Austria’s new three-party coalition government was sworn in on Monday, marking the end of the country’s longest-ever political deadlock. This historic alliance, the first of its kind since World War Two, keeps the far-right, Russia-friendly Freedom Party (FPO) out of power despite its electoral victory.
Although the FPO secured around 29% of the vote in September’s parliamentary election, it was unable to form a viable coalition, paving the way for a centrist alternative. After the FPO’s attempt failed, the conservative People’s Party (OVP), the Social Democrats (SPO), and the liberal Neos successfully negotiated a power-sharing agreement.
During the swearing-in ceremony, President Alexander Van der Bellen emphasized the importance of cooperation, acknowledging concerns about the stability of a three-party government. Previous two-party coalitions had collapsed in 2017 and 2019, raising doubts about whether this new alliance can endure.
Had the centrist coalition talks failed, Austria would have faced the prospect of a snap election, which polls indicated could have further strengthened the FPO’s position.
