Schedule
Choose your dates:
Speakers Selection
Our programme and our Speakers Selection will be continuously extended until the event.
Oby Ezekwesili
Reinhard Bütikofer
Michael Kofman
Anuna De Wever Van der Heyden
Sandrine Dixson-Declève
Osmani-Sadriu Vjosa
Melissa Fleming
Eva Maydell
Stuart Peach
Catherine Ashton
Pascal Lamy
Carl Bildt
Keywan Riahi
Alexander Van der Bellen
Carmen Possnig
Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya
Arancha González Laya
Oleksandra Matviichuk
Stephan Leithner
Anu Bradford
Jeff Booth
Ralph Hamers
Joseph E. Stiglitz
Paschal Donohoe
Sergei Guriev
Nataša Pirc Musar
Maria Fernanda Espinosa Garces
Dmytro Natalukha
Wolfgang Ischinger
Kaidi Ruusalepp
Schedule 2023
Saturday, 19 August
Sunday, 20 August
Morning
Holy Mass
09:00
-
09:45
Holy Mass
Tyrol Day 2023: Euregio Summit on Energy Transition and Security of Supply
Crisis as an opportunity for the energy transition: Rising energy prices and the disastrous dependence on Russian gas made us aware of our vulnerability in the energy sector as a result of the war in Ukraine. What potentials does the Euroregion Tyrol/South Tyrol/Trentino have in the field of renewable energies? How does climate change influence the energy transition? How can cross-border security of supply be improved? The Tyrol Day 2023 provides answers!
10:45
-
12:15
Tyrol Day 2023: Euregio Summit on Energy Transition and Security of Supply
+3
Europe’s Struggle for Technological Sovereignty and Prosperity
Technological sovereignty has been a central theme in political debate, not least in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russian war of aggression. Europe has lagged behind major technology powerhouses such as the US and China in creating and sustaining ground-breaking technology companies. In this seminar, we will discuss the main challenges and barriers to innovation European tech companies are facing today. The seminar will also explore the implications of new technologies for the future of European economy, work, inequality, and aspects of ethics of technology. We will discuss on how we can achieve technological sovereignty in Europe, if it is possible, or even desirable as well as how technological sovereignty relates to broader geopolitical and strategic issues around relations with China and the United States, managing complex global supply chains, and conflict dynamics as currently demonstrated in the Ukraine war.
11:00
-
14:30
Europe’s Struggle for Technological Sovereignty and Prosperity
+2
Sem
Seminar
Responsible AI, Ethics, Law and Society
The deployment of Artificial Intelligence systems in multiple domains of society raises fundamental challenges and concerns, such as accountability, liability, fairness, transparency, privacy and how to protect human rights in the future. The dynamic nature of AI systems requires a new set of skills informed by ethics, law, and policy to be applied throughout the life cycle of such systems: design, development and deployment. Tackling these challenges calls for an interdisciplinary approach: deconstructing these issues by discipline and reconstructing with an integrated mindset, principles and practices between data science, ethics, law, and others, and ongoing collaboration among them.
This seminar aims to do so by bringing students in direct contact with possible effects of AI, and consequently tasking them to reflect and find responses to the AI-induced challenges. The current legal and philosophical debate on AI will serve as benchmark to generate solutions.
The sessions will include lectures, discussions, and group work. No specific background is required, but students are asked to contribute from their specific disciplinary strengths. Students are also asked to accept an intensive series of in-class sessions, and not be afraid of encountering outdoor interactions.
This seminar aims to do so by bringing students in direct contact with possible effects of AI, and consequently tasking them to reflect and find responses to the AI-induced challenges. The current legal and philosophical debate on AI will serve as benchmark to generate solutions.
The sessions will include lectures, discussions, and group work. No specific background is required, but students are asked to contribute from their specific disciplinary strengths. Students are also asked to accept an intensive series of in-class sessions, and not be afraid of encountering outdoor interactions.
11:00
-
14:30
Responsible AI, Ethics, Law and Society
+1
Sem
Seminar
Giving Voice to Future Generations in the EU and beyond
The care for future generations should be a common cause across the globe, but our institutions lack the tools to systematically design future-proof policies. The European Union - and its 27 Member States - is no exception to the trend of neglecting the long-term. In today's decision-making, policymakers are not incentivised to think and act with the long-term in mind, and the rights of future generations are underrepresented. This is bad news for future generations, whose lives depend on careful, well-planned responses to existential risks, ranging from environmental collapse to new pandemics, to unregulated AI.
This seminar will offer a unique perspective to all those willing to expand their worldview and think about long-term, future-proofing solutions to the many complex issues we face. The goal is to stimulate discussion and generate concrete ideas - through a series of brainstorming, fishbowls and simulations - to integrate the interests of future generations into policymaking processes in both the EU and elsewhere. The end goal is to contribute to the foundations for both a research and advocacy agenda on long-term governance in the European Union and beyond.
This seminar will offer a unique perspective to all those willing to expand their worldview and think about long-term, future-proofing solutions to the many complex issues we face. The goal is to stimulate discussion and generate concrete ideas - through a series of brainstorming, fishbowls and simulations - to integrate the interests of future generations into policymaking processes in both the EU and elsewhere. The end goal is to contribute to the foundations for both a research and advocacy agenda on long-term governance in the European Union and beyond.
11:00
-
14:30
Giving Voice to Future Generations in the EU and beyond
+1
Sem
Seminar
Entrepreneuring the Sustainable Future
Join us for five days of exploring how entrepreneurial spirit can contribute to tackling grand challenges of climate change.
Through an immersive learning experience, participants will gain a deep understanding of how innovative business models can generate societal and environmental benefits and simultaneously be economically self-sustaining. As the seminar relies on collaboration, it will benefit from participants from a wide variety of disciplines and experiences coming together. Participants will identify problems, design solutions and develop them into entrepreneurial opportunities to shape a better tomorrow.
Through an immersive learning experience, participants will gain a deep understanding of how innovative business models can generate societal and environmental benefits and simultaneously be economically self-sustaining. As the seminar relies on collaboration, it will benefit from participants from a wide variety of disciplines and experiences coming together. Participants will identify problems, design solutions and develop them into entrepreneurial opportunities to shape a better tomorrow.
11:00
-
14:30
Entrepreneuring the Sustainable Future
+1
Sem
Seminar
The Many-Faceted Dimension of Energy Transitions
The transformation of energy systems towards climate-compatible solutions promises innovation, technological progress and socio-economic development. Decarbonisation is a major step towards regaining strategic energy sovereignty and safeguarding national and regional energy security. This seminar will set out to investigate different aspects of the energy transition and how this might differ depending on the developmental stage and the specific context. We will shed light on how the energy transition is deeply intertwined with societal transformations that require careful and deliberate behavioural shifts to manage demand, shift patterns of consumption and production, and evolve new models of sustainable lifestyles. We will also look at how energy systems can be a major driver for more inclusive and equitable societies and better human and planetary health.
11:00
-
14:30
The Many-Faceted Dimension of Energy Transitions
+2
Sem
Seminar
Geopolitical Repercussions of the Russian War on the EU’s Eastern Neighbourhood
Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine was a watershed moment for European security and showed that many Western powers were sleepwalking by ignoring the Russian threat and the warning calls from Central Eastern Europe, the Baltics and most of all the EU's Eastern neighbours. The war prompted the European Union to rethink to what extent the Union is prepared to serve as a security provider and geopolitical actor in the region. The seminar discusses the geopolitical implications of the war for the EU's Eastern neighbourhood and Central Asia, reflecting on the Union's performance to date and considering how it should adapt its strategy to the changed geopolitical circumstances to ensure its own and the region's security
11:00
-
14:30
Geopolitical Repercussions of the Russian War on the EU’s Eastern Neighbourhood
+1
Sem
Seminar
Envisioning a Net-Zero Europe: Imagining a Bold, Independent and Sustainable Europe
This seminar is built on the belief that we can't just think about the status quo and how to change faulty systems. We also need positive visions of justice, democracy and ecology that guide us through times of crisis. What if we started a new? Starting from a (literally) blank slate, we'll work in interdisciplinary groups across three large sectors: living spaces; mobility and identity; developing a vision for a net-zero continent. From rethinking public space to new rail infrastructure and a more co-operative European identity, we'll produce a map of Europe that looks very different from today, but might serve as a guiding light for an EU in 2050.
11:00
-
14:30
Envisioning a Net-Zero Europe: Imagining a Bold, Independent and Sustainable Europe
+1
Sem
Seminar
Just Climate Transition or the Energy Race Towards Net Zero Emissions
Addressing climate change requires rapid and just systems transformations at unprecedented scales. The seminar will provide an overview of the scientific and political discussions pertaining to climate justice. Through interactive sessions students will learn about the main approaches to generate climate scenarios and critically reflect upon existing narratives that underpin them. We will illustrate both climate risks and climate opportunities and assess the impact of major climate policies, such as the US Inflation Reduction Act. Emphasis will be given also to the potential of demand-side mitigation and the role of cities and digitalisation for accelerating clean technology diffusion, increase innovation, and democratise the access to basic services.
11:00
-
14:30
Just Climate Transition or the Energy Race Towards Net Zero Emissions
+4
Sem
Seminar
Feminist Foreign Policy in Practice
Almost a decade after Sweden declared that it would follow a Feminist Foreign Policy, several other countries have adopted similar approaches. Most recently, Germany introduced Feminist Foreign Policy guidelines that seek to make gender equality and women's rights central objectives of Germany's external relations. But how is Feminist Foreign Policy practiced by different countries and what are some of the contradictions between feminist commitments and traditional foreign policy goals? What might Feminist Foreign Policies look like in concrete cases like the Russian war against Ukraine?
11:00
-
14:30
Feminist Foreign Policy in Practice
+1
Sem
Seminar
Envisioning the Future of Money
This interactive seminar delves into the changing landscape of financial services and monetary systems. We will explore key concepts such as anonymity, technological innovation, accessibility, monetary policy and internationalisation. Following an introduction to money, its characteristics, and the role of central banks, we will research and discuss the strengths, weaknesses and implications of alternative financial systems, cryptocurrencies, blockchain technology, Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) and corporate digital currencies. Seminar attendees will broaden their perspective on the evolving financial landscape and the potential impact of advances in financial technologies.
11:00
-
14:30
Envisioning the Future of Money
+1
Sem
Seminar
Global Trade, Sanctions and Weaponisation of Trade
This seminar will explore the societal and political aspects of free trade, including voting behaviour, populism, democratisation, and societal polarisation. We will examine how these factors can impact the success of free trade agreements and the wider implications for society and politics. Additionally, we will delve into the societal aspects of sanctions, exploring their effects on, e. g., democratization and human rights. Finally, we will discuss trade as a weapon, considering its implications in current events such as the Russian war in the Ukraine and the case of China. Through discussion and analysis of current events and academic literature, this seminar will provide attendees with a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding international trade and trade sanctions.
11:00
-
14:30
Global Trade, Sanctions and Weaponisation of Trade
+1
Sem
Seminar
Water Quality and Ecosystem Functioning for Human Survival
The overall objective of this seminar is to work on future perspectives on the putative 'free' and 'guaranteed' access to water and proper ecosystem functioning. It is examined, how ecosystems will support the provision of sufficient and clean water around the world and how water availability, use and security will change until 2050 and will cope with a predicted world population of 10 billion people. We aim to identify possible strategies for dealing with water use and ecosystem functioning today and in the future - worldwide. We will look at the challenges through a climatological and ecological lens and will also investigate how water influences migratory movements.
11:00
-
14:30
Water Quality and Ecosystem Functioning for Human Survival
Sem
Seminar
European Interests in a Changing World Order: China, the USA, and Like-Minded States
"Right now, there are changes - the likes of which we haven't seen for 100 years - and we are the ones driving these changes together," were the words of Chinese President Xi to Russia's President Putin at their Moscow Meeting in March 2023, with a New World Order outlined in their 2022 joint declaration on "International Relations in a New Era", shortly before Russia invaded Ukraine. The tensions have heated up between those supporting the existing order - under the leadership of the United States - and those who want to revise it, crystallising over Taiwan and elsewhere. The struggle for influence, shaping narratives, and competing on cutting edge, civil-military deployable technology is well underway. In which direction are European countries and the European Union heading in these turbulent times?
11:00
-
14:30
European Interests in a Changing World Order: China, the USA, and Like-Minded States
+2
Sem
Seminar
How to Revive Multilateralism?
Multilateralism is under attack and out of fashion, yet it is more needed than ever because of present and emerging challenges that require states to work together. This seminar will look at some of the reasons why multilateralism has been failing , why it is still needed, and discuss how it can be revived. It is argued that cooperation in an interconnected world full of "wicked" and complex threats and challenges is realpolitik and in the self-interest of states. Participants will brainstorm on how to make the current international system more fit for purpose. Furthermore, participants will have an opportunity to identify areas where interests between even non-liked states converge, and what can be done both diplomatically and operationally to deal with common transnational problems. In addition to lectures and interactive discussions, participants will have an opportunity to prepare and present positions in preparation for the UN Future Summit as part of a simulation.
11:00
-
14:30
How to Revive Multilateralism?
+1
Sem
Seminar
Radicalisation and Extremism: Where Reality Meets the Digital Space
In this seminar, radicalisation and extremism in the digital space is examined, as well as how real-life events, the environment and everyday social challenges contribute to radicalisation processes, and what extremism looks like in an online setting.
Digital spaces affect our daily lives. We share, we watch, we consume, we talk, we believe and we engage. The internet is great, until it isn't, until a violent crime is committed and media reports and politicians jump to the conclusion that an attacker was part of controversial or extremist communities online. But is it always that easy? We will look at extremist communities online to identify how digital spaces can contribute to radicalisation processes. We will also discuss response strategies on the policy, educational and civil society levels.
11:00
-
14:30
Radicalisation and Extremism: Where Reality Meets the Digital Space
+1
Sem
Seminar
On Distinctions
We constantly make distinctions. In this seminar, we will discuss the concepts of distinction and difference in general and their role in social, political and scientific discourse in particular.
Are distinctions given or are they created? When, how and why are they introduced in discourse? How are we socialised into distinctions in our education in different societies?
We will discuss the distinction between liberal and illiberal democracy, between fact and fiction, science and pseudoscience, truth and error, moral and immoral, sex and gender. These distinctions become relevant when conflicts arise.
Are distinctions given or are they created? When, how and why are they introduced in discourse? How are we socialised into distinctions in our education in different societies?
We will discuss the distinction between liberal and illiberal democracy, between fact and fiction, science and pseudoscience, truth and error, moral and immoral, sex and gender. These distinctions become relevant when conflicts arise.
11:00
-
14:30
On Distinctions
+1
Sem
Seminar
Afternoon
Euregio Walk on the Challenges of Climate Change
Energy transition and climate protection are inextricably linked. It is crucial to understand which scenarios the Euregio Tyrol-South Tyrol-Trentino will face, and how both ecologically and economically successful countermeasures can be taken. The hike with the three provincial Governors of Euregio leads from the Congress Centrum along the Mittlerer Höhenweg to the Zirmalm in Inneralpbach. There the climate simulator of the FH Kufstein can be tested.
//INFO: Hike to Zirmalm. Bring hiking shoes and water. In case of heavy rain, there is going to be a shuttle to Zirmalm.
//INFO: Hike to Zirmalm. Bring hiking shoes and water. In case of heavy rain, there is going to be a shuttle to Zirmalm.
14:30
-
17:30
Euregio Walk on the Challenges of Climate Change
AOR: Area of Responsibility – Action over Reaction
A military leadership training: Challenge yourself with a practical action-oriented self-awareness outdoor seminar. We will jointly experience the true meaning of responsibility and consequence and so will improve our skills in decision making.
16:00
-
19:30
AOR: Area of Responsibility – Action over Reaction
+7
Sem
Seminar
Strategic Foresight: How to Use Futures for Decision Making
In a complex world, the first reaction is to try to control what is coming. However, the future is unknowable. Prediction and planning, even though useful, are limiting ways to work with the future in the present, because they aim at 'knowing' a 'future'. The future exists in the plural, and the right verb for futures is not 'know', it's 'use'. Strategic foresight is the key to using them. In this course we will introduce the concepts and build an initial capability to use futures for decision making.
16:00
-
19:30
Strategic Foresight: How to Use Futures for Decision Making
+1
Sem
Seminar
Financial Planning: How to Become Financially Literate
This seminar raises the participants' awareness for economic challenges and fosters their competences to make sound financial decisions. Based on a self-assessment, students learn about various financial goals and basic principles of budgeting and financial planning. There will also be explained the foundations of financing and investing with a special emphasis on various investment opportunities. Furthermore, the students learn how to invest money with a strong focus on retirement saving. The approach is based on diversification among several asset classes as well as on lump sum investments or cost averaging. The students will eventually be able to set up a target asset allocation and create portfolios using securities existing on the capital market.
16:00
-
19:30
Financial Planning: How to Become Financially Literate
+1
Sem
Seminar
Mindfulness: A Critical Appreciation in Times of Climate Crisis
Industrialisation has produced specific styles of perception, which can be characterised as an 'economy of attention': a purposeful orientation of human perception towards predetermined areas, while fading out the periphery of what is perceived or the context of action. Mindfulness, on the other hand, opens up perception to the periphery and to internal and external contexts. And this is exactly what is needed to deal with the climate crisis: the ability to include the consequences of action as comprehensively as possible. The seminar aims to exemplify these connections through practical exercises as well as theoretical input.
16:00
-
19:30
Mindfulness: A Critical Appreciation in Times of Climate Crisis
+1
Sem
Seminar
Making Progress in Polarised Times
Social cohesion even in highly developed democracies seems endangered by polarised political and social forces and tendencies. How can political decision-makers, but also members of civil society and politically active citizens contribute to bridging the growing social and ideological divide and strengthening social cohesion; at a time when the pressure on societies is increasing dramatically due to poly-crises and a growing inequality?
This seminar gives in practical examples and exercises an overview of the drivers of polarisation and teaches methods and skills to navigate polarised situations effectively. The seminar is informed by research from leading polarisation experts and designed with best-practice adult learning.
This seminar gives in practical examples and exercises an overview of the drivers of polarisation and teaches methods and skills to navigate polarised situations effectively. The seminar is informed by research from leading polarisation experts and designed with best-practice adult learning.
16:00
-
19:30
Making Progress in Polarised Times
+2
Sem
Seminar
Re-Imagine Cooperation: Build Your Essential Negotiation Skills
Claiming your place at the negotiation table and actively shaping today's world and our future: The ability to successfully negotiate, to communicate, to cooperate and find solutions for emerging conflicts are essential for cooperating in a peaceful manner and across generations.
Practice applying the Vienna School Negotiation Toolbox such as Harvard's Principled Negotiations for preparing, strategizing and managing difficult situations, the Process Communication Model for navigating relationships and increased self-efficacy as well as Compassionate Accountability for dealing with conflicts without casualties.
Join the learning partnership by featuring Harvard case simulations, exercises and real-life situations, designed to provide hands-on experience and help integrate these tools into your daily lives. Start your negotiator journey now.
Practice applying the Vienna School Negotiation Toolbox such as Harvard's Principled Negotiations for preparing, strategizing and managing difficult situations, the Process Communication Model for navigating relationships and increased self-efficacy as well as Compassionate Accountability for dealing with conflicts without casualties.
Join the learning partnership by featuring Harvard case simulations, exercises and real-life situations, designed to provide hands-on experience and help integrate these tools into your daily lives. Start your negotiator journey now.
16:00
-
19:30
Re-Imagine Cooperation: Build Your Essential Negotiation Skills
+1
Sem
Seminar
Sound Matters. Are You Listening?
Sound occurs when something, anything, vibrates. For there to be sound, there must be vibration. The consequences, however, go beyond sound. They also have political and societal impact when experienced by humans and non-humans. This seminar will explore how sound shapes environments and investigate why listening is as important as looking when trying to understand how places are constructed. We will also investigate the ways soundscapes are changing due to human impacts and why focusing on the sonic world can reveal the uneven power relations which structure society, exploring the soundscapes of Alpbach. We will create our own sound project using sounds recorded during the week to examine the relationship between people, place and the sonic environment.
16:00
-
19:30
Sound Matters. Are You Listening?
+1
Sem
Seminar
The Art of Being Spontaneous – Improvisation in Music and Beyond
We all do improvisation - physically, musically, theatrically, and mentally in order to learn what we need. Being part of a group, being in the room, leading, following, deconstructing and creating - all together, all on the spot, is what makes it improvised. As professional musicians from MUK we will share our expertise: deep listening, meaningful reaction and creative collaboration. You don't have musical skills or play an instrument? That's great, because we want to have as many specialists from various fields to jump into the deep end and allow synergies of all kinds to blossom. Please bring an open mind to leave your comfort zone. Will we create an improvisation show together? Let's find out!
16:00
-
19:30
The Art of Being Spontaneous – Improvisation in Music and Beyond
+2
Sem
Seminar
Playfully Serious, Hands-On: Housing of the Future
In this interactive seminar we will experiment and discuss concepts regarding the housing of the future. In a world that is dominated by crises, climate change and scarcity of resources it is necessary to develop strategies for a built environment that is sustainable and circular, that enables social inclusion and empowers people.
By visiting best practice projects and by experiencing and reflecting together on the built environment in Alpbach, we will develop skills and awareness on how to use available resources, such as existing buildings and materials.
Playful hands-on approaches, different means of architectural expression and 1:1 spatial experiments will help us in our enquiry to opening new perspectives on the housing of the future.
By visiting best practice projects and by experiencing and reflecting together on the built environment in Alpbach, we will develop skills and awareness on how to use available resources, such as existing buildings and materials.
Playful hands-on approaches, different means of architectural expression and 1:1 spatial experiments will help us in our enquiry to opening new perspectives on the housing of the future.
16:00
-
19:30
Playfully Serious, Hands-On: Housing of the Future
+1
Sem
Seminar
Feeling Safe (Is Key)
A sense of safety and security is essential in actor training. Work can be very demanding and challenging as students need to be present and emotionally available, at times using their own experiences for creation. As such it is important that they do not feel exposed. This peer-to-peer seminar with students from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art will share the training aspects that allow them to be vulnerable by creating a safe environment.
16:00
-
19:30
Feeling Safe (Is Key)
+4
Sem
Seminar
Keep It in the Ground: Diffusing Carbon Bombs
A skill we thought we might never need is currently in high demand: that of diffusing - not literal but so-called -"carbon bombs". If all fossil fuel extraction infrastructure projects ("carbon bombs") that are currently in the pipeline are realised, the 1.5 celsius climate goal is under extreme threat. Carbon emissions must fall by half by 2030 to preserve the chance of a liveable future, the IPCC states, and therefore decisive and effective action is needed. This seminar will enable you to take your first steps towards designing effective climate action campaigns aimed at promoting the non-extraction of further fossil fuels.
16:00
-
19:30
Keep It in the Ground: Diffusing Carbon Bombs
+1
Sem
Seminar
Working Together (Spells Success)
In actor training, students are first introduced to the concept of ensemble. Artistic endeavours in the field of acting are very much a group activity. This is why the more proficient students become at collaborating as a group, the better they perform individually. In this peer-to-peer seminar with students from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, you will be introduced to exercises and games, fostering seamless and poetic group work - a stepping stone for our democratic society.
16:00
-
19:30
Working Together (Spells Success)
+4
Sem
Seminar
A Deep Dive into the Global Fashion Industry
During five days of crafty interactions and peer-to-peer learning, we will take a deep dive into the global fashion industry. We will discuss the topics of responsibility, transparency, and accountability as a holistic approach towards an innovative fashion future. We will learn about the initiative Fashion Revolution Global, and opportunities to be involved in activities around activism, change making and education in sustainable fashion. We will also meet local makers who will give us insights into their supply chains, as well as passing on some of their treasured craft skills. Bring your unwanted clothes and sneakers to Alpbach and reinvent them with us!
16:00
-
19:30
A Deep Dive into the Global Fashion Industry
+1
Sem
Seminar
Creative Writing: How to Be Bold with Your Words
In an expanding culture of AI technology, we can understandably be suspicious about anything supposedly 'created'. This seminar explores the benefits of creative writing as a means to experiment, to develop confidence, to investigate verbal expression, and to find fluidity with words. We will learn how to worry less about the 'right way' of saying something. We will share our language skills and learn how to write more boldly. Most importantly we will realise the value of learning through play, understand the value of creativity in all fields of work and how creative language is essential in expressing ideas.
16:00
-
19:30
Creative Writing: How to Be Bold with Your Words
+1
Sem
Seminar
Monday, 21 August
Morning
Europe’s Struggle for Technological Sovereignty and Prosperity
Technological sovereignty has been a central theme in political debate, not least in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russian war of aggression. Europe has lagged behind major technology powerhouses such as the US and China in creating and sustaining ground-breaking technology companies. In this seminar, we will discuss the main challenges and barriers to innovation European tech companies are facing today. The seminar will also explore the implications of new technologies for the future of European economy, work, inequality, and aspects of ethics of technology. We will discuss on how we can achieve technological sovereignty in Europe, if it is possible, or even desirable as well as how technological sovereignty relates to broader geopolitical and strategic issues around relations with China and the United States, managing complex global supply chains, and conflict dynamics as currently demonstrated in the Ukraine war.
09:00
-
12:30
Europe’s Struggle for Technological Sovereignty and Prosperity
+2
Sem
Seminar
Giving Voice to Future Generations in the EU and beyond
The care for future generations should be a common cause across the globe, but our institutions lack the tools to systematically design future-proof policies. The European Union - and its 27 Member States - is no exception to the trend of neglecting the long-term. In today's decision-making, policymakers are not incentivised to think and act with the long-term in mind, and the rights of future generations are underrepresented. This is bad news for future generations, whose lives depend on careful, well-planned responses to existential risks, ranging from environmental collapse to new pandemics, to unregulated AI.
This seminar will offer a unique perspective to all those willing to expand their worldview and think about long-term, future-proofing solutions to the many complex issues we face. The goal is to stimulate discussion and generate concrete ideas - through a series of brainstorming, fishbowls and simulations - to integrate the interests of future generations into policymaking processes in both the EU and elsewhere. The end goal is to contribute to the foundations for both a research and advocacy agenda on long-term governance in the European Union and beyond.
This seminar will offer a unique perspective to all those willing to expand their worldview and think about long-term, future-proofing solutions to the many complex issues we face. The goal is to stimulate discussion and generate concrete ideas - through a series of brainstorming, fishbowls and simulations - to integrate the interests of future generations into policymaking processes in both the EU and elsewhere. The end goal is to contribute to the foundations for both a research and advocacy agenda on long-term governance in the European Union and beyond.
09:00
-
12:30
Giving Voice to Future Generations in the EU and beyond
+1
Sem
Seminar
Responsible AI, Ethics, Law and Society
This course aims to do so by bringing students in direct contact with possible effects of AI, and consequently tasking them to reflect and find responses to the AI-induced challenges. The current legal and philosophical debate on AI will serve as benchmark to generate solutions.
The sessions will include lectures, discussions, and group work. No specific background is required, but students are asked to contribute from their specific disciplinary strengths. Students are also asked to accept an intensive series of in-class sessions, and not be afraid of encountering outdoor interactions.
The deployment of Artificial Intelligence systems in multiple domains of society raises fundamental challenges and concerns, such as accountability, liability, fairness, transparency, privacy and how to protect human rights in the future. The dynamic nature of AI systems requires a new set of skills informed by ethics, law, and policy to be applied throughout the life cycle of such systems: design, development and deployment. Tackling these challenges calls for an interdisciplinary approach: deconstructing these issues by discipline and reconstructing with an integrated mindset, principles and practices between data science, ethics, law, and others, and ongoing collaboration among them.
This course aims to do so by bringing students in direct contact with possible effects of AI, and consequently tasking them to reflect and find responses to the AI-induced challenges. The current legal and philosophical debate on AI will serve as benchmark to generate solutions.
The sessions will include lectures, discussions, and group work. No specific background is required, but students are asked to contribute from their specific disciplinary strengths. Students are also asked to accept an intensive series of in-class sessions, and not be afraid of encountering outdoor interactions.
09:00
-
12:30
Responsible AI, Ethics, Law and Society
+1
Sem
Seminar
How to Revive Multilateralism?
Multilateralism is under attack and out of fashion, yet it is more needed than ever because of present and emerging challenges that require states to work together. This seminar will look at some of the reasons why multilateralism has been failing , why it is still needed, and discuss how it can be revived. It is argued that cooperation in an interconnected world full of "wicked" and complex threats and challenges is realpolitik and in the self-interest of states. Participants will brainstorm on how to make the current international system more fit for purpose. Furthermore, participants will have an opportunity to identify areas where interests between even non-liked states converge, and what can be done both diplomatically and operationally to deal with common transnational problems. In addition to lectures and interactive discussions, participants will have an opportunity to prepare and present positions in preparation for the UN Future Summit as part of a simulation.
09:00
-
12:30
How to Revive Multilateralism?
+1
Sem
Seminar
Global Trade, Sanctions and Weaponisation of Trade
This seminar will explore the societal and political aspects of free trade, including voting behaviour, populism, democratisation, and societal polarisation. We will examine how these factors can impact the success of free trade agreements and the wider implications for society and politics. Additionally, we will delve into the societal aspects of sanctions, exploring their effects on, e. g., democratization and human rights. Finally, we will discuss trade as a weapon, considering its implications in current events such as the Russian war in the Ukraine and the case of China. Through discussion and analysis of current events and academic literature, this seminar will provide attendees with a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding international trade and trade sanctions.
09:00
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12:30
Global Trade, Sanctions and Weaponisation of Trade
+1
Sem
Seminar
European Interests in a Changing World Order: China, the USA, and Like-Minded States
"Right now, there are changes - the likes of which we haven't seen for 100 years - and we are the ones driving these changes together," were the words of Chinese President Xi to Russia's President Putin at their Moscow Meeting in March 2023, with a New World Order outlined in their 2022 joint declaration on "International Relations in a New Era", shortly before Russia invaded Ukraine. The tensions have heated up between those supporting the existing order - under the leadership of the United States - and those who want to revise it, crystallising over Taiwan and elsewhere. The struggle for influence, shaping narratives, and competing on cutting edge, civil-military deployable technology is well underway. In which direction are European countries and the European Union heading in these turbulent times?
09:00
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12:30
European Interests in a Changing World Order: China, the USA, and Like-Minded States
+2
Sem
Seminar
On Distinctions
We constantly make distinctions. In this seminar, we will discuss the concepts of distinction and difference in general and their role in social, political and scientific discourse in particular.
Are distinctions given or are they created? When, how and why are they introduced in discourse? How are we socialised into distinctions in our education in different societies?
We will discuss the distinction between liberal and illiberal democracy, between fact and fiction, science and pseudoscience, truth and error, moral and immoral, sex and gender. These distinctions become relevant when conflicts arise.
Are distinctions given or are they created? When, how and why are they introduced in discourse? How are we socialised into distinctions in our education in different societies?
We will discuss the distinction between liberal and illiberal democracy, between fact and fiction, science and pseudoscience, truth and error, moral and immoral, sex and gender. These distinctions become relevant when conflicts arise.
09:00
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12:30
On Distinctions
+1
Sem
Seminar
Entrepreneuring the Sustainable Future
Join us for five days of exploring how entrepreneurial spirit can contribute to tackling grand challenges of climate change.
Through an immersive learning experience, participants will gain a deep understanding of how innovative business models can generate societal and environmental benefits and simultaneously be economically self-sustaining. As the seminar relies on collaboration, it will benefit from participants from a wide variety of disciplines and experiences coming together. Participants will identify problems, design solutions and develop them into entrepreneurial opportunities to shape a better tomorrow.
Through an immersive learning experience, participants will gain a deep understanding of how innovative business models can generate societal and environmental benefits and simultaneously be economically self-sustaining. As the seminar relies on collaboration, it will benefit from participants from a wide variety of disciplines and experiences coming together. Participants will identify problems, design solutions and develop them into entrepreneurial opportunities to shape a better tomorrow.
09:00
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12:30
Entrepreneuring the Sustainable Future
+1
Sem
Seminar
Envisioning the Future of Money
This interactive seminar delves into the changing landscape of financial services and monetary systems. We will explore key concepts such as anonymity, technological innovation, accessibility, monetary policy and internationalisation. Following an introduction to money, its characteristics, and the role of central banks, we will research and discuss the strengths, weaknesses and implications of alternative financial systems, cryptocurrencies, blockchain technology, Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) and corporate digital currencies. Seminar attendees will broaden their perspective on the evolving financial landscape and the potential impact of advances in financial technologies.
09:00
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12:30
Envisioning the Future of Money
+1
Sem
Seminar
Feminist Foreign Policy in Practice
Almost a decade after Sweden declared that it would follow a Feminist Foreign Policy, several other countries have adopted similar approaches. Most recently, Germany introduced Feminist Foreign Policy guidelines that seek to make gender equality and women's rights central objectives of Germany's external relations. But how is Feminist Foreign Policy practiced by different countries and what are some of the contradictions between feminist commitments and traditional foreign policy goals? What might Feminist Foreign Policies look like in concrete cases like the Russian war against Ukraine?
09:00
-
12:30
Feminist Foreign Policy in Practice
+1
Sem
Seminar
Geopolitical Repercussions of the Russian War on the EU’s Eastern Neighbourhood
Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine was a watershed moment for European security and showed that many Western powers were sleepwalking by ignoring the Russian threat and the warning calls from Central Eastern Europe, the Baltics and most of all the EU's Eastern neighbours. The war prompted the European Union to rethink to what extent the Union is prepared to serve as a security provider and geopolitical actor in the region. The seminar discusses the geopolitical implications of the war for the EU's Eastern neighbourhood and Central Asia, reflecting on the Union's performance to date and considering how it should adapt its strategy to the changed geopolitical circumstances to ensure its own and the region's security
09:00
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12:30
Geopolitical Repercussions of the Russian War on the EU’s Eastern Neighbourhood
+1
Sem
Seminar
Just Climate Transition or the Energy Race Towards Net Zero Emissions
Addressing climate change requires rapid and just systemic transformations at an unprecedented scale. The seminar will provide an overview of the scientific and political discussions pertaining to climate justice. Through interactive sessions students will learn about the main approaches to generate climate scenarios and critically reflect upon existing narratives that underpin them. We will illustrate both climate risks and climate opportunities and assess the impact of major climate policies, such as the US Inflation Reduction Act. Emphasis will be given also to the potential of the demand-side mitigation and the role of cities and digitalisation in accelerating clean technology diffusion, increasing innovation, and democratising the access to basic services.
09:00
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12:30
Just Climate Transition or the Energy Race Towards Net Zero Emissions
+4
Sem
Seminar
Envisioning a Net-Zero Europe: Imagining a Bold, Independent and Sustainable Europe
This seminar is built on the belief that we can't just think about the status quo and how to change faulty systems. We also need positive visions of justice, democracy and ecology that guide us through times of crisis. What if we started a new? Starting from a (literally) blank slate, we'll work in interdisciplinary groups across three large sectors: living spaces; mobility and identity; developing a vision for a net-zero continent. From rethinking public space to new rail infrastructure and a more co-operative European identity, we'll produce a map of Europe that looks very different from today, but might serve as a guiding light for an EU in 2050.
09:00
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12:30
Envisioning a Net-Zero Europe: Imagining a Bold, Independent and Sustainable Europe
+1
Sem
Seminar
Water Quality and Ecosystem Functioning for Human Survival
The overall objective of this seminar is to work on future perspectives on the putative 'free' and 'guaranteed' access to water and proper ecosystem functioning. It is examined, how ecosystems will support the provision of sufficient and clean water around the world and how water availability, use and security will change until 2050 and will cope with a predicted world population of 10 billion people. We aim to identify possible strategies for dealing with water use and ecosystem functioning today and in the future - worldwide. We will look at the challenges through a climatological and ecological lens and will also investigate how water influences migratory movements.
09:00
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12:30
Water Quality and Ecosystem Functioning for Human Survival
Sem
Seminar
The Many-Faceted Dimension of Energy Transitions
The transformation of energy systems towards climate-compatible solutions promises innovation, technological progress and socio-economic development. Decarbonisation is a major step towards regaining strategic energy sovereignty and safeguarding national and regional energy security. This seminar will set out to investigate different aspects of the energy transition and how this might differ depending on the developmental stage and the specific context. We will shed light on how the energy transition is deeply intertwined with societal transformations that require careful and deliberate behavioural shifts to manage demand, shift patterns of consumption and production, and evolve new models of sustainable lifestyles. We will also look at how energy systems can be a major driver for more inclusive and equitable societies and better human and planetary health.
09:00
-
12:30
The Many-Faceted Dimension of Energy Transitions
+2
Sem
Seminar
Radicalisation and Extremism: Where Reality Meets the Digital Space
In this seminar, radicalisation and extremism in the digital space is examined, as well as how real-life events, the environment and everyday social challenges contribute to radicalisation processes, and what extremism looks like in an online setting.
Digital spaces affect our daily lives. We share, we watch, we consume, we talk, we believe and we engage. The internet is great, until it isn't, until a violent crime is committed and media reports and politicians jump to the conclusion that an attacker was part of controversial or extremist communities online. But is it always that easy? We will look at extremist communities online to identify how digital spaces can contribute to radicalisation processes. We will also discuss response strategies on the policy, educational and civil society levels.
09:00
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12:30
Radicalisation and Extremism: Where Reality Meets the Digital Space
+1
Sem
Seminar
Afternoon
AOR: Area of Responsibility – Action over Reaction
A military leadership training: Challenge yourself with a practical action-oriented self-awareness outdoor seminar. We will jointly experience the true meaning of responsibility and consequence and so will improve our skills in decision making.
15:00
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18:30
AOR: Area of Responsibility – Action over Reaction
+7
Sem
Seminar
Playfully Serious, Hands-On: Housing of the Future
In this interactive seminar we will experiment and discuss concepts regarding the housing of the future. In a world that is dominated by crises, climate change and scarcity of resources it is necessary to develop strategies for a built environment that is sustainable and circular, that enables social inclusion and empowers people.
By visiting best practice projects and by experiencing and reflecting together on the built environment in Alpbach, we will develop skills and awareness on how to use available resources, such as existing buildings and materials.
Playful hands-on approaches, different means of architectural expression and 1:1 spatial experiments will help us in our enquiry to opening new perspectives on the housing of the future.
By visiting best practice projects and by experiencing and reflecting together on the built environment in Alpbach, we will develop skills and awareness on how to use available resources, such as existing buildings and materials.
Playful hands-on approaches, different means of architectural expression and 1:1 spatial experiments will help us in our enquiry to opening new perspectives on the housing of the future.
15:00
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18:30
Playfully Serious, Hands-On: Housing of the Future
+1
Sem
Seminar
Keep It in the Ground: Diffusing Carbon Bombs
A skill we thought we might never need is currently in high demand: that of diffusing - not literal but so-called -"carbon bombs". If all fossil fuel extraction infrastructure projects ("carbon bombs") that are currently in the pipeline are realised, the 1.5 celsius climate goal is under extreme threat. Carbon emissions must fall by half by 2030 to preserve the chance of a liveable future, the IPCC states, and therefore decisive and effective action is needed. This seminar will enable you to take your first steps towards designing effective climate action campaigns aimed at promoting the non-extraction of further fossil fuels.
15:00
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18:30
Keep It in the Ground: Diffusing Carbon Bombs
+1
Sem
Seminar
Feeling Safe (Is Key)
A sense of safety and security is essential in actor training. Work can be very demanding and challenging as students need to be present and emotionally available, at times using their own experiences for creation. As such it is important that they do not feel exposed. This peer-to-peer seminar with students from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art will share the training aspects that allow them to be vulnerable by creating a safe environment.
15:00
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18:30
Feeling Safe (Is Key)
+4
Sem
Seminar
Creative Writing: How to Be Bold with Your Words
In an expanding culture of AI technology, we can understandably be suspicious about anything supposedly 'created'. This seminar explores the benefits of creative writing as a means to experiment, to develop confidence, to investigate verbal expression, and to find fluidity with words. We will learn how to worry less about the 'right way' of saying something. We will share our language skills and learn how to write more boldly. Most importantly we will realise the value of learning through play, understand the value of creativity in all fields of work and how creative language is essential in expressing ideas.
15:00
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18:30
Creative Writing: How to Be Bold with Your Words
Sem
Seminar
A Deep Dive into the Global Fashion Industry
During five days of crafty interactions and peer-to-peer learning, we will take a deep dive into the global fashion industry. We will discuss the topics of responsibility, transparency, and accountability as a holistic approach towards an innovative fashion future. We will learn about the initiative Fashion Revolution Global, and opportunities to be involved in activities around activism, change making and education in sustainable fashion. We will also meet local makers who will give us insights into their supply chains, as well as passing on some of their treasured craft skills. Bring your unwanted clothes and sneakers to Alpbach and reinvent them with us!
15:00
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18:30
A Deep Dive into the Global Fashion Industry
+1
Sem
Seminar
Strategic Foresight: How to Use Futures for Decision Making
In a complex world, the first reaction is to try to control what is coming. However, the future is unknowable. Prediction and planning, even though useful, are limiting ways to work with the future in the present, because they aim at 'knowing' a 'future'. The future exists in the plural, and the right verb for futures is not 'know', it's 'use'. Strategic foresight is the key to using them. In this course we will introduce the concepts and build an initial capability to use futures for decision making.