Government formation in Austria: Chaos after the triple coalition!

Government formation in Austria: Chaos after the triple coalition!

It is a political earthquake in Austria: Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen has spoke out with clear words after the surprising from the coalition negotiations between the ÖVP, SPÖ and NEOS. He demands a rapid solution in the sense of the Austrians, since these discussions have no future, as krone.at . The political standstill, triggered on January 3, 2025, after 96 days full of negotiations, forces the parties to act quickly. Previous months were preceded by a National Council election that took place on September 29, followed by intensive but unsuccessful negotiations.

Neos boss Beate Meinl-Reisinger explained the end of the discussions in a hastily convened press conference and referred to the lack of reform will within the negotiating partners. The developments are particularly explosive, since the negotiations were considered difficult and no sustainable majority was found, as orf.at explained. While Mr. Nehammer from the ÖVP asked the “constructive forces of the middle” for support, the parties must now reflect on new options. Against the background that the SPÖ and ÖVP could basically have a majority, the future of the government remains uncertain. Political scientist Peter Filzmaier describes the situation as shaky because the parties run the risk of becoming unstable through internal conflicts.

political uncertainty and possible new elections

An interplay of coalition variants is in the room: a coalition of two between the FPÖ and the ÖVP or SPÖ could be an option, but these scenarios are full of uncertainties. The FPÖ, under Herbert Kickl, calls for a re -evaluation of the political landscape, while Nehammer categorically excludes cooperation with the FPÖ. The complexity of the situation is reinforced by the uncertain outcome of the negotiations; The possibility of new elections is becoming more and more realistic. This could bring both the FPÖ and the Nehammer in an unfavorable location, unless stable majorities are found.
The terrifying conclusion of the last round of negotiations: Farewell to progress, while looking for a government -capable government of national and economic challenges remain.