Vienna is initiating a major change process with the upturn coalition”!

Vienna is initiating a major change process with the upturn coalition”!

On June 3, 2025, SPÖ Mayor Michael Ludwig and NEOS Vice Mayor Bettina Emmerling presented the new government program, called the “Upturn Coalition,” in the Armorial Hall of the Vienna City Hall. The extensive program consists of 191 pages and is intended as a response to the city's current challenges. It is intended to create a stable framework for city government after the April election.

The planned measures aim to strengthen Vienna as a business location and place a clear focus on digitalization, technology and active labor market policy. The most important projects include investments in artificial intelligence and the expansion of the Life Science Center. The coalition also plans to advertise Vienna as the venue for the Eurovision Song Contest 2026.

Climate protection and social measures

A central goal of the coalition is to achieve Vienna's climate neutrality by 2040. Extensive measures have already been defined for this purpose, including the expansion of photovoltaics, geothermal energy and the creation of 400,000 square meters of new parks and green spaces. The continued expansion of urban cycle paths, especially on the Ringstrasse, is also on the agenda.

The aim of developing a “Vienna Integration Code” is to establish clear rules and values ​​for living together in the city. This also provides for compulsory kindergarten attendance of 30 hours per week for children with increased language needs. In order to counteract the shortage of skilled workers in elementary education, easier lateral entry for skilled workers should be introduced, supplemented by the promotion of the German language in daycare centers.

Investments and necessary reforms

In view of the tense budget situation, savings measures in the form of structural reforms and the evaluation of funding are also planned. The coalition has agreed to consolidate the budget situation while continuing investments in key infrastructure projects. This includes setting up a competence center for cyber security and promoting artificial intelligence and machine learning.

Another big step is the planned reform of Vienna's minimum income, which is intended to particularly benefit families with children. The creation of outpatient health services and the improvement of regional health centers are also on the agenda. The modernization of the hospital infrastructure is also part of the program.

An outlook on the next steps

The SPÖ and NEOS have 53 out of 100 seats in the local council, which ensures their coalition has a strong position. The constituent meeting of the new committee will take place on June 10th. Before that, both the committees of the coalition parties and a vote by the NEOS members still have to take place next Saturday.

A government monitor will also be introduced to continuously monitor the implementation of the various projects. The SPÖ and NEOS are not only pursuing ambitious goals, but also a clear strategy to improve the quality of life in Vienna.

Overall, the program shows that the “upturn coalition” is ready to take courageous steps to lead Vienna into a successful and livable future.

For more information, read the full reports OTS, Vienna.at and The press.