In this episode of Peace Matters, we explore Austria’s neutrality—its legal foundations, historical origins, and evolving role in today’s geopolitical landscape. What does neutrality entail, and how is it perceived by Austrian society and political elites? We discuss public support for neutrality and examine whether Austria’s stance is compatible with its EU membership—not just legally, but politically. As the EU faces challenges to integration and foreign policy unity, we ask whether Austria’s neutrality is an asset or an obstacle and how other EU countries view Austria’s position.Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on Austria’s neutrality and its future in Europe.Guests:Ralph Janik teaches international law at Sigmund Freud Private University Vienna, the University of Vienna, Andrassy University Budapest, and Universität der Bundeswehr München. His research focuses on armed conflicts, human rights, and the interplay of international law and international relations. He studied law and political science at the University of Vienna and the Universidad Alcalá de Henares (Madrid), followed by an LL.M. in European and International Law at the University of Amsterdam.Christoph Schwarz, MSSc., is a Senior Research Fellow at the Austrian Institute for European and Security Policy. His work explores key questions of Austrian and European foreign and security policy, with a particular emphasis on the evolving role of neutrality in the 21st century. His current focus lies in analysing how Austria’s neutral status is being affected by European integration and shifting dynamics in international affairs.Moderation:Marylia Hushcha, Researcher and Project Manager at the IIPThe episode was recorded on 17 December 2025 with the support of the Future Fund of the Republic of Austria.