Guest speech: Ambassador of France, H.E. Mr. Philippe Carré

As a continuation of the Guest Lecture series of the IMC Export Department, under the auspices of the Chair for International Law and Global Political Studies, Prof. Dr. Anis Bajrektarevic invited H.E. Philippe Carré, French Ambassador to Austria since October 2008, to hold a guest lecture on the EU currents.

Some days before the end of the French Presidency of the European Council, IMC students and lecturers had the honor of gaining insights into the priorities and future perspectives of the European Union.

The major aspects of the “informal” troika between France and the future holders of the Presidency, the Czech Republic (first half 2009) and Sweden (second half 2009) were discussed, consisting of climate and energy, migration questions, agriculture, and security and defense. In addition to these key issues, the French Presidency has been confronted with serious challenges such as the Georgia conflict and the financial crisis.

In light of recent events, H.E. Carré commenced his speech by pointing out the importance of cooperating within the EU in order to strengthen the individual countries and support them to overcome the financial crisis. In this context, H.E. Carré stressed the advantageous position of the EU countries compared to non-members.

Special attention was also given to migration issues which represent a serious problem to many European countries including France. As it is crucial to regulate legal immigration within the EU, the European Pact of migration and asylum has been adapted recently.

Another element of the guest lecture was the EU foreign policy, especially with regards to Russia. In spite of disparate viewpoints on global issues, H.E. Carré pointed out the significance of maintaining good relationships with neighboring countries (ENP, Barcelona process/Mediterranean Union, the EU-Russia and EU-Ukraine Strategic dialogue). Furthermore the audience was given an easily comprehensible example for reasons of disputes in foreign policy by means of comparing “firemen” countries like the Middle East or Africa with European “architect” countries as well as the views on state-of-art of the Lisbon Strategy and the EU Reform treaty.

The final part of the lecture was reserved for students’ and lecturers’ questions, where topics such as the reputation of the EU amongst European citizens, the potential for further enlargement, an eastward shift of the Union by which Austria is benefiting and the controversial topic of nuclear technology as a part of wider European debate on common energy policy were discussed (including the new generation of French nuclear reactors, ITER and CERN). The question and answer session was concluded by recommendations on how to become more “European” and communicate across cultures and countries.

Both students and lecturers enjoyed this extraordinary and interesting, trilingual speech (French, English and German) held by the French Ambassador H.E. Carré and quadric-lingual discussion afterwards (3+Russian). A highly appreciated aspect was to not only get to know the standpoint of France as holder of the EU Presidency, but also H.E. Carré’s personal opinion on current issues the EU is facing.
The ambassador’s visit was closed with the informal part of having cocktails and answering further questions as well as the family picture.

H.E. Ambassador Carré graduated from the École nationale d'administration in 1980 (Bachelor’s degree in law). After graduation, he served as First and Second Secretary at the French embassy in Moscow, at the Central Administration (Centre d'analyse et de prévision), as a Technical Counselor at the Minister’s Cabinet and as First and Second Secretary at the French embassy in Bonn. H.E. continued his career as Executive being responsible for sensible exports at the Department of Economics and Finance. In 1994 H.E. was delegated to the Council of the European Union, where he was in charge of Foreign Affairs and Security. H.E. was sent as Ambassador of the French embassy in Berlin in 1999. Until this year, H.E. served as Director of Strategic Affairs, Security and Disarmament.

The Guest lecture of Amb. Carré was the 59th event organized under the auspices of the chair for international law and global political studies. The next event will take place on the 16th of January 2009 (the G-8 Presidency Series) when the IMC EXP is hosting H.E. Massimo SPINETTI, the Italian ambassador to Austria.

Photos: Hermann Maglock, U.F. & B.U.
Text: Urlike F. & Bettina U. (rev. A.B.)

The script of the speech of H.E. Philippe Carré can be found here.

Guest speech: Vice-President of the Austria's Marshallplan Memorial Foundation & DALE Investments Partner, Mr. Anton Fink

As a continuation of the guest lecture series of the IMC Export Department, under the auspices of the chair for International Legal and Global Political Studies, Prof. Dr Anis Bajrektarevic has invited Dr. Anton Fink, Vice-President of the Austrian Marshall Plan Memorial Foundation and Senior Partner of DALE Investments.

In the light of the current troubled financial environment, Dr Fink held the presentation under the title “Limits to Growth or Limits to Greed”. He addressed not only the recent events but also gave the students a thorough insight into the impacts of the financial crisis and a future outlook for the financial environment.

Mr. Fink started off his talk with picturing the outcome of the financial crisis by taking the example of Iceland were banks caused a total debt of approximately 60 billion dollars which is more than 10 times the country’s GDP.

Furthermore, he elaborated on the triggering events of the troubled financial environment and pointed out the impact of human irrationality. According to his speech, the main reasons are the striving for easy money creation, lack of transparency of the market and numerous financial tools and the lack of regulations.

For the future, he predicts a new design of financial markets with more regulations. Nonetheless, the recession will still hold on for a while and will lead to currency adjustments. Although there is a lot of reflection on the past faults, errors will occur again. It is a fact that the economy is subject to cycles and fluctuations.

Even though the subject is very complex and hard to describe in such a short period of time, he managed to present the topic in a very understandable and clear way which was highly appreciated by the students.

The last part of the guest lecture was foreseen as a questions and answers session were students got the possibility to address issues like the influence of politics in the financial crisis, the possibilities to intervene for the European Union and the and the bail-out of Austrian banks. As the rest of the presentation, the Q&A Session, which turned out to be a vivid and informative discussion round, was highly appreciated and gave the opportunity to find out more about a particular matter of interest.

Dr. Anton Fink graduated from Johns Hopkins University Washington D.C. /USA in 1981 (School of Advanced International Studies, M.A.). Onwards a graduation of the Senior Executive Program at Columbia Business School in New York in 2003 followed. Mr. Fink gained his experience while working for banks in Germany and Austria before he joined the Bank Gutmann AG as a Member of the Board in 1992. Since 2005 he is appointed as partner and Managing Director at Dale Investment Advisors, the largest independent financial advisor in Austria. Furthermore, Mr. Fink is member of the board of trustees of the AFS-Scholarship-Foundation and Vice-President of the Marshallplan-Foundation.

Summing up after the event, content-intensive talks with fellow students and professors, with Ms. Eva Werner, the IMC Vice-Rector, and Mr. Anis H. Bajrektarevic, Export Chair and principal host of the event, our distinguished guest stated that he has been very impressed by our faculty’s interest. Dr. Fink also complimented the commitment and knowledge of our students as demonstrated in the questions and discussion with him. Dr. Fink finally expressed his willingness to come back soon.

The Guest lecture of Dr. Anton Fink was the 58th event organized under the auspices of the chair for international law and global political studies. The next event will take place on the 16th of December when the IMC EXP is hosting H.E. Pierre Viaux, the French ambassador to Austria.

Photos: Hermann Maglock
Text: Barbara F. & Christina P.

The presentation of Mr. Anton Fink can be found here.

Student visit to the UN office, OOSA and UNIDO in Vienna 2008

Under the auspices of the Chair for International Law and Global Political Studies, the 5th semester of the Export-Oriented Management program paid for the fifth consecutive time an annual visit to the United Nations Headquarters at Vienna International Centre. At this very occasion, the Export students would like to thank the chairman, Dr. Anis Bajrektarevic, for giving us the unique possibility to get a deeper insight into the functionalities of such a significant, international organization.

The event took place on the afternoon of 21 October 2008 and was marked by very high security measures in order to enter the ambience of the UN, Vienna being the third most significant headquarters after New York and Geneva.

The agenda started with a guided tour through the environments of the United Nations and some information on the core mission of the UN: promoting international peace. Divided into three groups we got to see an exhibition, being exposed, inter alia, one of the famous lunar stones. Afterwards we were lead into one of the official UN conference rooms, where the ambassadors of the 193 member countries usually meet up for consulting and evaluating any relevant issues and topics. Unfortunately, there was no conference held at that time.

Later on, we all moved to a small meeting room where three representatives of the Office for Outer Space Affairs (OOSA) kindly received us and gave us an overview about their tasks and objectives concerning the peaceful uses of outer space. The Chief of the Committee Services and Research Section Mr. Niklas Hedman from Sweden and the Austrian Prof. Hans Haubold introduced us into the new but very interesting field of space-related concerns and issues. They pointed out the importance and the influence of space-related technologies within our daily lives, e.g. GPS systems and TV satellites. Moreover, the German Mr. Werner Balogh, dedicated to Regional Centers for Space Science and Technology Education, gave us a short insight into his education programs particularly designed for PhD and Master Programs focused on space science and technology in developing countries.

As the presentations were absolutely informative, obviously arousing vested interest among the students, the discussion was characterized by a high number of questions and active participation from our side.

Eventually, we had a short talk with an IMC alumna of Export 2002 now working in the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) as well as two IMC Export 2005 students completing their second PTS at US Mission to UN and United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).

Our traditional family picture in the entrance hall with all flags of the member states represented the end of a very enriching day.

We would like to thank all speakers and representatives of the UN for this profitable, unique experience.

Photos and Text: Maria S. & Carolin S.

The presentation about the OOSA can be found here.

Student visit to the Headquarters of OSCE in Vienna 2008

Under the auspices of the Chair for International Law and Global Political Studies, the 5th semester of the Export-Oriented Management programme paid for the fifth consecutive time an annual visit to the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) in Vienna. At this very occasion, the Export students would like to thank the chairman, Dr. Anis Bajrektarevic, for giving us the possibility to get a deeper insight into the functionalities of such an international organisation.

The visit took place on 16 October 2008 and was characterised by a very tight schedule. The event commenced early in the morning with a welcome speech by the Press Officer, Ms. Susanna Lööf who gave a comprehensive and general overview on the core operations of the OSCE. It is the world's largest security organisation with 56 members whose decisions are politically, but not legally binding. “The OSCE can only bark, not bite”, stated Mr. Roland Bless in his speech.

The highlight of the day was the possibility to join the 735th Meeting of the Permanent Council. After an initial speech of former Austrian Vice Chancellor, Mr. Erhard Busek, the delegates of the various member countries were invited to discuss the issues Mr. Busek elaborated on. Topics such as sustainable strategies for infrastructure and crisis management were on the agenda.

In order to get a sound understanding of the organisation, the schedule continued with a short presentation of the three dimensions of the OSCE. Being a major player in terms of conflict prevention and resolution, the politico-military dimension of security is about promoting for military confidence-building measures (Ms. Elli Kytomaki).. The second presentation on the economic-environmental dimension was reflected by a vivid introduction into the OSCE's efforts to combat anti-trafficking and corruption – underlined by down-to-earth examples (Mr. Kilian Strauss). Promoting freedom for media is the main issue of human dimension which was introduced in the last speech.

As the speeches were absolutely informative and discussion-inviting, the students didn't hesitate at all to address the speakers and participate actively in the discussion which signalised the end of an interesting day. Due to this interactive way of learning, the next excursion that will lead us to the UN headquarters in Vienna is highly appreciated. Finally, we would like to thank all speakers from the OSCE, especially Ms. Lööf who assisted us during the whole day.

Text and Photos: Magdalena B., Alexandra W., Daniel A.

Guest speech: Ambassador of Ukraine, H.E. Yelchenko

As a continuation of the Guest Lecture series of the IMC Export Department, under the auspices of the Chair for International, Legal and Global Political Studies, Prof. Dr. Anis Bajrektarevic invited H.E. Yelchenko, residential Ambassador of Ukraine to the UN and other IOs in Vienna.

Mr. Yelchenko was giving the IMC students and lecturers the possibility to gain insights into the geopolitical role of Ukraine in Europe, and the current political system in the country.

The introducing movie, “12 minutes with Ukraine“ gave us first impressions about the Culture, Traditions, History and the country Ukraine itself. The movie showed the transition of Ukraine starting 5000 BC including the Scythia and Cossacks area with its fascinating culture and artwork which still engraves the modern state.

Afterwards our guest gave a highly informative speech about the Ukraine including not just the historical background of the country in detail but also the connection with bordering countries especially with Russia. He pointed out that the Ukraine was and still is a key transit country as the bridge between western and eastern civilizations.

Especially the close partnership with the Russian Federation has been strong and is getting more and more transparent. Still there are topics to be worked on for instance the creation of a free trade area, the Black Sea fleet issue and the transparency in energy issues.

Being a member of the UN, the OSCE and the Council of Europe Ukraine tries to be less depended on Russia and looks to the West for future economic growth with the ultimate goal to become a member of the European Union. Ukraine is committed to the UN peacekeeping since its creation and was the leader of the declaration of commitment on HIV/ Aids by the UN.

After his highly informative speech, the second part of the visit was reserved for students’ questions, in which topics such as, how the political situation will affect the reliability of Ukraine for future upcoming events such as the EURO 2012 in cooperation with Poland or its position as chairman of the OSCE (2013) as well as the economical environment were discussed.

The guest lecture was followed by an informal, pleasant meet and great event, which gave the opportunity to personally get in contact with our guest.

H.E. Mr Volodymyr Yelchenko graduated from Kyiv State University in 1981 (M.A. in Internal relations and International law.) Onwards he served in several offices and countries as the First Secretary, Chief of Section and Director in the Department of International Organizations. He is also Chairman of the National Commission of Ukraine for UNESCO and a member of UNESCO Executive Board. H.E. was appointed Deputy Foreign Minister, and back in March 2001 he also served the post of President of the UN Security Council.

Summing up after the event (H.E. Yelchenko was accompanied by the Mission member Mr. Yuriy Tokarski), content-intensive talks with fellow students and professors, with Ms. Eva Werner , the IMC Vice-Rector, and Mr. Anis H. Bajrektarevic, Export Chair and principal host of the event, our distinguished guest stated that he has been very impressed by our faculty’s interest. H.E. also complimented the commitment and knowledge of our students as demonstrated in the questions and discussion with him, and encouraged the widening of the IMC EXP cooperation with the Ukrainian counterparts in Kiev.

Ambassador finally expressed his willingness to repeat the event soon by inviting a world-known performer and musician Ruslana (currently the UN Goodwill Ambassador) to address our students.

The guest lecture of Mr. Yelchenko was the 55th event organized under the auspices of Chair for Intl. Law and Global Political Studies.

Photos: Julia G. & Hermann M.
Text: Stephan W. & Prof. Dr. Anis Bajrektarevic

Guest speech: Director of the Washington-based New America Foundation Think-tank, Mr. Steve Clemons

As a continuation of the Guest Lecture series of the IMC Export Department, under the auspices of the Chair for International, Legal and Global Political Studies, Prof. Dr. Anis Bajrektarevic in cooperation with the Amerika Haus of the US Embassy in Vienna invited Mr. Steven C. Clemons, Director of the Washington-based New America Foundation Think-tank to hold a guest lecture on the US currents.

Mr. Clemons was giving the IMC students and lecturers the possibility to gain insights into the upcoming US elections, from a neutral but very critical perspective.

After his highly exciting presentation, the audience was welcomed to address questions regarding current US politics. The guest lecture was followed by a informal, pleasant meet and great event, which gave the opportunity to personally get in contact with our guest.

The introducing question posed was, „Do we Europeans have a right for optimism, in regards to future American politics?“

Our guest not only pointed out the complicated status quo in which the United States are currently but also explained his personal view on both party’s candidates. He did not hold back with criticism and was elated to elaborate the current position of the United States, internally as well as on a global scale. The remarks concerning the internal aspect of the current situation gave a detailed overview on the strengths and weaknesses of both parties’ leaders and an estimation of the possible outcome of the elections.

Answer on the question "the US FED used to say: ‘dollar is our currency and your problem’, will it be so with the ongoing financial crisis?" gave also thoughtful insights into the revisiting of the liberalism in the US.

The next part of his speech dealt with the global aspect and the situation in which the United States find themselves at the moment, explaining the economic crisis as well as the current declining credibility of the US, and further on elucidated the result of this constellation - the long time superpower status of the US is at stake.

The later part of the visit was reserved for students’ questions, in which topics such as the Ballistic Missile Defense system that is to be set up in Europe and its effects on multilateral relations, the counter measures to the loss of credibility and the peculiar behavior of Party leader supporters were discussed.
The following informal part of the visit was highly appreciated and gave some more time for discussion and questions as well as general advice from our much-valued guest.

During his stay in Austria, Mr. Clemons was in a center of media attention, giving interviews to ORF, Der Standard, Salzburger Nachirichten, Die Presse and Kurrier.

Mr. Clemons co-founded with Chalmers Johnson the Japan Policy Research Institute, of which he is still Director. He is a Member of the Board of the Clarke Center at Dickinson College, a liberal arts college in Carlisle, Pa., as well as an Advisory Board Member of the C.V. Starr Center for the Study of the American Experience at Washington College in Chestertown, Md. He is also a Board Member of the Global Policy Innovations Program at the Carnegie Council on Ethics and International Affairs and a member of the board of the Citizens for Global Solutions Education Fund. Mr. Clemons writes frequently on matters of foreign policy, defense, and international economic policy. His work has appeared in many of the major leading op-ed pages, journal, and magazines around the world. His eloquence and the ability to explain complicated relations made this guest lecture an outstanding event and a particular pleasure, which we are looking forward to having again soon.

Summing up after the half-day visit to Krems (Director Clemons was accompanied by the Amerika Haus official Ms. Alice Burton), content-intensive and vivid talks with fellow students and professors, with Mr. Ernst Fietz , the EXPORT Program Director, and Mr. Anis H. Bajrektarevic, Export Chair and principal host of the event, our distinguished guest stated that he has been very impressed by our faculty’s interest in the US affairs. Director Clemons also complimented the commitment and knowledge of our students as demonstrated in the questions and discussion with him.
Steve Clemons finally expressed his willingness to co-organize with us the trans-Atlantic video-conference right after the US presidential elections, and surely to return to our university soon again.

The guest lecture of Mr. Clemons was the 54th event organized under the auspices of Chair for Intl. Law and Global Political Studies. (and the 7th organized in cooperation with the US Embassy Vienna).

Photos: Niko S.
Text: Markus T. & Prof. Dr. Anis Bajrektarevic

Guest speech: Ambassador of Turkey, H.E. Mr. Selim Yenel

As a continuation of our ambassador series the IMC Export Department, under the auspices of the Chair for International, Legal and Global Political Studies, was inviting the Turkish residential ambassador to the Republic of Austria H.E. Selim YENEL for a visit and guest lecture on 26th September 2008.

Addressing the faculty members, fellow students and professor, the Ambassador gave an excellent overview of Turkish foreign policy focusing in particular on Turkish-European relations.

His presentation was followed by a reception and an extended discussion with students and professors.

Ambassador Yenel’s remarks offered the IMC Export Fellows a unique opportunity to gain insights into the political and social development of the country stressing in particular Turkey’s move and change towards the west and the endeavours made trying to become member of the European Union. By pointing out the individual steps taken to foster an accession to the EU the ambassador clearly underlined the country’s wish to be integrated into the western society. He was referring to several negative perceptions on a possible membership among others the country’s size which would influence the distribution of power within the EU as well as financial implications and the fear of unmanageable migration waves. While some of these issues such as the status quo in Cyprus and the treatment of Kurds in Turkey do definitely have to be settled other arguments against an accession like the general idea of Turks not belonging to Europe are according to the ambassador rather misconceived.

Answering the students’ questions, H.E. Yenel shared the Turkish policy views on issues like: the country’s role in central Asia, secularisation, human rights and integration. He stressed positive sides of a potential membership by elaborating on same values, economic development and shared interest.

An extraordinarily open and eloquent personality and top diplomat, Ambassador Yenel built up a reputable career working for the Cabinet of the Foreign Minister in Ankara (80’s), holding the position of Counsellor and Deputy Permanent Delegate at the Turkish Delegation to the European Union in Brussels (90’s) and becoming Deputy-Director General for EU Affaires, MFA in Ankara in 2001 before coming to Vienna in 2006 being nominated as ambassador to Austria.

Due to his strong interest and insight into EU-Turkish relations H.E. Yenel has been heavily involved in all relevant meetings regarding Turkey’s accession to the EU for over 10 years and could therefore provide us with an excellent, instructive and impressing insight into the Turkish view on European affairs.

Guest lecture of Ambassador YENEL was the 53rd event organized under the auspices of Chair for Intl. Law and Global Political Studies.

Photos: Hermann Maglock, N. Plewa, S. Pasalic
Text: Prof. Dr. Anis Bajrektarevic

Guest speech: Ambassador of China, H.E. TANG Guoqiang

As a continuation of our (UN) ambassador series and at the occasion of the forthcoming Summer Olympic Games, the IMC Export Department, under the auspices of the Chair for International Law and Global Political Studies, was inviting the Chief of the China’s Mission to the UN Vienna and IAEA, Ambassador TANG Guoqiang for a visit and guest lecture on 28th May 2008. The Ambassador gave an excellent overview on the currents in the China’s Foreign, Security and Energy Policy, as well as the China’s positions in major Vienna-based UN entities (such as IAEA, ODC, UNCITRAL, OOSA, CTBTO, UNIDO, Wassenaar Arrangement, etc.). His presentation was followed by long discussions with students and professors, and by a garden-cocktail reception.

Ambassador TANG’s remarks offered the IMC Export Fellows a unique opportunity to gain insights into the China’s diplomatic initiatives in Asia (APEC and ASEAN), security and energy policy, and overall political and economic dynamics of the country, including the Tibet issue and the forthcoming Beijing Olympic games (including the presentation of official Games mascots).
Answering the students’ questions, H.E. Tang shared the China’s policy views on issues like: China’s policy and presence in Africa/Sudan, 6-party talks history and positions towards the North Korea, Sino-Russian relations (including the first state visit of the new Russian president Medvedev), dual-use technology and non-proliferation Intl regimes, ITER project, humanitarian assistance to Burma and finally China as the studying and working destination.

An exceptionally kind and eloquent top diplomat, Ambassador Tang has joined the respective China’s Foreign Ministry mid ‘970s, and was posted to Geneva (UN), Papua New Guinea, United Kingdom and Hong-Kong. H.E. obtained several important in-house posts among which was the Deputy Director-General of the Foreign Ministry’s Information Department (mid-late ‘990s). The first ambassadorial post was taking H.E. Tang to the Check republic capital of Prague.
Since 2006, Mr. Tang is the Permanent Representative and Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to the UN and other IOs in Vienna.

Native of Shanghai, H.E. holds the high graduate and post-graduate degrees from prestigious Chinese (Fudan) and British (London School of Economics) universities.

Summing up after the half-day visit to Krems (the Ambassador was accompanied by two mission diplomats, Ms. Wang and Mr. Zhu), content-intensive speech to and talks with fellow students and professors, with Mr. Ernst Fietz , the EXPORT Program Director, and Mr. Anis H. Bajrektarevic, Export Chair and principal host of the event, Ambassador Tang stated that he has been very impressed by our faculty’s interest in the Sino affairs. The Ambassador also complimented the commitment and knowledge of our students as demonstrated in the questions and discussion with him (including the command of Chinese language of our fellows).
Ambassador finally expressed his willingness to welcome the Export fellows in his Mission as well as to return to our university soon again.


This visit represented the closing event of the summer semester with our next event being scheduled for an early fall semester.
At the occasion of the recent state visit of President Fischer and the Austrian trade delegation to Turkey we will host H.E. Selim YENEL
(to be followed by visits of Indonesian, Ukrainian and Venezuelan ambassadors).
(Baroque Hall, 10.00-11.30).

Photos: Hermann Maglock
Text: Prof. Dr. Anis Bajrektarevic

Guest speech: French Ambassador to the UN, H.E. Mr. François-Xavier Deniau

As a continuation of our (UN) ambassador series and at the occasion of the forthcoming French EU Presidency, the IMC Export Department, under the auspices of the Chair for International Law and Global Political Studies, was inviting the Chief of the French Mission to the UN Vienna and IAEA, Ambassador François-Xavier DENIAU for a visit and guest lecture on 13th May 2008. Addressing the faculty members, fellow students and professor bilingually in French and English, the Ambassador gave an excellent overview on the currents in the French Foreign, Security and Energy Policy, as well as the French positions in major Vienna-based UN entities (such as IAEA, ODC, UNCITRAL, OOSA, CTBTO, UNIDO, Wassenaar Arrangement, etc.). His presentation was followed by long discussions with students and professors, and by a garden-cocktail reception to mark the jubileum of 50 international events organized by Prof. Bajrektarevic for the IMC Export Department.

Ambassador Deniau’s remarks offered the IMC Export Fellows a unique opportunity to gain insights into the new French diplomatic initiatives, security and energy policy, and overall political dynamics of the country, concluding his speech by stating that: “Our (French) multilateral policy aims (are) to contribute to the regulation of the Globalisation”, (like) “the (French writer) Jules Verne (hundred years ago) challenging two types of limits: the geographical borders and the scientific limits”.

Answering the students’ questions, H.E. Deniau shared the French policy views on issues like: Middle East, nuclear issue of Iran, Barcelona process, dual-use technology and non-proliferation Intl regimes, recent launch of Galileo navigation system, Arianne Espace, ITER project, French role and position in the NATO security structure (including the French troops deployments), third and forth generation of Nuclear reactors, assistance to developing countries (through EU and UN FORA), environmental considerations in formulation of energy policy of France/EU, EU/French relations with China, good governance, and the issues of cultural diversity including the respect for multilingualism (preservation and promotion of French language).

An extraordinarily open personality and top diplomat, Ambassador Deniau built up a reputable career working for the Ministry of Economy and Finance (late 1970s), and the French Foreign Ministry since 1981, being posted in Rome, Brussels, Tunis and Santo Domingo, and obtaining several important in-house posts among which was the Deputy Director of the Minister’s Cabinet (late 1990s).
Before coming to Vienna in September 2005, Mr. Deniau served as Director for Strategy at the France’s Ministry of Defence.

H.E. holds the high graduate and post-graduate degrees from the most prestigious French schools: the Ecole Polytechnique and Ecole Nationale d’Administration.

Summing up after the half-day visit to Krems (the Ambassador’s wife accompanied him along with the senior Mission’s diplomat Ms. Genevieve Van-Rossum), content-intensive speech to and talks with fellow students and professors, with Ms. Eva Werner, IMC Vice-Rector, Mr. Max Schachner, Int’l Department, Mr. Ernst Fietz , the EXPORT Program Director, and Mr. Anis H. Bajrektarevic, Export Chair and principal host of the event, Ambassador Deniau stated that he has been very impressed by our faculty’s interest in the French affairs. The Ambassador also complimented the commitment and knowledge of our students as demonstrated in the questions and discussion with him (including the command of French language of our fellows). Congratulating personally to Prof. Bajrektarevic for having organized 50 international events for the IMC Export students, Ambassador finally expressed his willingness to welcome the Export fellows in his Mission as well as to return to our university soon again.

Guest lecture of Ambassador Deniau was the second bilingual event (the first one was the guest lecture of Spanish ambassador de Boado on February 26 last year, held in Spanish and English), out of 51 organized under the auspices of the Chair for Intl Law and Global Political Studies.

Our next (and concluding one for this semester) event is also from the Ambassador series category; on 28th May we will host H.E. TANG Guoqiang, China’s Ambassador.
(Baroque Hall, 10.00-11.30).

Photos: Marketing & Hermann Maglock
Text: Prof. Dr. Anis Bajrektarevic

The presentation of H.E. François-Xavier Deniau can be found here.

Study Trip to the international organizations in Geneva and Paris 2008

A report about the Study Trip 2008 to Geneva and Paris can be found here.

Study Visit to the Representation of the EC/E Parliament in Vienna & the National Parliament of Austria 2008

On April 10, 2008, the yearly visit to the to the Austrian Representation of the European Commission and European Parliament located in Vienna took place under the auspices of Prof. Dr. Anis Bajrektarevic, Chairman for International Law & Global Political studies. The representative team of the European Commision and European Parliament functions as a link between local individuals and organizations and Brussel-based insitutions and persues the objective of achieving a greater responsiveness and proximity to Austrian citizens.

The visit was intiated with an informative presentation on the scope of work of the EU legislative institutions by Karl Doutlik, Representative of the EC. Later on the series of high-quality speakers was continued by Wolfang Hiller, InfoB. of the European Parliament and Bernhard Kuhr.

The study visit organized under the auspices of Prof. Dr. Anis Bajrektarevic, Chairman for International Law & Global Political Affairs at the IMC Krems, was concluded by visiting the a plenary in the National Parliament and taking family photos in front of parliament.

Text: Marlene K. / Christian S.

Guest speech: Dr. Helga Konrad - "The Dark Side of Trade"

“Human trafficking is among the three most lucrative criminal businesses in the world.”
With this memorable sentence former member of the Austrian Federal government and the special OSCE and UN envoy, Dr. Helga Konrad, initiated her speech about the complex problematic of global Human Trafficking. In a very enthusiastic and stirring manner she transferred her knowledge and expertise of more than fifteen years about her efforts and activities in this field.

Prof. Anis Bajrektarevic, Chairman for International Law & Global Political Studies and the principal host of the event, assisted today’s guest lecturer with a formal introduction and accompanying commentaries and coordinated excellently the event until the very ultimate moment.

Despite sophisticated and thoroughly elaborated protocols of the UN convention on fighting HT by approaching legal enforcement or the European Council Convention on the correct treatment of HT victims, Ms. Konrad reports a continuous deterioration of the situation over the last two decades.

This deteriorating tendency has to be reasoned by four major factors. First is on the part of the criminal traffickers and the coordinators behind, who operate in an industrialized, perfectly organized and rapidly adaptive crime network and hold an incredible coercive and monetary power.

The profitable and low-risk nature of this capital crime, overtaking already illegal drug and weapon trafficking, attracts numerous people around the world to participate in these criminal operations.

The second major factor, the proceeding globalization, even “serves the practical needs of HT” in the way that border controls are eased or even abolished, rapid and anonymous money transfer is established and instant communication around the world is provided.

The third factor refers to the party, which is solely responsible for tackling the problematic of HT, the governments and authorities. In the first instance governments still underestimate the importance of taking “structural, institutional, collaborative initiatives to truly combat trafficking”. The majority of governmental actions are reduced to mere paper work and do not experience any implementation, as the agenda focuses primarily on issues like illegal immigration or controlling asylum abuse.

Due to a substantial lack of knowledge and of the willingness to understand this enormous grievance, official authorities act, if at all, often in a counterproductive way, such as perceiving and treating victims as criminals who are consequently imprisoned and/or deported and re-introduced in the vicious circle of HT. By now, the most productive, preventative and sustainable measures are undertaken by NGO’s, such as Amnesty International.

The ultimate factor is addressed to the victims of HT, whereas a victim is defined as a person who was lured or sold to be transported into another country and involuntarily experienced physical and psychological humiliation in the form of rape, starvation, distress, death threats and injury, causing in many cases severe, long lasting traumata. In most cases even after crossing the border through smuggling, the misery and the slavery-like conditions continue for these people. Poverty, gender or racial discrimination and political or religious persecution are the major driving forces for a person to be involved in HT.

Unless governments take the severe problematic of HT serious and elaborate appropriate and productive measures for curbing the grievances at and beyond the borders of the respective country, Ms. Konrad doesn’t see any chances for improvement.

After this final statement students were granted the possibility to express their interest in intelligent questions and to address the guest lecture on an eye to eye basis in the course of the informal part at the courtyard of the IMC.

However far the new generation of students and experts will proceed in their export career, they shall always recall the precious and stirring words of this powerful and influential woman who dedicated her efforts to the combat of a capital crime against human rights.

Summing up the event with Prof. Ernst Fietz, the EXPORT Program Director and Prof. Anis H. Bajrektarevic, Export Chair and principal host of the event, Excellency Konrad complimented the commitment and knowledge of our students as demonstrated in the questions and discussion with her. Finally, Dr. Konrad expressed the willingness to return to our university soon again, as a speaker even promising to consider to hold guest lectures in the forthcoming Master program of the IMC Export.

Photos: Hermann Maglock
Text: P. Dengler

Guest speech: Senior Editor and political analyst of CNN, Ms. Amy Walter

At the occasion of the forthcoming presidential elections in the US and furthering our good cooperation with the US Embassy in Vienna (Amerika Haus), the IMC Export Department gave audience to the Senior Editor and political analyst of CNN, Ms Amy Walter. The main purpose of Ms. Walter’s visit was to acquaint the participating students with the currents of the forthcoming presidential election in the United States of America.

After introductory word of Chairman for International Law & Global Political Studies and the principal host of the event Mr. Anis Bajrektarevic, a representative of the US Embassy, Ms. Kathy Perez announced Ms. Walter’s speech by providing some informative facts about her career and her activities for several US news broadcasters such as CNN, ABC, CBS, PBS, to name but few. (Simultaneously, each student got a hold of copy of the Program briefing made by the US embassy – actually an excellent folder-map with very useful information and links related to Ms. Walter’s presentation.)

Starting off with a short clarification of her motivation to operate in the field of politics and election analysis, the very eloquent and vivid Senior Editor continued with a description of the particularities of the current US presidential election. The respective particularities, in comparison to the former US elections reaching back until 1928, are characterized first of all by the nominated candidates. Both a female nominee, Hillary Clinton, and an Afro-American nominee, Barack Obama, for the first time representing the democratic fraction of the US politics. Not to forget of course their bipartisan opponent from the republican fraction, John McCain. Second, the monetary resources for the financing the election processes have for the first time the 800 million dollar mark with tendency to increase even more, due to a fund raising policy open for the public to donate little fractions to their favorite nominee.

In the latter course of the oration Ms. Walter highlighted strengths and weaknesses, characteristics and particularities of the three candidates’ campaigns, delivered a comprehensive comparison of them and underpinned her statements with facts and figures about the collected votes of each candidate. Besides, the speaker put an emphasis on the importance of delegates and super delegates, who hold a significant if not decisive power concerning the final result of the election which is still not doubtlessly predictable.

With reference to Barack Obama, Ms. Walter defined him as the “unknown new comer” who cemented his current top position by winning incrementally popular and delegate votes. The principal of his campaign embodies compassion, reliability and suitability for the colored population of the States, be it democratic or republican. At the moment Barack Obama holds 1418 delegates and has 30 federal states backing his nomination.

Hillary Clinton is described as the experienced former First Lady and US Senator who suits the roll of representing and appealing to the middle and upper class of the United States. Winning the states like New York, California, Ohio, Texas Primary and presumably Pennsylvania enable her to position as second best nominee with current 1251 delegates.

John Mc Cain, as formulated by Mr. Walter, has nearly insurmountable obstacles and difficulties to follow up the pace of his opponents. With the unfavorable heritage of the Bush’s presidency on his shoulders and the common call of the American voters for a change, he has to play with unequal cards as a (in Ms. Walter’s words: different) conservative republican.

The pursuit objectives of all three candidates are directed primarily to the war in Iraq, to profound alterations of foreign policy and of course to improvements and changes concerning the economy. In the light of these three areas, one can detect the substantial differences in the philosophy of the candidates which tend to vary merely in their style and make-up.

With her remark that the final result is still open and dependent on the forthcoming events and actions, even though Barack Obama is heading the election race, Ms. Walter brought the formal part of her visit to an end and the word was passed onto the students. This unique opportunity to receive expert knowledge in a direct and dialogical way was seized by numerous students who formulated exceptionally good questions extensively and comprehensively answered by our guest.
When the time was high and the weather invitational the informal part was displaced into the beautifully renovated garden of the IMC PIA premises where discussions and debates continued over a small cocktail for additional hour.

The participating students will carry this enriching speech long in mind and express their thankfulness to the guest, EXPORT organizers as well as to Ms. Kathy Perez and Ms. Alice Burton from the US Embassy for this excellent event.
Reflecting upon the event, Ms. Walter promised to return to the IMC with more lectures soon.

Photos: Marketing, Hermann Maglock & P. Poppenreiter
Text: P. Dangl

Guest speech: Ambassador of Mexico, H.E. Mr. Alejandro Diaz

At a part of our regular NAFTA discussions (continuing from last May when we hosted the US Amb. McCaw), the IMC Export Department (under the auspices of Chair for Intl. Law and Global Political Studies) invited H.E. Mr. Alejandro DÍAZ, Ambassador of Mexico to Austria and the Permanent Representative to the Vienna-based International Organizations for a guest lecture.

The Ambassador gave a comprehensive view on the socio-economic and political currents of Latin America in general and of Mexico in particular; Investments; Energy policy; NAFTA’s state-of-art; and Mexico’s position in the International FORAs. His statement was followed by long discussions with students and professors, and by a small cocktail reception.

Additionally, Ambassador DÍAZ remarks offered the IMC Export fellows a rare opportunity to gain a first-hand insights into the Mexico’s positions in pan-American, regional and global arena (be it the OAS, NAFTA, MERCOSUR or OUN). By stating a long historical ties with Central Europe and Austria, Ambassador has turned to the trans-Atlantic relations.

Answering the students’ questions, H.E. DÍAZ shared the Mexico’s views on issues like: raising China and India; Oil prizing; Water-stress; Migration (from/to/through Mexico); the US presidential campaign (role of the Hispanic votes); Latin American development and trade; Austro-Mexican economic, political and cultural relations, with the special reference to scientific-educational exchange.

An eloquent senior diplomat, Ambassador DÍAZ has obtained numerous political capacities serving as the Congressman and the Senator of the Mexican Federal Constituency (mostly in the External Affairs Committee). From 2003 to mid 2007, H.E. has been on his first ambassadorial post in Greece. Since September 2007, Ambassador DÍAZ is accredited Ambassador to the Republic of Austria.

Summing up the event with Mr. Ernst Fietz, the EXPORT Program Director, Dr. Max Schachner and Mr. Anis H. Bajrektarevic, Export Chair and principal host of the event, Ambassador Alejandro DÍAZ (accompanied by two senior diplomats; Mr. Héctor Aguilar, Cultural Affairs Specialist and Mr. Rafael Donadío, Director of the Mexican Cultural Institute in Vienna) stated that he has been very impressed by our faculty’s interest in the Euro-Latin American affairs. The Ambassador also complimented the commitment and knowledge of our students as demonstrated in the questions and discussion with him. Finally, the Ambassador and his colleagues expressed the willingness to return to our university soon again, and to discuss exchange programs and research grants for our fellow students and graduates.
For years, Mexico was both a favored PTS destination and thesis work inspiration to many IMC students.

Photos: Hermann Maglock
Text: Prof. Dr. Anis Bajrektarevic

Guest speech: Ambassador of Brazil, H.E. Mr. Antonio José Vallim Guerreiro

At a part of our regular discussions on Energy and Sustainable Development issues, the IMC Export Department (under the auspices of Chair for Intl. Law and Global Political Studies) invited Mr. H.E. Antonio José Vallim Guerreiro, the Brazil’s Ambassador to the IAEA and other relation IOs in Vienna for a guest lecture.

The Ambassador gave a comprehensive view on the socio-economic currents of Latin America in general and of Brazil in particular, regional and national energy policies (in relation to SD, Rio declaration and A-21) including the composition of the primary energy mix, making an extensive reference to specifics of (peaceful usage of) nuclear energy from the economic, environmental, security and geopolitical point of view. His statement was followed by long discussions with students and professors, and by a small cocktail reception.

Additionally, Ambassador Guerreiro remarks offered the IMC Export Fellows a unique opportunity to gain insights into the cultural-ethnic and social set up of the LA continent, present economic and political state of art caused by different history/s of Latina American continent. Stating that: “when you are big, you have to be generous, and therefore Brazil wants to grow together with its neighbors”, Ambassador has turned to the economic growth of Brazil and the region, intra-American trade, MERCOSUR, and views on the Doha round on WTO negotiations.
Answering the students’ questions, H.E. Guerreiro shared the Brazil’s views on issues like: Nuclear Supplier Group, Iran and Korea, the Bank of South, ALBA Free trade initiative as well as the New Left of Latin America.

An eloquent senior diplomat, Ambassador Guerreiro has joint the Ministry of External Relations in 1974, and has served in New York (UN), Cairo (Egypt), Paris (France).
His posts included capacities of the Head of the Division of Sea, Antarctic and Other Space; Head of Division of Disarmament and Sensitive Technologies, and two posts of Director-General within the Ministry (for Special Themes, and for IOs). H.E. has arrived to Vienna in November 2006.

Summing up the event with Mr. Ernst Fietz, the EXPORT Program Director and Mr. Anis H. Bajrektarevic, Export Chair and principal host of the event, Ambassador Antonio José Vallim Guerreiro stated that he has been very impressed by our faculty’s interest in the Euro-Latin American affairs. The Ambassador also complimented the commitment and knowledge of our students as demonstrated in the questions and discussion with him. Finally, the Ambassador expressed his willingness to return to our university soon again.
For years Brazil was both a favored PTS destination and thesis work inspiration to many IMC students.

After nearly five years this was the first high-ranking guest from Latin America addressing the IMC EXPORT fellows.

Photos: Hermann Maglock
Text: Prof. Dr. Anis Bajrektarevic