United Nations in Vienna Marks International Day of Persons with Disabilities

Vienna, Austria, 3 December 2024 – The United Nations Disability Inclusion Network (DIN) successfully organized a two-part celebration for the International Day of Persons with Disabilities at the Vienna International Centre (VIC) on 3 December 2024. This annual observance highlights the importance of inclusion and accessibility while showcasing success stories and ongoing efforts to empower persons with disabilities. Part I: Round Table Discussions The morning commenced with insightful roundtable discussions, during which individuals and organizations advocating for disability rights and inclusion shared inspiring success stories. This session underscored the importance of…

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How much Austrians want to spend on presents at Christmas

Now that the high wave of inflation has subsided, the Christ Child is again more generous this year than last year. At least, that is the result of a survey conducted by the Austrian Retail Association.According to the survey, 92% of Austrians plan to give presents to their loved ones this Christmas. They plan to spend an average of 386 euros, 7 percent more than last year. In 2023, the consumer mood was also low in Advent due to inflation, with an average Christmas spend of 360 euros.Despite the increase,…

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A Journey of Culture, Faith, and Connection in Italy

Vienna, Austria, 25 November 2024— Members and friends of the Bikol Society Austria (BSA), including Marizel Rojas, Ning Lobrigo, Lolit Kaszuba, and Cherry Faller, embarked on a profound journey to Picinisco and Rome, Italy, from 21 to 24 November 2024. This visit reflected BSA’s enduring commitment to celebrating the Filipino-Bikolano identity while forging meaningful connections with cultural and spiritual advocates. A Cultural Exchange in Picinisco In the picturesque town of Picinisco, the group was warmly welcomed by Fr. Edmer Erongo, a Filipino-Bikolano priest serving the community, along with Mr. Giorgio…

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The Feast of St. Nicholas: Celebrating Kindness and Generosity

The Feast of St. Nicholas, celebrated on 6 December, honors the life and legacy of St. Nicholas of Myra, a 4th-century bishop renowned for his generosity, humility, and deep care for the less fortunate. This day is special in Christian tradition, particularly in Europe, and is marked by unique customs and heartwarming rituals emphasizing kindness and giving. St. Nicholas is widely recognized as the inspiration behind the modern figure of Santa Claus. However, his story goes far beyond the commercialized image of gift-giving. Known as a protector of children and…

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Philippine Nurses Association-Austria Celebrates Nurses Day Gala Dinner Vienna

Vienna, Austria, 30 November 2024 – The Philippine Nurses Association-Austria (PNA-A) celebrated the Nurses Day Gala Dinner grandly, honouring the invaluable contributions of Filipino nurses and fostering unity within the Filipino-Austrian community. The event at the Vienna Marriott Hotel featured inspiring speeches from distinguished guests and beautiful performances. High-ranking dignitaries graced the occasion, delivering inspiring messages. Mr. Peter Hacker is a prominent Austrian politician affiliated with the Social Democratic Party of Austria (SPÖ). He has held the position of Executive City Councilor for Social Affairs, Public Health, and Sports in…

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Christmas shopping: beware of bargain scams

A few weeks before Christmas, many retailers advertise online and offline with big discount campaigns. The aim is to attract customers with high discounts. However, consumers should be on their guard, as not every offer is worthwhile, and fraudsters also promise themselves a good deal.Seven hours to search for offersA recent survey by the industry association Bitkom of 1,180 internet users aged 16 and over shows how firmly anchored discount days have become in the consciousness of consumers. According to the survey, 98% of respondents know about Black Friday, and…

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Cheap products from the internet pose health risks

On Tuesday, the Eco-Social Forum hosted a panel discussion in Vienna on consumer protection on the Internet concerning purchasing cheap products, especially outside the EU. In addition to the health risks posed by medicines or food supplements with banned ingredients, the need for better market surveillance of online trade was also addressed. Ultimately, there is also a need to “raise awareness of the health risks.” The Director of the Federal Office of Consumer Health (BAVG) and AGES Managing Director Anton Reinl said that “online purchases are increasing massively. In 2023,…

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The 55th UNWG International Festival and Charity Bazaar: A Cultural Extravaganza for a Cause

On 30 November 2024, the Austria Center Vienna became a vibrant hub of cultural exchange, philanthropy, and festivity as it hosted the 55th United Nations Women’s Guild (UNWG) International Festival and Charity Bazaar. With over 40 participating countries, the event showcased the diversity of global traditions through food, performances, and artisanal goods while raising funds to support women and children in need worldwide. A Warm Welcome to Diversity Bazaar Chairwoman Kavita Verma and UNWG President Cathy Kieffer inaugurated the festival with a message of gratitude to the international community. The…

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On Saturday night, snowfall in Austria, including Vienna

Wednesday will often be cloudy. Occasionally, it will clear up, especially in the west, where the sun will shine. On the northern edge of the Alps, however, there will be occasional rain and snow showers. The snow line will be between 500 and 700 m above sea level. The wind will blow weakly to moderately from west to north. Early morning temperatures will be between minus 6 and plus 3 degrees, and afternoon temperatures will be between 2 and 6 degrees. On Thursday, a high fog-like cloud cover will cover…

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