The new coalition will be led by the centre-right People’s Party (ÖVP), centre-left Social Democrats (SPÖ), and the liberal Neos party. After five months of negotiations, the agreement marks a significant shift in Austrian politics, as the FPÖ, despite winning the most votes in the election, has been sidelined.
Christian Stocker of the ÖVP is set to become Austria’s next Chancellor, with Andreas Babler from the SPÖ appointed as Vice-Chancellor. The final hurdle for the coalition deal to be officially sealed is approval from Neos’ grassroots members, who will vote on the agreement this Sunday.
Coalition Agreement Focuses on National Issues
The coalition’s platform includes a range of proposals, such as stricter asylum policies, a temporary pause on family reunification, revised tenancy laws, and planned cuts to social benefits. The government also plans to consolidate the national budget to meet European Union fiscal requirements.
ÖVP, SPÖ, and Neos Join Forces
Although the ÖVP and SPÖ have previously governed together, their combined seat count of 92 out of 183 is only just enough to form a majority in parliament. The Neos party, holding 18 seats, has never participated in a national government but will now play a key role in the new coalition.
The new coalition government ends a turbulent negotiation period in which the FPÖ, which won 28% of the vote, was excluded from power. The far-right party had been involved in two rounds of failed coalition talks, first with the ÖVP and then with Neos, but disagreements over policy and ministry control ultimately led to their exclusion.
Tensions Between FPÖ Leader Kickl and ÖVP
Herbert Kickl, leader of the FPÖ, has drawn controversy for his Eurosceptic views and pro-Russia stance. During failed negotiations, ÖVP’s State Party Chairman, Karl Mahrer, criticized Kickl, calling him a “safety risk” and blaming him for the collapse of talks. Kickl, in response, has called the new coalition a “government of losers” and demanded fresh elections.
The Road Ahead for Austria’s Government
With the new coalition deal in place, Austria’s political future now rests with the ÖVP, SPÖ, and Neos. This marks the longest coalition negotiation process in the country’s history, and it excludes the far-right FPÖ, which remains a contentious force in Austrian politics.