International

Austria celebrates 70 years as a member of the Council of Europe

On 16 April 2026, Austria marked a significant milestone: the 70th anniversary of its accession to the Council of Europe. This anniversary underscores Austria’s role as a reliable partner committed to the rule of law, democracy and human rights in Europe.

Austria joined the Council of Europe in 1956, making it one of the early members who institutionally shaped the reconstruction of Europe after the Second World War. A central pillar of this cooperation is the fight against corruption by the Council of Europe’s Group of States against Corruption (GRECO), of which Austria has been a member since 2006.

GRECO: An important partner in the fight against corruption
The GRECO group was established in 1999 and currently comprises 48 member states, including 47 European countries and the USA. GRECO regularly assesses member states on transparency, integrity and effective measures against corruption. Austria actively participates in these evaluations and implements the corresponding recommendations, currently focusing on corruption prevention and the promotion of integrity within national governments and law enforcement agencies.

An alliance for the rule of law and integrity
The interplay between Austria, the Council of Europe and GRECO symbolises an "alliance for the rule of law and integrity" based on three pillars:
• Strengthening the rule of law: through common standards and oversight
• Fighting corruption: through GRECO monitoring and reform recommendations
• Ensuring trust: through transparency and international cooperation

An important stability factor for Europe
Particularly in times of growing political challenges, this partnership represents an important factor for stability in Europe. Austria's 70-year membership in the Council of Europe is a sign of the country's long-term commitment to the rule of law, democracy and human rights.