The Austrian Institute for International Affairs is an independent, non-profit research center. The oiip was the first Institute in Austria to focus on globalization, European integration, comprehensive security, and on the comparative study of international affairs. Established in 1978 by the then Chancellor Bruno Kreisky, the Institute has advised on public policy, conducted primary scientific research, supported the international academic exchange, and played a key role in hosting international conferences and as a venue for second track-diplomacy. Members of the Institute publish widely, are consulted by the government, and regularly feature in the national media. The Institute maintains a number of publications, and works closely with other national and international research institutions.
The oiip represents Austria in a number of international associations, and enjoys bilateral contacts with over three-dozen international research Institutes.