IDM Danube-Salon – Europa-Forum Wachau 2026: European Regions Fostering European Integration

/in /von

Datum/Zeit
Mai 19, 2026
16:00 - 18:00 MESZ/MEZ


IDM Danube-Salon – Europa-Forum Wachau 2026 

European Regions Fostering European Integration

19 May 2026 16:00 to 18:00

University for Continuing Education Krems 
Science Hall, Campus Krems, Kasernstraße 60, 3500 Krems an der Donau
 

What will European integration look like in 30 years? This year’s Danube Salon explores how European regions can actively contribute to a resilient and successful European integration process. Marking the 15th anniversary of the EU Strategy for the Danube Region (EUSDR), the discussion will reflect on how regional cooperation initiatives have strengthened connections, dialogue and development across borders and what role they can play in the future – particularly with regard to the integration of Ukraine. 

Bringing together perspectives from Austria, Romania and Ukraine, the discussion will focus on the role of cross-border partnerships, regional networks and citizen engagement in shaping Europe’s future. Special attention will be given to the role of Lower Austria and the Working Community of the Danube Regions (ARGE Donauländer) as long-standing partners promoting cooperation in the Danube region. The panel aims to highlight how regional initiatives can complement European policies and contribute to a stronger, more connected and forward-looking Europe. 

Opening & Presentation of the Annual Programme of the ARGE Donauländer:

  • Simon Ortner, Secretary General of the Working Community of the Danube Regions (ARGE Donauländer) & Head of the Department of International and European Affairs, Office of the State Government of Lower Austria
  • Vadym Shkarivskyi, Deputy Chairman of the Odesa Regional Council,  Chairman of the Working Community of the Danube Regions (ARGE Donauländer) 2026-2027 

Panel Discussion: 

  • Martin Eichtinger, Director, Diplomatic Academy Vienna 
  • Harald Stranzl, National coordinator of the EU Danube Region and EU Alpine Region Strategy, Austrian Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs 
  • Vadym Shkarivskyi, Deputy Chairman of the Odesa Regional Council, 
    Chairman of the Working Community of the Danube Regions (ARGE Donauländer) 2026-2027 
  • Răzvan Ștefan Rab, National Coordinator of the EUSDR, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Romania 
  • Sophia Beiter, Research Associate, Institute for the Danube Region and Central Europe (IDM) 

Moderation: Sebastian Schäffer, Director, Institute for the Danube Region and Central Europe (IDM) 

After the event, we would be delighted to invite you to join us for refreshments in the foyer. 

Parking options: 
Parking garage “Campus West”, Dr.-Karl-Dorrek-Straße 23, 3500 Krems an der Donau.

Registration must be completed directly via the event website no later than Wednesday, 13 May at 10:00 (first come, first served).: https://europaforum.eventgate.at/registration/efw26 

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