Herbert Kickl, leader of the far-right Austrian Freedom Party (FPÖ), is facing challenges in forming a coalition government after winning nearly 29% of the vote in last week’s national election. The centre-left Social Democratic Party (SPÖ), Green Party, and liberal NEOS have all rejected collaborating with Kickl, while the former ruling Austrian People’s Party (OVP) said they would consider joining a coalition only if Kickl is excluded.
Kickl, known for endorsing controversial conspiracy theories and anti-immigration rhetoric, has a history of provocative statements. He served as interior minister in a previous government that collapsed due to a corruption scandal involving the FPÖ’s leader at the time. Even Chancellor Karl Nehammer considers Kickl a security risk and has ruled out working with him.
The FPÖ, founded in 1956 by former Nazis, is largely Eurosceptic and Kremlin-friendly, advocating for policies like the remigration of foreigners and lifting sanctions against Russia. Kickl has been critical of Western military aid to Ukraine and has labelled European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen as a warmonger.
In the face of these challenges, Kickl must navigate difficult coalition negotiations to form a government. With the OVP open to collaboration only under certain conditions, the future of Austrian politics remains uncertain as Kickl seeks support from other parties.
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