Shared Lives, Shared Future: UN Diplomacy in Vienna
Celebrating eighty years of global cooperation through art and personal narratives.
July 24th, 2026
On May 20, 2026, the United Nations Information Service (UNIS) Vienna presented the "Shared Lives, Shared Future" exhibition at the Vienna International Centre. Although the global initiative was officially launched in October 2025 to mark the 80th anniversary of the United Nations, this presentation provided a localized platform for the Viennese public and diplomatic community. By utilizing personal narratives from 193 countries, the event illustrates how international cooperation translates into tangible benefits for daily life.
The exhibition is a collaborative effort involving the UN Department of Global Communications and the Permanent Missions of Italy, Slovenia, and Switzerland. In Vienna, the display was co-organized with the Permanent Representation of Slovenia and the OSCE to bring 24 specifically curated stories to the public. This partnership highlights the use of cultural storytelling as a diplomatic tool to foster mutual understanding and demonstrate the human dimension of global regulatory and humanitarian frameworks.
A central component of the presentation is the video installation "UNO CITY – An Extraterritorial Landmark in an Interconnected World" by Austrian artist Wolfgang Lehrner. This three-channel work examines the architectural and visual identity of the Vienna International Centre, commonly known as "UNO-City". Rather than a static monument, Lehrner depicts the facility as a vital, working infrastructure embedded in a global network, effectively bridging the gap between local landmarks and international multilateralism.
The narratives featured in the exhibit provide concrete examples of UN impact, ranging from historical aid in post-WWII Greece to contemporary digital empowerment. Stories include accounts of children receiving vaccines in Guinea and the preservation of historic UNESCO sites in Italy. These personal testimonials localize the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), making the complexities of international law and trade conventions accessible through shared human experiences.
The presentation of "Shared Lives, Shared Future" underscores the relevance of the United Nations as it enters its ninth decade. By integrating contemporary art with diverse global perspectives, the exhibition reinforces the necessity of collective action to address mutual challenges. Ultimately, the event serves as a reminder that international stability is a shared responsibility, reinforced by eighty years of institutional growth and community engagement.
