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Beyond the Comfort Zone: REFLECTIONS – Magazine of the oiip

REFLECTIONS
Magazine of the Austrian Institute for International Affairs – oiip
No. 3 June 2026

We are very proud to publish the third issue of the Austrian Institute for International Affairs' magazine, REFLECTIONS. This is particularly remarkable, as we do not receive any funding or other financial support for this publication. REFLECTIONS aims to make the analysis of international politics, trends, and global dynamics accessible to a broader audience, extending beyond the academic community.

This year’s issue, titled "Beyond the Comfort Zone," focuses on the many dynamics and layers of change that we are witnessing at the international, national, regional, local, and even personal levels. While these ongoing changes have undoubtedly affected societies around the globe, it is Europe in particular that has moved, or been pushed, beyond its comfort zone.

The world of yesterday, as we knew it, was largely shaped by “the West” – by Europeans, the USA, and the transatlantic consensus about the liberal world order. It is now dissolving in front of our eyes. Although transitions from one order to another are difficult, painful, and unpredictable, we strongly believe that new opportunities also emerge beyond the comfort zone. Therefore, we have asked our authors to highlight not only potential risks, but also new opportunities. This requires a look beyond Europe. There is much to learn from non-Western societies that have long been exposed to volatility, and have therefore developed strategies and mechanisms to cope with these challenges.

This year’s issue brings together experts from diverse fields, countries, and backgrounds.

We hope you enjoy reading REFLECTIONS and that it offers you new perspectives, inspiration, and hope for the space beyond Europe’s comfort zone.

We would also like to invite you to support independent research, expertise, and knowledge by becoming a member.

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