On 24 April, Austria’s largest event dedicated to science, research and innovation brought thousands of people into more than 3,000 research centers across the country to explore science-related issues. On this occasion, the Vienna International Centre (VIC) opened its doors to some 2,900 visitors. The United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) Vienna Office joined the programme, for the third time, with an interactive booth asking: “Are AI and cyber technologies making nuclear weapons more dangerous?”. Through games and discussions with UNODA staff, visitors shared their views, explored the links between emerging technologies and nuclear risks, and learned more about UNODA’s work to advance disarmament, non-proliferation and arms control.
The UNODA Vienna team at the Long Night of Research 2026 (Photo credits: UNIS).
The exhibitions welcomed people of all backgrounds and ages. Our Vienna team was strengthened by colleagues joining from the UNODA Geneva Office and catered to a diverse audience. UNODA’s booth featured educational materials alongside a wide range of interactive activities, including an Instagram photo prompt and a touch-screen totem with games. Also very popular was the spinning wheel where visitors answered questions on emerging technologies and nuclear risk in exchange for UNODA-branded prizes. Kids received a checklist to complete the activities and win prizes, as well as a activities book with special designs and puzzles.
(Photo credits: UNIS & UNODA/Federica Petrucci).
Alongside our Office, there were a total of 14 stations from Vienna-based organizations, including the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO), the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the International Commission for the Protection of the Danube River (ICPDR), the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO).
UNODA’s booth in the Vienna International Centre (VIC) (Photo credits: IAEA).
The whole UNODA Vienna team was incredibly motivated by the remarkable interest shown. Open door events like these are a valuable opportunity to introduce new audiences to what we do every day to help advance a safer world. We hope to see you next time!
Curious to see how previous editions looked like? Check out the articles from 2022 and 2024.
Photo credits: UNODA/Federica Petrucci
