History

The Vienna International Arbitral Centre (VIAC) was established in 1975 under the auspices of the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber. VIAC is one of the leading arbitration and mediation centres in the CEE and SEE region. We offer high-quality services that are tailored to parties from all around the world. Since its foundation, VIAC has already celebrated several key moments and has continued to develop steadily.

1975
1975

Foundation of the International Arbitral Centre of the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber (VIAC) as a central contact point for international arbitration proceedings

1975
1975

The first Vienna Rules are adopted

1977
1977

The first VIAC arbitration award is rendered

1980 - 1990
1980 - 1990

VIAC establishes itself on the international stage and becomes the leading arbitration institution in the CEE/SEE region.

1983
1983

The first revision of the rules takes place

1991
1991

The Vienna Rules are revised once again

1997
1997

The Vienna Rules 1997 come into force.

2001
2001

A new version of the Vienna Rules enter into force in 2001.

2006
2006

The Vienna Rules are amended once again.

2009
2009

The first meeting of the International Advisory Board takes place.

2013
2013

The Vienna Rules are amended once again. The VIAC Mediation Rules are added to offer a broader range of conflict resolution mechanisms and emphasise the importance of mediation in international dispute resolution.

2015
2015

VIAC celebrates its 40th anniversary with a series of events and publications highlighting the successes and development of the institution.

2016
2016

VIAC signs the ERA Pledge

2017
2017

VIAC may now also administer purely domestic cases.

2018
2018

The Vienna Rules are amended. The new VIAC Arbitration and Mediation Rules aim for transparency, efficiency and user-friendliness.

VIAC receives a "GAR Guide to Regional Arbitration award for arbitral institution that impressed".

2019
2019

The inaugural meeting of the National Advisory Board takes place.

The Mediation Advisory Board is established.

2020
2020

A digital case management platform will be introduced to simplify the process for all parties involved and pave the way for modern and efficient management of arbitration proceedings.

VIAC publishes "The Vienna Protocol - A Practical Checklist for Remore Hearings"

2021
2021

The VIAC Arbitration and Mediation Rules are amended to further increase efficient proceedings, guarantee transparency and more digitalisation.

2023
2023

VIAC CAN is founded.

VIAC records a record number of cases and value in dispute.

2025
2025

Looking to the future - VIAC