Austria is on the cusp of a significant political shift as the far-right Freedom Party (FPÖ), led by Herbert Kickl, has been tasked with forming a new government. This development follows the collapse of coalition talks among other parties, which has paved the way for the FPÖ, who emerged victorious in recent parliamentary elections, securing the most seats.
President Alexander Van der Bellen, despite his reservations about the FPÖ's extremist views and pro-Kremlin stance, has asked Kickl to form a government. The conservative Austrian People's Party (ÖVP) has shown openness to coalition talks with the FPÖ, reversing its earlier stance against such an alliance. This move could see Kickl, a controversial figure known for his anti-immigrant rhetoric and skepticism towards the EU, becoming Austria's next chancellor.
The FPÖ's rise has been fueled by economic concerns and migration challenges, resonating with a significant portion of the electorate. Kickl's political strategy includes tightening border controls and advocating for policies reminiscent of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. These proposals have sparked protests and concerns about Austria's democratic and international commitments, especially regarding EU sanctions and relations with Russia.
The potential coalition between the FPÖ and the ÖVP marks a return to a partnership that has existed intermittently since the early 2000s. However, significant differences remain, particularly in foreign and security policy. Should these talks fail, Austria may face snap elections, with the FPÖ likely to gain further support. As Austria navigates this political landscape, the implications for its domestic and international policies remain uncertain.
