Austria vows to defend UN rules after winning Security Council seat

Bata Minel Risinger, Federal Minister for European and International Affairs of Austria, told the United Nations that the world must resist rule-by-force and restore trust in international institutions after years of geopolitical strain. "Power must be bound by rules agreed together," she said, reiterating Austria's commitment after successful election to the Security Council.

Risinger framed Austria's Security Council term as an opportunity to show the council can act and to make decisions more inclusive. She said Austria would prioritize reforms that help the United Nations "deliver when people need it," and thanked member states for their support in the June election. The minister noted Austria's role as host of UN organizations and emphasized the country's stake in maintaining open trade routes and stable energy markets.