The Austrian government presented a positive review of its first months in office on Monday, despite only being four months into its term. Chancellor Christian Stocker (ÖVP) noted that although the calendar year is at its midpoint, the current government has only been active since February. He and Vice Chancellor Andreas Babler (SPÖ) highlighted key accomplishments, such as the adopted double budget and the launch of a reform partnership with states and municipalities.
Stocker emphasized the government’s cooperative tone: “We’ve shown that we can and want to work together.” He focused on the budget and the likely EU deficit procedure, which he said Austria would now address professionally. Talks on reform partnerships will continue over the summer.
Polls Down, Confidence Up
Despite current poor polling numbers, Stocker appeared unfazed. “Elections aren’t until 2029,” he said, adding that the FPÖ is merely serving as a “collection point for discontent” rather than offering real solutions. The government’s goal, he said, is to align polling success with election time.
Vice Chancellor Babler listed policy wins for the SPÖ, including what he called “the strictest weapons law reform ever,” introduced in response to recent tragedies like the school shooting in Graz. He also mentioned expansions to prevention programs, a higher bank levy, rent price interventions, and the introduction of partial pensions.
NEOS and Greens Offer Contrasting Views
Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger (NEOS) praised the government’s shared values, especially on Europe and Ukraine. She highlighted sustainability measures in pensions, 4,000 new early childhood education training spots, and increased school psychological services. However, she added that much work remains, preferring to call the update a “résumé” rather than a final “balance sheet.”
In contrast, the Greens were sharply critical. Party chair Leonore Gewessler accused the coalition of regression rather than progress, stating the government was engaging in “a politics of missed opportunities and deliberate backsliding.” She criticized a lack of ambition and responsibility.
