Where Ideas Met Action: EDS in Vienna & Bratislava
From May 22 to 25, EDS delegates came together in Vienna and Bratislava for a Study Mission that combined policy, diplomacy, and unforgettable experiences.
The welcome dinner was opened by our Chairman, Francesco Sismondini, who greeted delegates from across Europe and thanked our partners from ODM (Občiansko-demokratická mládež) Slovakia for their essential support.
Day 1 – Global Governance & Regional Responsibility
We began our program at the House of Europe with an inspiring talk by Ivan Vejvoda, head of the Europe’s Futures project at the Institute for Human Sciences in Vienna. He emphasized the importance of strategic patience in the Western Balkan integration process and reminded us that “Europe is not complete without the Western Balkans.”
Next, we welcomed Vladimir Vaňo, economist and former advisor to Slovakia’s Minister of Finance, who analyzed the macroeconomic shifts in Central Europe and warned of rising global trade tensions.
One of the highlights of the day was our visit to the United Nations Headquarters in Vienna, where we explored the work of the UN Regional Office and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). This visit offered a unique inside look into the architecture of global cooperation and nuclear safety.
Later that afternoon, Isabella Wohinz from wohnpartner presented Vienna’s renowned approach to social housing and community cohesion. Some key insights from her presentation:
60% of Vienna’s population lives in municipal or limited-profit housing
€530 million invested annually in housing:
• €232M for new construction
• €148M for renovation
• €150M for low-income support
New zoning laws require 2/3 of large developments to be subsidized
wohnpartner supports over 500,000 tenants from 183 national backgrounds
Stay tuned for more in our upcoming summer edition of BullsEye Magazine!
Day 2 – Dialogue Across Borders
We kicked off Saturday with MP Dr. Gudrun Kugler (ÖVP) in the Austrian Parliament. She shared insights on shifting demographics, why the center-right must offer responsible answers, and encouraged young people to start families earlier in life. After the discussion, we enjoyed a guided tour of the beautifully renovated Parliament, rich in imperial history and now fully accessible to all.
Then came a truly unforgettable experience, a 70-minute boat ride down the Danube to Bratislava. The stunning river views and fresh air made this journey one to remember.
Upon arrival, we were welcomed at the iconic Flagship Restaurant by former MEP Vladimír Bilčík, who discussed youth participation, the future of the EU, and the importance of standing with Ukraine.
The day concluded with a thoughtful discussion with Pavol Demeš, former Slovak Foreign Minister, who shared his journey from diplomacy to civil society activism and reminded us: “Never underestimate the power of democratic dialogue.”
EDS is supported by the European People’s Party and Erasmus+.
Disclaimer:
This event has received partial funding from the European Parliament. The views and opinions expressed during the event do not necessarily reflect the official position of the European Parliament. The European Parliament is not responsible for the content or any use that may be made of the information presented during the event.
