Austrian Election: Far-Right Party Aims for Historic Win Amid EU Tensions

Austrians voted for a new parliament, with the far-right Freedom Party (FPO) aiming to win. The election, heavily influenced by concerns over the economy and immigration, could affect Austria's role in the EU. Polls indicate no party will secure an absolute majority, leading to coalition scenarios.

Austrians headed to the polls on Sunday to vote for a new parliament, with the far-right Freedom Party (FPO) striving for a historic victory. Such a win could spark disputes within the European Union over Ukraine.

The FPO, leading in polls until recently, faces a tight race against Chancellor Karl Nehammer's conservative Austrian People's Party (OVP). Voters are primarily concerned with economic issues and immigration. Polls reveal that no party is expected to achieve an absolute majority, necessitating coalition talks.

Political experts, including Kathrin Stainer-Haemmerle, emphasize the potential shift in Austria's EU stance if FPO leader Herbert Kickl becomes chancellor. Kickl models his policies after Hungary's Viktor Orban, advocating for Austrian neutrality and stringent immigration controls. Meanwhile, OVP's Nehammer portrays Kickl as a threat to the nation's stability, even as both parties favor stricter immigration laws and tax reductions.

This election marks another chapter of rising far-right support in Europe, following similar trends in the Netherlands, France, and Germany. The outcome could reshape Austria's domestic and EU policies significantly.

(With inputs from agencies.)