91³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏÍø

 

Who We Are

A Leading Resource at the 91³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏÍø

Working closely with the University and the embassies of our partner nations, the Wirth Institute supports the 91³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏÍø’s position as Canada’s leading centre for Central European Studies.

 

What We Do

A Bridge Between Canada and Central Europe

Founded in 1998 as the Canadian Centre for Austrian and Central European Studies, the Institute was created through the initiative of Austria’s Federal Ministry of Science, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Conference of University Presidents. It soon gained the support of the governments of Croatia, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia, and Slovenia. 

 

Honouring the Wirth Family

In 2003, the Institute was renamed the Wirth Institute for Austrian and Central European Studies in recognition of the generous endowment from Dr. Manfred and Dr. Alfred Wirth.

 

Why It Matters 

Advancing Central European Studies

The Wirth Institute promotes research, teaching, and cultural exchange focused on Central Europe. We host lectures, conferences, concerts, exhibitions, and festivals that highlight Austrian and Central European scholarship and creativity.

 

Building Global Connections

Our collaborations span Canada, the United States, and Europe—strengthening a dynamic international network of universities, scholars, and cultural partners. 

 

Austrian Centres

We are proud to be one of nine Austrian Centres worldwide established through an initiative of the Austrian Federal Ministry of Science and Research. Together, the Austrian Centres form a global network dedicated to exploring the history, culture, politics, and contemporary developments of Austria and its Central European neighbours through shared projects, annual conventions, and the exchange of scholars and students.