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FPOE Freedom Party of Austria
Former FPÖ Politician Jenewein Becomes Press Spokesman for the German AfD
The AfD faction in the Thuringian state parliament has made a prominent and controversial personnel decision. Former Austrian FPÖ National Council member Hans-Jörg Jenewein is taking over the position of press spokesman for the faction.
October 23, 2025
Finance Minister Marterbauer optimistic: 2026 Budget Target of 4.2 Percent Deficit Remains in Place
Despite turbulence in local government, Austria is sticking to its budget target for 2026. At a press conference yesterday, Finance Minister Markus Marterbauer (SPÖ) expressed optimism that the overall government deficit would be 4.2 percent of gross domestic product (GDP), as agreed with the EU.
October 16, 2025
Alternative Right in Austria: Technology, Theology, and Political Strategy
In August of this year, tech billionaire Peter Thiel, who is also known for his proximity to the new right, caused confusion by visiting the University of Innsbruck unnoticed. At the same time, the FPÖ in Austria is moving closer to the U.S. right wing. The FPÖ has a long history and has undergone a transformation to become an international pioneer of the new right.
September 25, 2025
Focus on Babler's New York Trip: Restitution and Controversy over Costs
Vice-Chancellor and Minister of Culture Andreas Babler (SPÖ) has completed a mission in New York to restitute musical manuscripts by the Viennese composer Walter Benedikt (1896–1948). In a formal ceremony, the sheet music that Benedikt had to leave behind in 1938 when he fled from the Nazis was handed over to his legal successors.
September 24, 2025
Herbert Kickl Considers Russian Gas as a Solution to the Economic Crisis
Amidst an ongoing economic crisis and rising living costs, FPÖ party leader Herbert Kickl presented his proposed solutions at the latest “summer talks.” His argument centers on a radical change of course in energy policy and far-reaching savings in the national budget.
September 9, 2025
Prices in Vienna for Public Transport, Parking, and Local Taxes Are Going Up
The city of Vienna has announced far-reaching price increases for public transport, parking fees, and the city tax. These measures, which will come into effect on December 1, 2025, and January 1, 2026, respectively, are intended to help consolidate the city's budget.
September 2, 2025
Hungarian Foreign Minister Sharply Criticizes Austrian President Van der Bellen
There is currently diplomatic tension between Vienna and Budapest after Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen criticized political developments in a “neighboring country” at the European Forum Alpbach. Although the president did not explicitly mention Hungary, Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó responded with a sharp counterattack, accusing Van der Bellen of being involved in the failed formation of an FPÖ government in Austria.
August 31, 2025
Broad Criticism, Including from Austria, of New Tariffs Deal Between the U.S. and the EU
The trade deal between the United States and the European Union, which was announced by both sides with pride, may have averted a looming escalation in the trade dispute. Still, it has been widely criticized in political and economic circles. While EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Trade Commissioner Maros Sefkovic defended the agreement as a “breakthrough” and “the best possible outcome,” numerous member states and business representatives, including many voices from Austria, see and feel significant disadvantages for the EU and are calling for renegotiation.
August 20, 2025 · Updated: August 21, 2025; 12:46
FPÖ Warns of Impending Gas Shortage and Dependence on the U.S.
The FPÖ is sounding the alarm and urgently warning the EU of an impending gas shortage that could be triggered by the Union's climate targets and possible supply stoppages from abroad. In a recent press release, the party once again describes EU climate policy as unrealistic and a threat to Europe's prosperity and competitiveness, warns against the U.S., and defends Russia.
August 3, 2025
Austria's EU Ambassador Resigns After Rumors of Sexist Blog
The highest-ranking Austrian diplomat in Brussels, Thomas Oberreiter, has unexpectedly resigned from his post as Permanent Representative to the European Union. The reason for this is rumours about an explicit blog attributed to him. The diplomat denies the allegations but resigned to prevent damage to the Republic.
July 31, 2025
FPÖ Files Complaint over Suspicion of Breach of Trust in EU Funding for NGOs
The Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ) filed a complaint on suspicion of embezzlement in connection with the payment of EU Commission subsidies to various organizations and associations. This move belongs to a greater strategy that aims to weaken European integration and instead promote a renationalization of politics.
July 29, 2025
Austria's Debt Relief: A Focus on Billions
Since the turn of the millennium, Austria has waived debts amounting to around €3.4 billion owed to other countries. This information is based on a recent parliamentary response from the Ministry of Finance, which has drawn particular criticism from the Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ).
July 16, 2025
Vienna Remains on UNESCO Red List: World Heritage Site Still Endangered
The historic center of Vienna remains on UNESCO's Red List of endangered world heritage sites. This decision was made on Wednesday at the ongoing meeting of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in Paris, where the draft decision was adopted without amendments or discussion by collective decision.
July 9, 2025
EU Parliament Reviews Lifting of Immunity for FPÖ Politician Vilimsky
The parliamentary immunity of Harald Vilimsky, head of the FPÖ delegation in the European Parliament, is once again under discussion. As Parliament President Roberta Metsola announced in Strasbourg, a corresponding request has been forwarded by the relevant Austrian authorities to the European Parliament's Committee on Legal Affairs.
July 9, 2025
“Austria is free” - 70 Years of the State Treaty: A Reminder and Mission in Turbulent Times
On May 15, 2025, Austria celebrated the 70th anniversary of the signing of the State Treaty of 1955 with a ceremonial act of state. The events took place both in parliament and in the palace gardens of the Upper Belvedere and commemorated the historic moment when Foreign Minister Leopold Figl proclaimed the words “Austria is free!”.
May 15, 2025
Vienna Election 2025: SPÖ Leads, FPÖ Surges, Coalitions Still Unclear
The results of Vienna’s 2025 municipal elections confirm major political shifts in Austria’s capital. While the Social Democratic Party (SPÖ) maintained its leading position, the Freedom Party (FPÖ) posted historic gains. For expats and new residents of Vienna, the election reflects significant changes in the city’s political landscape that could influence future policies on housing, transport, and climate action.
April 28, 2025
Rosenkranz Meets Orbán in Budapest: Political Rapprochement Causes Criticism
National Council President Walter Rosenkranz (FPÖ) has made an official visit to Budapest and met with Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and other leading representatives of the right-wing nationalist governing party Fidesz.
April 23, 2025
Pope Francis Deceased: Expressions of Grief From Austria
Pope Francis died on Easter Monday at the age of 88. As the Vatican confirmed, the Holy Father succumbed to the consequences of a stroke. The world is mourning the loss of a head of the Church who championed social justice, interreligious dialogue, and a church of closeness like no other. Many voices of grief and condolences have also been heard from Austria.
April 21, 2025
Vienna Plans Traffic-Restricted Inner City with Camera-Based Access Control
After years of discussion, the traffic restriction measures in Vienna's inner city are about to be implemented. A planned amendment to the Road Traffic Act (StVO) is to create the legal framework for automated camera access management. This amendment is being submitted to the government by Transport Minister Peter Hanke (SPÖ) and is due to come into force on January 1, 2026.
April 6, 2025
Former Chancellor Karl Nehammer Nominated for Top Job at EU Bank
Finance Minister Markus Marterbauer (SPÖ) has nominated former Federal Chancellor and ex-ÖVP leader Karl Nehammer for a position on the Board of Directors of the European Investment Bank (EIB).
April 1, 2025
Russian Espionage Affair in Austria: A Targeted Disinformation Campaign in the Heart of Europe
Austria is once again at the center of an espionage scandal: The Directorate for State Security and Intelligence (DSN) has uncovered an extensive Russian disinformation campaign aimed at manipulating public opinion in favor of Russia and to the detriment of Ukraine.
March 24, 2025
Vienna Elections 2025: Citizenship and Voting Rights at the Center of the Debate
Vienna's municipal and district council elections are scheduled for April 27. Originally planned for the fall, the election was brought forward in order to send a signal against a possible FPÖ-ÖVP federal government. In addition to party political strategies, one debate dominates the political landscape: the question of voting rights and citizenship.
March 19, 2025
Vienna as a UN Location More Important Than Ever: Foreign Minister Meinl-Reisinger Reaffirms Austria's Commitment
Vienna is considered one of the most important UN locations in the world. Austria's Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger visited the Vienna International Centre (VIC) to emphasize the importance of the UN headquarters for Austria and the international community. In talks with high-ranking UN representatives, she reaffirmed Austria's support for multilateral cooperation and the rules-based world order. But what specific tasks does the UN perform in Vienna and why are they more urgent than ever today?
March 13, 2025
Alexander Schallenberg's Farewell from Politics: “There Can not be a Perpetrator-Victim Reversal”
After almost six years in government, Foreign Minister and two-time interim chancellor Alexander Schallenberg (ÖVP) is leaving the political stage. In a farewell interview, he talks about his time in office, the geopolitical challenges under Donald Trump, and his plans for the future.
March 4, 2025
A New Chapter for Austria: The Faces of the Federal Government 2025
The inauguration of the new federal government marks the beginning of a new era in Austrian politics. For the first time, a three-party coalition of the ÖVP, SPÖ, and NEOS, led by Federal Chancellor Christian Stocker (ÖVP), is in power. He is joined by Vice-Chancellor Andreas Babler (SPÖ) and Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger (NEOS). The new government has 21 members in total. But who are the people who will steer the country's destiny in the coming years?
March 3, 2025
Chinese Ambassador Qi Mei Visited Styria: Deepening Bilateral Relations
The Chinese ambassador to Austria, Qi Mei, paid a working visit to Styria. Her visit focused on meetings with Governor Mario Kunasek and Provincial Parliament President Gerald Deutschmann, during which the positive developments in Styrian-Chinese relations.
February 24, 2025
German Election and AfD in the Wake of a Donation Scandal from Austria
The German parliamentary elections are approaching, and yet another donation scandal is rocking the Alternative for Germany (AfD). The focus is on millions of euros that are said to have flowed from Austria - in some cases in a questionable manner. While the Austrian authorities are investigating the suspicion of money laundering, the question arises as to what extent actors from the Alpine country are influencing the German election campaign.
February 19, 2025
Failure of the Coalition Negotiations Between the FPÖ and ÖVP: Relieving Reactions and a Sobering Outlook
The coalition negotiations between the Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ) and the Austrian People's Party (ÖVP) have failed. Following a meeting with Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen, FPÖ leader Herbert Kickl announced that he had resigned from the government. The main point of contention was the distribution of ministries, particularly the interior and finance portfolios, which both parties claimed for themselves.
February 13, 2025
Coalition Negotiations in Austria Failed: Political Future Uncertain
Austria is facing a political turning point: after weeks of negotiations, talks between the Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ) and the Austrian People's Party (ÖVP) have broken down. The talks thus met the same fate as those between the ÖVP, SPÖ, and NEOS. With the collapse of the negotiations, the question now arises as to how things will continue politically and whether a new election is inevitable.
February 12, 2025
Scientists Warn Against Potential FPÖ-Led Government
Fearing for the country's democratic foundations and the integrity of its research institutions, leading scientists and scholars have united their voices in an open letter against a potential FPÖ-led Government. Their message is clear: the future of Austria’s liberal democracy, human rights, and academic freedom hangs in the balance.
February 6, 2025
Austria's Federal President Van der Bellen Calls on Diplomacy for Unity
In his traditional speech at the New Year's reception for the diplomatic corps in Vienna's Hofburg, Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen highlighted the challenges of the current global situation. He emphasized the need for closer international cooperation, warned against increasing disinformation, and called for greater efforts to combat the climate crisis.
February 5, 2025
Coalition Negotiations Between FPÖ and ÖVP Enter Decisive Phase
The coalition negotiations between the Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ) and the Austrian People's Party (ÖVP) are reaching a critical juncture. According to party sources, FPÖ leader Herbert Kickl and ÖVP chairman Christian Stocker are meeting today and tomorrow in a smaller circle for discussions. The goal is to overcome unresolved issues and lay the foundation for a joint government. However, differences remain significant.
February 3, 2025
Talks Between Austria and the Taliban on Deportations to Afghanistan
The Austrian Ministry of the Interior has held talks at the official level with representatives of the Taliban regime in Afghanistan to explore the possibility of returning rejected asylum seekers. A delegation consisting of two high-ranking officials from the ministry was in the Afghan capital Kabul for this purpose.
January 24, 2025
Political Scandal at FPÖ Regulars' Table: Outrage with EU-critical and Derogatory Statements
A secretly recorded video from a FPÖ Regulars' Table or "Stammtisch" in Vienna-Simmering has sparked outrage. FPÖ National Council members Harald Stefan and Markus Tschank sharply criticized the ÖVP and the European Union, made derogatory remarks about refugees, and caused consternation with their praise for the Taliban regime.
January 16, 2025
Austria Confirms Brussels Budget Negotiations and Resilience of International Partnerships
Over the past few days, Austria has been at the center of European attention in several respects. While Finance Minister Gunter Mayr presented a new budget path in Brussels, interim head of government Alexander Schallenberg focused on strengthening international relations during his inaugural visit to the EU. Both developments are crucial for Austria's role within the European Union.
January 13, 2025
Standstill in Government Formation: Kickl and the FPÖ on the Way to Forming a Government
Following the failure of the coalition negotiations between the ÖVP, SPÖ, and NEOS, Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen has given the task of forming a government to FPÖ party leader Herbert Kickl. For the first time in the history of the Second Republic, the Freedom Party has been given the task of forming a federal government. This heralds a new phase in the political landscape in Austria, which is causing a stir both nationally and internationally.
January 7, 2025
Austria Halts Asylum Procedure for Syrians: Consequences and Reactions
One day after the fall of Syrian ruler Bashar al-Assad, Austria and many other European countries drastically revised their asylum policies for Syrian citizens. Federal Chancellor Karl Nehammer (ÖVP) instructed Interior Minister Gerhard Karner (ÖVP) to suspend all ongoing Syrian asylum procedures and to review existing grants of asylum. This also applies to family reunification, which will be temporarily halted. Germany, Italy, and Great Britain have also taken similar steps.
December 11, 2024
KTM Facing Insolvency: Effects on Upper Austria and the Austrian Economy
The longstanding Austrian motorcycle manufacturer KTM is on the brink of collapse. The company filed applications for restructuring proceedings with self-administration with the Ried Regional Court. The company's financial difficulties are serious: with liabilities of over 1.8 billion euros, the KTM crisis is one of the biggest insolvencies in the history of Austrian industry.
December 2, 2024
Vienna's MA 35: Progress at the Dreaded Office, but Challenges Remain
Vienna's MA 35, responsible for immigration and citizenship, has long been regarded as a symbol of inefficient administration and endless waiting times. The City of Vienna wants to counteract this image with a comprehensive reform process. Initial successes have been achieved, but not all problems have been solved.
November 13, 2024
Official Commemoration of November Pogroms Overshadowed by Protests Against Walter Rosenkranz
Vienna remembers the November pogroms of 1938: a moving light installation and memorial events at the Shoah Wall of Names commemorate the more than 65,000 Jewish victims in Austria. However, the official commemoration was overshadowed by controversy when National Council President Walter Rosenkranz (FPÖ) met with resistance.
November 10, 2024
Brunner Faces Challenge at EU Hearing: Focus on Migration and Changing Schengen Position
The week of hearings for the candidates for the new EU Commission under the leadership of President Ursula von der Leyen begins in Brussels. The candidates face intensive scrutiny by the European Parliament. Austria's candidate, the current Finance Minister Magnus Brunner (ÖVP), will face the questions and must in particular prove his suitability for his new migration portfolio.
November 4, 2024
Orbán's Controversial Visit to Vienna: Talks, Alliances and Criticism
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's visit to Vienna caused a stir across Europe and highlighted the ideological tensions within the EU. His meetings with FPÖ representatives and the discussions about the war in Ukraine and the future of Europe divided opinion between supporters of national sovereignty and advocates of European integration.
November 3, 2024
Austria in Pursuit of Compromises for the Next Government
After the 2024 National Council elections, exploratory talks between the ÖVP and SPÖ will now begin to pave the way for a new government in Austria. Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen has tasked ÖVP leader Karl Nehammer with forming a government, even though the FPÖ under Herbert Kickl received the most votes. This decision led to criticism from the FPÖ, which continues to see itself as an important player in the political process.
October 24, 2024
Discussion on the Sobieski Monument in Vienna Continues
The discussion about a monument to King Jan III Sobieski in Vienna has picked up speed again. Since 2013, there have been calls for a monument to be erected on the Kahlenberg to the Polish king, who played a key role in saving Vienna from the Ottoman siege in 1683. Despite the failure of these efforts to date, in September 2024 the Polish embassy once again appealed to the relevant authorities to pay due tribute to this important chapter in European history.
October 21, 2024
FPÖ Election Victory Causes Unease in Western Intelligence Agencies
The FPÖ's election victory in Austria is causing concern among Western intelligence services. Experts fear restrictions in international cooperation due to previous security gaps in the Austrian Office for the Protection of the Constitution and the FPÖ's proximity to Russia. In particular, the exchange of sensitive information could be affected if the FPÖ is in government.
October 17, 2024
Stalemate after National Council Elections: Van der Bellen Calls for Revived Talks
Following the national elections in Austria, the country finds itself in a political impasse. President Alexander Van der Bellen declared in a speech that he would not give any party the task of forming a government at present due to the stalemate that has arisen. The FPÖ, which emerged from the election as the strongest force with 28.8%, is currently unable to find a coalition partner, as both the ÖVP and the other parties (SPÖ, NEOS, and Greens) refuse to cooperate with FPÖ leader Herbert Kickl.
October 15, 2024
Triumph of the FPÖ: Herbert Kickl in the Contest for the Chancellorship
The Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ) celebrated a historic victory in the 2024 national elections with 29% of the vote, led by Herbert Kickl. The FPÖ leader, who speaks of an “Orbanization” of Austria, is demanding the chancellorship, but his chances of forming a government remain uncertain. Despite his success, Kickl has met with resistance from potential coalition partners, particularly the ÖVP.
October 2, 2024
Jewish Community in Austria Deeply Concerned about the FPÖ's Election Victory
The disturbing election victory of the right-wing populist FPÖ in the parliamentary elections in Austria has alarmed the Jewish community. Oskar Deutsch, President of the Jewish Community of Vienna (IKG), expressed his deep concern in a statement.
October 2, 2024
Austria's Finance Minister Magnus Brunner Nominated as EU Commissioner
In a decision that has now been announced, the Austrian government has nominated Finance Minister Magnus Brunner (ÖVP) as the new EU Commissioner. This announcement marks the end of a long and intensive negotiation phase within the turquoise-green coalition. Brunner is to succeed Johannes Hahn and strengthen Austria's voice in the EU Commission.
July 31, 2024
False Accusations Against Federal Police Chief Takacs in Wirecard Case Must Be Revoked by FPÖ
Austrian domestic politics recently experienced a considerable shake-up due to false accusations by the FPÖ, which claimed that Federal Police Director Michael Takacs had met with the fugitive ex-Wirecard manager Jan Marsalek on several occasions. These accusations led to legal action by Takacs, which resulted in a retraction and a cease-and-desist declaration by the FPÖ.
July 21, 2024
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