Another set back for EU -Austrian president tasks far-right leader with forming government
Introduction
In a historic move on Monday, January 6, 2025, Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen tasked far-right leader Herbert Kickl, head of the Freedom Party (FPÖ), with forming a new government. This decision comes after the collapse of coalition talks that had previously excluded the FPÖ.
Background
The FPÖ emerged victorious in the September 2024 national election, securing nearly 29% of the vote. Initially, President Van der Bellen had asked the conservative People’s Party (ÖVP), which came second with 26% of the vote, to form a government. However, attempts to create a coalition without the FPÖ failed, leading to a new political landscape.
Key Points
Unprecedented Leadership
This marks the first time in Austrian history that the far-right party has been given the opportunity to lead coalition talks.
Political Shift
The decision represents a significant change for President Van der Bellen, who previously led the left-leaning Greens and had expressed reservations about Kickl and the FPÖ.
Potential Coalition
The FPÖ is expected to enter negotiations with the conservative People’s Party (ÖVP), its only viable potential ally.
Public Reaction
The announcement was met with protests outside the presidency in Vienna, with demonstrators shouting “Nazis out” and holding signs against right-wing extremism.
Implications
If successful, this would result in Austria’s first far-right-led government since World War II. The FPÖ’s election manifesto, titled “Fortress Austria,” advocates for strict border controls, suspension of asylum rights, and the “remigration of uninvited foreigners”.
The party’s stance on international issues includes:
Opposition to sanctions against Russia
Criticism of Western military support for Ukraine
Desire to withdraw from the European Sky Shield Initiative
Advocacy for returning certain powers from the EU to Austria
Next Steps
President Van der Bellen has asked Kickl to initiate discussions with the People’s Party to establish a government. While talks between the two parties are not guaranteed to succeed, there are limited alternative coalition options in the current parliament.
Conclusion
Should these negotiations fail, a snap election may be called, with recent polls indicating increased support for the FPÖ since the September election.
