Austrians vote on Sunday in a general election that could see the far-right opposition Freedom Party (FPÖ) top the polls for the first time. Moreover, Austria far right has capitalized on public concerns over immigration and economic issues. #AustriaFarRight
Five years ago, the party crashed out of a coalition government with the conservative People’s Party because of a corruption scandal dubbed Ibiza-gate.
But now, led by Herbert Kickl, the FPÖ is within reach of a historic victory. It narrowly leads the ruling conservatives in the opinion polls, and the opposition Social Democrats are in third place.
Even if the Freedom Party does come first, no party is expected to win enough seats for an outright majority, and building a coalition is likely to be difficult.
The FPÖ has tapped into concerns about migration and rising inflation. Additionally, they highlight anger over the handling of the Covid pandemic. Currently, they are polling around 27%, leading the conservative ÖVP by two points.
“The chances have never been so great,” one of its campaign videos says. “As Volkskanzler (people’s chancellor) Herbert Kickl will do everything to give you back your freedom, your security, your Wohlstand (prosperity) and your peace… Let’s build Fortress Austria!”
It then shows Kickl saying that he wants to be “your servant and your protector”.
Kickl’s use of the term Volkskanzler, which was used to describe Adolf Hitler in the 1930s, has worried some Austrians.
For them it is an uncomfortable reminder of the FPÖ’s origins. It was founded by former Nazis in the 1950s. Protesters at the party’s final election rally on Friday night waved banners reading “Nazis out of parliament”.
Like other far-right European parties, the FPÖ combines tough rhetoric on immigration and Islam with promises to reduce what it regards as interference from Brussels in national affairs. #AustriaFarRight
But Kickl has also aligned his party closely with Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban, the self-styled champion of “illiberal democracy”, and shared a more conciliatory tone when it comes to Russia.
Implications of Austria’s Far Right Success on Future Politics
As election day approaches, Austria’s far right continues to focus on mobilizing its base. They are leveraging widespread dissatisfaction to gain an edge. Ultimately, Austria far right success could have lasting consequences for the nation’s future.
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