The article was last updated at 8:35 p.m.
The course has been set for the first three-party coalition in the federal government. After their fourth joint exploratory round, VP chairman Karl Nehammer and SP boss Andreas Babler invited NEOS on Tuesday to take a seat at the discussion table as the third partner from Wednesday. If appropriate progress is achieved, formal government negotiations should begin next week, the Chancellor announced.
“Alliance of the political center”
The ÖVP and SPÖ sat together for around five hours before their bosses appeared together in front of the press for the first time. Nehammer emphasized that he wanted to create “the broadest possible alliance of the political center.” For Babler, the goal of the talks is a “government of constructive forces.”
Video: Nehammer’s statement in full length
The two justified the decision to bring in a third partner, NEOS, with the wafer-thin majority of just one mandate that the People’s Party and the Social Democrats have. From the party leaders’ point of view, the inclusion of a third partner does not have to be harmful. Many different perspectives made it possible to find the best solutions for everyone, said Babler.
The challenges ahead should be met by an alliance that represents the majority of people, emphasized Nehammer: “It should be an alliance of reason, an alliance of the political center, an alliance close to the people and against radicalism and division of people.” With the three-way variant he wanted to try new things in the interests of people.
Everyone involved is aware that things won’t be easy between the SPÖ and ÖVP: “I have always emphasized that it will not be an easy road but a longer and rocky road for both of us,” emphasized the VP boss. Babler said it’s no secret that there are major differences between the parties. But the common goal is to create a positive image of the republic.
Fast pace and seriousness
Both negotiating partners also once again mentioned the issues that are central to them, Babler, for example, the fight against inflation, Nehammer a “rigid” migration policy. The focus was always on location policy but also on securing and improving the health system. Nehammer left it open whether an agreement would ultimately be reached. In any case, he wants to look at a “high pace”, but also at “seriousness”.
On behalf of the Neos, party leader Beate Meinl-Reisinger explained in the short message service X: “We are ready. Now renew Austria together! Gemma’s on!”
As the explorations expand, new heads will also be seen, namely those from the Neos team. In addition to Meinl-Reisinger, her deputies Claudia Gamon and Christoph Wiederkehr, general secretary Douglas Hoyos, club vice-president Nikolaus Scherak and club director Armin Hübner are represented.
Greens finally out of the race
The Greens appear to be finally out of the race. Nehammer emphasized: “The Greens are no longer an option for forming a new government.” The former coalition partner reacted in a decidedly constructive manner. “In the interest of the Republic and its people, may the negotiations proceed constructively and quickly in these uncertain times. I sincerely hope that Karl Nehammer, Andi Babler and Beate Meinl-Reisinger succeed,” wrote Green Party leader Werner Kogler on X. The Greens would “accept the role of constructive opposition with a sense of responsibility,” he promised.
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**Interview with Political Analyst Dr. Maria Schmidt on the Formation of Austria’s New Coalition Government**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us, Dr. Schmidt. A significant political development is underway in Austria, with the ÖVP and SPÖ inviting NEOS to form a three-party coalition government. What do you think prompted this move?
**Dr. Schmidt:** Thank you for having me. The primary motivation appears to be the wafer-thin majority that the ÖVP and SPÖ hold together. By including NEOS, they not only strengthen their position but also aim to bring more diverse perspectives into the discussions. This can foster better solutions and help stabilize governance, especially in times of uncertainty.
**Editor:** Chancellor Nehammer has referred to this coalition as an “alliance of the political center.” How do you interpret this emphasis on centrism?
**Dr. Schmidt:** The focus on a centrist alliance indicates a strategic approach to attract a broader voter base while distancing themselves from extremes. It’s a response to growing polarization in politics, aiming for consensus and rationality. Both Nehammer and Babler understand that collaboration will be key to addressing pressing issues like inflation and migration.
**Editor:** There seems to be an acknowledgment of the challenges ahead, particularly those arising from inherent differences between the parties. How significant are these challenges?
**Dr. Schmidt:** They are considerable. The ideological disparities between the ÖVP, SPÖ, and NEOS can lead to friction, especially regarding policy priorities. However, the mutual understanding of the need to create a positive image of the republic might help bridge these gaps. It’s a delicate balancing act, and while there’s optimism, it’s crucial to recognize that navigating these differences won’t be straightforward.
**Editor:** With the Greens officially out of the coalition talks, how might their absence affect the political landscape?
**Dr. Schmidt:** The Greens’ exit marks a shift in the balance of power and policy focus. While their constructive opposition could provide support for centrist policies, it also removes a progressive voice from the government. This could influence climate policy and social issues, as the new coalition may not prioritize them as heavily as the former coalition did.
**Editor:** what are the next steps for this new coalition? What should we watch for in the upcoming negotiations?
**Dr. Schmidt:** The immediate focus will be on formal negotiations starting next week. We should watch for key issues that emerge, such as economic strategies and immigration policies, as well as how effectively they communicate their unity to the public. A rapid pace paired with seriousness, as emphasized by Nehammer, will be crucial. Successful negotiations will depend on managing internal dissent while presenting a coherent, working agenda to the electorate.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Schmidt, for your insights. This political situation is certainly one to watch in the coming weeks.
**Dr. Schmidt:** My pleasure. It’s a dynamic time in Austrian politics, and I look forward to seeing how things unfold.