There is growing uncertainty over the future of coalition negotiations between the far-right Freedom Party (FPÖ) and the People’s Party (ÖVP), with talks reportedly coming to a standstill.
ÖVP interim chairman Christian Stocker is due to meet with President Alexander Van der Bellen later today, while FPÖ leader Herbert Kickl – who is hoping to become Austria’s first modern-era far-right chancellor – is scheduled to follow on Thursday. As of yet, the Hofburg has not confirmed the meetings.
This development comes a day after a massive protest in central Vienna against the proposed coalition.
Disputes Over Ministry Allocation
In a press release on Tuesday, the ÖVP admitted that the talks were in a “difficult phase.” A major point of contention has emerged over the allocation of key ministries, with the FPÖ staking its claim to the Interior Ministry, which covers security and asylum matters, as well as the Finance Ministry.
Additionally, the FPÖ is seeking responsibility for media and cultural affairs. However, sources within the ÖVP have expressed frustration, with one remarking, “This does not work for the ÖVP.”
Both parties, however, denied reports that the negotiations had been called off, and discussions continued on Wednesday, focusing on social issues and agriculture.
Ministerial Posts Are Not the Only Issue
The allocation of ministerial positions is not the only obstacle in the talks. Sources have suggested to the Austria Press Agency that key issues such as foreign policy, media and taxation have been flagged as “red.”
There has also been no progress on the FPÖ’s demand for a banking levy, while the ÖVP’s business wing is reportedly opposed to a financial contribution from the chambers towards budgetary consolidation. Other points of contention include the FPÖ’s call to abolish the ORF fee, which funds the country’s public broadcaster, the Sky Shield missile defence system and a unified stance on European policy.
A particularly contentious issue concerns Austria’s approach to tackling antisemitism. Reports suggest that Wolfgang Sobotka (ÖVP), the former president of the National Council, the lower house of parliament, is adamant about the Holocaust Centre requested by the Jewish Community of Vienna (IKG).
FPÖ Sticks to Its Claims
In a Facebook post on Wednesday, Kickl reaffirmed the FPÖ’s stance, stressing that the party’s focus was not on “posts and power” but on addressing Austria’s pressing issues, particularly inflation. “The Austrians want a proper and honest budget rather than a mountain of debt,” Kickl said, adding, “We need an honest migration and security policy that finally makes it clear that Austria is in control of its own affairs.”
What Can Happen Next?
It remains to be seen what the outcome of the party leaders’ meetings with Van der Bellen will be. Should coalition discussions break down, Van der Bellen may call for new elections.
