Foreign Affairs

In 1955, Austria’s foreign policy was neutrality, as agreed with the Four Powers that year. They have passed an amendment to their constitution that states that they will forever remain neutral. But to the Austrians, neutrality means something a little bit different. That same year, Austria joined the United Nations and took sides with the community of democratic nations. However, they believe that this will not impede with their plans to never join any military alliances or allow foreign troops to be stationed on their soil. Another important part of Austrian foreign policy is internationalism. Austria is part of many international organizations including the UN and its subsidiary agencies. With these organizations they help with peacekeeping operations. They have been in Cyprus, Egypt, and Israel to help bring about peace. Also during the Cold War, Austria was an active participant in easing the tension between the United States and the Soviet Union. Austria’s leaders have pursued these policies because helping others stay at peace helps them stay neutral (Austria Foreign Relations, 1993). If there is no war, there is no need to take sides. Austria’s policies of neutrality and internationalism have worked very well for them and have added greatly to their success.