The rise of the far-right in Austria marks significant signs of transformation in the country’s political balance. In recent years, social polarization, anti-immigrant sentiment, and the growing influence of populist movements across Europe have had a pronounced impact on Austria’s domestic politics. This situation has sparked debates not only at the national level but also in Austria’s relations with the European Union (EU). The far-right’s growing power in the political arena raises serious questions regarding democratic values and the principles of the rule of law, while emerging as a key factor shaping Austria’s future political roadmap.
The rise of the Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ) is seen as a harbinger of a significant shift in the country’s political balance. Winning 28.8% of the vote in the 2024 elections and becoming the leading party, the FPÖ has drawn attention with its anti-immigrant stance, opposition to economic sanctions, and EU skepticism.[1] The party’s leader, Herbert Kickl, has sparked intense debate both nationally and internationally with his rhetoric and policies. Kickl has faced criticism for his remarks advocating the “repatriation of unwanted foreigners” and strengthening Austria’s “fortify his castle.”[2]
The party’s history has been open to criticism due to its founding in 1956 by former Nazi members. Despite efforts to distance itself from this past, some expressions used under Kickl’s leadership have evoked Nazi-era connotations, increasing concerns. For instance, the term “Volkskanzler” (people’s chancellor) bears similarities to Nazi-era rhetoric and has drawn criticism from Austria’s Jewish community. This situation has reignited debates questioning the FPÖ’s impact on democratic values and the rule of law.
The FPÖ’s success has been fueled by public anxiety over rising economic hardships and distrust towards immigrants. The pressures of inflation and strong messages focused on identity politics have led voters to gravitate towards the party. During this period, the party advocated against Brussels’ policies, arguing for Austria to regain its decision-making power, further deepening divisions within the EU. Kickl’s stance, with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán as a model, has raised concerns across Europe regarding democracy and the rule of law.[3] Under Kickl’s leadership, Austria’s more distanced stance towards the EU could be considered a challenge to the bloc’s principles of solidarity and unity.
With the rise of the far-right across Europe, Austria’s position at the center of this trend emerges as a notable development on both regional and global levels. The FPÖ’s policies, described by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán as a “historic victory,” also reveal the international ramifications of this trend. This process could mark a critical turning point not only for Austria but also for the EU’s future. A government led by the Freedom Party has the potential to create profound impacts on democratic values and Europe’s political cohesion. How Austria navigates this new era will be a matter of close observation for all of Europe.
Before granting Kickl authority, President Alexander Van der Bellen emphasized the potential risks by stating, “I will ensure that adherence to our Constitution’s principles and rules is carefully maintained.” Kickl’s leadership is known for controversial policies such as stricter border controls and the repatriation of unwanted foreigners under the goal of a “homogeneous nation.” Firstly, the party’s election programs, “Fortress Austria” and “Austria First,” explicitly reflect these views.[4] Kickl has also drawn attention with his criticism of the EU and his use of terms like “elites.” Additionally, the party’s desire to withdraw from the “European Sky Shield Initiative” and its aim to lift sanctions against Russia reflect a stance at odds with the Western alliance.
Furthermore, President Van der Bellen has highlighted Austria’s economic struggles, including “persistent stagnation and rising unemployment,” noting the necessity of taking unpopular but necessary steps. Geopolitically, particularly in the context of Russia’s war on Ukraine, he has underscored the importance of “constructively strengthening European cooperation.”[5]
Although coalition negotiations are unlikely to yield definitive results, the lack of other options in the current parliament suggests that new elections, which could further strengthen the FPÖ, might be held. However, Kickl’s policies and leadership continue to provoke intense debate both domestically and internationally. During protests, a demonstrator summarized concerns about preserving democratic values by saying, “We don’t want to wake up in a fascist country in Austria.” However, the current situation, as noted by German Green Party Co-Chair Robert Habeck—who remarked, “If centrist parties prolong disagreements, it only benefits the radicals”—highlights the fragility of centrist politics in Europe.[6]
By appointing the FPÖ for coalition talks, Van der Bellen has taken a significant step towards leading the country under far-right governance. The President emphasized that “I will continue to ensure the protection of constitutional principles and rules” and stressed the careful monitoring of this process. Following the FPÖ’s narrow victory in the September elections, Kickl is preparing to negotiate with the conservative Austrian People’s Party (ÖVP). The inability of centrist parties to reach a compromise during coalition-building efforts has paved the way for the FPÖ. ÖVP leader Karl Nehammer, who had previously declared, “I will not be a junior partner in a government headed by Kickl,” resigned, and General Secretary Christian Stocker was appointed as interim leader.[7] Stocker expressed openness to negotiations with the FPÖ. This development occurs during a period when the far-right is gaining power not only in Austria but also in countries such as Italy, Hungary, and Slovakia. FPÖ leader Kickl criticized delays in the process, stating, “The loss of time and the erosion of trust in the political class are deeply regrettable.”[i]
In summary, the rise of the far-right in Austria signifies a critical period not only for the country’s domestic politics but also for its relations with the EU. A potential government under FPÖ leadership could bring significant changes to Austria’s political future. The FPÖ’s anti-immigrant and EU-skeptic policies under Herbert Kickl’s leadership are seen as a reflection of the populist wave sweeping across Europe. However, this situation raises deep debates regarding fundamental principles such as democratic values and the rule of law.
Austria’s new political process must be closely followed, not only at the national level but also in terms of its impact on Europe’s political balance and unity. During this period of rising far-right power, the extent to which Austria can uphold its commitment to democracy and European cooperation will have significant consequences on both a regional and global scale. The decisions Austria makes have the potential to shape not only the country’s political and social structure but also Europe’s future. In this process, a responsible and conciliatory approach by political actors is of vital importance to prevent further social polarization.
[1] Philipp Jenne & Jamey Keaten, “A far-right leader could soon take the helm in EU member country Austria. Here’s why it matters”, AP News, https://apnews.com/article/austria-nehammer-kickl-chancellor-european-union-d5de1b28909f9e469d8151a057dbb4ed, (Date Accessed: 07.01.2024).
[2] Ibid
[3] Philipp Jenne & Geir Moulson, “Austrian far right gets mandate to try to lead a government for the first time since World War II”, AP News, https://apnews.com/article/austria-new-government-freedom-far-right-kickl-99beae619f784e24bc1ebf382d2b9e0c, (Date Accessed: 07.01.2024).
[4] Deborah Cole, “Austria’s far-right Freedom party tasked with forming coalition government”, The Guardian, https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/jan/06/austria-far-right-freedom-party-fpo-tasked-with-forming-coalition-government, (Date Accessed: 07.01.2025).
[5] Ibid.
[6] Ibid.
[7] Bethany Bell, “Austrian far-right party tasked with forming coalition”, BBC, https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/clykjz8kk9xo, (Date Accessed: 07.01.2025).
[i] Ibid.
