Three-party coalition in focus: Stocker fights against illness and Kickl's criticism!

Three-party coalition in focus: Stocker fights against illness and Kickl's criticism!

The new one Three-way coalition from the ÖVP, SPÖ and Neos presented themselves in the National Council on Friday. Chancellor Christian Stocker made his first government statement, but had to leave the plenary hall after his speech due to health problems. Despite these health challenges, Stocker called for unity and a willingness to compromise. He emphasized the need to stick together in times of crisis and lead by example. As part of his statements, Stocker also held out the prospect of an immediate stop to family reunification, which has already been met with skepticism in the political arena.

In addition, the party leaders defended the coalition's positions, including the controversial issue of migration, in their first joint TV appearance on ORF. Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger emphasized that the requirements for integration should apply from day one, and Andreas Babler, who spoke of a compromise, emphasized the importance of cooperation. The coalition sees itself as a compromise, with each partner contributing its own priorities but also being prepared to make concessions. Babler emphasized this when he pointed out the failed negotiations with the FPÖ, which ultimately paved the way to the three-party coalition.

Criticism and resistance

A counterpoint was provided by FPÖ leader Herbert Kickl, who described the three-party coalition as a “trio infernale” and expressed strong criticism of the plans. In particular, he took aim at the government program, which, in his view, does not adequately address key issues such as strengthening the health system. Meanwhile, the coalition tried to position itself as stable and pro-European in the areas of the economy and budget policy, with green voices also pointing to the upcoming environmental protection measures. For the first time, the entire legislature has presented itself as a united force that, despite internal differences, wants to pursue a common course in order to overcome the current challenges The press reported.