UPF Austria General Assembly 2026 – Leadership Election and Strategic Vision

VIENNA, January 10, 2026 – The Universal Peace Federation (UPF) Austria held its General Assembly today at its headquarters in Vienna. The meeting served as a landmark event, marking the end of a successful four-year term and the commencement of a new mandate for the executive leadership.

 

Review of a Four-Year period

The assembly opened with a comprehensive keynote report by Mr. Peter Haider, President of UPF Austria. Mr. Haider detailed the organization’s achievements over the past four years, highlighting successful peace initiatives, interfaith dialogues, and the strengthening of civil society networks across Austria and Europe.

Following the presidential address, the Financial Officer presented a transparent audit of the federation’s accounts. The assembly formally approved the financial reports and granted discharge to the outgoing Board of Directors, acknowledging their integrity and effective management of the federation’s resources.

Election Results: Leadership for 2026–2029

The core of the session was the election of the leadership team to guide UPF Austria through its next chapter. By unanimous vote, the assembly confirmed the following appointments for a four-year term:

·     Re-election of the President: Mr. Peter Haider was re-elected as the President of UPF Austria. His leadership is seen as vital for the continuity of the federation’s long-term peace projects and its strategic influence in Central Europe.

·     Re-appointment of Vice President & UN Representative: Mr. Johann Hinterleitner was reelected as a Vice President of UPF Austria. In addition to this executive role, Mr. Hinterleitner will continue to serve in his capacity as a Permanent Representative of the Federation to the United Nations.

·     Re-appointment of Vice President & Director for UPF Upper Austria: Mag. Maria Pammer was reelected as a Vice President of UPF Austria.

·     Re-appointment of Vice President: Mag. Elisabeth Cook was reelected as a Vice President of UPF Austria.

·     Appointment of Vice President & UN Representative: Dr. Ali Baqeri was elected as the Vice President of UPF Austria. In addition to this executive role, Dr. Baqeri will continue to serve in his capacity as a Permanent Representative of the Federation to the United Nations.

·     Appointment Vice President: Mr. Tony Cook was elected as a Vice President of UPF Austria.

·     Appointment Vice President: Dr. Androniki Barla was elected as a Vice President of UPF Austria.

·     Re-appointment of Secretary General: Mag. Marinela Stefanc was reelected as the Secretary General of UPF Austria.

·     Re-appointment of Financial Officer: Mr. Manfred Hauser was reelected as the Financial Officer of UPF Austria.

Strategic Perspectives and Global Cooperation

With the new leadership in place, the assembly discussed the "Perspectives for 2026." The federation reaffirmed its commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and its role as a facilitator for peace in an increasingly complex global landscape.

The assembly concluded with a call for continued support from members and donors. The newly elected board expressed their gratitude for the trust placed in them and pledged to uphold the values of the Universal Peace Federation—living for the sake of others and building a world of lasting peace.