Government formation bursts: Austria is in the political crisis!

Government formation bursts: Austria is in the political crisis!

Political turbulence in Austria reached a new highlight: On February 4, 2025, the government negotiations are facing a decay that marks the longest negotiations in the history of the second republic. There has been no agreement since the National Council election on September 29, and now there are already 129 days that have passed without clear government formation. The shadows of the failed coalitions are difficult on the political climate: First the negotiations between the ÖVP, SPÖ and the NEOs failed before the ÖVP broke off the talks with the SPÖ on January 4 and the attempt by a turquoise coalition was finally broken off, such as krone.at reported.

A look back at the failed negotiations

The negotiations started after the election when the FPÖ became the strongest party, but initially tried to form a coalition of three. It seemed as if the voices of SPÖ and NEOS could form a more stable government. But the opposite occurred. On January 3., the NEOS withdrew from the negotiations, which led politicians into a processed Situation. After another failed attempt by the ÖVP to find an agreement with the SPÖ, Chancellor Karl Nehammer also announced that he wanted to step down as party leader, which has created further uncertainty, as puls24.at .

The situation is a reflection of political instability and raises questions about the future cooperation between the parties. In view of the political blockade, the FPÖ will try again with the ÖVP to find a solution. But it remains to be seen whether this succeeds. An end to the negotiations is not in sight, while the pressure on those responsible increases to finally take responsibility and address the upcoming challenges.