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Austria’s Centrist Parties in Coalition Agreement, Excluding Far-Right FPO
Longest Government Formation Since WWII Nears Resolution
Austria is on the verge of forming a centrist coalition government nearly five months after the parliamentary elections. The conservative People’s Party (OVP), Social Democrats (SPO), and the liberal Neos have been engaged in negotiations to finalize an agreement that would bring an end to the longest government formation process in the country’s post-war history.
Far-Right FPO Wins Election but Remains Sidelined
In the September elections, the far-right Freedom Party (FPO), led by Herbert Kickl, won the most votes, securing 29%. However, it fell short of a majority and has been unable to find coalition partners, preventing it from forming a government. Initially, negotiations between the OVP, SPO, and Neos stalled in January, allowing Kickl to attempt talks with the ÖVP, but those efforts also failed.
Historic Three-Party Government in the Making
If the current negotiations succeed, Austria will have its first three-party coalition government since 1949. ÖVP leader Christian Stocker is expected to become chancellor, having taken over leadership after Karl Nehammer stepped down. The coalition aims to provide a stable governing majority and prevent the FPÖ from gaining power.
FPO Demands New Elections
With coalition talks moving forward, the FPÖ has renewed calls for snap elections, dismissing the prospective government as a “coalition of losers.” Despite winning the most votes, the party’s anti-EU and pro-Russia stance has made it an unattractive partner for mainstream parties.
Economic and Geopolitical Challenges
Austria has been grappling with two years of negative economic growth, adding urgency to the formation of a stable government. President Alexander Van der Bellen has urged party leaders to finalize an agreement, warning of shifting geopolitical dynamics, including tensions between Europe and the U.S.
Final Negotiations Underway
Party leaders have expressed confidence in reaching a final agreement soon. The discussions are in advanced stages, with Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg already announcing he will not be part of the next government. While challenges remain, the coalition aims to stabilize Austria’s economy and counter the rising influence of the far right.
“Austria’s Centrist Parties in Coalition Agreement, Excluding Far-Right FPO” “Austria’s Centrist Parties in Coalition Agreement, Excluding Far-Right FPO” “Austria’s Centrist Parties in Coalition Agreement, Excluding Far-Right FPO”