PLACES OF INTERCULTURAL EXCHANGE – ASSOCIATIONS IN VILLACH

Villach is a fascinating melting pot of cultures: More than 15,000 people living in the city by the Drau come from abroad and have found a new home here. This impressive diversity of nationalities is reflected not only in the city’s culture but also in the numerous intercultural associations that actively promote coexistence. They play a crucial role in building bridges between different cultures and fostering harmonious community life.
 

LOCAL ASSOCIATIONS AS CULTURAL MEETING POINTS

In addition to institutions such as the Carinthian International Center, many associations in Villach are dedicated to intercultural exchange. They provide platforms where locals and people with backgrounds involving migration can come together, make connections, and share experiences. With offerings such as language courses, tutoring, social support, and a variety of leisure activities, they strengthen social cohesion.

Here is an overview of some intercultural and international associations in Villach that are committed to fostering multiculturalism and inclusion:

• Catholic Education Association Carinthia – "HIPPY Project": The parent education and integration project HIPPY supports mothers with migration backgrounds in preparing their three- to seven-year-old children for school and in networking with other families through joint excursions.
   
• Croatian Cultural Association "Nasi Obicaji" Villach: Since 2010, this association has been dedicated to Croatian culture and organizes a folk dance group, a mixed choir, a theater group, and a modern dance group.
   
• Lerncafé Villach & Lerncafé Infineon: The Caritas Lerncafés offer children and teenagers aged six to fifteen regular learning support and homework assistance. The program is particularly aimed at children whose German skills are not yet sufficient for academic success.
   
• Na.Komm – Nature and Nations in Communication: This multicultural project was founded by experiential educator Renate Anita Mutzhase to support women with migration backgrounds and promote respectful coexistence through nature experiences.
   
• Otelo Villach: The "Open Technology Lab" (Otelo) in Villach offers a variety of projects and activities, including language courses, game nights, celebrations, sports sessions, and creative workshops.
   
• "PIVA" – Project Group for the Integration of Foreigners: Since 1996, this association has been committed to integration through German courses, counseling, and networking opportunities.
   
• Migration Platform: A coalition of civil society organizations and dedicated individuals working to reduce prejudices and promote positive coexistence through information, initiatives, and projects.
   
• Serbian Cultural and Sports Association "Nikola Tesla": This association is dedicated to preserving Serbian culture, traditions, and language. It provides a space for dancing, celebrating, and living Serbian cultural heritage.
   
• Toastmasters Villach: Toastmasters is an international club that helps members improve their public speaking and leadership skills.
   
• Association "Cariola": This association focuses on sustainable, social, intercultural, and ecological projects, particularly through garden initiatives as places of encounter.
   
• Association "Regenbogenland": At the heart of the "Regenbogenland" association is an intercultural garden, where locals and newcomers can garden together and exchange ideas.
   
• Association "Villach-AITB": The Turkish-Islamic Union for Cultural and Social Cooperation supports its members in Austria, including through a branch association in Villach.
   
• Association "Willkommen Nachbarn": This non-profit organization aims to help migrants learn German and acquire knowledge about life in Villach and Austria. In addition to support with housing searches and administrative procedures, it also organizes events and activities.
   
• Association "Indians in Villach": This association promotes cultural exchange and supports the Indian community in Villach. A particular highlight is the celebration of local events such as the Diwali Festival.

UNOFFICIAL COMMUNITY SPACES

Beyond formal associations, there are also unofficial meeting places that play an important role for the international community in Villach. One such location is the Irish pub McMullens, where both locals and newcomers can enjoy live music, watch sports broadcasts, or participate in pub quizzes in a relaxed atmosphere.

Virtual platforms like the Facebook group "English Speakers in Carinthia" also serve as key points of contact for intercultural exchange, helping people connect with like-minded individuals throughout Carinthia.

Thanks to the commitment of these and many other initiatives, Villach has become not only more diverse but also more open to the world. The city demonstrates how openness, cultural diversity, and community engagement can create a harmonious and inclusive society.
 

*This list provides a selection and does not claim to be exhaustive.