Austria’s First Lady, Doris Schmidauer, has published a book titled «Land der Töchter zukunftsreich» (co-authored with Nina Horaczek). In it, the wife of Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen offers a glimpse into her life and biography, while also discussing her work — Schmidauer is actively involved in women’s policy — and the women who have left a lasting impression on her.

Regarding her private life with President Van der Bellen, Doris revealed that her husband has absolutely no cooking skills. She also shared that their dog, Julie, sometimes stays with her, sometimes with her husband at the Hofburg, and enjoys running through the corridors in the morning.

Schmidauer also explained why she does not have children and revealed which TV series she and the President like to watch when they relax. Spoiler: Tatort.

Additionally, Schmidauer commented on her role as a close advisor to her husband. For instance, Austria can at least partly credit its only female Chancellor to her: it was Schmidauer who asked Alexander Van der Bellen whether he would consider offering the position to Brigitte Bierlein.

Photo: Wolfgang Zajc