Overview
Capital: Vienna
Official EU language(s): German
EU member country: since 1 January 1995
Currency: euro. Euro area member since 1 January 1999
Schengen: Schengen area member since 1 December 1997
Figures: Geographical size – population – gross domestic product (GDP) per capita in PPS
Political system
Austria operates as a federal parliamentary republic with a head of government – the chancellor – and a head of state – the president. The nation comprises 9 states (Bundesländer), with both regional and federal governments exercising executive power. The federal Parliament is composed of 2 chambers: the Lower House (Nationalrat), directly elected, and the Upper House (Bundesrat), elected by regional parliaments.
Trade and economy
The key sectors of Austria’s economy in 2020 were industry (21.4%), Wholesale and retail trade, transport, accommodation, and food service activities (20.4%), and public administration, defense, education, human health, and social work activities (18.6%).
Within the EU, Austria’s exports are primarily directed to Germany (30%), Italy (6%), and France (4%), accounting for 69% of total exports. Outside the EU, 6% of exports go to the United States and 5% to Switzerland.
Regarding imports, 77% originate from EU Member States, with Germany (41%), Italy (6%), Czechia, and the Netherlands (4%) being the main sources. Outside the EU, 5% of imports are from Switzerland and 4% from China.
Austria in the EU
European Parliament
Austria is represented by 18 members in the European Parliament.
European Parliament office in Austria
Council of the EU
In the Council of the EU, Austrian government representatives participate in meetings to adopt EU laws and coordinate policies, depending on the policy area being addressed.
Presidency of the Council of the EU
Austria has held the rotating Presidency of the Council of the EU in Jul-Dec 1998, Jan-Jun 2006, and July-Dec 2018.
European Commission
Johannes Hahn, responsible for Budget and Administration, is Austria’s nominated Commissioner to the European Commission. The Commission maintains a representation in Austria.
European Economic & Social Committee
Austria has 12 representatives on the European Economic and Social Committee, providing consultation on proposed laws affecting work and social situations.
European Committee of the Regions
Austria has 12 representatives on the European Committee of the Regions, ensuring regional perspectives are considered in proposed laws.
Permanent representation to the EU
Austria communicates with EU institutions through its permanent representation in Brussels, ensuring its interests and policies are effectively pursued.
Budgets and Funding
EU-funded projects in Austria receive funding from the country’s contributions to the EU budget, supporting various initiatives across EU countries.
