remain a challenge for the future. However, decisive improvements are possible if we build upon strong partnerships and approach key issues in an effective, innovative and open-minded manner. And there is no doubt that, if the public and the private sector and civil society in Austria join forces, we can together make a considerable contribution to this cause. Thank you very much!

335 Selected Documents 18.13. Statement by State Secretary Dr. Reinhold Lopatka at the first session of the Assembly of Parties to the Agreement for the Establishment of the International Anti-Corruption Academy (IACA) as an International Organization, Vienna International Centre, 29 November 2012 Madam President, At the outset, I would like to convey warm greetings from the Austrian For- eign Minister and Vice-Chancellor Michael Spindelegger to all the distinguished delegates. I highly appreciate the fact that so many parties have followed our invitation to this first Assembly of Parties. This is a very encouraging sign of commitment from IACA’s constituency.

Madam President, Distinguished Delegates, We all share the common understanding that corruption is a global threat which affects public as well as private sectors in all societies. There is also common agreement that the effects of corruption are enormously detrimental to the rule of law, democracy, social and economic development. My own country is not spared. Continuous efforts and firm commitment are required to prevent and combat it. Austria has recently strengthened her criminal law provisions on corruption and re-enforced prosecution. The Austrian Parlia- ment established a committee inquiring into political responsibilities for corruption cases up to the government level. The Austrian Government has also taken a variety of measures and initiatives on awareness-raising, prevention, education and training. The Ministry of the Interior has established a Single Point of Contact to share information on corruption cases. Special courses, conferences and events such as the annual Austrian Anti-Corruption Day are regularly organised. At the same time Austria is actively engaged in anti-corruption efforts on the European and international level. We support initiatives like the Interna- tional Anti-Corruption Summer School and the European Anti-Corruption Training. We are convinced that strengthening cooperation is a prerequisite for effectively countering corrupt practices on the national as well as the international level. With the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) we have an important legally binding instrument in place. The UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is playing a crucial role in providing legal and technical assistance to ensure full and effective implementation of this convention. Austria is a strong supporter of both, UNCAC and UNODC. Still, there was an additional need for an independent centre of excellence in the field of anti-corruption education, training, networking and research 336 Selected Documents in order to make our fight against corruption more effective, more successful and more sustainable. Therefore, together with UNODC and other partners such as the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF), we promoted the idea of establishing the International Anti-Corruption Academy as an international organisation. The rest of the story is well known to all of you. IACA’s successful inaugural conference took place in September 2010. The founding agreement entered into force a few months later, and the number of states and international organisations becoming part of IACA’s overall constituency has continuously and significantly increased since then. IACA has managed to become operational within a very short period of time and offers first training programs, seminars and workshops.

Madam President, You have provided a comprehensive overview and assessment of IACA’s achievements up to now and of the main challenges ahead, which will be discussed in detail by this Assembly. Let me now focus on what Austria believes should be the next crucial steps for a smooth transition from the build-up phase to a sustainably functioning fully fledged international organisation: First of all, we have to ensure continuity and legal certainty. We do not start from scratch today. The Academy is already operating. It has its premises, provisional staff, has been granted financial resources and has concluded working arrangements. In a nutshell, there is already an ‘Acquis’ of IACA, that has to be endorsed by this Assembly and which we can build on. Secondly, based on what has been achieved so far, the Assembly has to set up the organisation’s regular institutional structure. It is essential to elect a Board of Governors, which will be quickly in a position to take the necessary institutional and other decisions. Therefore the Austrian nominee for the Board has proposed to convene and to host the first meeting of the Board immediately following the Assembly’s session. Thirdly, IACA needs a sustainable financial basis in order to fulfil its mandate. Austria has provided not only substantial financial contributions but also the premises and a significant part of the provisional staff. We are fully convinced that this investment is worthwhile. As host country we will certainly continue to support IACA in the best possible way. We are more than grateful to those that have made contributions to IACA and the fight against corruption. However, more voluntary contributions are needed. We therefore encourage all parties as well as signatories to contribute to the successful development of this international organisation for the benefit of all of us. 337 Selected Documents

Madam President, Distinguished delegates, The establishment of IACA and its future is particularly near and dear to us. Following the international community’s overwhelming interest to participate in this organisation, IACA’s Transitional Team has shown outstanding dedication and has undertaken enormous efforts. Let me express Austria’s acknowledgement and gratitude to this team. The build-up phase has been an impressive success story. IACA’s constituency has never stopped growing. It is now the parties’ responsibility to ensure that our organisation will be able to consolidate and to develop further on a solid institutional and a sustainable budgetary basis. We have jointly set up IACA. Let us now again combine our efforts in strengthening and promoting this organisation. Thank you for your attention.

18.14. Statement by State Secretary Dr. Wolfgang Waldner at the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20), Rio de Janeiro, 21 June 2012 Mr./Ms. Vice-President, Distinguished Delegates, Ladies and Gentlemen, At the outset, let me thank the government of Brazil and the city of Rio de Janeiro for hosting this important conference. We have gathered here in Rio to take stock of the achievements on sustainable development over the last 20 years and to decide on our way forward. Rio 1992 was a milestone for environment and development and its outcome is still valid. Despite the progress achieved on the national, regional as well as the international levels, we are still facing considerable environmental and developmental challenges. Climate change, loss of biodiversity, hunger and extreme poverty demand urgent action and our utmost attention. The international community therefore has to strengthen its efforts for sustainable development. All three dimensions of sustainable development – namely its ecological, economical and social dimensions – are interrelated. This conference clearly demonstrates that green economy, the protection of our planet also as provider of food and water are essential preconditions to nourish our rapidly growing world population. Green economy and poverty reduction are therefore directly interlinked. Furthermore, I wish to stress the need to especially protect and promote the socially most disadvantaged – women, children and disabled persons. Without enhancing the living conditions and rights of these groups, sustainable development might remain a mere concept. 338 Selected Documents

Tomorrow, we will formally adopt the outcome document of this conference “The Future We Want”. Austria welcomes the outcome document as a step in the right direction and a basis for further action. Rio+20 marks the beginning of a new form of multilateralism – of a dialogue not only involving state actors, but all levels of society and stakeholder groups. The life of future generations is not only a responsibility for governments, but also the civil society, the private sector, the scientific community and non-governmental organisations. However, we would have hoped to achieve even more concrete and more ambitious results at the occasion of this conference. Austria as a member of the European Union has come to Rio committed to take action on green economy, on the institutional framework and on sustainable development at large. We accept that we need more time and in depth discussions on some of these issues. And we look forward to continue our discussions in good faith. I am pleased that we agreed on a common, global understanding of green economy. And it is clear: green economy does not replace the concept of sustainable development. It is a means to achieve it! Green economy has many advantages, resulting in win-win situations. For example in Austria the environmental sector is booming and environmental technologies “Made in Austria” are well known all over the world. This is good for the environment but also good for the economy. Green economy on the other hand should not lead to new trade barriers for developing countries. And we have made this clear here in Rio. Another important sector for Austria is sustainable energy. In particular renewable energy and energy efficiency are the cornerstones of our national energy policy. Currently, almost one third of the total energy consumption as well as some two thirds of our electricity consumption are provided by renewable energies. In 2010, renewable energies saved 30 million tons of CO2 emissions. We share our know-how in this sector also with other countries. Therefore, energy has been a thematic focus of the Austrian Development Cooperation since many years. In line with this long-standing policy and commitment, Austria fully supports the “Sustainable Energy for All” initiative of the Sec- retary General of the United Nations.

Ladies and Gentlemen, Austria welcomes the agreement on Sustainable Development Goals and will actively engage in their elaboration. In our view, priorities such as energy, water and food security must be covered by those new targets. In this context, I wish to underline that we have to remain committed to the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals by 2015. We will have to work together on the post 2015 agenda, formulating the new Sustainable 339 Selected Documents

Development Goals while keeping our special attention to the development agenda.

Mr. President, In closing, l would like to reiterate: Rio+20 is another step in the right direction towards sustainable development, including green economy and the fight against poverty. But many more decisive steps from all of us have to follow to achieve “the future we want”. Let us use the momentum generated at this occasion to continue the work towards this future, especially for the benefit and in the interest of our children and coming generations. I thank you.

340 Index

Index Index Index

ACP 62 Asia-Europe Foundation. see ASEF ADA 92, 205, 209–211, 229, 230, 232–235, Asia Europe Meeting. see ASEM 237–239, 242, 279, 283 Association Agreement 35, 65, 66, 79, 81, ADC 89, 91, 92, 158, 200, 206, 209, 229– 85, 88, 89, 91, 92 240, 263, 333, 339 Association of Southeast Asian Adriatic-Ionian Initiative. see AII Nations. see ASEAN Advice for Travellers Abroad 273 ATT 163, 227, 228, 322 Afghanistan 55, 61, 84, 109, 118, 124, 126, AU 55, 93, 96, 97, 99, 102, 103, 107, 138, 127, 139, 140, 143, 144, 150, 225 139, 195, 311, 312, 320 AFISMA 102 AuslandsösterreicherInnen-Netzwerk 6 African-led International Support Mission Auslandsösterreicher-Weltbund 6 to Mali. see AFISMA Australia 6, 110, 135, 136, 215, 222, 226 African Union. see AU Austria Institute 252, 263, 266, 284, 331 African Union Mission in Somalia. see Austria Libraries 252, 261, 262, 266, 267, AMISOM 331 Agriculture 22, 40, 98, 177, 209–211, 217, Austrian Development Agency. see ADA 236 Austrian Development Cooperation. see AII 37, 73 ADC Albania 35, 64, 66, 67, 78, 79, 140, 152, Austrian German Language Diploma 262, 154, 200, 225, 231, 232, 238, 255, 260, 263 297 Austrian representations abroad 1, 2, 206, ALEPH 283 263–265, 273, 277, 279, 280, 283 Algeria 55, 172, 194, 244 Austrians abroad 1, 5–8, 283 Alpine Convention 158 Austria Office 252 Alps 37, 158 AU-UN hybrid operation in Darfur. see Al-Qaida 172, 173 UNAMID AMISOM 97, 98 Azerbaijan 55–57, 90–92, 143, 154, 177, AMSDE 245, 246 195, 215, 254, 289 Andorra 33, 152, 197, 289 Angola 93, 108 Bahrain 124, 191 Annual Meeting of Sustainable Balkans 22, 55, 64, 85, 111, 150, 257, 259, Development Experts. see AMSDE 291, 297, 298 Anti-Personnel Mines 225 Bangladesh 60, 130, 131 AÖWB 6 Belarus 55, 57, 87, 88, 90, 125, 141–143, APEC 87 145, 149, 155, 190, 239 APPEAR 231, 233 Belgium 15, 20, 33, 177, 234, 289 Arab Peninsula 123 Belize 114, 115 Arab Spring 56, 119, 149, 151, 160, 161, Bhutan 131, 231, 233, 237 181, 220, 290, 291, 307, 314, 332 Biodiversity 247, 248 Architecture 256 Biological and Toxin Weapons Argentina 113, 114, 191, 195, 214 Convention. see BTWC Armenia 52, 55–57, 90, 91, 143, 145, 154, Biosafety 43, 248 195, 227, 237, 239, 242, 254 Black Sea area 253, 254 Arms Trade Treaty. see ATT Black Sea region 233, 237, 254, 261, 288, ASEAN 132, 134, 135 290, 298, 331 ASEF 60 Black Sea Synergy 254 ASEM 60 BMVIT 68, 264 Asia 4, 5, 60, 61, 85, 86, 109, 118, 126, BMWF 264 127, 130, 133, 135, 136, 266, 274, 280 Bolivia 113, 114, 289 341 Index

BOMCA 61 CFSP 24, 25, 28, 54, 55, 73, 81, 137, 193 Border Management in Central Asia. see Chad 138, 177 BOMCA Charta of Fundamental Rights of the Bosnia and Herzegovina 54, 55, 64, 66, 67, European Union 194 79–81, 86, 139, 140, 146, 154, 215, 227, Chemical Weapons Convention. see CWC 255, 289, 298, 301 Children's rights. see Rights of the Child Brazil 63, 98, 113, 114, 130, 167, 195, 202, Chile 63, 113, 115, 177, 178, 195 215, 218, 338 China 60, 90, 98, 99, 115, 118, 120, 126– BRIC states 98 130, 134, 135, 167, 170, 179, 183, 195, Brunei 134, 135 214, 218, 219, 222, 261, 265, 266, 292 BTWC 224 CIMIC 124 Budget 108, 229, 236, 278, 279 CIS 4, 56, 126, 140 Bulgaria 52, 154, 218, 253–255 Civil-Military Co-operation. see CIMIC Burgenländische Gemeinschaft 6 Climate change 338 Burkina Faso 1, 103, 108, 177, 223, 230, CLRAE 156, 157 235 Burundi 97, 101, 175 CMP 43, 247 CND 164 CoE Steering Committee for Human CABSI 61 Rights. see CDDH CADAP 61 Co-funding 238 Cambodia 110, 132, 134, 195, 225 COHOM 193, 194 Canada 4, 59, 60, 110, 112, 113, 176, 208 Colombia 63, 115, 116, 177, 195, 218, 274 CAP 40 Commission on Crime Prevention and Cape Verde 105, 232 Criminal Justice. see CCPCJ Caribbean 62, 63, 113, 115, 117, 234, 288 Commission on the Status of Women. see CARICOM 234 CSW Caucasus 85, 90–92, 142, 155, 237, 239, Committee of Ministers 151–157 261, 297 Committee of Permanent CCPCJ 164 Representatives. see COREPER CDDH 197 Committee of the Regions. see CoR CEDAW 201 Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer CEI 73, 157, 158 Space. see COPUOS CELAC 63, 113, 115 Central African Republic 99, 106, 175, 207 Common Agricultural Policy. see CAP Central America 63, 234 Common Consolidated Corporate Tax Base Central American Integration System. see 32 SICA Common Fisheries Policy. see CFP Central Asia 55, 61, 85, 124–127, 140, 143, Common Foreign and Security Policy. see 148, 177, 185, 188, 221, 239, 261 CFSP Central Asia Border Security Initiative. see Common Market of the South. see CABSI MERCOSUR Central Asia Drug Action Programme. see Common Security and Defence Policy. see CADAP CSDP Central Emergency Response Fund. see Commonwealth of Independent States. see CERF CIS Central Europe 73, 138, 157, 253 Community of Latin American and Central European Initiative. see CEI Caribbean States. see CELAC CERF 166, 211 Competitiveness 38, 39 CERN 170, 264 Comprehensive Economic and Trade CETA 60, 113 Agreement. see CETA CEVNI 159 Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban CFP 40, 41 Treaty. see CTBT 342 Index

Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Czech Republic 18, 33, 77, 138, 162, 191, Organization. see CTBTO 251, 253 Conference of Parties. see COP Congress of the Local and Regional DAC 229, 234, 243 Authorities of Europe. see CLRAE Convention on Human Rights 154, 194, Dance 257 196 Danube area 39 Cooperation in the Field of Scientific and Danube Commission. see DC Technical Research. see COST DARUM EUROPA 271 COP 42, 43, 232, 247 DC 111, 159, 174 COPUOS 167 DCA 229 CoR 27, 74, 85, 138, 148, 151, 154–157, DDA 214 196, 198, 203, 206, 260, 296, 302 Democracy 56, 132, 149, 152, 193, 194, COREPER 31 205, 254, 289, 315 COSME 38 Democratic People's Republic of Korea COST 264 129, 192 Costa Rica 116, 169, 170, 215, 218 Democratic Republic of the Congo 55, 62, Côte d'Ivoire 55, 104, 207 93, 99–101, 160, 177, 207 Cotonou Agreement 62, 99, 108 Denmark 20, 25, 188, 233, 265 Council 3, 9–11, 13, 18–25, 27–43, 45–47, Development Assistance Committee. see 49–56, 60, 62–67, 71, 72, 74, 75, 80, DAC 83–85, 90, 96, 99, 104, 105, 110, 120, Development cooperation 82 122, 123, 129, 132, 137, 138, 140, 141, Development Cooperation Act. see DCA 143, 146, 148, 149, 151, 153–157, 160, DFND 159 161, 170, 175, 184–186, 189, 193, 195, Dialogue 59, 61, 90, 139, 151, 161, 176, 196, 198, 200–203, 206, 215, 217, 218, 181, 182, 186, 188, 231, 232, 253, 259, 224, 229, 230, 232, 236, 240, 241, 246, 266, 267, 290, 295, 309, 315, 320, 332 251, 259, 260, 265, 268, 292, 296, 302– Diplomatic Academy 206, 269, 283, 288, 304, 311–313, 319, 321, 326–328, 332 289 Council of Europe. see CoR Djibouti 95, 97, 99 Council Presidency 22, 25, 36, 42, 241 Doha Development Agenda. see DDA Council Secretariat 28 Doha Round 214 Court of Justice of the European Union 19, 26 CPT 154, 197 EAC 108, 232 Crisis management 1 EAPC 149, 150 Croatia 22, 64–66, 82–84, 121, 138, 140, East African Community. see EAC 174, 253–256, 261, 297, 301 Eastern Partnership 56, 57, 89, 153, 254, CSDP 54, 62, 103, 137–139, 289 298 CSW 193, 201 EBRD 57, 220, 221 CTBT 222, 223 ECB 9–15 CTBTO 187, 325 ECCAS 107 CTBT Preparatory Commission. see CTBT ECHR 154, 194, 196 PrepCom ECJ 23, 26 CTBT PrepCom 223 ECMWF 264 Cuba 116 ECOFIN 11, 15, 33 Cultural Forum 252, 256–258, 331 Economic and Financial Affairs Culture 39, 53, 54, 58, 68, 71, 76, 111, Council. see ECOFIN 252–257, 259–262, 265, 266, 331 Economic and Monetary Union 9, 11, CWC 223, 224 18–21, 304 Cyprus 2, 9, 12, 14, 18, 25, 32, 40, 41, 50, Economic Community of Central African 65, 86, 162, 165, 227, 241, 280 States. see ECCAS 343 Index

Economic Community of West African ESM 9, 11–13, 15, 18, 219 States. see ECOWAS ESMA 10 ECOSOC 160, 175, 176, 245 ESPI 264 ECOWAS 102, 103, 107, 108, 232, 235, Estonia 15, 18, 33 320 Ethiopia 95, 96, 98, 200, 205, 225, 236, ECREEE 232, 235 242 ECRI 155, 197 ETS 43, 44 ECtHR 67, 80, 145, 151, 152, 154, 157, EU 1–4, 7, 10–16, 18–69, 72, 73, 75, 76, 196, 197 79–86, 88–92, 95, 99, 100, 102, 103, Ecuador 113, 191 105, 108, 113, 115, 117–127, 130, 133, Education 17, 47, 58, 68, 71, 112, 161, 135–139, 141, 147, 148, 150–152, 155, 181, 204, 205, 231, 233, 256–259, 261– 157–159, 162, 166–168, 171–173, 175, 263, 265, 267 179–181, 188, 190, 192–196, 198–201, EEA 58, 65, 74 204, 206, 207, 209, 212, 214, 220, 224, EEAS 1, 27, 28, 198, 241, 267, 301, 304 227–230, 232–234, 237–241, 243, 244, EFF 36 247–249, 251, 253, 254, 259, 265–267, EFSF 9, 12, 13, 15, 18 270–272, 274, 282, 283, 289, 291–293, EFTA 58, 74 296–298, 300–304, 311–315, 317, 318, E-government 38 320, 324, 332, 334, 335, 339 Egypt 7, 55, 57, 93, 94, 119, 221, 242, 244, EUBAM 89 267 EU Border Assistance Mission to Moldova EIA 77 and Ukraine. see EUBAM EIDHR 194 EU Council 40, 67, 85, 193, 208, 228, 240 ELBA 282 EU Council Working Party on Human Election observation 105 Rights. see COHOM El Salvador 166, 192 EU Emissions Trading System. see ETS Embassies 283 EUFOR Althea 80, 139 EMBC 264 EU HR 55, 61, 81, 123, 137 Employment 34, 303 EUJUST LEX 122 EMU 9, 11, 18, 19 EUMETSAT 264 Energy 30, 34, 41, 42, 44, 45, 59, 88, 122, EUMM Georgia 92 125, 158, 161, 163, 183, 187, 188, 218, EUNIC 112, 265 234, 235, 245, 250, 256, 322, 339 EUPM 80 Enlargement 63, 64 EUPOL Afghanistan 124 ENP 55–57, 88, 95, 139 EUPOL COPPS 119 ENPI 56, 57, 89 EU Police Mission in Bosnia and ENSREG 45 Herzegovina. see EUPM Environment 42, 43, 50, 149, 209–211, EurAsEc 90 217, 221, 232, 234, 240, 243, 245, 246, Eurasian Economic Community. see 265 EurAsEc Environmental impact assessment. see EURATOM 48, 49, 251 EIA Euro 12, 24, 56, 79, 83, 85, 140, 149, 303, EP 7, 8, 11, 12, 18–25, 27, 30, 31, 37, 38, 315, 318 40, 41, 49, 51–53, 59, 123, 152, 304 Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council. see Equality 181, 231 EAPC Equal Treatment Directive 35 EURODAC 51 Erasmus 30, 47, 263 Euro-Mediterranean Partnership 56 ERDF 35 European Bank for Reconstruction and Eritrea 55, 95, 96, 98, 190, 191 Development. see EBRD ESA 50, 264 European Central Bank 9, 12, 14, 19 ESF 35, 36 European Centre for Medium-Range ESFS 10 Weather Forecasts. see ECMWF 344 Index

European Code for Inland Waterways. see European Space Policy Institute. see ESPI CEVNI European Stability Mechanism. see ESM European Commission 3, 10, 12, 19, 21, European Union. see EU 25, 26, 37, 39, 40, 44, 60, 61, 64–66, 68, European Union Agency for Fundamental 79, 136, 137, 153, 155, 177, 186, 194, Rights. see FRA 195, 197, 204, 212, 220, 232, 237, 240, European Water Initiative. see EUWI 241, 244, 251, 265, 270–273, 297, 304 Eurozone 303 European Commission against Racism and EUSDR 67, 68, 159, 253, 254, 298 Intolerance. see ECRI EU Special Representative. see EUSR European Committee for the Prevention EUSR 55, 62, 67, 81, 194 of Torture and Inhuman or Degrading EU Strategy for the Horn of Africa 62 Treatment or Punishment. see CPT EU Visa Information System. see VIS European Convention on Human EUWI 232 Rights. see ECHR European Court of Auditors 23, 232 FAO 177, 178, 210, 324 European Court of Human Rights. see FDRF 209, 279 ECtHR Federal Council 24, 29–31, 71, 75, 156, European Economic Area. see EEA 183 European External Action Service. see Federal Government 7, 18, 20, 22, 24, 29, EEAS 30, 33, 48, 69, 120, 179, 200, 206, 229, European Financial Stability Facility. see 274, 283, 331 EFSF Federal Ministry for Transport, Innovation European Forum Wachau 253 and Technology. see BMVIT European Free Trade Association. see Federal Ministry of Science and EFTA Research. see BMWF European Globalisation Adjustment Fund Female genital mutilation. see FGM 35 FGM 200, 201 European Instrument for Democracy and Financial Framework 31, 34, 35, 40, 49 Human Rights. see EIDHR Financial Market Authority 219 European Investment Bank 57 Financial transactions tax. see FTT European Maritime and Fisheries Fund 40 Finland 19, 143, 197, 201, 234, 257 European Molecular Biology FIPS database 282 Conference. see EMBC Fisheries 40, 41, 177 European National Institutes for Fissile Material Cut-Off Treaty. see FMCT Culture. see EUNIC FMCT 163, 223 European Neighbourhood and Partnership FMEIA 1–3, 5–8, 18, 21, 28, 31, 68, 141, Instrument. see ENPI 199–201, 204, 206, 210, 212, 213, 222, European Neighbourhood Policy. see ENP 233–235, 243, 252, 254–257, 261, European Nuclear Safety Regulator 263–283 Group. see ENSREG Food and Agriculture Organisation of the European Organisation for Nuclear United Nations. see FAO Research. see CERN Foreign and European Policy Report 273 European Parliament. see EP Foreign Disaster Relief Fund. see FDRF European Regional Development FRA 188, 195 Fund. see ERDF France 15, 18, 20, 33, 102, 103, 121, 140, European Securities and Market 143, 156, 158, 201, 222, 260 Authority. see ESMA Free movement 308 European Shoah Legacy Institute 268 FREMP 193 European Single Supervisory FTT 15, 33 Mechanism. see SSM Fukushima 184, 250, 323, 325 European Social Fund. see ESF Fund for Austrians Abroad 7 European Space Agency. see ESA Future Fund 146, 269, 289 345 Index

G8 16, 72 Holocaust education, remembrance and G20 15, 16, 59, 72, 86, 115, 130, 217 research 268 Gabon 107 Horizon 2020 49 Gambia 105, 208 Horn of Africa 54, 55, 62, 95, 98, 139, 212, Gender 146, 149, 181, 231, 238 241 Geneva Conference on Disarmament 223 HRC 74, 96, 110, 120, 132, 161, 189–191, Geneva Convention 168, 170 197, 199, 201–203, 205, 213, 236, 259, Georgia 55–57, 87, 92, 139, 142, 145, 148, 296, 302, 321, 326–328, 332 149, 154, 184, 195, 237, 239, 254, 289 Human rights 61, 204, 321 Germany 6, 7, 15, 18, 33, 68, 72, 75–77, Human Rights Council. see HRC 121, 122, 140, 143, 158, 172, 176, 218, Human Rights Dialogue 61, 195, 196 234, 250, 251, 255, 294, 299, 301 Human trafficking. see trafficking in GG-SD Forum 246 human beings Ghana 106, 191, 215 Hungary 78, 91, 138, 143, 157, 182, 187, Global Monitoring for Environment and 223, 251, 253, 260, 262, 280 Security. see GMES GMES 49, 50, 265 IACA 148, 165, 188, 191, 336–338 GMO 42, 248 IAEA 122, 183, 184, 187, 250, 321, 323 GNI 229 IBRD 188 Great Lakes Region 100, 101 IBSA 115, 130 GRECO 148, 154 ICAO 180 Greece 9, 12–15, 18, 22, 33, 66, 83, 149, ICC 96–98, 120, 170, 171, 206–208, 292, 307 313, 321, 326 Green Growth and Sustainable Iceland 58, 64, 65, 197, 227 Development Forum. see GG-SD ICIMOD 236 Forum ICJ 114–116, 170, 176, 212 GRETA 155, 197 ICO 81, 317 Gross national income. see GNI ICR 67, 316, 317 Group of Experts on Action against ICRC 171, 210, 212 Trafficking in Human Beings. see ICT 8, 45, 52, 281 GRETA ICTR 170 Group of States against Corruption. see ICTY 84, 170 GRECO IEA 218, 219 Growth 9, 37, 39, 44, 46, 49, 59, 215, 217, IFAD 177, 179, 180, 220 245, 303, 308 IFAP 182 Guatemala 114, 115, 191, 207 IFRC 210 Guinea 55, 93, 103, 104, 107, 108, 175, IGBC 183 177, 190 IHRA 268 IIASA 264 ILC 168, 169, 179 Hague Code of Conduct. see HCOC ILO 178, 179 Hague Convention on Child IMF 12–16, 100, 216, 219, 220 Abduction. see HCCA Immovable Property Review Haiti 115, 209, 210 Conference. see IPRC HCCA 3 IMO 185 HCOC 224 IMS 223 HEAC 268 India 43, 61, 98, 113, 115, 126, 130, 131, Health 46, 183 167, 191, 218, 219, 222, 247, 248, 260 High Representative of the Union for Indonesia 133–135, 191, 195, 215, 218, Foreign Affairs and Security Policy 25, 223, 241 55 Information and communication HIV 179, 193, 242 technology. see ICT 346 Index

Information for All Programme. see IFAP IOM 185, 186, 188, 206 Instrument for Pre-accession IPA 64, 238 Assistance. see IPA IPI 188 Intergovernmental Bioethics IPRC 268 Committee. see IGBC Iran 28, 54, 55, 110, 118, 122, 123, 161, Internally displaced persons. see IDP 183, 190, 192, 195, 293, 302, 321, 324 International Anti-Corruption Academy Iraq 28, 55, 121, 122, 219 148, 165, 188, 191, 336, 337. see IACA Ireland 9, 12, 13, 138, 146, 148, 268 International Atomic Energy Agency. see ISAF 124, 126, 127, 150 IAEA Israel 41, 55, 85, 94, 118, 119, 151, 165, International Bank for Reconstruction and 176, 222, 263, 264, 269, 290, 292–294 Development. see IBRD Italy 7, 15, 19, 20, 33, 69–71, 73–75, 143, International Centre for Integrated 146, 149, 157, 158, 176, 187, 197, 250, Mountain Development. see ICIMOD 260, 261 International Civil Aviation ITF 112, 267, 268 Organization. see ICAO ITU 179, 184 International Civilian Office. see ICO International Civilian Representative. see Japan 4, 28, 60, 113, 118, 128, 129, 184, ICR 185, 187, 191, 195, 214, 218, 261 International Committee of the Red Jordan 1, 55–57, 151, 170, 195, 209, 215, Cross. see ICRC 221, 269 International Court of Justice. see ICJ Judiciary 65 International Criminal Court. see ICC International Energy Agency. see IEA International Federation of Red Cross and KAICIID 161, 188 Red Crescent Societies. see IFRC KAIPTC 231, 235 International Fund for Agricultural Kazakhstan 62, 87, 88, 124, 125, 144, 146, Development. see IFAD 151, 215, 227, 288, 289 International Holocaust Remembrance Kenya 97, 98, 184, 205, 207, 215 Alliance. see IHRA KFOR 82, 149, 150, 316 International Institute for Applied Systems Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Analysis. see IIASA Training Center. see KAIPTC International King Abdullah Bin Kosovo 54, 55, 64, 66, 67, 81, 82, 84–86, Abdulaziz Center for Interreligious and 138–141, 149, 150, 200, 237, 238, 242, Intercultural Dialogue. see KAICIID 244, 255, 259, 289, 298, 316–318 International Labour Organization. see Kosovo Security Force. see KSF ILO KSF 149 International Law Commission. see ILC Kyoto Protocol 42, 43, 247 International Maritime Organization. see Kyrgyzstan 62, 125, 127, 144, 195, 320 IMO International Monetary Fund. see IMF LAC 62, 63, 113 International Monitoring System. see IMS Landsat 167 International Organisation of Supreme Land use, land use change and Audit Institutions. see INTOSAI forestry. see LULUCF International Organization for Laos 60, 134, 210, 215 Migration. see IOM Latin America 62, 63, 86, 113, 115, 117, International Peace Institute. see IPI 199, 214, 332 International Security Assistance Latin America and the Caribbean. see LAC Force. see ISAF Latvia 197, 218 International Telecommunications Least developed countries. see LDC Union. see ITU Lebanon 1, 55, 119, 173, 195, 209, 225, INTOSAI 231 300 347 Index

Lesotho 93 Monitoring and Information Centre. see Liberia 55, 104, 160, 175, 241 MIC Libya 55, 93, 95, 110, 113, 171, 190, 207, Montenegro 22, 35, 64–67, 83, 84, 140, 224, 225, 288, 296, 302, 321, 323 154, 215, 255, 261, 288, 297 Liechtenstein 4, 33, 58, 74, 77, 158, 170, Morocco 41, 52, 55, 95, 102, 107, 151, 191, 197, 255 195, 202, 221 Lithuania 145, 218 MOST 183 LULUCF 43 Mozambique 108, 236, 242 Luxembourg 15, 20, 23, 25, 33, 165, 197, Multilateral Development Banks 220 260, 280 Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency. see MIGA MAB 182 Municipal Councillors for European Macedonia 64, 66, 67, 83, 138, 140, 154, Affairs 272, 273 255, 262, 297, 301 Music 258 Madagascar 99, 108 Myanmar 55, 110, 130, 132, 134, 160, 178, Main Committee 20, 24, 29–31 190, 192, 320 Malawi 99 Malaysia 133–135 Nabucco 45, 91 Maldives 130, 132 NAP 231 Mali 1, 62, 93, 102, 103, 106–108, 160, National Council 5, 13, 20, 24, 26, 29–31, 190, 191, 207, 209–211, 319, 320 69, 71, 156 Malta 33, 162, 183 National Fund 146, 268 Management of Social NATO 72, 75, 80, 82, 83, 85, 92, 113, 127, Transformations. see MOST 130, 138, 139, 143, 144, 147, 149, 150, Man and the Biosphere. see MAB 171, 294, 316 Mass destruction. see Weapons of mass Neighbourhood Policy 55–57, 88, 89, 95, destruction 153, 265 Mauretania 41, 57, 103, 210, 211 NEPAD 166 Media 146, 201–203, 270, 289 Nepal 130, 131, 320 Mediterranean region 55, 73, 266 Netherlands 20, 75, 145, 201, 203, 226, MERCOSUR 63, 113, 114, 117 234 Mexico 16, 63, 110, 113, 116, 163, 195, New Partnership for Africa's 215, 217, 223, 244, 256, 295 Development. see NEPAD MIC 209 New Zealand 136, 215, 226 Middle East 4, 28, 54, 55, 73, 85, 86, 109, Nicaragua 113, 115, 116, 177, 234 110, 118, 119, 160–162, 211, 218, 222, Niger 62, 106, 107, 177 282, 288, 290–294, 297, 300, 301, 314, Nigeria 62, 93, 106, 107, 210 320, 321, 325 Middle East Peace Process 55, 118, 119, North Atlantic Treaty Organization. see 292 NATO Middle East Quartet 118 Norway 58, 60, 163, 217, 223, 295 MIGA 188 NPT 183, 222, 325 Migration 52, 185, 186, 188, 206, 216 NSG 226 Millennium Development Goals 166, 220, Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. see NPT 240, 241, 322, 339 Nuclear Suppliers Group. see NSG Minorities 146, 153, 155, 192, 197, 203, 326 OCHA 210, 211 MINURSO 107, 173 ODA 209, 229, 240, 243, 335 Moldova 4, 41, 55–57, 68, 89, 141, 149, ODIHR 88, 90, 144, 145, 149, 153 154, 195, 232, 237, 238, 253, 254, 259 OECD 215 Monaco 33, 145, 149, 154, 158 OECD Development Assistance Mongolia 129, 130, 140 Committee. see DAC 348 Index

Office for Democratic Institutions and PfP 149, 150 Human Rights. see ODIHR Philippines 134, 135, 191, 244 Office for Outer Space Affairs. see OOSA Piracy 107 Office for the Coordination of PKO 167, 171, 173, 174 Humanitarian Affairs. see OCHA PMG 138 Official Development Assistance. see ODA PNR 52 OFID 187 Poland 20, 33, 140, 167, 191, 251, 253, OOSA 167 254, 331 OPCW 224 Polisario 107 OPEC 187, 247 Political and Security Committee. see PSC OPEC Fund for International Politico-Military Group. see PMG Development. see OFID Portugal 9, 12, 13, 15, 19, 20, 22, 54, 121, Operational Reserve Force. see ORF 197, 307 ORF 149, 178 Poverty 35, 165, 236 Organisation for the Prohibition of PR 90, 270, 273 Chemical Weapons. see OPCW Prague Holocaust Era Assets Organization for Economic Cooperation Conference. see HEAC and Development. see OECD Pre-accession 64 Organization for Security and Co-operation Prevention of Arms Race in Outer in Europe. see OSCE Space. see PAROS Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Private Infrastructure Development Group Countries. see OPEC 233 OSCE 74, 82, 88–92, 110, 125, 130, 138– Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict 149, 153, 187, 197, 198, 202, 203, 206, 170, 171 288, 289, 294 Provisional Technical Secretariat. see PTS Oslo Convention 225, 226 PSC 22, 55, 62, 96, 137, 139 Österreich Bibliotheken 252 PTS 223 Österreich Büro 252 Publications 273 Österreich Institut 252, 263, 284 OTC 10 Ottawa Convention 225 Qatar 184, 247, 283 QCPR 163 Quadrennial Comprehensive Policy PACE 156 Review. see QCPR Pakistan 7, 126, 130, 131, 191, 195, 222, 223 Palestinian Authority 55, 119, 149, 195, RAMSI 136 293 Reconciliation 131, 269 Palestinian territories 119 Regional Assistance Mission to the Papua New Guinea 136 Solomon Islands. see RAMSI Paraguay 117 REPARIS 233 Parliamentary Assembly 144, 149, 154, Republic of Korea 129, 183, 230 156, 157, 316 Research 48, 49, 58, 112, 170, 190, 205, Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of 231, 233, 251, 258, 262, 264, 267, 331 Europe. see PACE Restitution 268 PAROS 223 Rights of the Child 152, 160, 199, 200, Partnership for Peace. see PfP 230, 328, 329 PBC 174, 175 Rio+20 42, 43, 160, 163, 175, 217, 232, Peacekeeping operations. see PKO 240–242, 245, 246, 250, 338–340 PEDAS 282 Romania 52, 68, 167, 218, 253–255 Permanent Representation 22, 23, 283 Rome Statute 206 Personnel Data System. see PEDAS Rules for Navigation on the Danube. see Peru 63, 116, 162, 177, 210, 218 DFND 349 Index

Russia 15, 16, 55, 56, 58, 75, 84, 86–92, South Sudan 54, 62, 93, 96, 97, 99, 107, 98, 115, 125–130, 140, 145–147, 154, 160, 191, 209, 210, 212, 311–313 155, 179, 215, 218, 219, 222, 224, 254, South Tyrol 69–72 261, 292, 298 Spain 6, 7, 9, 12, 14, 15, 18, 20, 22, 33, Rwanda 101, 170 145, 260, 267, 307, 309, 310, 315, 320 Special Envoy 102, 120, 121, 326 Special Representative 62, 66, 67, 80, 81, SAARC 131, 135 95, 97, 104, 115, 122, 146, 149, 162, SADC 108, 232 171, 188, 192, 194, 199, 202, 318, 319, Safety 45, 181, 182, 184, 185, 202, 203, 328 250, 251, 281 Sri Lanka 130, 131, 190, 191 Sahel 54, 62, 102, 160, 161, 209–212, 235, SSM 11, 12 320 Stability Mechanism 9, 11, 12, 18, 219 Samoa 215 Stockholm 50, 249 Sanctions Committee 129, 172, 173 Strategy for the Danube Region. see San Marino 33, 35 EUSDR Schengen Representation Agreement 4 Structural reform 9, 10, 12, 15, 16, 35, Schengen visa 4 113, 215, 303, 304 SE4All 161, 163, 188, 245, 250, 322, 339 Subsidiarity check 29 Security 22, 24, 25, 27, 50, 54, 55, 58, 61, Subsidiarity principle 29 62, 65, 72, 73, 75, 96, 97, 99, 104, 105, Sudan 54, 55, 62, 93, 96, 97, 99, 107, 160, 108, 116, 124–126, 129, 137–140, 144, 191, 207, 212, 298, 311–313 147–150, 162, 170–172, 177, 178, 187, Sustainability 43, 125, 245, 308 193, 198, 200, 217, 231, 235, 265, 281, Sustainable Energy for All. see SE4All 289, 292, 294, 296, 301, 302, 311–313, Sweden 90, 143, 233, 267 319, 321, 332 Switzerland 1, 6, 33, 58, 60, 74, 75, 77, Security Review Conference 147 140, 158, 170, 173, 184, 193, 197, 202, Senegal 102, 177, 194, 201 210, 217, 228, 234, 238, 250, 251, 255, Serbia 22, 54, 64, 66, 67, 81, 82, 84, 85, 300, 331 140, 154, 215, 253, 255, 268, 288, 298, Syria 1, 2, 54, 55, 85, 110, 118–121, 301, 316, 318 160–162, 171, 173, 183, 189, 192, 199, Services Directive 39 207, 209–212, 224, 290–292, 296, 302, Seychelles 99 319, 321, 326 SICA 234 System of Financial Supervision. see Sierra Leone 105, 171, 172, 175, 187, 194, ESFS 320 Singapore 60, 134, 135, 170 Slovakia 15, 33, 75, 76, 138, 182, 251, 253 TAC 135 Slovenia 15, 19, 33, 54, 68, 76, 77, 138, TACIS 56 158, 204, 251, 255, 268 TAIEX 56 Small Arms and Light Weapons 226 Tajikistan 62, 125–127, 144, 148, 151, 210, Social policy 109 215 Solomon Islands 136 Tanzania 108, 205, 210 Somalia 55, 62, 93, 96–98, 107, 139, 160, Task Force for International Cooperation 190, 191 on Holocaust Education, Remembrance South Africa 4, 6, 62, 93, 96, 99, 108, 115, and Research. see ITF 130, 185, 191, 195, 218 Technical Assistance to the South Caucasus 55, 238, 239 Commonwealth of Independent South East Europe 56, 76, 78, 140, 155– States. see TACIS 158, 185, 188, 206, 220, 231, 233, 237, TEN 35, 41, 44 239, 242, 253, 288, 290, 297, 298 Terrorism Prevention Branch. see TPB Southern African Development TFEU 18, 36, 49, 265 Community. see SADC Theatre 258 350 Index

Timor-Leste 133, 160, 173 UNEP 232, 245, 246 Tonga 136 UNESCO 91, 180–182, 202–204, 257, 259, Tourism 37, 184, 237 296, 332 Toxin weapons. see BTWC UNFCCC 247 TPB 165 UNFPA 200 TPP 110, 113, 118 UNGA 118, 158, 160, 162–164, 166–170, Trafficking in human beings 205 174, 175, 186, 189, 191, 195, 199, 201, Trans-European Networks. see TEN 203, 205, 222, 223, 227, 243, 293, 295 Transnistria 89, 139, 141 UN General Assembly. see UNGA Trans-Pacific Partnership. see TPP UNHCR 96, 166, 211 Transport 41, 45, 68, 264 UN High Commissioner for Refugees. see Travel information 2 UNHCR Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in UNHRC 74 Southeast Asia. see TAC UNICEF 200, 242, 243 Treaty of Lisbon 21, 29, 36, 40, 137, 193, UNIDO 187, 188, 242, 243 196 Treaty on the Functioning of the European UNIFIL 173 Union. see TFEU UN Integrated Peacebuilding Office in Turkey 35, 52, 64, 65, 67, 73, 85, 86, 91, Sierra Leone. see UNIPSIL 143, 154, 167, 209, 224, 254, 266, 301 UN Interim Force in Lebanon. see UNIFIL Turkmenistan 126, 144 UN Interim Security Force for Abyei. see UNISFA UNIPSIL 105 Uganda 97, 100, 101, 205, 207–209, 211, UNISFA 97 232, 236, 242 United Arab Emirates 99, 179 UK 6, 33, 75, 100, 121, 152, 178, 191, 197, United Kingdom. see UK 201, 222, 258, 264, 289 Ukraine 4, 55–57, 75, 88, 89, 140–142, United Nations 42, 72, 75, 86, 120, 121, 145, 149, 154, 191, 195, 197, 239, 242, 138, 147, 160, 162–164, 169, 170, 176, 251, 253, 254, 261, 262, 289, 298 177, 179, 180, 182, 183, 187, 189, 201, UNAMA 124 205, 210, 211, 227, 232, 241, 242, 245, UNAMI 122 247, 250, 259, 267, 269, 274, 277, 290, 300, 309, 312, 319, 320, 326, 332, 334, UNAMID 97 336, 338, 339 UN Assistance Mission for Iraq. see UNAMI United Nations Children's Fund. see UN Assistance Mission in UNICEF Afghanistan. see UNAMA United Nations Commission on Crime UNASUR 114, 117 Prevention and Criminal Justice. see UN Capital Development Fund. see CCPCJ UNCDF United Nations Commission on Narcotic UNCCD 250 Drugs. see CND UNCDF 242 United Nations Convention to Combat UNCITRAL 168, 169 Desertification. see UNCCD UN Commission on International Trade United Nations Disengagement Observer Law. see UNCITRAL Force. see UNDOF UNDAC 210 United Nations Economic Commission for UN Disaster Assessment and Coordination Europe. see UNECE Team. see UNDAC United Nations Educational, Scientific and UNDOF 121, 173 Cultural Organization. see UNESCO UNECE 176, 249 United Nations Framework Convention on UN Economic and Social Council. see Climate Change. see UNFCCC ECOSOC United Nations General Assembly. see UN Environment Programme. see UNEP UNGA 351 Index

United Nations High Commissioner for 214, 215, 218, 222, 224, 256, 262, 263, Refugees. see UNHCR 293, 305 United Nations Industrial Development Uzbekistan 62, 125–127, 144, 195 Organization. see UNIDO United Nations Secretary-General. see Vanuatu 215 UNSG VCDNP 188 United States of America. see USA Venezuela 113, 117 Universal Periodic Review. see UPR Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non- Universal Postal Union. see UPU Proliferation. see VCDNP UNMIK 82 Vietnam 134, 135, 165, 195, 255, 289 UNMIL 104 VIS 4, 282 UNMISS 97 UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara. see MINURSO WA 226 UN Mission in Kosovo. see UNMIK Wassenaar Arrangement. see WA UN mission in Liberia. see UNMIL Weapons of mass destruction 55, 148, 161, UN Mission in South Sudan. see UNMISS 222, 294, 321, 325 UNODA 188 West Africa 102, 106, 108, 206, 231, 232, UNODC 148, 163–165, 187, 191, 192, 199, 234, 235 206, 336, 337 Western Balkans 54, 64, 66, 75, 139, 237, UN Office for Disarmament Affairs. see 253, 254, 297 UNODA Western Sahara 107 UN Office on Drugs and Crime. see WFP 210, 211 UNODC Whaling 248 UN Peacebuilding Commission. see PBC WHO 183 UN Platform for Space-Based Information WMO 185 for Disaster Management and Women 166, 171, 192, 193, 200, 201, 205, Emergency Response. see UN-SPIDER 231, 276 UN Population Fund. see UNFPA World Bank 16, 126, 180, 188, 220, 221, UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine 229, 233 Refugees in the Near East. see UNRWA World Food Programme. see WFP UNRWA 211, 237 World Health Organization. see WHO UNSG 86, 95, 102, 104, 107, 115, 121, 122, World Meteorological Organization. see 152, 161, 168, 170–176, 181, 192, 199, WMO 201, 224, 241, 245, 267 World Trade Organization. see WTO UNSMIL 95 WTO 74, 87, 126, 175, 214, 215 UN-SPIDER 167 UN Support Mission in Libya. see UNSMIL Yemen 1, 123, 152, 190, 210, 211, 215 UN Women 171, 176, 201 Youth Employment Package 47 UPR 189, 191, 321 UPU 184 Zambia 100 Uruguay 113, 117, 248 Zangger Committee. see ZC USA 4, 6, 7, 16, 59, 75, 89, 95, 102, 108– ZC 226 112, 120, 121, 128–131, 133, 136, 141, Zimbabwe 55, 62, 93, 99, 100, 108 143, 145, 146, 148, 155, 176, 192, 195,

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