Austria’s Coalition Talks Collapse: Potential Paths Forward
Failed Negotiations and Kickl’s Resignation
Negotiations between the far-right Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ) and the conservative Austrian People’s Party (ÖVP) have fallen apart. FPÖ leader Herbert Kickl informed President Alexander Van der Bellen of the failed talks and relinquished his mandate to form a government. Had an agreement been reached, Kickl would have become the first far-right politician to assume the role of Austrian Chancellor.
Post-Failure Options
With the collapse of coalition talks, several options are on the table. The Social Democratic Party (SPÖ) and the liberal Neos party advocate for a second attempt at forming a coalition with the ÖVP, after negotiations between these center-left parties failed in January.
Alternatively, President Van der Bellen could appoint an expert or transitional government.
Impasse over Ministries and Ideological Differences
The breakdown in talks between the FPÖ and ÖVP was preceded by arduous negotiations. A major sticking point was the distribution of ministerial positions. Both parties sought to control the Interior Ministry. The ÖVP eventually proposed separating migration and asylum into a separate ministry led by the FPÖ. However, this solution was rejected by the FPÖ under Kickl’s leadership.
Kickl accused the conservatives of refusing to engage in policy discussions until ministerial responsibilities were finalized. The ÖVP, on the other hand, criticized the FPÖ for failing to respond to its request for a commitment to the European Union and against foreign interference.
Throughout the approximately four-week negotiations, the starkly contrasting worldviews of the two parties became evident. While the ÖVP emphasized close international cooperation, the FPÖ had consistently promoted its "Fortress Austria" slogan. The atmosphere between the FPÖ and ÖVP grew increasingly tense as talks progressed.
Potential Electoral Outcomes
The FPÖ has little to fear from new elections. Following its victory in the 2024 general election with around 29% of the vote, polls suggest that it could now secure 34%. According to pollsters, the ÖVP and SPÖ would each receive approximately 20%, the Neos 10%, and the Greens 8% of the total vote.
Until a new government is formed, the current ÖVP and Greens ministers will remain in office.
