EMPOWER NEXTGEN - meeting young lawyers where they are

Servus* AIJA!

Servus* to Vienna – where imperial elegance meets modern innovation, where tradition is etched in stone and progress resonates in every corner. As Co-Chairs of the Organising Committee for the 64^th International Young Lawyers’ Congress, it is our distinct pleasure to welcome you to the Austrian capital, a city whose soul is as rich in legal heritage as it is in culture, music, and diplomacy.

Framed by imperial palaces, elegant boulevards, and iconic concert halls, Vienna stands as a symbol of legal tradition, international cooperation, and the enduring pursuit of justice. Home to the United Nations, the OSCE, and numerous other international organizations, Vienna has long served as a meeting place for ideas, dialogue, and decisions that shape our today’s world.

The 2026 Annual Congress invites you to explore the pressing issues and transformative innovations that define the legal service industry today. From the rapid integration of artificial intelligence into legal workflows to the global push for sustainability, equity, and access to justice, the program is designed by the Academic Coordinators to stimulate, challenge, and inspire. It is this spirit of collaboration and innovation that defines the Congress – Lawyers in Concert.

Our venue in the heart of Vienna captures the spirit of the Congress perfectly: timeless, sophisticated, and filled with energy. Just steps away from timeless architectural treasures like the Hofburg Palace and the Vienna State Opera, this location offers an extraordinary setting for deep discussions, bold ideas, and new connections.

But a truly memorable Congress is not only about academic excellence. It is equally about building relationships – through meaningful conversations, shared cultural experiences, and discovering the vibrant life of Vienna together. Over these few days, we encourage you to dive into Vienna’s vibrant lifestyle: enjoy a slice of Sachertorte in a historic coffeehouse, stroll along the Danube, explore the galleries and courtyards of the MuseumsQuartier, and discover why Vienna consistently ranks among the world’s most liveable cities.

Together with our dedicated Organizing Committee, we are honoured to host you in our home city. We are committed to making this Congress an unforgettable experience filled with dialogue, and a rediscovery of the law’s transformative power.

Welcome to the 64th International Young Lawyers’ Congress. Let’s embrace Vienna’s energy and be part of a community driving legal innovation. Servus* to Vienna!

Co-Chairs of the Organizing Committee:
Teresa Waidmann, Schönherr Rechtsanwälte, Austria
Lukas Wieser, Zeiler Rechtsanwälte, Austria

*”Servus” is a common, friendly greeting in Austria, equivalent to “hello” or “hi”. The term originates from the Latin word meaning “servant” or “at your service”, which interestingly connects to the concept of legal service and dedication to others in the legal profession.