Austria celebrates national holiday: 70 years of neutrality in focus!

Austria celebrates national holiday: 70 years of neutrality in focus!

On October 26, 2025, Austria celebrated its national holiday with a series of impressive events in Vienna. Among the celebrants was the Rudholzer family from Bürmoos, who had come especially to celebrate the special day in the capital. October 26th is a very special day because on this date the Federal Constitutional Law on perpetual neutrality was passed in 1955, which is of great importance for Austria. The Krone reports that this year too, Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen laid a ceremonial wreath at the Outer Castle Gate. The federal government remembered the victims of war and violence.

The national holiday, which has been officially celebrated since 1965, has its roots in the declaration of neutrality, which was issued exactly one day after the withdrawal of the occupying troops from Austria, as can also be found on Wikipedia. Through this neutrality, Austria secures its independence and inviolability, which is reflected in the ban on allowing foreign military bases on its territory. Austria is clearly committed to comprehensive national defense, even during ongoing discussions about possible NATO membership, which are hotly debated among the population.

Diverse celebrations

This year, 1,000 recruits were sworn in at Heldenplatz, which truly underlined the operational readiness of the armed forces. The Federal Army, which is celebrating its 70th anniversary this year, continues to enjoy a high reputation. In her speech, Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner emphasized the values ​​of security, commitment and team spirit, which are essential for soldiers.

As part of the celebrations, two Eurofighters and a C-130 “Hercules” flew over the city, which was not only a tongue-in-cheek symbol of air protection, but also presented the impressive technology of the Federal Army.

Opening of ministries

Another highlight of the celebrations was the opening of many ministries on Sunday, where citizens were given an insight into the work of the government. For small audiences, programs for young and old were offered that were not only informative but also entertaining.

Austria's role in the international community is also visible worldwide through its commitment to human rights and peace. Austria's commitment to peacefully regulating the situation in Belarus is viewed as exemplary by the diaspora there and shows how Austria is honored as a democratic state. This extraordinary attitude is appreciated not only domestically but also internationally, as [Belarus-Diaspora](https://belarus-diaspora.at/all-categories-de/statements-belaruscontextbulletin/oesterreich-national Feiertag) notes.

The national holiday is not only a look back at Austria's history, but also an opportunity to reflect on the country's current and future role in an increasingly complex global landscape. With a clear commitment to neutrality and the principles of peace and freedom, Austrian citizens show, even in stormy times, that they are proud of their country and stick to common values.