DASICON 2025 - International Conference of the Vienna School of International Studies

The conference on 9 May 2025 analysed the state of diplomacy against the backdrop of the current political landscape.

"Can Diplomacy Save the World?" At this year's DASICON, experts from different academic fields were invited to critically address this question.

Diplomacy today

The Diplomatic Academy Students' Initiative Conference (DASICON) is an annual international conference organised by current students of the Vienna School of International Studies. It is addressed to the public at large, providing a platform for analysis and debate to international experts, interested students and stakeholders.

Panels and workshops were held to discuss how diplomacy can effectively respond to today's complex global challenges. In a world shaped by climate disasters, changing power structures, rapid technological change and institutional insecurity, diplomacy needs to develop and evolve rather than just adapting to the new situation. This requires an inclusive approach, reforms, and a focus on long-term resilience. Turning empathy into capacity for action can ensure that diplomacy does not just react to crises but actively contributes to building a positive future.

Local public utility expertise

The panellists included Ralph Romen, Project Director for Hydropower, Wind Energy and Photovoltaics at Vienna's public utility electricity supplier "Wien Energie". He reported on megawatt-scale projects, the 2040 Climate Strategy, and Vienna's initiatives for phasing out gas as a source of energy.

The Vienna School of International Studies

The City of Vienna has a partnership with the Vienna School of International Studies, which offers a range of degree programmes like MA in International Studies and MSc in Environmental Technology and International Affairs, as well as organising lectures on current topics. The Vienna School of International Studies is an integral part of Vienna. It counts among the world's leading schools for students planning an international career.