Creative Bureaucracy Festival Award – Wolfgang Schüssel

Wolfgang Schüssel is being honoured for his lasting contribution to modernising government and advancing Europe. He played a key role in Austria’s negotiations to join the European Union, helping shape the country’s European trajectory. As Chancellor from 2000 to 2008, he drove forward a series of reforms that strengthened the state’s capacity to act. He was a pioneer in recognising the transformative power of digitalisation and brought it to the centre of government decision-making by creating a Digital Cabinet. With the principle “digitalisation is a matter for the boss,” he set a tone that continues to resonate in Austria. Examples introduced during his tenure include the citizen card (2003) and the e-card (2005), which simplified access to public services. Today, as a result, Austria is considered one of Europe’s digital frontrunners. This recognition honours a political legacy that combines strategic foresight with concrete implementation. It underlines how leadership at the highest level can enable lasting transformation in government.