Austrian Far-Right’s Coalition Bid Collapses
Following four months of post-election negotiations, Austrian far-right leader Herbert Kickl’s attempt to form a coalition government with the conservative Austrian People’s Party failed. The collapse stemmed from irreconcilable differences, particularly concerning control of the Interior Ministry and differing stances on EU policy and relations with Russia. Kickl, whose Freedom Party won the September election, blamed the People’s Party for the breakdown, citing disagreements over policy and ministerial portfolios. President Van der Bellen now faces several options, including new elections, a minority government, or renewed coalition talks, amidst a worsening economic climate.
John Q. Hosedrinker