The far-right Freedom Party (FPO) has made history by winning the general election in Austria, highlighting the growing support for hard-right parties in Europe due to concerns about immigration. Led by Herbert Kickl, the FPO secured 29.1% of the vote, surpassing the ruling conservative Austrian People’s Party and the centre-left Social Democrats. The potential victory of the FPO could shift Austria’s stance in the European Union.
If the FPO appoints the chancellor, it could align with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s views, impacting Austria’s EU relations. Despite a potential coalition government, the OVP ruled out partnering with the FPO due to ideological differences. The election outcome sparked jubilant reactions at FPO events, yet concerns remain about the party’s controversial past and radical positions on asylum seekers and immigration.
The FPO’s victory signals a wave of far-right support in the EU, sparking debates about democracy, media diversity, and extremism. President Alexander Van der Bellen’s reservations about the FPO’s stance on the EU and Russia further complicate the government formation process. As Austria navigates this political shift, the election outcome could have significant implications for the country’s future.
