Coalition negotiations in Austria among the ÖVP, SPÖ, and NEOS have collapsed, with NEOS officially withdrawing. This development raises the possibility of new elections, potentially benefiting the right-wing FPÖ, which secured 28.85% of the vote in September. Chancellor Karl Nehammer criticized the SPÖ for the failure, while the FPÖ seized the moment to assert its position. The future is uncertain, as the ÖVP and SPÖ hold a slim majority, but new elections seem increasingly likely, possibly enhancing FPÖ support.
Coalition Talks in Austria Come to a Halt
In Austria, the discussions aimed at forming a coalition among the ÖVP, SPÖ, and NEOS have unfortunately collapsed. The liberal party NEOS has officially declared its withdrawal from the negotiations. This turn of events could pave the way for new elections, which may significantly benefit the right-wing FPÖ.
The journey to establish a three-party coalition in Austria has hit a dead end. NEOS, led by party chief Beate Meinl-Reisinger, has communicated to both the ÖVP and SPÖ party leaders, as well as the Federal President, that they will not be continuing negotiations for a potential coalition government. Meinl-Reisinger expressed that recent days revealed a lack of commitment to essential reforms, noting, “Instead of a large common vision for the country, there was rather a mindset focused only on the next election date.”
FPÖ Emerges as the Dominant Force
Despite the ÖVP and SPÖ holding a slim majority in parliament without NEOS—by just one vote—the coalition talks aimed to prevent the right-wing FPÖ from gaining power after they emerged as the clear election victor in September, securing 28.85% of the votes. The ÖVP garnered 26.3%, while the SPÖ followed with 21.1%. However, with no willingness to collaborate with the FPÖ and its controversial leader Herbert Kickl, the focus shifted to forming a so-called “candy coalition,” a term reflecting the parties’ colors: turquoise for the ÖVP, red for the SPÖ, and pink for NEOS.
A central issue in the negotiations revolved around the formulation of a new budget, as Austria grapples with economic challenges and must adhere to EU financial stability criteria. The new government would need to balance austerity measures with economic stimulus, a task deemed crucial.
Chancellor Karl Nehammer has expressed a desire to continue discussions with NEOS alongside SPÖ, but the ÖVP has placed the blame for the failed negotiations primarily on the SPÖ. ÖVP Secretary General Christian Stocker criticized the SPÖ’s recent actions, stating that the situation has been exacerbated by regressive elements within the party.
Meanwhile, the FPÖ has taken this opportunity to reaffirm its stance, claiming that the failed coalition talks validate their warnings against the proposed alliance. FPÖ Secretary General Michael Schnedlitz criticized Chancellor Nehammer, asserting that the Chancellor is primarily concerned with his position rather than effective governance, leading to calls for his resignation.
The future remains uncertain. The ÖVP and SPÖ can cling to their narrow majority of one vote, or Austria may face new elections, which seem increasingly probable. Should elections occur, the FPÖ is likely to anticipate substantial electoral gains, with recent polls indicating a potential increase in support, possibly reaching up to 40%.