From 11 to 13 June 2026, the 49th Austrian International Law Conference took place at the Carinthian Music Academy in Ossiach on the topic “80+1 Years of the United Nations: Is Multilateralism Fit for the Future?”. Organised by the Institute of International Law and International Relations of the University of Graz, this year’s conference once again brought together numerous academics and practitioners to discuss current challenges and future perspectives of international law.
Prof. Gabriele Schmölzer, Dean of the Faculty of Law opened the conference on Thursday evening. This was followed by the keynote address delivered by Ambassador Dr. Elisabeth Tichy-Fisslberger, which set the thematic framework for the discussions that followed. This first day concluded with a traditional Carinthian snack reception, providing participants with an opportunity for both academic and personal exchange.
Throughout Friday and Saturday, a number of panel discussions addressed various aspects of the conference theme. The presentations and discussions examined the role of the United Nations and engaged with current challenges facing multilateralism in today’s international order.
In addition to the academic programme, networking and professional exchange played a central role throughout the conference. A joint dinner on Friday evening at the Stiftsschmiede in Ossiach provided an opportunity to continue discussions in an informal setting and to establish new professional connections.
The conference concluded on Saturday afternoon with a visit to Burg Landskron. During a shared lunch, participants had the opportunity to reflect on the discussions of the previous days and bring the conference to an end in a relaxed atmosphere.
The Institute of International Law and International Relations would like to express its sincere gratitude to all speakers, participants, and contributors whose support helped make the 49th Austrian International Law Conference a success.