Call for Papers: Israel and Austria: Historical Links and Future Pathways

Call for Papers:

Israel and Austria: Historical Links and Future Pathways

 

International Conference

Vienna, 16.-17. November 2026

Organised by the Institute of Culture Studies of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, the Center for Jewish Studies of the University of Graz and the Sussex Weidenfeld Institute of Jewish Studies of the University of Sussex

We are pleased to announce a call for papers for an upcoming conference focused on the multifaceted relations between Palestine, Israel and Austria. The ties between the regions have been intricately woven, influenced by pivotal historical events, especially throughout the long 19^th and short 20^th century. This period includes the era preceding the establishment of both states, when Vienna was a hotbed for political Zionism. Diplomatic relations between Israel and Austria, established in the 1950s, were often fraught, shaped by Austria's approach to Nazi war crimes, its policies towards Holocaust survivors, and particularly its persistent refusal of restitution and compensation. Another critical dimension of Austrian-Israeli relations was Austria's 1955 declaration of neutrality and its subsequent efforts to maintain balanced relationships with Arab nations, which necessitated a cautious approach towards Israel. This neutrality policy occasionally strained relations with Israel, particularly during Bruno Kreisky's chancellorship (1970-1983). Despite, or perhaps because of, his Jewish background, Kreisky faced Israeli criticism for his engagement with Arab leaders and Palestinian groups. Also, since the 1970´s Vienna was a hub of migration from USSR to Israel. The 1986 election of Kurt Waldheim as president, amid controversy over his wartime record, marked a further deterioration in relations, as did the political ascent of the FPÖ, a party founded by former National Socialists and led by Jörg Haider, especially during its governmental participation from 2000 to 2007. A significant shift occurred in recent years when the conservative government under Chancellor Sebastian Kurz, following Germany's precedent, declared solidarity with Israel to be a matter of Staatsräson.

Overall, the relationship between Israel and Austria is one that has evolved from a complex and troubled past, moving towards a more cooperative and mutually respectful present, while still navigating the shadows of history.

The aim of this interdisciplinary conference is to unravel these multifaceted dynamics, offering insights into a relationship shaped by history, politics, and collective memory. A central focus will be cultural exchanges and influences between these societies. We welcome papers that investigate the cultural and political interplay between Palestine/Israel and Austria. Topics of interest include the impact of Austrian emigrants on Israeli culture, arts, and literature, the cultural legacies they established in Mandatory Palestine and Israel, as well as the reception and influence of Israeli culture in Austria.

Date: 16.-17. November 2026

Location: Austrian Academy of Sciences Vienna

Submission Deadline: March 31, 2026

We invite scholars, researchers, and practitioners to explore the historical, cultural, political, and economic dimensions of Palestine-Israel-Austrian relations from the late 19^th century up to present days. We invite submissions that cover a wide range of topics, including but not limited to:

• The historical evolution of Palestinian/Israeli-Austrian relations from the 19^th Century onwards
• Cultural exchanges and influences between Israel and Austria
• Political dynamics and diplomatic engagements
• Economic partnerships and trade relations
• The role of Austria in the Middle East peace process
• Comparative studies of Israeli and Austrian policies
• The impact of EU-Austria relations on Israel
• The Jewish community in Austria and its links to Israel
• Reparation and Holocaust commemoration

The conference is organized by:

Gerald Lamprecht, Center for Jewish Studies of the University of Graz/Institute of Culture Studies, ÖAW

Gideon Reuveni, Sussex Weidenfeld Institute of Jewish Studies of the University of Sussex

Olaf Terpitz, Center for Jewish Studies of the University of Graz

Submission Guidelines:

• Abstracts should be no more than 200 words.
• Include a brief CV (up to 100 words) with your submission.
• Submissions should be sent to office.cjs(at)uni-graz.at by March 31, 2026.

Selected papers will be notified by April 30^th, 2026

 

This conference aims to foster a deeper understanding of the Palestinian/Israel-Austrian relationship and to identify areas for future research and collaboration.

For any queries, please contact gerald.lamprecht(at)uni-graz.at.

The organisers are seeking funds to support the conference. Depending on the funding available, travel and accommodation costs for participants may be covered. Early career researchers and freelance scientists will be given priority for funding.