Results from Two New Surveys Reveal Changing Perspectives of U.S. /Austria Relationship

Results from a new survey focusing on Austria and the United States show changing attitudes about how the citizens of each country perceive the other. The survey is the first since the 1980s to poll perspectives of the relationship held by citizens of both countries. Excerpts from the survey, sponsored by the Botstiber Institute for Austrian-American Studies and prepared by the University of Salzburg, were released today.

The Institute will present full survey results on May 16, 2025 at the annual Botstiber Lecture on Austrian-American Affairs at the Austrian Embassy in Washington, D.C.

“As generational change, global political developments, and new media reshape how Americans and Austrians see one another, this survey is a snapshot of the present and a roadmap for strengthening our mutual relationship for the challenges that lie ahead,” said Reinhard Heinisch, a board member of the Botstiber Institute. Heinisch is Professor of Austrian Politics in Comparative Perspective and chair of the Department of Political Science and Sociology at the University of Salzburg, Austria.

Heinisch added: “The mutual relationship matters to Austrians and Americans; however, it is not self-sustaining. This report provides needed insight to help address issues and foster understanding and support for the relationship in ways that benefit both countries.”

Highlights of the “Austrian Views of the United States” survey include:

• Both Austrians and Americans agree that the U.S. role in the world has diminished.

• Austrian skepticism of the U.S. is shaped both by concerns about global issues important to them, such as international security, climate change, and economic stability, and by perceived negative developments in U.S. society and politics.

• Younger generations of Austrians who speak English and use social media are more sympathetic to the U.S., while Americans who use social media are more skeptical of Austria.

• Overall, Austrians credit U.S. influence on Austrian society since World War II, yet today they prefer closer ties with the EU.

• Austrians concerned about U.S. society and politics still see America as the land of opportunity and view Americans somewhat more favorably than the country itself.

The survey was conducted in February, March and April in Austria and the United States by Market Institute, a Linz-based research firm.

Highlights of the “American Views of Austria” survey include:

• Americans have a very positive view of Austrians and Austria. These views are driven by perceptions of Austria as a prosperous and well-functioning democracy, an extensive welfare state, and a good education system. Views of Austrians and their characteristics are even more favorable.

• Views of Austria are tempered by perceptions of Austria’s Nazi legacy, and people for whom this is most important are also relatively more skeptical. However, Americans also distinguish between Austria’s past and present and generally view the country as pro-Israel.

• Nonetheless, the older and more educated Americans are, the more favorable their opinion of Austria. Conversely, younger age groups are less favorable toward Austria.

• The use of social media is associated with a more critical attitude toward Austria, while obtaining information from television correlates with a positive image. Language skills do not have a significant impact.

• Americans who travel frequently, especially to Europe, have a more positive view of Austria overall.