Austria in crisis: What options does Van der Bellen have now?

Austria in crisis: What options does Van der Bellen have now?

The political negotiations in Austria are facing a decisive turning point, as FPÖ leader Herbert Kickl withdrew from the task of forming a government today and blames the ÖVP for the failure. The FPÖ's statement said that the negotiations with the ÖVP were "ultimately unsuccessful, to our regret." ÖVP leader Christian Stocker, on the other hand, emphasizes that his party has “placed Austria’s security interests above party tactics.” This gave rise to increasingly loud voices calling for new elections. Secretary General Christian Hafenecker explained: “This is the only honest solution,” like that The press reported.

Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen now faces the challenge of overcoming this political crisis. After the failed second attempt to form a new federal government, he is left with only a handful of options. Cosmo highlights that Van der Bellen theoretically has the option of installing a minority government, appointing an expert government, holding new elections or continuing coalition talks. It is important that the new government either has a majority in the National Council or is at least not threatened by a vote of no confidence.

In the eyes of constitutional lawyer Heinz Mayer, the need for a stable government is crucial, because without this the budget gap and other urgent issues cannot be adequately solved. One possible path would be a concentration government made up of ÖVP, SPÖ, NEOS and the Greens, which could be formed quickly if a consensus is found. However, van der Bellen has not yet revealed any specific preferences, but leaves the door open for further discussions while urging politicians to focus on the well-being of the state.