📰 Der Standard · 90
AustriaIn the future, pupils will be able to graduate in feminism at Innsbruck Gymnasium
The Reithmanngymnasium in Innsbruck has offered feminism as an elective module for five years. Starting with the school year 2027/28, students will be able to take oral exams in this subject to obtain their maturity certificate.
One hundred and seventy grams of hope: Leon Engler on Ingeborg Bachmann utopian consciousness
The article discusses Ingeborg Bachmann, highlighting her exploration of the gap between the current state and an ideal state. It notes that she would have turned 100 years old on June 25.
What's going on in Vorarlberg?
The non-renewal of the contract of Stephanie Gräve, director of the Landestheater Vorarlberg, has caused controversy. Gräve was granted full pay until July 2028 despite her successful tenure since 2018, which saw artistic growth and stable finances. The decision by the regional government, led by Culture Minister Barbara Schöbi-Fink (ÖVP), to not renew her contract has drawn criticism from opposition parties including the Greens, SPÖ, and NEOS.
Sexual Assault: Convicted by Court
Frank Stronach, the Austrian-Canadian founder of Magna, was found guilty in two out of five charges related to sexual misconduct during a trial at the Ontario Superior Court. The 93-year-old had denied all allegations. He faces further proceedings next year. Originally, there were twelve charges against him, but some were withdrawn, and acquittals were indicated in two cases. The charges span nearly 50 years, with allegations dating back to 1977–1990. Thirteen women have accused Stronach, but only seven were involved in this first trial.
Scotland makes a hard-fought debut victory against Haiti at the World Cup
Scotland made a strong start to the 2026 World Cup by defeating Haiti 1-0 in a Group C match at the Boston Stadium. The only goal came in the 28th minute when John McGinn capitalized on a defensive error by Haitian goalkeeper Johny Placide. Despite Haiti's efforts in the second half, Scotland maintained their lead with organized defense. This victory marks Scotland's first World Cup win since 1990 and their return to the global stage after 28 years. The result gives Scotland an advantage in the group, which also includes Brazil and Morocco. Haiti, though defeated, showed competitive spirit and
Minister for Clientel
The article discusses Austrian Federal Minister Norbert Totschnig, who oversees both agriculture and environmental protection. It highlights his background as a former director of the ÖVP Farmers' Association and criticizes his approach to climate policy, suggesting he prioritizes farmers' interests over environmental goals. The article references an interview with Totschnig during a TV show where he was questioned about climate policy cuts and achieving climate targets.
Money yes, input no: SpaceX demotes investors to extras
The article discusses concerns over investor rights following SpaceX's successful initial public offering (IPO). Despite the IPO attracting numerous new investors, Elon Musk retains significant control through his roles as CEO, technical lead, and board chair, securing 85% of voting rights. The legal headquarters of SpaceX was moved to Texas, where it is more difficult for shareholders to bring proposals. This has raised concerns about governance and the exclusion of investors from decision-making processes.
Trial begins for "revenge" rape against 11 boys and girls and a father
The trial has begun against eleven teenagers and one father accused of a 'vengeance' rape following an attack on two fathers of youths. The incident occurred on October 6th at the U2 station Aspernstraße, where three minors were beaten, dragged down a stone staircase, robbed, and one was sexually assaulted with an object. According to prosecutors, the instigator is a 57-year-old man who is the father of one of the perpetrators.
85 people evacuated in Brigittenau after roof fire
A fire broke out in the attic of a building under renovation in Brigittenau, Vienna, during the night. The fire department was called to the scene around 2:00 AM, by which time the attic was already fully engulfed. It is believed the fire had been burning for some time in the unoccupied top floor of the building. Due to the intensity of the fire, all residents were evacuated as a precautionary measure. Approximately 100 firefighters were involved in the operation, and 85 people, including many children, were evacuated and taken care of at a nearby emergency station. Measures were taken to stop
Ukraine attacks Moscow refinery again
A Ukrainian drone attack caused a fire at a major oil refinery in Moscow for the second time in a week. According to official reports, over 180 drones were intercepted by Moscow's air defense systems, but several managed to reach the facility. The incident resulted in multiple fires, with videos showing explosions and smoke. The refinery, owned by Gazpromneft, is one of Russia's largest and supplies a significant portion of Moscow's fuel needs. The attack occurred amid ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, which began with Putin's invasion four years ago.
After the exchange of fire: Israel and Hezbollah agree to a ceasefire
Israel and the Iran-aligned Hezbollah militia in Lebanon have agreed to a ceasefire, according to U.S. officials. The ceasefire was set to take effect at 4:00 PM local time on Friday. A senior U.S. government representative confirmed the agreement between Hezbollah and Israel, noting that the U.S. and Qatar mediated the deal with support from Iran. This ceasefire is part of a broader framework agreement between the governments of Washington and Tehran. Prior to this, intense mutual attacks between Israel and Hezbollah had threatened the framework agreement aimed at ending the Iran war shortly.
Reading through space and time: high-level compression
The article reviews the science fiction novella 'Verlorene der Zeiten' by Amal El-Mohtar and Max Gladstone. It describes a conflict between two organizations across space, time, and dimensions, with agents leaving messages through time. The review highlights the novella's blend of time travel, technology, love, espionage, human history, and poetry within a concise format.
DJ, ballroom and best times: Vienna celebrates track night at the Prater
The Track Night event in Vienna's Prater features athletics competitions with special lighting technology called Wavelight, which helps runners maintain the correct pace to achieve their target times. The event has become a popular festival-style celebration of track and field.
These Austrian Cities Suffer Especially From the Heat
The article discusses how certain Austrian cities, particularly Vienna, are heavily affected by heat due to a lack of green spaces. Greenpeace conducted an analysis using satellite data to assess the amount of green areas in Austria's 80 most populous cities. The study found that six cities experienced extreme heat stress last year, while 21 faced significant heat stress. Greenpeace emphasizes that trees and green areas are effective in reducing urban heat, contrasting with materials like concrete and asphalt that exacerbate the heat effect.
No more waiting: UK tells tech platforms to fight back
The UK plans to ban social media platforms for children and teenagers under 16 years old, requiring stricter age verification for all users. Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that these platforms make children unhappy and emphasized the need for online safety. The ban would cover popular platforms like YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and Snapchat but exclude messaging apps such as WhatsApp and Signal. This policy draws inspiration from Australia’s approach but includes additional measures, such as prohibiting endless scrolling after 8:30 PM for 16- and 17-year-olds.
The European Parliament and the Council of Ministers have adopted a resolution on the situation in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia.
The Austrian People's Party (ÖVP) has released a list highlighting what it calls the 'underbelly' of the Freedom Party (FPÖ), aiming to distance itself from the FPÖ ahead of its 70th anniversary celebrations. The FPÖ plans to hold its birthday event at Stephansplatz in Vienna, featuring performances by Schlager singer Roberto Blanco and speeches from European far-right politicians such as Germany's Alice Weidel and Tino Chrupalla, Netherlands' Geert Wilders, Hungary's Viktor Orbán, and Czech Republic's Andrej Babiš via video message.
If they lose to Croatia, the English have a conspiracy theory ready.
Croatia and England face off in the first round of Group L at the World Cup. England has already prepared a 'conspiracy theory' if they lose to Croatia. England came to this World Cup with high ambitions and dreams of winning the title, so any setback would be shocking. Any result other than a win against Croatia would be considered a failure, especially since Croatia eliminated them in the semifinals at the 2018 World Cup and is their toughest opponent in the group. In the lead-up to the match, English media are creating a narrative that could serve as an excuse in case of failure. The focus,
Hohensinner: 'I want to replace the left-green coalition in Graz'
Kurt Hohensinner, the leader of Austria's People's Party (ÖVP), has stated that he wants to replace the left-green coalition government in Graz. He criticizes the current administration for failing to address traffic issues and claims they have prioritized social policies over economic development. Despite this criticism, Hohensinner does not rule out forming a working agreement or even a coalition with the KPÖ, the party currently leading the city government.
Another ORF election: General Pig is looking for 13 directors
The article discusses the ongoing recruitment process for four central director positions and nine regional director positions within Austria's largest public media corporation, ORF.
Enemy image and bearer of hope: Can empires save the climate?
The article discusses the financial gap between wealthy nations and poorer countries in addressing climate change, highlighting the role of billionaires like Elon Musk. It references historical examples such as Elon Musk's early advocacy for sustainable energy through companies like Tesla and SolarCity, and touches on cultural representations of wealth and power, such as the 'Beeple. Regular Animals' art installation.
Argentina-Algeria: Fennecs are already dreaming of knocking down Messi
Before the start of the World Cup match between Argentina and Algeria, tensions reached a peak as fans of both teams clashed at Times Square in New York. The incident involved confrontations between supporters of the reigning world champions and the double African champions. American police made several arrests. The pressure on both teams is high, with Argentina aiming for a second consecutive World Cup title, an achievement last accomplished by Brazil in 1962. Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, seeks to defy statistical odds after reaching the top of the FIFA rankings for the first time since 20
Justice Minister Sporrer wants to release 500 prisoners at once
Austrian Justice Minister Anna Sporrer (SPÖ) plans to release approximately 500 inmates at once to relieve overcrowded prisons. The measure applies only to prisoners with good conduct, such as those who have successfully completed probation or rehabilitation programs. Serious crimes like sexual offenses, terrorism, and violent crimes are explicitly excluded, as are individuals under electronic house arrest or those convicted under the Prohibition Act. The ministry emphasized that public safety would remain intact through this initiative.
Hernalser Bookstore closes after 135 years: 'It was a too expensive hobby'
The last traditional bookstore in the 17th district of Vienna, Hernalser Buchhandlung, is closing after 135 years. Owner Jelena Deretić expressed sadness over the loss of this social hub and community institution. Many customers regarded it as more than just a place to buy books, but as a gathering spot and source of advice. The closure marks the end of an era for the local neighborhood.
Full list of top scorers after World Cup round 1
The opening round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup featured several surprising results and notable performances. Underdog teams such as Cape Verde, Morocco, and DR Congo secured draws against stronger opponents, including Spain, Brazil, and Portugal respectively. Hosts the United States and defending champions Argentina both started strongly with decisive victories. The article lists the top scorers after the first round, highlighting Lionel Messi with three goals, followed by Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappé, Harry Kane, and others.
Ex-FPÖ MP Jenewein found guilty of breach of confidentiality
The former FPÖ National Council member Hans-Jörg Jenewein was sentenced to six months in prison for violating confidentiality by passing classified documents to a journalist. The Vienna Regional Court found him guilty in the second instance of compelling a former employee of then Interior Minister Herbert Kickl (FPÖ) to obtain confidential documents related to a meeting of the 'Berner Club' and provide them to an investigative journalist. The employee also received a conditional sentence of six months. The case also involved the acquisition of a recorded testimony from former SPÖ politician Fr
Integration budget: the farmer sees his tasks as secured
Austrian Integration Minister Claudia Bauer (ÖVP) announced details of her ministry's budget for 2027 and 2028, which includes reduced funding compared to current expectations. Key tasks such as German language learning and mandatory integration programs remain secured. The budget allocates around 61 million euros annually for German courses, aiming to increase efficiency through online courses, self-learning platforms, and compact courses. Bauer emphasized greater commitment from course participants and mentioned reliance on an upcoming coalition-approved integration obligation law. Funding 2
OP for Sorrow: Chancellor Stocker now on tour with Russwurm and Kiesbauer
Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker is embarking on a summer tour across Austria, holding public discussion events titled 'Österreich im Gespräch mit Bundeskanzler Christian Stocker.' Originally planned to be moderated by former weather presenter Christa Kummer, the events will now be led by Vera Russwurm and Arabella Kiesbauer due to an unexpected operation. The discussions aim to engage citizens directly, with participants selected through an online registration process designed to ensure demographic representation. Events will take place in various Austrian cities throughout July and into
Rights defender killings hit record high as UN pushes to shore up humanitarian action
A report by the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) states that attacks on human rights defenders, journalists, and trade unionists have reached record levels, with approximately 950 individuals killed or forcibly disappeared globally in 2025—more than double the number recorded a decade earlier. The report highlights several key findings, including that every 10 hours a human rights defender, journalist, or trade unionist is killed or disappears, and that violence against such individuals has resulted in at least 5,995 deaths since 2015. Additionally, the report notes
Furniture-making women: "We are often told that we are too weak"
The article discusses a woodworking workshop in Vienna run entirely by women, highlighting their experiences and challenges in a traditionally male-dominated field. The owner, Martin Effenberg, explains that his family business has historically employed both men and women, but it is now being led exclusively by female employees who have transitioned into the trade from other backgrounds.
Three good minutes: Relaxing bird song and excellent water quality
The article highlights positive developments, including Austria's football team victory over Jordan, the mental health benefits of birdwatching, and good water quality in Austrian rivers. It mentions research from German universities showing that listening to birdsong reduces stress hormones and blood pressure while increasing positive emotions.
Ukrainian hackers disable the Russian army's Groza combat app
Ukrainische Hacker haben Zugang zum russischen Gefechtsleitsystem 'Groza' erlangt und manipulieren die App mit ukrainischen Flaggen, unzüchtigen Zeichnungen und Spam. Die OSINT-Community 'Where is Russia Today' bestätigte den Hack und veröffentlichte Screenshots sowie weitere Materialien zu dem System.
An appeal to the footballers: stop praying!
The article discusses the increasing visibility of religious expressions among football players, particularly their open displays of faith during matches. It references German player Felix Nmecha after his goal against Curacao, highlighting how such behavior has become more public compared to past generations of athletes.
Lightweight luggage, intensive painting
The article discusses the author's personal experience with photography equipment over time, emphasizing a shift towards using prime lenses (fixed focal length) rather than zoom lenses for more spontaneous and unburdened photography. The author recalls carrying heavy gear in the past but now prefers lighter setups with fewer lenses.
AI Revolution: What jobs will our children be able to do in the future?
The article discusses the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on future employment, noting that cognitive tasks are increasingly at risk of being replaced by AI, while manual work remains less vulnerable. It references experts like Reinhard Kleindl and Peter G. Kirchschläger, who suggest this technological shift could be more disruptive than previous industrial revolutions. The piece highlights the uncertainty surrounding future job markets and the need for long-term planning.
After criticism: Bayreuth commemorative event to take place
The Bayreuth Festival has reversed its decision to cancel a commemorative event honoring Jewish musicians persecuted during the Nazi era. Initially canceled due to 'security concerns,' the event titled 'Verstummte Stimmen' (Silenced Voices) will now proceed on July 26 before the premiere of the opera Rienzi. The festival director, Katharina Wagner, apologized after criticism from invited speaker Michel Friedman and others, including Bavarian Minister of Culture Markus Blume (CSU) and the president of the Israelitische Kultusgemeinde.
Patient advocate: "The operating rooms are there, but they can't be played"
Patient advocate Gerhard Jelinek discusses the issue of long waiting times for surgeries in Austria's public healthcare system. He mentions receiving dramatic accounts from patients but notes that only a small number of complaints reach his office since they do not intervene in cases of general long wait times. The government has announced plans to address these delays, though details of reforms are still being finalized.
State of emergency: Scots celebrating outside drink Boston empty
Scottish fans celebrating during the World Cup have caused an unusual surge in beer consumption in Boston, Massachusetts. The fans, known as the 'Tartan Army,' have been seen drinking heavily at local bars and pubs, leading to increased sales for breweries and pub owners.
ÖFB defender Stefan Posch suffered a jaw fracture in the duel with Jordan
Austrian football player Stefan Posch suffered a jaw fracture during a match against Jordan in the World Cup 2026 qualifiers. The injury was confirmed via a CT scan, and no surgery is required. A special brace will aid his recovery. The Austrian Football Association (ÖFB) has not ruled out his participation in the upcoming match against Argentina. Both the team's sports director and assistant coach have emphasized Posch's importance to the team.
City, country, putsch: the FPÖ in Styria is going round
The article discusses internal conflicts within the Austrian Freedom Party (FPÖ) in Styria, focusing on the exclusion of two local party officials—Bernhard Dohr and Fabian Gutschreiter—on grounds of 'systematic disloyalty.' The exclusions occurred shortly before the party's campaign launch and are linked to a financial scandal affecting the FPÖ since 2021. There are hints of further exclusions after the June 26 election. The article also notes differences in leadership structures between FPÖ branches, with Vienna and Linz having city council members as party leaders, unlike Graz.
Quantum "railway" brings ion traps back into the quantum computer race
The article discusses recent advancements in quantum computing using ion traps, specifically highlighting a breakthrough involving a 'quantum railroad' that connects trapped ions to overcome scalability issues. The piece explains that while small-scale reliable quantum computers have existed for decades, increasing the number of qubits has proven challenging due to communication problems between them. Researchers at the University of Innsbruck have developed a method to link hundreds of thousands or even millions of individual quantum systems into a network, addressing this key challenge.
Dirty War Russian FSB recruits underage girls to seduce and poison Ukrainian soldiers
The head of Ukraine's police accused Russia's FSB of recruiting underage Ukrainian girls to assassinate Ukrainian soldiers. This claim follows the arrest of a 17-year-old suspect linked to the killing of a soldier under instructions from a Russian operative, according to Reuters. The chief of national police, Ivan Vihivski, stated that six planned murders organized via the Telegram app were recorded this year, with one prevented. He claimed these attacks are orchestrated by Russia's special services and executed by Ukrainian citizens. The FSB did not immediately comment. Russian security units
However, at the request of the EPP, forest owners will continue to receive millions
Austria must cut spending, but at the request of the Austrian People's Party (ÖVP), millions will continue to be allocated to forest owners through the Forest Fund. The fund, established in July 2020 by the ÖVP and Greens as support for forest owners during the pandemic, has distributed over €29 million in climate-friendly tree planting and processed more than 31,000 funding applications. However, with over 90% of its funds already used, the fund was expected to end in January 2027. Critics question whether the state should bear costs that many forest businesses could have foreseen.
GB: Starmer rival wins re-election
In the by-election in the Makerfield constituency, Andy Burnham of the Labour Party has won the parliamentary seat previously held by a member of the Reform UK party. This result could force Prime Minister Keir Starmer into a leadership contest within his party. Burnham, who will resign as mayor of Greater Manchester, received nearly 10,000 more votes than Reform UK candidate Robert Kenyon. The voter turnout was 58.78 percent. Starmer faces increasing pressure following recent losses in local elections and several high-profile departures from his cabinet.
Unrest among TGI investors after house searches in Liechtenstein
An investors of TGI AG, a gold dealer based in Liechtenstein, are experiencing unrest following a police search at their offices in early June. The investigation is looking into allegations of commercial fraud and money laundering, which the company denies. TGI's business model involves so-called 'gold discounts.' The company claims to have over 50,000 customers. The investigation has extended to Austria, with legal assistance requests sent to Austrian authorities. The main shareholders of TGI AG are a couple from Vienna, Helmut and Katarina Kaltenegger, whose documentary series was taken down
Bohrn Mena loses another "like" lawsuit
The Higher Regional Court in Vienna ruled that a 'Like' under a derogatory comment is not punishable under criminal law. The case involved a Facebook post by an Austrian FPÖ politician, where a user insulted the journalist Sebastian Bohrn Mena and his wife. A second user liked the comment, which Bohrn Mena attempted to prosecute as defamation. The court overturned the initial conviction, stating that a 'Like' does not necessarily indicate agreement with the content of the comment.
Quiz: From Oscar nominations and board games
The article promotes a monthly quiz organized by the Austrian Quiz Association (ÖQV), featuring questions from the May edition of Ö80. The quiz includes topics such as art, sports, and geography. It invites readers to participate either at ÖQV locations in Vienna, Graz, Innsbruck, and Vorarlberg or at home with friends and family. Readers are encouraged to share their results and opinions in the forum.
Why a drink from St. Pölten is suddenly everywhere in Vienna's trendy bars
The article discusses the rise in popularity of Ippai Lemon Sour, a canned alcoholic drink inspired by Japanese Sours, in Vienna's trendy bars. The drink was developed by Marcel Buchberger, who learned about the Japanese getränk culture during his time in Japan, and two other entrepreneurs. It combines shochu, lemon juice, soda water, sugar, and salt, and has become a staple in hipster venues across the city.
Martin Thür tears the thread of patience at Environment Minister Totschnig in the "ZiB 2"
In an interview with ZiB 2 host Martin Thür, Environment Minister Norbert Totschnig is questioned repeatedly about whether Austria will meet its climate goals. Totschnig avoids giving direct answers and instead emphasizes the need for collective effort while citing past government actions as obstacles. The article highlights concerns over reduced climate-friendly funding in the double budget and potential EU fines if targets are not met.
Trump's newly renovated pool is already fading
The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington, D.C., which was recently renovated under President Donald Trump's orders, is already showing signs of deterioration. Less than two weeks after Trump announced the completion of the renovation, peeling paint has been observed in the algae-infested water. The pool was part of a $14.7 million project undertaken without public bidding as part of broader plans to redevelop Washington, including the demolition of the White House East Wing to make space for a new ballroom.
When Heat Makes You Sick - How High Temperatures Affect You
The article discusses the health impacts of extreme heat, focusing on how high temperatures affect the cardiovascular system, metabolism, and overall well-being. It highlights that older adults and people with chronic illnesses are particularly vulnerable. The piece mentions epidemiological data showing increased hospital admissions and mortality during heatwaves, though direct attribution of death to heat is rare. The article also explains how the body tries to cool itself down during hot weather.
What the start-up scene demands of Justice Minister Sporrer for EU Inc.
The article discusses the proposed 'EU Inc.' initiative by the European Commission, which aims to simplify the process of establishing and expanding startups across the EU. The initiative allows for the creation of a digital corporate structure within 48 hours for a fee of up to €100, without requiring minimum capital. This new entity would enable companies to register a limited liability company in any EU country where they operate, provided at least one board member resides in the EU. The article notes concerns from the startup community regarding the potential for the project to become a '纸
Vance cancels trip: No Iran talks in Switzerland today
US Vice President JD Vance has canceled his planned trip to Switzerland, where he was set to meet with Iranian negotiators to discuss implementing a 14-point framework agreement. The White House stated that Vance and his delegation were ready to travel once the plans for the talks were finalized, but the logistics of such negotiations have always been complex and unpredictable. Vance indicated that negotiations could potentially begin sometime over the weekend. Tehran has not provided an immediate response, though the semi-official Iranian news agency Tasnim reported that Iranian negotiators需先
When children are suspended from school, they end up on the sidelines
The article discusses the increasing number of school suspensions in Austria, noting that over 2000 students were suspended last year, with most attending secondary schools. It highlights the ambiguity of situations leading to suspensions and questions whether they are an appropriate measure.
Contact with Russia by Council President Costa faces EU criticism
The article reports that António Costa, President of the European Council, has sought diplomatic contact with Russia, which has drawn criticism within the EU. It also mentions that the EU extended its sanctions against Russia by twelve months.
Austria's World Cup game: access peaks overloaded stream
During the second half of Austria's World Cup match against Jordan, the ORF streaming infrastructure experienced an overload due to high traffic. The APA-IT, which hosts ORF services including ORF ON, faced difficulties handling the surge in requests. Approximately 250,000 devices accessed the stream during the first half, with peak access at the start of the second half causing a single component failure. This affected ORF ON's homepage and new streams but did not interrupt ongoing streams. ORF stated it is prepared for high-load situations and plans technical improvements to prevent similar
Silence, walls, a top-secret expert report: a post-mortem of the FPÖ in Upper Austria and its consequences
The article discusses concerns over a potential conflict of interest involving Manfred Haimbuchner, the blue deputy provincial governor of Upper Austria (FPÖ), who wishes to appoint his close aide Roland Dietrich to a leadership position at Lawog, the largest non-profit housing organization in the region. Dietrich has been on the board of Lawog for two years, despite existing controversies regarding his suitability. The Revisions Association, responsible for auditing non-profits, had previously raised legal questions about Dietrich’s eligibility to serve on the board.
6-0 win against Qatar: Only one horrific injury to tarnish Canada's big World Cup party
Canada's national team achieved a significant 6-0 victory against Qatar, securing their place in the Round of 16 of the World Cup. However, the win was overshadowed by a serious injury to player Ismaël Koné, who suffered a suspected broken leg. The article highlights Canada's positive atmosphere during the tournament, contrasting it with the political climate in the United States under Trump.
In a game with 5 goals in 23 minutes, Switzerland knocks out Bosnia and wins 1st in the Cup; see best moments
In a match with five goals scored in 23 minutes, Switzerland defeated Bosnia and Herzegovina 4-1 in their first win of the World Cup. The Swiss team, coached by Murat Yakin, dominated the game but took until the 74th minute to score. Young player Johan Manzambi made a significant impact. The match took place at the packed SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, where Bosnia had strong support but struggled to threaten Switzerland's defense. Switzerland's strong performance in the qualifiers, including four wins and two draws, has positioned them as favorites in a weak Group B, which includes host nation,
EU extends Russia sanctions for the first time by 12 months
The European Union has extended its economic sanctions against Russia for the first time by twelve months rather than six. This decision was made during the June summit in Brussels by EU member state heads of government. Previously, Hungary's then-Prime Minister Viktor Orbán had blocked a one-year extension. The new Hungarian Prime Minister Peter Magyar is seen as more critical of Russia than his predecessor, who maintained close ties with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The sanctions include restrictions on trade, finance, energy, industry, transportation, and luxury goods. Additionally, a禁
According to the UN, by 2025, more than 14,000 children will be killed or maimed
According to UN data, more than 14,000 children were killed or maimed in armed conflicts in 2025, with the majority of cases reported in the Palestinian territories and Israel, Sudan, Myanmar, Syria, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. At least 2,725 Palestinian children were among those killed. The report highlights an increase of 7.5% compared to the previous year, marking the highest number since record-keeping began.
Austrian Film Award: PerPerla for best film, Goiginger for best director
The Austrian Film Award 2026 was presented at a ceremony hosted by Julia Edtmeier and Alexander Pschill at the hq7 Studios. The drama film 'Perla,' directed by Adrian Goiginger, won Best Feature Film. Goiginger also received the award for Best Direction for his film 'Vier minus drei.' Other winners included Simon Schwarz for Best Actor, Georg Weiss for Best Cinematography, and Monika Buttinger for Best Costume Design. The film 'Perla' had 13 nominations and won eight awards, while 'Vier minus drei' had eight nominations and won five awards.
On the pink planet GJ504 clouds of salt cover the sky
The article discusses the unusual exoplanet GJ504b, discovered in 2011 by the Subaru telescope. The planet, which appears pink rather than brown as expected for a brown dwarf, has a temperature of around 240 degrees Celsius and is surrounded by salt clouds. Recent observations using the James Webb Telescope have helped scientists better understand some of the mysteries surrounding this object.
Many dead after attack on airport in Niger
Islamic extremists attacked the international airport in Niamey, Niger, according to the country's defense ministry. The attack occurred in the early morning hours with heavily armed attackers breaching the airport grounds, opening fire, and causing explosions. Security forces engaged in combat with the attackers, resulting in multiple casualties. Eleven security personnel, two civilians, and 22 attackers were killed, while more than twenty people were arrested. The group responsible claimed affiliation with an al-Qaeda affiliate. This marks the second such attack on the airport, with a prior襲
How I Survived 24 Hours in the Steyr Wilderness
The article describes an individual's experience during a survival training course in the mountains near Mautern, Styria. The author learned survival skills but faced challenges such as lack of food and water. The narrative includes a group of five people struggling with dehydration and exhaustion after a long march, sharing limited resources like beer. They are trying to survive over a weekend while also caring for six other stranded individuals.
The Karl Heinz Grasser case: two-class justice in Austria?
The article discusses the case of former Austrian Finance Minister Karl Heinz Grasser, who was allowed to switch from prison to house arrest with an ankle monitor after only a few months in custody following his conviction in the Buwog scandal. This has sparked debate about whether prominent individuals receive preferential treatment in the justice system. The episode of the podcast 'Schuldfrage' analyzes the case and examines whether high-profile prisoners are treated differently.
Beatings, Electricity, Violence: What We Know After Eight Days of Trial in the Vienna Torture Trial
The article provides an update on the ongoing trial in Vienna involving two former representatives of the Assad regime, accused of systematic torture of civilians at the start of the Syrian civil war. The trial has been ongoing for eight days out of a total of 13 expected sessions. The defendants include Khaled Al Halabi, a former brigadier general who arrived in Austria with the help of the Austrian intelligence service and the Israeli Mossad several years ago. The prosecution alleges that high-ranking officials were involved in the systematic torture of civilians. The article highlights the惨
Accompaniment instead of "vacation": how to train suspended pupils
In Austria, the number of students suspended from school has increased significantly over recent years. In the 2024/2025 school year, 784 students in Vienna alone were suspended, compared to 756 in the previous year. Nationally, the figure rose from around 950 in 2018/2019 to 2,187 in the most recent school year. The Vienna Education Department provides suspension data annually, with current numbers at 779 cases three weeks before the end of the school year.
Heat wave rolling in
A heatwave is expected to hit Austria starting Wednesday, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C in some areas by Wednesday and potentially exceeding 35°C at weekends. The hot air is coming from the Iberian Peninsula and southern France, bringing sweltering conditions and tropical nights where temperatures do not drop below 20°C. The heatwave coincides with the start of astronomical summer on June 21, leading to short nights and limited time for cooling down.
New reports on Israeli use of white phosphorus in Lebanon war
The article reports on new claims by German NGO Medico International and their Lebanese partner organization Public Works Studio regarding Israel's systematic use of white phosphorus in southern Lebanon during the current conflict with Hezbollah. White phosphorus is described as a solid substance that ignites spontaneously at temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius and can cause severe burns, respiratory issues, and other health problems. The article also mentions the potential military use of the herbicide glyphosate. Earlier reports, including those by the New York Times in early June, had ver
New ultra-black car paint with black hole effect developed
A new ultra-black car paint with a 'black hole effect' has been developed, continuing the trend of increasingly dark automotive finishes. The article references BMW's 2019 concept vehicle, the VB X6, which was marketed as 'the world's darkest car.' It also mentions the cultural significance of black in car design, linking it to power, elegance, and exclusivity.
Too often, women are scapegoated for the Lolita fetish of popular culture.
The article discusses the controversy surrounding singer Olivia Rodrigo's choice to wear a 'Babydoll' dress during her performance and music video for the song 'Drop Dead.' Critics argue that the outfit sexualizes young girls, but the piece suggests that the true issue lies deeper than just the clothing itself.
The government should forget about agro-diesel for farmers
The article discusses Austria's planned continuation of diesel subsidies for farmers through 2027, noting that this subsidy was requested by the Austrian People's Party (ÖVP). The author argues that there is no longer a valid justification for this support, especially since the end of the Iran conflict may lead to lower oil prices.
How much the savings package affects recipients of emergency aid
The Austrian government's austerity package affects recipients of emergency financial aid (Notstandshilfe), particularly those who have lost their jobs. The original plan, pushed by the ÖVP, would have reintroduced partner income calculations, which had been abolished in 2018. This change was opposed by the SPÖ, who argued it would push women back into economic dependence on men. Instead, the government has chosen an alternative method to achieve its savings target, which the SPÖ views as less harmful.
France has broken up the warring Senegal in the second half
France needed to significantly improve their performance in the second half to overcome the highly organized Senegal, ultimately winning 3-1 at the MetLife Stadium and starting their World Cup campaign with a win. Senegal performed exceptionally well in the first half, limiting France's chances and coming close to scoring, including hitting the crossbar with Jackson. However, the movement of Olivier Giroud into a more central role changed the match dynamics. Giroud became the standout performer, creating gaps in Senegal's defense and feeding Kylian Mbappé, who opened the scoring. Marcus Thuram
Spain held to a draw by Cape Verde in World Cup clash
Spain dominated the match against Cape Verde but only managed to secure a single point in their Group H encounter at the World Cup. The game took place in Atlanta and was goalless. Spain, as reigning European champions, were expected to win comfortably, but Cape Verde surprised them with strong defensive performances. Cape Verde, a small nation in Africa with a population of 500,000 and an area of 4,000 square kilometers, made history by qualifying for the World Cup for the first time. They gained independence from Portugal in 1975 and began participating in World Cup qualifiers in 2003. Cape
Rents rose sharply in the first quarter
In the first quarter of this year, rent prices in Austria have increased significantly. According to Statistics Austria, the average rent including operating costs was 10.5 euros per square meter, an increase of 4.8 percent compared to the same period last year and 1.1 percent compared to the fourth quarter of 2025. The monthly rent for an average apartment rose from 663.8 to 695.1 euros. Net rents increased from 502 to 523.9 euros, while operating costs rose slightly from 2.5 to 2.6 euros per square meter. The Momentum Institute, which is close to trade unions, called for a more effectiverent
Rainer Nowak, CEO of the Press, is the new president of the VÖZ newspaper association
Rainer Nowak, CEO of the newspaper 'Die Presse,' has been elected unanimously as the new president of the Austrian newspaper association VÖZ. He succeeds Maximilian Dasch, editor-in-chief of the Salzburg Nachrichten. Nowak previously held leadership roles at 'Die Presse' and has experience with other Austrian media outlets. His appointment may signal a more assertive approach to media policy within the industry group.
Federal Reserve leaves interest rates unchanged
The Federal Reserve (Fed) has kept its key interest rate unchanged at a range of 3.50% to 3.75%, marking the fourth consecutive time it has done so. This decision was made under new Fed Chair Kevin Warsh, who did not align with President Donald Trump’s preference for a more accommodative monetary policy. The Fed members voted unanimously on Wednesday. Despite pressure from Trump to lower rates, the Fed remains cautious due to inflation concerns, including rising prices linked to the Iran conflict. The central bank now expects higher inflation this year, projecting a rate of 3.6%.
You want to know what your MPs are doing, let them vote digitally.
The article discusses the potential benefits of implementing electronic voting systems in Austria's National Council (Nationalrat), similar to those already used in the European Parliament. It argues that such a system would increase transparency and allow voters to better monitor how their elected representatives vote on individual issues, rather than just at the party level. The author suggests that current methods, like raising hands or standing up to vote, may obscure individual voting behavior and reduce accountability.
Premiere: New York Knicks first NBA team to be hosted by Trump
The New York Knicks won their first NBA championship in 53 years after defeating the San Antonio Spurs. The team, led by superstar Jalen Brunson, will participate in a parade and has been invited to the White House by former U.S. President Donald Trump, despite negative fan reactions during a home game at Madison Square Garden. Knicks owner James Dolan, who has supported Trump for decades, accepted the invitation. Dolan also attended the game with Trump.
New government plan to cut social assistance to refugees
Austrian government plans to reduce social welfare benefits for asylum seekers during an 'integration phase' requiring participation in German courses and other obligations. The proposal aims to increase financial pressure on asylum seekers to find work. However, experts argue this would violate both EU law and Austria's constitution, as asylum seekers should receive the same benefits as Austrian citizens.
Can the weight-loss shot reduce crime?
The article discusses emerging research into the potential effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, beyond their primary use for weight loss and diabetes management. These medications have shown possible benefits in reducing cancer risk associated with obesity, improving sperm quality, and increasing testosterone levels. Additionally, preliminary studies suggest they might influence brain functions related to reward systems and impulse control, which could have implications for addiction treatment.
Kiev: Russia attacked with 60 drones
Russian air defense forces shot down approximately 60 Ukrainian drones over Moscow, according to Mayor Sergei Sobyanin. One drone struck an object at a Moscow oil refinery, but no injuries were reported. Emergency services are removing debris from the area. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy praised Kyiv's intelligence services for their 'effective work' and highlighted that the refinery is located 500 kilometers from the Ukrainian border. He stated that Russia must be forced to end the war against Ukraine. Flight restrictions were imposed at four airports in Moscow due to the drone alert
Pilnacek case: Everything done right, says police chief of Lower Austria
The Pilnacek investigation committee has become an experiment in repeated questioning of police officials. The article discusses how the committee continues to question officers like Police Director Franz Popp, who appears uninterested in the criticism from the WKStA. Popp was involved early in the case after being informed by federal police and contacted by the lawyer representing Pilnacek's widow. During his testimony, he showed little interest in the criticisms raised.
Colombia's environmental movement fears new mining boom if right wins
In the second round of Colombia's presidential election, right-wing candidate Abelardo de la Espriella, who won 43.7% of the vote in the first round, faces leftist senator Iván Cepeda, who received 40.9%. De la Espriella plans to implement strict anti-crime measures, significant budget cuts, and expand mining licenses to boost the extractive sector, including controversial technologies like fracking. Environmental groups fear that a victory for de la Espriella could lead to a new boom in mining activities, potentially harming local ecosystems.
5G masts as weather sensors: A1 tests new forecasting technology
A1, an Austrian telecommunications provider, is testing a pilot project that uses existing 5G masts as virtual weather sensors. The initiative, conducted in collaboration with Nokia and Finnish company Skyfora, aims to improve weather forecasting accuracy by utilizing the existing 5G network infrastructure. Several locations in the Seetaler Alps region and one site in Slovenia have been equipped with specialized software to collect weather data.
Drinks breaks are the World Cup’s biggest scandal
The article criticizes FIFA's decision to introduce hydration breaks during the World Cup, arguing that these breaks have become primarily a platform for excessive commercialization through advertising. The author highlights the increased number of advertisements shown during these intervals, including those for companies such as Verizon, Modelo, Nerds sweets, Valvoline, and Indeed. The article also notes how the structure of the game has shifted, with commentators referring to the breaks as 'quarters' rather than halves, suggesting a shift toward a more American-style sports format. The piece
The terrible deal of the dealmaker Trump
The article discusses U.S. President Donald Trump's agreement with Iran during the G7 summit in Evian, highlighting concerns over the terms of the deal. It notes Trump's statement threatening Iran with military action if they do not comply with the agreement. The piece also references Trump's assertive behavior at the summit, including his claim of being 'the boss.' The article critiques the deal, suggesting it gives Iran significant concessions while imposing minimal restrictions.
Good train connections, low rent: Where living around Vienna is still affordable
The article discusses affordable housing options outside Vienna, focusing on areas with good train connections where rent is significantly lower than in the capital. A data analysis by the real estate platform ImmoScout24 compares rental prices for 70-square-meter apartments along railway lines leading into Vienna. The study highlights that living in these surrounding areas can save up to €660 per month compared to renting in Vienna.
Anschober, Smoke, Smoke-Callate and Kdolsky are pushing for an action plan for ME/CFS
Former Austrian health ministers Rudolf Anschober, Johannes Rauch, Maria Rauch-Kallat, and Andrea Kdolsky have called on the government to implement an existing action plan for post-acute infection syndromes such as ME/CFS and Post Covid. The initiative, launched by the Austrian Society for ME/CFS in May, includes minimum measures to improve patient care and targets both policymakers and social insurance providers. The petition is supported by the We-&-Me Foundation, which focuses on researching the condition.