Gabriel Felbermayr Receives the Gustav Stolper Prize 2026

"Gabriel Felbermayr brings the findings of leading international research precisely where they are needed: into economic policy debate," said Klaus M. Schmidt, President of the Verein für Socialpolitik. "He combines scientific precision with the ability to explain complex interrelationships in a clear and compelling way. At a time of growing trade conflicts and geopolitical tensions, this voice is particularly valuable. In this respect, he embodies in a special way what the Gustav Stolper Prize stands for: scientific excellence with an impact on public debate."

Scientific Excellence and Economic Policy Relevance

Gabriel Felbermayr has been Director of the Austrian Institute of Economic Research (WIFO) in Vienna and Professor at Vienna University of Economics and Business (WU Vienna) since 2021. Previously, he was President of the Kiel Institute for the World Economy and Professor at Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich. Since March 2026, he has also been a member of the German Council of Economic Experts.

According to the VfS, Felbermayr is one of the most prominent economists in the field of international economics. His research examines how international trade and trade barriers affect prosperity, businesses and labour markets. Another focus is on the economic consequences of geopolitical conflicts and the increasing fragmentation of the global economy. In his work, he combines scientific excellence with strong relevance to economic policy.

Gustav Stolper Prize

"With the Gustav Stolper Prize, the Verein für Socialpolitik is this year honouring an outstanding individual for the 20th time who has shaped public debate through their research, deepened the understanding of economic interrelationships and provided impetus for addressing economic challenges. The Verein für Socialpolitik thanks the FAZIT Foundation for its financial support," the VfS said.

About the Verein für Socialpolitik

With around 3,850 individual and corporate members, the Verein für Socialpolitik is one of the largest associations of economists in Europe. Its members come from around the world, although the majority are based in German-speaking countries. Founded in 1872, the association promotes science and research through scholarly discussion of economic and social policy issues, particularly at its Annual Conference, in its specialist committees and through its academic journals.