Your Vienna. Your city
2024-05-23 17:30 - 19:30 (Europe/Berlin) | Office building Favoriten, Keplerplatz 5, Amtshaus Favoriten, ballroom, Vienna, 1100, Österreich
Participation.dialog.encounter at eye level
Topic: 60 years of migration: yesterday-today-future
When: Thursday, May 23, 2024, 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Where: Amtshaus Favoriten / Keplerplatz 5, 10th district
Your opinion counts! Have your say!
Austria can look back on over 60 years of migration history in the Second Republic. From the original assumption that immigrants are merely “guests” who only stay for a few years and
then return to their countries of origin is no longer an issue today.

Austria is a country of immigration and Vienna is the best example of this.
Around 44% of Viennese are of foreign origin, i.e. they either have a foreign nationality or a foreign country of birth.
Around half of all Viennese have a migrant background, i.e. (in the statistics) both of their parents were born abroad.

More information about integration and diversity

Orientation guide & introduction for new arrivals in Austria - Romanian
2024-05-30 17:00 - 19:00 | Counseling center for migrants, Hoher Markt 8/ Staircase 4/ 2nd floor, 1010 Vienna, Vienna, Österreich
What rights and obligations do I have and what legal aspects do I need to consider in order to arrive well in Austria?
Date:
May 30, 2024 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Address:
Hoher Markt 8/ 4/ 2
1010 Vienna
Organized by:
Counseling center for migrants

The information evening will be held in Romanian.
Registration is absolutely necessary at
migrant@migrant.at

© ALPHA plus

Orientation guide & introduction for new arrivals in Austria - Greek
2024-06-06 17:00 - 19:00 | Counseling center for migrants, Hoher Markt 8/ Staircase 4/ 2nd floor, 1010 Vienna, Vienna, Österreich
What rights and obligations do I have and what legal aspects do I need to consider in order to arrive well in Austria?
Date:
June 06, 2024 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Address:
Hoher Markt 8/ 4/ 2
1010 Vienna
Organized by:
Counseling center for migrants

The information evening will be held in Greek.
Registration is absolutely necessary at
migrant@migrant.at

© ALPHA plus

Education system in Afghanistan and use of qualifications in Austria
2024-06-13 09:30 - 12:30 | Lecture Series Vienna.Diversity.Knowledge – Dates, Registration, 1150, Gasgasse 8-10, Amtshaus, Stiege 1, 1st floor, left, Seminar room of the Department of Integration and Diversity (MA 17), Vienna, 1150
The majority of Afghans living in Austria today have only come to Austria as a result of refugee migration in recent years. This presentation will first provide a brief overview of the evolution of Afghan refugee migration. Subsequently, the education system in Afghanistan and the possibilities of using qualifications brought with you to Austria will be discussed.
Speakers: Maryam Singh and Suleiman Shah Alokozay (Counseling Center for Migrants)
Date: June 13, 2024 from 9.30 a.m. to 12.30 a.m.
Venue: 15th, Gasgasse 8-10, Stiege 1, 1st floor left, Amtshaus Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus, seminar room of the Department of Integration and Diversity
Excerpt from original – City of Vienna, January 16, 2024

ICDO's Long Nights of Interculturality 2024
2024-09-23 - 2024-09-29
ICDO is organizing the 7th edition of the “Long Nights of Interculturality”, one of the biggest cultural events in Vienna, Austria, from 23 to 29 September 2024.
A celebration of diversity, inclusion and shared humanity Join us on an unforgettable journey into the heart of intercultural exchange.
The Long Nights of Interculturality is more than just an event – it is a movement that celebrates the richness of our global community and promotes understanding, connection and collaboration between cultures.
At the spectacular live events in the most prominent venues in Vienna, Austria, we will support #SafeguardingDiversity together!
What to expect Cultural performances: Immerse yourself in vibrant performances, traditional music, dance and storytelling from different cultures around the world.
Each evening is a unique experience celebrating the beauty and depth of global traditions.
Stimulating discussions: Participate in meaningful dialogues with thought leaders, activists and community members on topics such as cultural heritage, migration and social inclusion.
These discussions are designed to inspire new perspectives and foster a deeper understanding of our shared challenges and opportunities.
Art exhibitions and documentaries: Experience fascinating art exhibitions and documentaries that present diverse perspectives and stories from around the world.
These curated exhibitions and films offer insights into the artistic expressions and life experiences of cultures worldwide.
Why take part?
The Long Nights of Interculturality are a platform where cultures come together, connections are made and bridges are built.
By participating, you contribute to a more inclusive, harmonious world – a world that values diversity and promotes mutual respect.
Whether you are a culture lover, a curious learner or someone who wants to make a positive difference, this event offers something for everyone.
Come with an open heart and leave with unforgettable memories.
Join us Mark it on your calendar and be part of this transformative experience.
Together, let’s celebrate our differences, embrace our similarities and pave the way for a more connected world. Panel Discussion: “Voices for the Future: Gender Nexus and Inclusion in Climate Action at COP 29” Monday, September 23, 2024 Costumes of the World – Book Launch Tuesday, September 24, 2024 Art Exhibition: “Cultural Diversity & Inclusion” Wednesday, September 25, 2024 ICDO ‘s Costumes of the World – Book Launch September 2024 ICDO’s Costumes of the World Show – Rathaus Festsaal Friday, September 27, 2024 Documentaries and short films: “Diversity around the world” Sunday, September 29, 2024 Excerpt from Original – ICDO’s Long Nights of Interculturality 2024, September 30, 2024

ICDO’s Long Nights of Interculturality 2024
2024-09-23 - 2024-09-29
ICDO is organizing the 7th edition of the “Long Nights of Interculturality”, one of the biggest cultural events in Vienna, Austria, from 23rd to 29th of September 2024.
A Celebration of Diversity, Inclusion, and Shared Humanity
Join us for an unforgettable journey into the heart of intercultural exchange. The Long Nights of Interculturality is more than just an event—it’s a movement that celebrates the richness of our global community, fostering understanding, connection, and collaboration across cultures. We will be #SafeguardingDiversity together at the spectacular live events in the most prominent venues in Vienna, Austria!
What to Expect
Cultural Showcases: Immerse yourself in vibrant performances, traditional music, dance, and storytelling from diverse cultures around the world. Each evening presents a unique experience, celebrating the beauty and depth of global traditions.
Thought-Provoking Discussions: Engage in meaningful dialogues with thought leaders, activists, and community members on topics such as cultural heritage, migration, and social inclusion. These discussions are designed to inspire new perspectives and foster a deeper understanding of our shared challenges and opportunities.
Art Exhibitions and Documentaries: Experience compelling art exhibitions and documentaries that showcase diverse perspectives and stories from around the globe. These curated displays and films offer insight into the artistic expressions and lived experiences of cultures worldwide.
Why Attend?
The Long Nights of Interculturality is a platform where cultures converge, connections are made, and bridges are built. By participating, you are contributing to a more inclusive, harmonious world—one that values diversity and promotes mutual respect.
Whether you’re a cultural enthusiast, a curious learner, or someone looking to make a positive impact, this event offers something for everyone. Come with an open heart and leave with unforgettable memories.
Join Us
Mark your calendars and be part of this transformative experience. Together, let’s celebrate our differences, embrace our commonalities, and pave the way for a more interconnected world.
Panel Discussion: “Voices for the Future: Gender Nexus and Inclusion in Climate Action at COP 29”
Monday, September 23, 2024
Costumes of the World – Book Release
Tuesday, September 24th, 2024
Art Exhibition: “Cultural Diversity & Inclusion”
Wednesday, September 25th, 2024
ICDO’s Costumes of the World Show – Rathaus Festsaal
Friday, 27 September 2024
Documentaries & Short Movies: “Diversity Around the World”
Sunday, September 29th, 2024
Excerpt from Original – ICDO’s Long Nights of Interculturality 2024, September 30, 2024

Media talk and tour of the PERSPEKTIVE 2024 job fair
2024-09-25 09:30 - 16:30 | MAK, Weiskirchnerstrasse 3, MAK, entrance, Vienna, 1010, Österreich
Promote offerings for job seekers? Indispensable right now! Social enterprises secure workforce for the future
Vienna (OTS) – Your interlocutors:

Winfried Göschl, Managing Director AMS Vienna
Yvonne Rychly, Member of the State Parliament and deputy Chairwoman of the Board of waff
Swantje Meyer-Lange, Chairwoman of arbeit plus Wien

Date: Wednesday, September 25, 2024, 9:30 am to 4:30 pm MAK, Entrance Weiskirchnerstraße 3, 1010 Vienna
Following the media talk, joint visit to the exhibition stands and opportunity for individual interviews. At the fair, (long-term) unemployed people can get to know Vienna’s social enterprises and apply directly. The job fair is organized by arbeit plus Wien in cooperation with AMS Wien and waff.
work plus. Dachverband – Soziale Unternehmen Wien Since 2001, the umbrella organization has represented Viennese organizations that advise, qualify and employ long-term unemployed people. The interest group represents almost 60 companies and advisory services, backed by 30 supporting organizations.
Inquiries & Contact:
Mag.a Eva Schober, Public Relations & PR Taborstraße 24/18, 1020 Vienna; www.arbeitplus-wien.at Tel.
01-720 38 80-15; 0664 811 92 02; Mail: e.schober@arbeitplus-wien.at
OTS-ORIGINALTEXT PRESS RELEASE UNDER THE SOLE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE SENDER

Migration. Woman. Family violence. - a search
2024-10-09 09:30 - 12:30 | Office building Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus, Gasgasse 8-10, Vienna, 1150, Österreich
Migration is feminine. Hardly any population group faces more problems than women with a migration background. This is particularly the case with family problems and violence in the family. Strict provisions in residence law, a lack of educational and employment opportunities and economic inequality are major obstacles for women with a migrant background. This makes it difficult for them to free themselves from violent relationships. This presentation will discuss and analyze the areas of residence, the labor market and work-life balance. This knowledge should show ways to free oneself from dependencies and stop violence. Because: Migrant women must not be allowed to slip into isolation.
Lecturer: Angela Ivezic (Counseling Center for Migrants)
Date: Wednesday, October 9, 2024, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Venue: 15th, Gasgasse 8-10, Stiege 1, 1st floor left, Amtshaus Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus, seminar room of the Department of Integration and Diversity
Excerpt from original – City of Vienna, August 14, 2024

Information event in Greek language
2024-10-17 18:00 - 20:00 | Counseling center for migrants, Hoher Markt 8/ Staircase 4/ 2nd floor, 1010 Vienna, Vienna, Österreich
Information event in Greek for Greeks living in Vienna:

Thursday, October 17, 2024
from 18:00 to 20:00
Venue:
Hoher Markt 8/ 4/ 2nd floor
1010 Vienna

Family reunification
2024-10-24 09:30 - 12:30 | Office building Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus, Gasgasse 8-10, Vienna, 1150, Österreich
Under what conditions may family members of third-country nationals (persons who are neither EEA citizens nor Swiss nationals) stay and work in Austria for longer than 6 months? In this presentation, you will learn more about the relevant legal regulations for foreigners with case studies.
Speakers: Maryam Singh, Veli Cayci (Counseling Center for Migrants)
Date: Thursday, October 24, 2024, from 9.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m.
Venue: 15th, Gasgasse 8-10, Stiege 1, 1st floor left, Amtshaus Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus, seminar room of the Department of Integration and Diversity
Excerpt from original – City of Vienna, August 14, 2024

Information event in Romanian language
2024-11-14 18:00 - 20:00 | Counseling center for migrants, Hoher Markt 8/ Staircase 4/ 2nd floor, 1010 Vienna, Vienna, Österreich
Thursday, November 14, 2024
from 18:00 to 20:00
Venue:
Hoher Markt 8/ 4/ 2nd floor
1010 Vienna

Citizenship law
2024-11-18 09:30 - 12:30 | Office building Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus, Gasgasse 8-10, Vienna, 1150, Österreich
Austrian citizenship can be acquired in various ways and identifies someone as a citizen of the Republic of Austria and at the same time as a citizen of the European Union. The legal basis for this is the Citizenship Act. In this lecture you will learn how to become an Austrian citizen. Here we will give you a general overview of the requirements for acquiring Austrian citizenship.
Speaker: Counseling center for migrants
Date: Monday, November 18, 2024, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Venue: 15th, Gasgasse 8-10, Stiege 1, 1st floor left, Amtshaus Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus, seminar room of the Department of Integration and Diversity
Excerpt from original – City of Vienna, August 14, 2024

International Women's Day
2025-03-08 00:00
International Women’s Day is aimed at combating the multiple discrimination and exploitation of women and girls all over the world. Every year, the Women’s Service (MA 57) organizes events to mark the occasion.
As early as 1910, the German socialist Klara Zetkin called for the introduction of a Women’s Day. On March 19, 1911, the first Women’s Day was celebrated in Denmark, Germany, Austria-Hungary and Switzerland. In Vienna, 20,000 people demonstrated for women’s rights on the Ring. The defining issue – also in the following years – was the demand for free, secret and equal voting rights for women. It was fulfilled in Austria on November 12, 1918.
On March 8, 1917, workers’ and soldiers’ wives demonstrated in St. Petersburg on International Women’s Day, triggering the February Revolution. To commemorate the role of women in the revolution, March 8 was proposed as an international day of remembrance in Moscow in 1921.
On Women’s Days, numerous other political goals were then raised, such as reducing working hours without wage cuts, lowering food prices, regular school meals and legal abortion.
Nazi era until the 1970s
During the Nazi era, the holiday was officially banned. It was only after the end of the Second World War that the women’s movement took it up again, although its significance increasingly dwindled. This changed with the women’s movement in the 1960s and 1970s. During this time, there were calls for the ban on abortion to be lifted.
International Women’s Day has been celebrated worldwide on March 8 since the United Nations General Assembly (UN) passed a resolution to this effect in December 1977.
Objectives and measures of the City of Vienna
Women’s Day has now become firmly anchored in the consciousness of our society. The efforts and measures for equality between men and women go far beyond this day. The City of Vienna has set itself the goal of ensuring that every woman and girl in Vienna can live a safe, self-determined and independent life. To achieve this, it is also important to promote the advancement of women and close the income gap. In order to ensure this in the public sector, Vienna is leading by example and has achieved extensive income transparency of municipal salaries by law.
An innovative milestone was set with the project to link public contracts awarded by the city to measures to promote women. The awarding of public contracts is an important lever for initiating gender equality measures in Viennese companies.
Vienna Women’s Day at City Hall
The Housing, Housing Construction, Urban Renewal and Women’s Department and the Women’s Service of the City of Vienna (MA 57) invite you to celebrate International Women’s Day every year.

Excerpt from Original – City of Vienna, March 11, 2025

Doubly discriminated against: Viennese women with a migration background
2025-03-08 14:00
Doubly discriminated against: Viennese women with a migration background

City of Vienna invites newly arrived women to an information day on March 8
Vienna (OTS) –
Half of Viennese women between the ages of 15 and 64 have foreign citizenship or were born abroad. 46% of women working in health and social professions have a migrant background. In wholesale and retail, more than half of the employees in these sectors are women. Despite their importance in maintaining the quality of life in the city of Vienna, migrant women are affected by poorer working conditions and significant differences in income. On Women’s Day, the Department of Integration and Diversity, together with the Vienna Employment Promotion Fund (waff), the Vienna Business Agency and the Advice Center for Migrant Women, will provide information on further training, self-employment and employment law issues.
Doubly discriminated against
Women earn less than men. Women with a migrant background earn even less. Migrant women from third countries with the same level of education earn on average 500Ꞓ to 800Ꞓ less than women without a migration background. In addition, migrant women from third countries are particularly often affected by poor working conditions. They often work in jobs with early or night shifts and are less likely to have permanent and open-ended employment contracts.
“Equal access to the labor market and qualified employment promote integration into the labor market and enable immigrant women to continue their educational and professional careers in Vienna. This is why we need good framework conditions, such as advice on employment law and offers of specialist German courses, including childcare, in order to support women in their professional development and promote them in the best possible way,” says Theodora Manolakos, Head of the Department of Integration and Diversity of the City of Vienna.
Lectures and advice for newly arrived women
To help women get off to a good start in Vienna, the Department of Integration and Diversity is organizing an information day on 8 March, International Women’s Day, as part of the “StartWien” programme. Visitors can attend presentations on a variety of topics specifically tailored to newly arrived Viennese women. On March 8, there will be information on self-employment and further training for women on the subject of the labor market.

Info day StartVienna on Women’s Day: Saturday, March 8, 2025, starting at 2 p.m., 10th, Arthaberplatz 18, Adult Education Center (VHS)
Factsheet “Migrant women in the labor market”

Excerpt from Original – City of Vienna, March 7, 2025

Democracy gap - Is our citizenship law still up to date?
2025-03-10 12:00 - 14:00
When we talk about democracy, many people first think of the right to vote. This is linked to Austrian citizenship and thus leads to a worrying democratic gap in a diverse and international metropolis like Vienna. Currently, 29% of Viennese employees and 68% of Viennese workers do not have Austrian citizenship and therefore do not have the right to vote.
The young generation is particularly affected, which means that the democratic deficit is increasing from year to year. The experience of not having the right to a political say leaves deep scars on people’s sense of belonging and identification with Austria.
Experts on citizenship law and naturalization will discuss the extent of political exclusion and what changes are needed for genuine representation and fairer access to Austrian citizenship.
Join the discussion and share your experiences, observations and ideas for solutions with us!
Where: FAKTory Universitätsstraße 9, 1010 Vienna
An event of the series “Reden über Demokratie” of the AK Vienna. Further dates:
April 10, 2025. 6.00 p.m.: Participation & Exclusion – How representative is our parliament?
May 14, 2025, 12.00 p.m.: Democracy 4.0 – Participation in the 21st century
4. June 2025, 12.00 noon: Young Voices: Old democracy and young people?
Contributors:
Amela Bousaki
… is Chairwoman of the Works Council at Caritas Vienna.
Franjo Markovic
… is a consultant in the Labor Market and Integration Department of the Vienna Chamber of Labor with a focus on migration and integration policy.
Maryam Singh
… works at the City of Vienna’s advice center for migrants and runs the initial information events on acquiring Austrian citizenship. She is a lecturer for Asylum & Migration at FH Campus Wien.
Moderation: Mara Verlic
Municipal Policy and Housing Department, AK Vienna

Excerpt from original – AK-Vienna, March 7, 2025

Migration. Woman. Family violence. - a search
2025-03-18 09:30 - 12:30 | Office building Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus, Gasgasse 8-10, Vienna, 1150, Österreich
Migration is feminine. Hardly any population group faces more problems than women with a migration background. This is particularly the case with family problems and violence in the family. Strict residence regulations, a lack of educational and employment opportunities and economic inequality are major obstacles for women with a migrant background. This makes it difficult for them to free themselves from violent relationships. This presentation will discuss and analyze the areas of residence, the labor market and work-life balance. This knowledge should show ways to free oneself from dependencies and stop violence. Because: Migrant women must not be allowed to slip into isolation.

Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Venue: 15th, Gasgasse 8-10, Stiege 1, 1st floor left, Amtshaus Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus, seminar room of the Department of Integration and Diversity
Speaker: Angela Ivezic (Counseling Center for Migrants)
Registration: online

Excerpt from Original – City of Vienna, March 7, 2025

Young, criminal, anti-democratic and lost? Facts and figures on young people with a migration background in Vienna
2025-03-19 09:30 - 12:30 | Office building Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus, Gasgasse 8-10, Vienna, 1150, Österreich
Hardly any other group is the focus of as much media and political attention as young Viennese with a migration background. Unemployment, crime, violence and extremism are topics that are repeatedly associated with young Viennese of foreign origin. In this interactive lecture, common depictions of young people with a migrant background will be addressed and contrasted with current data and scientific findings. Participants will receive information on current demographic, social and opinion poll data on young people with a migrant background in Vienna. The aim of the event is to contribute to evidence-based analyses and debates.

Date: Wednesday, March 19, 2025, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Speaker: Katharina Zahradnik-Stanzel (City of Vienna – Integration and Diversity)
Venue: 15th, Gasgasse 8-10, Stiege 1, 1st floor left, Amtshaus Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus, seminar room of the Department of Integration and Diversity
Registration: online

Excerpt from Original – City of Vienna, March 7, 2025

Citizenship law
2025-04-03 09:30 - 12:30 | Office building Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus, Gasgasse 8-10, Vienna, 1150, Österreich
Citizenship law
Austrian citizenship can be acquired in various ways and identifies someone as a citizen of the Republic of Austria and at the same time as a citizen of the European Union. The legal basis for this is the Citizenship Act. In this lecture you will learn how to become an Austrian. We will provide a general overview of the requirements for acquiring Austrian citizenship.
Date: Thursday, April 3, 2025, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Speaker: Maryam Singh (Counseling Center for Migrants)
Registration: online
Excerpt from Original – City of Vienna, March 11, 2025

Romanian and German - two languages, one heart
2025-04-07 18:00 - 20:00 | Counseling center for migrants, Hoher Markt 8/ Staircase 4/ 2nd floor, 1010 Vienna, Vienna, Österreich
Date: Monday, April 7, 2025
Time: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Beratungszentrum BBE-Beratungszentrum für Migrantinnen und Migranten, Hoher Markt 8 / 4 / 2nd floor, 1010 Vienna

Everyday life of the Greeks in Vienna
2025-04-10 18:30 - 20:30 | Counseling center for migrants, Hoher Markt 8/ Staircase 4/ 2nd floor, 1010 Vienna, Vienna, Österreich
Date: Thursday, April 10, 2025
Time: 18:30 to 20:30
Location: Counselling center for migrants labor market policy support facility Hoher Markt 8 / 4 / 2nd floor, 1010 Vienna

Challenges and obstacles for women in Austria
2025-04-18 14:00 | Counseling center for migrants, Hoher Markt 8/ Staircase 4/ 2nd floor, 1010 Vienna, Vienna, Österreich
After arriving in Austria, women are confronted with numerous challenges. They face various hurdles, particularly with regard to integration into the labor market. A lack of German language skills, a lack of professional experience and the responsibility for family work and the associated care options make their entry into working life considerably more difficult.
During this information event, the existing challenges and hurdles will be discussed and analyzed in detail. Ideas and solutions will be developed and discussed together.
The event is offered in Hindi, Urdu, Nepali and Bengali!

Speaker: Neelam Singh-Cintury (Counseling Center for Migrants)

Date: April 18, 2025
Time: 14:00
Location: Counseling Center for Migrants – Hoher Markt 8/4/2, 1010 Vienna

Registration: at migrant@migrant.at

"Red-White-Red Card" for graduates
2025-04-23 17:00 | Counseling center for migrants, Hoher Markt 8/ Staircase 4/ 2nd floor, 1010 Vienna, Vienna, Österreich
“Red-White-Red Card” for university graduates
After successfully completing their studies in Austria, graduates can apply for a ” Red – White – Red Card.

Under what conditions?
What is the procedure?
Deadlines ?
What documents are required for the application?
Costs?

All these questions will be answered at our information event.

Speakers: Linda Al- Dujaily, Sulaiman Shah Alokozay (Counseling Center for Migrants)
Registration: migrant@migrant.at

Date: April 23, 2025
Start time: 17:00
Event Location: Counseling Center for Migrants – Hoher Markt 8/4/2, 1010 Vienna

Registration: yes, at migrant@migrant.at

Family reunification - NAG
2025-04-24 17:30 | Counseling center for migrants, Hoher Markt 8/ Staircase 4/ 2nd floor, 1010 Vienna, Vienna, Österreich
Family reunification – NAG

The Settlement and Residence Act (NAG) – under what conditions are family members from third countries (persons who are neither EEA citizens nor Swiss nationals) allowed to stay and work in Austria for longer than 6 months? In this presentation, you will learn more about the relevant legal regulations for foreigners with case studies.
Speakers: Maryam Singh, Veli Cayci (Counseling Center for Migrants)
Registration: migrant@migrant.at

Date: April 24, 2025
Start time: 17:30
Event Location: Counseling Center for Migrants – Hoher Markt 8/4/2, 1010 Vienna

Registration: yes at migrant@migrant.at

VIDC Podcast and Policy Brief: Gender Apartheid in Afghanistan
2025-05-23 - 2025-05-24
On 23 and 24 May, the Afghan Cultural Association AKIS is organizing the conference “Against Gender Apartheid. Promoting Afghan women and girls through education and work” in cooperation with the VIDC, the Vienna Chamber of Labor and the trade union women in the Austrian Trade Union Federation (ÖGB). The reception and conference will address the situation of gender apartheid, in particular the catastrophic educational situation of Afghan girls and women.
Policy Brief: Gender Apartheid in Afghanistan. Recognition as a crime against humanity
In response to the Taliban’s misogynistic system, Afghan women have launched campaigns and engaged in transnational networks to have gender-specific persecution and discrimination recognized as gender apartheid. The aim of the campaigns is to provide victims and survivors of gender apartheid with a legal framework to hold the Taliban accountable as perpetrators under international law. To support the campaigns, VIDC Global Dialogue has drafted a policy brief.
Background
Since their return to power in August 2021 and the establishment of their Islamic Emirate, the Taliban have imposed a system of gender apartheid. They have made sweeping changes to governance that disproportionately restrict women’s freedoms, dismantling the 2004 Afghan constitution and abolishing all legal bodies that promote gender equality. One of the Taliban’s first restrictive measures was the replacement of the Ministry of Women’s Affairs – a body that strengthened women’s rights – with the Ministry for the Propagation of Virtue and Prevention of Vice, an institution designed to enforce a strict interpretation of Sharia law. In addition, the Taliban disbanded the Afghan Independent Human Rights Commission, which has provided crucial support to Afghans affected by human rights violations. Through these measures, the Taliban have institutionalized the systematic persecution of Afghan women and girls on the basis of their gender.
In July 2024, the policy of persecuting women and girls, which had previously been enforced through decrees and directives, was codified in the Morality Law for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice, ratified by the leader of Afghanistan Hibatullah Achundsada and published in the official gazette of the Taliban’s Ministry of Justice. This law has institutionalized the oppression of Afghan women and girls and created a deep divide between men and women. Every aspect of a woman’s and girl’s life is now controlled and restricted by regulations.
May 23: Evening reception in Vienna’s Rathauskeller

Opening: Councillor Andrea Mautz
Welcome words: Ghousuddin Mir (Chairman AKIS), Magda Seewald (VIDC)
Brief statements: Asiye Sel (Vienna Chamber of Labor), Karin Zimmermann (Federal Secretary for Women in the Austrian Trade Union Federation), Şafak Akçay (local councillor), Manizha Bakhtari (Ambassador of Afghanistan to Austria), Friba Sadeq (Banu magazine)
Statement on the Vienna Afghanistan Process: Wolfgang Petritsch (President, Austrian Institute for International Affairs)
Short inputs:
Tahmina Salik (Empowement For Her) and Shagofah Ghafori (Afghan human rights activist): On the situation of women and girls in Afghanistan and the status of the initiative to recognize gender apartheid
Maryam Singh (Counselling Centre for Migrants, Austria): On the situation of Afghan women and girls in Austria
Palwasha Kakar (former deputy minister in the Ministry of Women’s Affairs, Afghanistan) and Forozan Zamani (student): Solidarity with Afghan women and girls
Video presented by Palwasha Hamzad: “AKIS education initiatives in Europe and Kabul.”
Presentation of the Rabia Balkhi Award: Fereshteh Sama
Special prize for diaspora engagement in Austria (Zahra Hashimi, OMID Online School)
Moderation: Sharmila Hashimi (AKIS), Michael Fanizadeh (VIDC)
Musical accompaniment (Hadis Rostami and Masih Shadab)

Venue:
VIDC – Vienna Institute for International Dialogue and Cooperation
Möllwaldplatz 5/9
1040 Vienna

Invitation to the closing event & panel discussion
2025-06-24 17:00 - 19:00
From Vienna to Chicago – an international comparison of housing and food justice for refugees
The Vienna University of Economics and Business (Institute for Social Policy) and the DePaul Migration Collaborative (DMC) of DePaul University cordially invite you to the final event of the international research project “Protecting Rights Across Contexts and International Sharing (PRAxIS)”.
📌 Topic of the event
The focus is on refugees’ access to housing and food – key issues that are equally relevant in Vienna and Chicago. The aim is to work out differences and similarities in an international comparison and to discuss concrete practical approaches.
📅 Event details
Date: Tuesday, June 24, 2025
Time: 17:00 – 19:00
Location: Clubroom, WU Vienna, Welthandelsplatz 1
Language: English
🔗 View WU Vienna campus map
🗓️ Program overview

Opening speech:
Judith Kohlenberger (WU Vienna)
Research results:
Josh Friedman (DMC Practitioner in Residence)
Theresa Herzog-Abusaeeda (PhD student, WU Vienna)
Panel discussion with experts from the field:

Maryam Singh (Counseling Center for Migrants / FH Campus Wien)
Maren Riebe (Ute Bock Association)
Christina Gugerell (Caritas / BOKU Vienna)

Conclusion:
Informal networking & buffet

🤝 Invitation to all interested parties
The event is aimed at experts, civil society activists, those affected and interested parties. Everyone is welcome to come and find out more, take part in discussions and network.
🔗 Further information
If you have any questions about the event or registration, please contact the organization team directly via the WU Vienna website.

Innovation in Politics Awards 2025
2025-09-17
On September 17, 2025, the Innovation in Politics Awards gala took place in Vienna – an event that puts the spotlight on innovative projects and bold ideas from all over Europe. We were there to witness best practices in democracy, integration and social cohesion being honored.
The awards are not only an award ceremony, but also a stage for exchange, networking and inspiration. Finalists from more than 20 countries were selected in eight categories – including Social Cohesion & Integration, Democracy Technologies and Local Development. The projects show what is possible when politics, civil society and technology work together to overcome real challenges. innovationinpolitics.eu
It was particularly exciting for us to see how many initiatives deal directly with topics that migrant also works with: Integration, co-determination, educational opportunities and social participation. The evening was a strong signal that innovation and empathy go hand in hand – and that change is possible when people and organizations stand together.

ENGAGE.EU Expedition Week+ WU Vienna
2025-09-21 - 2025-09-26
ENGAGE.EU Expedition Week+ is a one-week intensive program where Master’s students, PhD students and PhDs develop solutions to real-world challenges together with researchers, experts and mentors. It is a collaborative program that focuses on creating value for society and uses the Innopreneurship framework as a guiding principle.
By participating in this international co-design program, you will contribute to real social change. You will work in teams with other students from ENGAGE.EU partner universities on challenges set by the societal partners of the Vienna University of Economics and Business (WU) and ENGAGE.EU. Throughout the program, you will be guided towards knowledge-based and mission-oriented solutions using design thinking principles.

Family reunification of third-country nationals in Austria
2025-09-23 08:00 - 17:00 | Office building Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus, Gasgasse 8-10, Vienna, 1150, Österreich
On November 6, 2025, Maryam Singh and Veli Cayci from the Counseling Center for Migrants invite you to a practical lecture as part of the Wien.Vielfalt.Wissen series.
The focus is on the question of the conditions under which family members from third countries may live and work in Austria for longer than six months. Using concrete case studies, the legal provisions in immigration law are highlighted and explained in a practical way.

Speakers: Maryam Singh and Veli Cayci
Venue: 15th, Gasgasse 8-10, Stiege 1, 1st floor left, Amtshaus Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus, seminar room of the Department of Integration and Diversity
Registration: City of Vienna

Day of single parents - networking and offers
2025-09-29 09:00 - 13:00
The aim of the event is to make support services visible, to facilitate concrete access to information and support services and to create a protected framework for exchange and networking.
Program

9.30 am:

Welcome by Deputy Mayor and Women’s City Councillor Kathrin Gaál

10 am to 12 noon:

Information about support services and advice centers as well as services for single parents within the city of Vienna
Personal discussions with experts
Space for exchange and networking with other single parents
Information stands of numerous organizations inside and outside the city of Vienna

12 to 1 pm:

Conclusion with coffee and snacks

Location:

Heraldic Hall, 1st, Town Hall

Date, time:

September 29, 2025, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Excerpt from Original – City of Vienna, September 29, 2025

Citizenship law - paths to Austrian citizenship
2025-09-30 09:30 - 12:30 | Office building Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus, Gasgasse 8-10, Vienna, 1150, Österreich
On Tuesday, September 30, 2025, the Counselling Center for Migrants will hold a lecture on Austrian citizenship law as part of the Wien.Vielfalt.Wissen series.
Austrian citizenship can be acquired in various ways and is also associated with the rights as a citizen of the European Union. The lecture provides a compact overview of the legal basis and the requirements for acquiring citizenship.
The event is aimed at multipliers and interested parties who wish to obtain practical information about the legal framework.

Lecturer: Counseling center for migrants
Venue: 15th, Gasgasse 8-10, Stiege 1, 1st floor left, Amtshaus Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus, seminar room of the Department of Integration and Diversity
Registration: City of Vienna
