Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer resigned after failed negotiations to form a new government with the Social Democrats (SPÖ). The breakdown occurred over key policy disagreements, making a coalition impossible.
Failed Coalition Talks
The liberal Neos party withdrew from talks on Friday, leaving Nehammer’s Austrian People’s Party (ÖVP) and the SPÖ to continue discussions. However, the negotiations ultimately fell apart. Nehammer stated to Austrian broadcaster ORF, “We have tried everything, but an agreement on key points is not possible.” He added that forming a government without a solid foundation “makes no sense for Austria’s future.”
Beate Meinl-Reisinger, leader of Neos, expressed frustration, saying, “We couldn’t agree on fundamental reforms.” She informed other party leaders that Neos members would no longer participate in the talks.
Path to New Elections
The coalition talks were further complicated by the refusal of other parties to collaborate with the right-wing Freedom Party (FPÖ), despite the party’s strong performance in national elections. The FPÖ secured 29.2% of the vote, leaving the ÖVP and SPÖ without a clear path to form a majority in parliament without smaller parties.
Now that the talks have collapsed, Austria is expected to head into new elections. The FPÖ, which has gained support, welcomes the possibility of fresh elections. According to a recent poll by Der Standard, FPÖ’s voter support has risen to 35%, making them a strong contender in the upcoming elections.
Impact on Austria’s Political Landscape
Nehammer’s resignation marks a significant shift in Austrian politics. The upcoming elections could reshape the country’s political landscape. The FPÖ’s rising popularity could disrupt the current balance of power.