Austria's Existence: Is It Still A Going Concern?

Yes, Austria is still around. It is a landlocked country in Central Europe, lying in the Eastern Alps. It is a federation of nine states, one of which is the capital, Vienna, the most populous city and state. Austria is bordered by Germany to the northwest, the Czech Republic to the north, Slovakia to the northeast, Hungary to the east, Slovenia and Italy to the south, and Switzerland and Liechtenstein to the west. The country has a population of around 9 million and is a member of the European Union.

Austria's geography and borders

Austria is a landlocked country in Central Europe, lying in the Eastern Alps. It is bordered by eight countries: Germany to the northwest, the Czech Republic to the north, Slovakia to the northeast, Hungary to the east, Slovenia and Italy to the south, and Switzerland and Liechtenstein to the west.

Austria's landscape is characterised by mountains and forests, although in the northeastern part of the country, the Danube River winds its way between the eastern edge of the Alps and the hills of Bohemia and Moravia. The Austrian Alps form the physical backbone of the country, with the highest elevation being Grossglockner, at 3,797 or 3,798 metres. The Alpine landscape offers a complex geological and topographical pattern, with majestic mountains and magnificent scenery.

The country can be divided into five areas: the Eastern Alps, which constitute 62% of the nation's total area; the Austrian foothills at the base of the Alps and the Carpathians, accounting for around 12%; the foothills in the east and areas surrounding the Pannoni low country, also about 12%; the Austrian granite plateau, located in the central area of the Bohemian Mass, accounting for 10%; and the Austrian portion of the Vienna basin, making up the remaining 4%.

Austria has a total area of 83,871 or 83,879 square kilometres and a population of around 9 million. The country is divided into nine federal states: Upper Austria, Lower Austria, Styria, Carinthia, Salzburg, Tyrol, Vorarlberg, Burgenland, and Vienna.

Austrian history

The history of Austria can be traced back to the Paleolithic period, with the area that is now Austria being settled by various Celtic tribes by around 400 BC. The Kingdom of Noricum was established by the second century BC, and was conquered by the Roman Empire in 16 BC. The Romans ruled the area until around 476, when the area was invaded by Germanic tribes.

In the 9th century, the Frankish Empire established a territory in the Danube valley known as the Ostmark (Eastern March). In 996, the Ostmark was first referred to as "Ostarrichi", a forerunner of the modern German word "Österreich". The area became a margravate of the Duchy of Bavaria, and in 1156, it became an independent duchy of the Holy Roman Empire.

In 1273, the House of Habsburg began its rule over Austria, which lasted until 1918. During this period, Austria was a major imperial power in Central Europe, and Vienna became the administrative capital of the Holy Roman Empire. In 1804, Austria established its own empire, which became a great power and one of the largest states in Europe.

After the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand in 1914, Austria-Hungary entered World War I, which ended in defeat and the collapse of the empire. In 1918, the Republic of German-Austria was proclaimed, and in 1919, the First Austrian Republic was established. However, in 1938, Austria was annexed into Nazi Germany by Adolf Hitler.

After World War II, Austria regained its sovereignty and declared its perpetual neutrality in 1955. It joined the European Union in 1995 and has since become a prominent member of various international organisations.

Austrian politics

Austria's parliament consists of two chambers: the National Council and the Federal Council. The National Council is the predominant chamber and has 183 members, elected for a five-year term by proportional representation. The Federal Council has 62 members and is less powerful, with its power limited to a suspensive veto in most cases.

In 2020, the Austrian People's Party and The Greens – The Green Alternative formed a coalition government, marking the first time the Greens have gained power. This coalition was short-lived, however, as the Austrian People's Party later formed a coalition with the Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ) in 2021.

Austrian economy

Austria's economy is a highly developed social market economy, with the country being one of the fourteen richest in the world in terms of GDP per capita. The Austrian economic system can be characterised as a free-market economy with a strong social focus, accounting for the weaker members of society. Austria has a strong labour movement, with labour unions comprising a total membership of about 1.5 million, which is more than half the country's wage and salary earners.

Austria's economy is dominated by the service or tertiary sector, which constitutes approximately 70% of the gross value added (GVA). The largest service sector employers work in sales, hotel and restaurant services, as well as health and education. The secondary sector, primarily manufacturing, energy production and supply, and construction, represents 28% of Austria's GVA. The primary sector, agriculture and forestry, makes up only 1.2% of Austrian GVA, and only one in thirty Austrians are employed in this sector.

Austria's most important industries are food and luxury commodities, mechanical engineering and steel construction, chemicals, and vehicle manufacturing. The country has a strong industrial and commercial sector, characterised by a high proportion of medium-sized companies. Austrian industry covers every branch of manufacturing, from basic goods to the labour-intensive production of highly processed products. The construction of plants and systems is an increasingly important and export-oriented share of the economy, as is the electronics sector.

Tourism is an essential pillar of the Austrian economy, accounting for around 10% of Austria's GDP. Austria is a mountainous country with one of the largest natural land reserves in Central Europe. The country is also a leader in the field of hydroelectric power in the European Union.

In recent years, privatisation has reduced state holdings to a level comparable to other European economies. Austria's membership in the EU has drawn an influx of foreign investors, attracted by the country's access to the single European market and proximity to aspiring economies in the EU. Austria's main trading partner has historically been Germany, making the Austrian economy vulnerable to rapid changes in the German economy. However, the country's economic dependence on Germany has reduced with stronger ties to other EU economies.

In 2024, Austria had a very high nominal GDP per capita of $58,669, ranked 13th in the world. However, 2024 is projected to be the second consecutive year of recession in Austria, with declining investment, lower exports, and weak private consumption.

Austrian culture

Language and Communication

The official language of Austria is High German, although each region has its own dialect. Other languages spoken include Turkish, Serbian, Slovene, Croatian, and Hungarian. Austrians are typically direct and honest in their communication, with a focus on punctuality, orderliness, and thoroughness. They also value modesty and respect, with eye contact considered an important part of polite conversation.

Social Structure and Egalitarianism

Austria has a strong egalitarian social structure, with a low power distance score, reflecting its emphasis on participative communication and equality among its citizens. The welfare system is extensive, providing support for health, education, employment, and retirement needs. The education system is also a key contributor to egalitarianism, with compulsory and free education, including resources and transportation, for all children.

Gemütlichkeit and Camaraderie

A core concept in Austrian culture is "Gemütlichkeit," representing a feeling of friendliness, warmth, and happiness. Austrians often socialise through conversation, membership in local organisations ("Vereine"), and outdoor activities. Sunday is a day for family time, especially in rural areas, where men often meet at pubs or wine bars. The arts, particularly music, are a significant part of social life, with many Austrians playing music or attending concerts.

Food and Drink

Austrian cuisine is influenced by its history as part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, incorporating dishes from Italy and Eastern Europe. Traditional foods include Wiener Schnitzel, sausages, and goulash. The country also has a rich coffeehouse culture, with coffeehouses serving as meeting places for writers, poets, and artists.

Sports and Leisure

Austrians love sports, with soccer and biking being popular, but the country is most famous for its winter sports, particularly alpine skiing. Taking walks ("Spaziergänge") is also a common pastime, reflecting a deep appreciation for the country's natural beauty and commitment to a healthy lifestyle.

Religion

Austria's culture is strongly influenced by its Catholic heritage, although daily life and legislation are strictly secular. The country guarantees religious freedom, and while a large portion of the population identifies as Roman Catholic, there are also significant groups of Protestants, Muslims, and members of the Christian Orthodox faith.

Arts and Literature

Austria has a rich artistic heritage, with a particular focus on music. It is known for its classical composers, including Mozart, and Vienna is associated with the operetta and waltz music genres. Austrian literature has also produced notable figures, such as Franz Kafka, Ludwig Wittgenstein, and Karl Kraus.

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