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Austria's FPÖ Starts Coalition Talks With ÖVP Amid 25,000 Protesters and Rising to 35% Support

Jan 10, 2025, 10:48 AM

Austria is on the brink of a significant political shift as the far-right Freedom Party (FPÖ), led by Herbert Kickl, has initiated coalition talks with the Austrian People's Party (ÖVP). This follows the collapse of negotiations among centrist parties, which had aimed to block Kickl from power. The FPÖ, having secured 29.2% of the vote in the September national elections, is now in a position to potentially lead the government. The ÖVP, previously critical of Kickl, has agreed to engage in these talks, marking a notable change in stance. The prospect of a coalition between the FPÖ and ÖVP has sparked widespread protests across Austria, with approximately 25,000 people rallying against the far-right's rise. Critics, including international observers, express concerns over the FPÖ's policies, which include anti-immigration stances, Euroscepticism, and pro-Russia sentiments. The negotiations focus initially on budget consolidation, with both parties aiming to address Austria's economic challenges. Recent polls suggest that the FPÖ could increase its support to 35% if new elections were called.