Vienna facing a choice: Is the green future in jeopardy?

Vienna facing a choice: Is the green future in jeopardy?

Judith Pühringer and Peter Kraus, the non-executive city councilors of the Vienna Green Party, urgently warn about the possible consequences of an upcoming blue-black federal government consisting of the FPÖ and ÖVP. At a press conference in Vienna City Hall, they outlined an impending “climate protection cut” as well as cuts in social benefits, which could have serious consequences for many Viennese in the future. The Greens fear in particular that the climate ticket will come under pressure, which could result in an increase in the price of the Vienna annual ticket, as already mentioned https://www.presse.wien.gv.at was reported.

Kraus also warned of a possible stop in financing important subway expansion projects, which would endanger Vienna's transport infrastructure. The planned tram to Schwechat has already been buried by the FPÖ in Lower Austria, which strongly criticizes the actions of the Blue Party in the area of ​​public transport. In the social sector, an end to the automatic index adjustment for social benefits, which has so far ensured inflation compensation for 1.3 million people in Austria, is in sight. “Blue-black could leave the poorest people vulnerable to inflation,” emphasized Pühringer, also in the statement https://www.ots.at.

A fight for Vienna's future

The Vienna Greens intend to position themselves as a counterpoint to the impending threat to human rights and social justice under an FPÖ-ÖVP coalition. “We stand for easier access to affordable housing and the expansion of protection against violence for women,” said Pühringer. There are great fears that the upcoming government negotiations could lead to cuts in funding for women's shelters. A threat to press freedom is also considered serious after FPÖ leader Nepp has already indicated the end of independent media, which makes the defense of a strong ORF and an independent press all the more important.

“The coming election will decide whether we return to a better future or the past,” said Pühringer and Kraus. According to the Green assessment, time is running out for a clear positioning: “Anyone who does not speak out clearly for the Vienna of tomorrow is supporting a return to the political mistakes of days gone by.” This sets the stage for an exciting election campaign that could significantly change Vienna's political landscape.