Federal Minister for Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection Johannes Rauch visited New York from February 5 – 8, 2024 to attend the UN Commission for Social Development where he actively engaged with UN representatives, think tank experts and local stakeholders to address pressing issues such as child poverty and homelessness.

During his stay, Minister Rauch also had the opportunity to visit the Mount Sinai Hospital and learn about cutting-edge research on universal influenza and COVID-19 vaccines from Austrian scientist Dr. Peter Palese, Director of the Department for Microbiology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. The Minister also witnessed innovative healthcare practices, including the application of artificial intelligence in oncology.

At the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) the Minister had an exchange with Commissioner Keith Howard who highlighted successful youth employment initiatives in New York City and advocated for ongoing efforts to address social challenges despite budget constraints.

A reception in honor of Minister Rauch at the Austrian Consulate General was attended by numerous Austrian professionals working in the area of responsibility of the Minister. Additionally, the Consulate organized visits to local NGOs tackling child poverty and homelessness, including the Dunlevy Milbank Center of Children's Aid and BronxWorks.

Photos: © BMSGPK/Dorfegger