Austria's Policy During the Breakup of Yugoslavia: A Detailed Analysis

During the breakup of Yugoslavia in the early 1990s, Austria adopted a policy that was characterized by a cautious but supportive approach towards the newly emerging states. This policy was multifaceted, involving concerns for territorial integrity, humanitarian assistance, diplomatic engagement, and a focus on regional stability.

Support for Territorial Integrity

Initially, Austria advocated for the preservation of Yugoslavia's territorial integrity while also recognizing the right of the various republics to self-determination. This position was driven by a concern for the potential for widespread conflict and instability in the region.

Humanitarian Assistance

As the conflict escalated and humanitarian crises emerged, Austria became involved in providing humanitarian aid to refugees and those affected by the war. Austria hosted many refugees from the Balkans during this period, demonstrating its commitment to humanitarian needs.

Diplomatic Engagement

Austria was a proactive participant in international diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict. The country actively participated in initiatives led by the European Union, aiming to mediate and promote dialogue among the conflicting parties. This diplomatic engagement was aimed at fostering peace and stability in the Balkans.

Recognition of Independence

Austria supported the recognition of the independence of Slovenia and Croatia in 1991 after their declarations of independence. This stance aligned with the broader trend among Western European countries recognizing the new states emerging from the breakup of Yugoslavia. President Mitterrand of France had better ties with Serbia, but the negotiations were unsuccessful.

Regional Stability

Austrian policy was also driven by concerns for regional stability and the potential spillover effects of the conflict into neighboring countries. Austria aimed to promote stability in the Balkans given its geographical proximity and historical ties to the region.

Personal Recollections

Having lived in Vienna as a TV journalist at the time, I offer this recollection:

Austria was highly concerned from the onset, with many senior politicians actively trying to calm the situation. Most notably, Foreign Secretary Alois Mock, a conservative, was visible in his efforts. Generally, Austria had sympathy towards separatist efforts but tried to remain neutral and encourage negotiation over military action.

Austria had good ties with Croatian officials and a border with Slovenia. However, the military conflict between Serbia and Slovenia ended relatively quickly. In Croatia, an obviously corrupt and authoritarian General Franjo Tuman established himself as president. Tuman occasionally made racist and antisemitic slurs, making public support for Croatian objectives somewhat more difficult.

Even before the military conflict intensified and spread to Bosnia and Kosovo, Austria accepted countless refugees and was at times generous in suspending certain immigration laws. France had better ties with Serbia but also failed to negotiate successfully.

Eventually, most Western politicians tacitly agreed that other than humanitarian aid, little could be done to prevent the conflict from escalating. The US stepped in, using military force after long, futile negotiations. Throughout it all, the Republic of Austria served with intelligence and by offering Vienna as a location for negotiations.

Conclusion

Overall, Austria's approach was a balanced mix of cautious support for self-determination, humanitarian action, and active diplomatic engagement aimed at fostering peace and stability in the Balkans during a tumultuous period.