NEOS Exits Austrian Coalition Talks with ÖVP and SPÖ Over Pension Reforms, Collapsing Three-Party Government Plans

Jan 3, 2025, 10:05 AM

Austria's NEOS party has withdrawn from coalition negotiations with the ÖVP and SPÖ, effectively collapsing efforts to form a three-party government aimed at excluding the right-wing FPÖ from power. NEOS leader Beate Meinl-Reisinger announced the decision during a press conference at 10:30 AM on Friday, citing a lack of reform willingness from the other parties, particularly on pension reforms. The ÖVP blamed the SPÖ for the breakdown, while the FPÖ called for ÖVP leader and Chancellor Karl Nehammer's resignation. The collapse leaves Austria's political future uncertain, with potential scenarios including an ÖVP-SPÖ coalition with a slim majority, new elections, or a possible coalition involving the FPÖ.