Austria’s Far-Right Party Receives Mandate to Form New Government
The leader of Austria’s Freedom Party, Herbert Kickl, has received a mandate from President Alexander Van der Bellen to form a new government. This would be the first government headed by the far-right party since World War II if successful.
Background
The Freedom Party won Austria’s parliamentary election in September, taking 28.8 per cent of the vote and beating the outgoing Chancellor Karl Nehammer’s conservative Austrian People’s Party into second place. However, in October, President Van der Bellen gave Nehammer the first chance to form a new government, which ultimately collapsed in the first few days of the new year.
Current Situation
The People’s Party has since signaled that it might be open to working under Kickl. Van der Bellen met with Kickl for about an hour at the presidential palace on Monday and tasked him with holding talks with the People’s Party to form a new government.
Challenges Ahead
The new government will face several challenges, including a difficult economic environment, rising unemployment, and the need to restructure the state budget. Van der Bellen noted that the government will have to implement unpopular measures, but they will be necessary to address the country’s economic issues.
Geopolitical Threats
The president also highlighted the geopolitical threats Austria faces, particularly as a result of Russia’s war in Ukraine. He emphasized the importance of constructively strengthening European cooperation in the Union, including in the interest of Austrian industry and exporters.
Media Freedom
Kickl and Van der Bellen discussed media freedom in Austria at length, with the president emphasizing the importance of respecting the principles and rules of the constitution.
Conclusion
The formation of a new government in Austria is a significant development, and the challenges ahead will be significant. However, with a mandate from the president, Kickl is confident of finding viable solutions in coalition talks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the main challenges facing the new government?
A: The government will face a difficult economic environment, rising unemployment, and the need to restructure the state budget.
Q: What is the Freedom Party’s stance on media freedom?
A: The party has been critical of Western media and has called for greater control over the media in Austria.
Q: How does the president view the situation?
A: Van der Bellen has emphasized the importance of respecting the principles and rules of the constitution and has tasked Kickl with finding viable solutions in coalition talks.
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