Far-Right Surge: Austrian Election Sees First Victory for Freedom Party

Austrian voters delivered a historic election victory to the far-right Freedom Party (FPO), highlighting growing support for hard-right parties in Europe. Led by Herbert Kickl, the FPO secured 29.1% of the vote, surpassing Chancellor Karl Nehammer's Austrian People's Party (OVP). The FPO's win raises concerns about Austria's future role in the EU.

In a watershed moment, Austrian voters have handed the far-right Freedom Party (FPO) its first-ever general election victory, showcasing the rising support for hard-right parties across Europe against a backdrop of immigration concerns. Projections by pollster Foresight reveal that the Eurosceptic, Russia-friendly FPO, led by Herbert Kickl, has secured 29.1% of the vote, outpacing Chancellor Karl Nehammer's conservative Austrian People's Party (OVP) and the centre-left Social Democrats.

Despite falling short of an absolute majority, the FPO's victory positions it to lead a coalition government. However, Kickl remains a polarising figure, with other party leaders hesitant to serve under him. Political science professor Kathrin Stainer-Haemmerle observed that if the FPO appoints the chancellor, Austria's role in the European Union could undergo significant changes.

As the FPO promises tougher immigration and asylum rules, Sarah Wolf, an Austrian Communist Party supporter, fears a scenario resembling Hungary under Viktor Orban. Meanwhile, FPO supporter Viktor de Lijzer argues that the party is best suited to tackle issues like criminal violence spurred by immigration. Austria now joins other EU countries witnessing a surge in far-right support.

(With inputs from agencies.)