Representatives from science, business, civil society and politics joined the launch event of KONTEXT institute in Vienna - an independent organization engaging with climate challenges. IIASA Director General John Schellnhuber was one of the keynote speakers at the event. 

Schellnhuber spoke with inspiring words about how we can adequately address the greatest risks of our time. Although much is known about the climate crisis and its solutions, there is a growing cognitive dissonance in society that prevents people from acting with a long-term perspective. This gap between what is necessary and what seems feasible needs dialogue, education, transparency and an indication of possibilities.

His speech was followed by an introduction of the institute by the initiators Katharina Rogenhofer, Tina German, and Florian Maringer. In response to the major challenges, KONTEXT wants to offer climate policy classification, counteract disinformation, and thus also give decision makers tools to implement changes.

More information and photos of the event: https://kontext-institut.at/veranstaltungen/launch-event/ (in German)

News

At the Honorary Doctorate Degree Conferment Ceremony

05 November 2026

IIASA Director General awarded honorary doctorate by Tsinghua University

IIASA Director General Hans Joachim (John) Schellnhuber has been awarded an honorary doctorate by Tsinghua University in Beijing, China, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to climate science and sustainability research.

IIASA and Kazakhstan

27 October 2026

IIASA and Kazakhstan strengthen scientific cooperation through new agreement

IIASA and the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance joint research, academic exchange, and capacity development.

IIASA Director General Hans Joachim (John) Schellnhuber with Professor Andrea Lenzi and H.E. Ambassador Giovanni Pugliese

23 October 2026

IIASA and Italy deepen dialogue during visit by CNR President

On 19 October, Professor Andrea Lenzi President of the National Research Council of Italy (CNR), visited IIASA for discussions on strengthening scientific cooperation and exploring future opportunities for strategic collaboration between Italy and IIASA.