Austria’s fragile coalition negotiations faced a major setback as the liberal Neos party abruptly withdrew from talks, jeopardizing the formation of a centrist government excluding the far-right Freedom Party (FPO). The Neos’ decision has increased uncertainty, potentially boosting the FPO, which remains Europe’s growing far-right influence.
Political pressure mounts on Chancellor Karl Nehammer’s People’s Party (OVP) and the Social Democrats (SPO) to bridge their ideological divide, particularly on taxation policies, as their slim majority in parliament remains vulnerable. Despite the Neos’ departure, the coalition talks persist with rising stakes for Austria’s political landscape.
The deadlock highlights Europe’s broader political challenge involving the rise of far-right parties and the difficulty in forming stable governments. A new election, however, could further strengthen the FPO, as current polls show the party leading with more than a 10-percentage point advantage over both OVP and SPO.
(With inputs from agencies.)