FPÖ leader Herbert Kickl’s potential government risks illiberal drift, challenging EU norms and civil liberties.
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Many believe that Herbert Kickl, leader of the Freedom Party (FPÖ) and a likely future government leader in Vienna, intends to distance Austria from the EU and establish an illiberal democracy similar to Viktor Orbán, weakening the rule of law, civil liberties, and critical press. However, he will need to moderate his positions when governing with the People’s Party. Tens of thousands protested against a government led by FPÖ and Kickl. Despite being an extremist party founded by Nazis, FPÖ has a strong chance to lead the federal executive, most likely in coalition with the conservative ÖVP. Kickl, who is eurosceptic and friendly towards Russia, received the mandate to form the government after negotiations between conservatives, social democrats (SPÖ), and NEOS failed. While initial conservative efforts excluded collaboration with FPÖ due to Kickl’s inclusion, the ÖVP accepted discussions after talks with social democrats stalled. FPÖ holds a strong negotiating position as it is leading in polls and could gain more seats in early elections. International press has been critical of Kickl for his uncompromising anti-immigration, eurosceptic, pro-Russian rhetoric and embrace of conspiracy theories. Some view him as aligning with Putin and Orbán, aiming to weaken the rule of law. While FPÖ and ÖVP share some common ground on immigration and budget matters, major differences remain regarding the EU, support for Ukraine (FPÖ criticizes sanctions while ÖVP supports Kyiv), and military cooperation like Sky Shield.
