Dr. Michael Ludwig

Dr. Michael Ludwig is an Austrian politician from the Social Democratic Party of Austria (SPÖ), serving as the Mayor and Governor of Vienna since May 24, 2018.  Born on April 3, 1961, in Vienna, Ludwig grew up in the city’s 21st district, Floridsdorf. He graduated from a commercial academy in 1980, completed his military service from 1981 to 1982, and pursued studies in political science and history at the University of Vienna, earning his doctorate in philosophy in 1992.  His professional career began in adult education, where he worked as a course and project manager (1984–1986) and as an educational assistant at an adult education center (1986–1991). In 1991, he became the regional office manager of the Dr. Karl Renner Institute in Vienna and education secretary of SPÖ Vienna.  Ludwig’s political career includes the following key positions: 1999–2007: Member of the Vienna City Council and State Parliament. 2007–2018: City Councillor for Housing, Construction, and Urban Renewal. 2009–2010: Second Deputy Mayor and Deputy Governor of Vienna. In January 2018, he was elected chairman of SPÖ Vienna, and in May of the same year, he succeeded Michael Häupl as Mayor and Governor of the city.  As mayor, Ludwig focuses on sustainable urban development, social justice, and improving the quality of life for Viennese citizens. He actively supports initiatives in housing policy, education, and integration.