Austria is running into the dark and darker woods
FEPS Europe
The Foundation for European Progressive Studies (FEPS) is the think tank of the progressive political family at EU level
The results of the parliamentary elections in Austria on 29 September 2024 are a reason for many serious concerns. First, FP? (the Freedom Party), which in the contemporary political language is described as far right, noted a victory coming first and obtaining 29 per cent of the votes. This is almost double what Herbert Kickl's party could count on in 2019. It will give them 57 from the 183 seats in the National Council. This is the first time since the Nazi-era that a party of such a profile can claim the largest amount of votes.
Secondly, while FP? clearly benefitted from anger and disapproval for last year's governmental policies, the governing ?VP (the Austrian People's Party) and Greens noted a sharp decline – receiving 26.3 per cent (and 51 seats) and 8.2 per cent (16 seats) respectively. Amid these trends, SP? (the Social Democratic Party of Austria) did not appear to be an alternative force that could solve the main issues debated in the campaign (inflation, health and care, migration, preserving democracy, ensuring peace and security). They ended with 21.1 per cent, which was the party's worst result in a century – even if, compared with the scores by the sister parties across the EU, it still is a solid outcome. Paradoxically, the party won an MP more than in the previous election and can now count on 41 seats. The groups in the new parliament also includes the liberal NEOS, which gained 9.1 per cent and has 18 seats.
Analysing their post-electoral positions, the respective parties made clear declarations about who they would not enter into a governing coalition with – while creating one is a must in the current constellation. It seems that the challenging process of building a new majority will be about establishing a new cabinet and reaffirming red lines when it comes to preserving democracy, the rule of law and Austria's position in the EU.
The general elections in Austria last Sunday are an additional puzzle stone of the bigger Trend of right-wing extremism getting strong in Europe and globally. Interest in this election in Europe was huge, as Austria’s national politics has been very volatile in the last few years. Governments failed, Prime Ministers changed quickly, and former politicians faced corruption investigations.
The Austrian election results show that how citizens have grown tired and weary of what they believe is a petrified political system. The far right took advantage by reframing the ideal version of how democracy should work – this is both bad news for progressives and indicates where a future strategy could begin.
领英推荐
By Eva Zeglovits and Martin Oppenauer
Austria’s 2024 federal election delivered a historic result for the FP?, driven by voter frustration with inflation, migration and the government’s handling of numerous issues. The far-right FP? capitalised on widespread dissatisfaction.
Next Left Country Case Studies
By Armin Puller, Philippe Marlière, Ruxandra Ivan and Rob Manwaring
The?publication series ‘Next Left Country Case Studies'?is an outcome of the work within the Next Left Research Programme by FEPS and?Karl-Renner-Institut.
The series explores the state of?Social Democracy in France, Austria, Romania, the Netherlands and Australia, by looking at their political history, policies and prospects. It then shares the best practices for the Social Democratic movement to move forward on a global scale.?
In 'Returning to power: The development of Austrian social democracy', Armin Puller examines the history of the Social Democratic Party of Austria (SP?), focusing on its response to electoral backlash and its role in reshaping political antagonisms. The booklet also explores key issues in contemporary Austrian politics.
Other countries' case studies will be available soon (Italy, Ireland, Lithuania, Finland, Canada...)!
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