In recent years, several significant events have taken place in Austria. Here are some of the key occurrences:
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Protests over virus rules: In 2023, tens of thousands of protesters, including many from far-right groups, marched through Vienna after the Austrian government announced a nationwide lockdown to contain skyrocketing coronavirus infections.
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Terror threat warnings: In 2023, Austrian police issued a terror threat warning for Vienna, citing an "abstract" danger for Syrian institutions in the city. This alert came a day after a warning of a possible "Islamist-motivated attack" on churches and other houses of worship.
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Floods and heavy rains: In 2023, southern Austria was ravaged by torrential rains and heavy floods, resulting in one person being swept away by a quickly swelling river.
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Far-right lawmakers walk out of Zelenskyy speech: In 2022, Austrias far-right lawmakers walked out of a speech by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, protesting that the speech violated Austria's principle of neutrality.
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Avalanches and snowstorms: In 2022, avalanches in the Lech Zuers skiing area and other parts of the Alps killed several people, including ski guides and snow plough drivers.
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Government crisis and no-confidence vote: In 2022, Austrian lawmakers voted conservative Chancellor Sebastian Kurz's government out of office, passing a motion of no confidence.
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Visa controversy: In 2023, Austria faced heavy criticism for granting visas that allowed sanctioned Russian lawmakers to attend a Vienna meeting of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe.
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Ongoing COVID-19 pandemic: Like many other countries, Austria has been dealing with the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, including implementing various restrictions, vaccination campaigns, and managing the impact on the economy and society.
