Austria’s Far-Right FPÖ Celebrates Historic Victory in Election

Austria’s far-right Freedom Party (FPÖ) made history by winning the country’s parliamentary election for the first time, garnering 29.2% of votes. Chancellor Nehammer’s ÖVP came in second with 26.48%. The FPÖ now holds the majority in the new Austrian parliament, with a turnout of 74.9%.

FPÖ Ready to Negotiate for Government

FPÖ leader Herbert Kickl expressed readiness to negotiate with other parties and even lead a government. Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen urged political parties to engage in talks to form a government.

Despite the victory, the FPÖ lacks the seats to govern alone and may require a coalition. Potential partners include the Social Democrats, the ÖVP, and the Neos party.

Key Issues and Controversies

Key issues in the election include immigration and the economy. The FPÖ’s platform, “Fortress Austria,” calls for tougher immigration policies and an end to asylum rights. The party faced controversy on the eve of the election for its leaders attending a funeral featuring a Nazi-associated song.

Under Herbert Kickl’s leadership, the FPÖ capitalized on voter concerns about COVID restrictions, migration, inflation, and the Ukraine conflict.

The FPÖ leader, while optimistic about the election outcome, did not rule out stepping down based on voter decision. Anti-FPÖ protesters gathered outside the party’s celebration venue.

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