Far-Right Freedom Party Secures Historic Win in Austrian Elections

Austrian voters have delivered the far-right Freedom Party its first-ever general election victory. Projections show the FPO winning 29.1% of the vote, ahead of the ruling Austrian People's Party. The FPO must now form a coalition government, a challenging task due to its polarising leader, Herbert Kickl.

Austrian voters have handed a historic victory to the far-right Freedom Party, marking their first-ever win in a general election. Projections from pollster Foresight for broadcaster ORF indicate the FPO secured 29.1% of the vote, surpassing the conservative Austrian People's Party (OVP) who earned 26.2%. The result underscores the rising support for hard-right politics across Europe.

Herbert Kickl, the 55-year-old leader of the FPO, faces the task of assembling a governing coalition, a feat complicated by his controversial leadership. Kickl's stance on immigration, opposition to aiding Ukraine, and criticism of EU sanctions against Russia has sparked both support and concern among voters. Some fear his leadership could align Austria more closely with Hungary's Viktor Orban.

Despite the victory, forming a government remains uncertain. Chancellor Karl Nehammer of the OVP reiterated his opposition to joining a coalition with Kickl. President Alexander Van der Bellen, who plays a crucial role in government formation, has signaled potential resistance to Kickl's appointment, citing the FPO's stance on EU issues. The FPO, originally led by a former Nazi lawmaker, continues to stir controversy, recently facing criticism over members attending a funeral where a Nazi SS song was played.

(With inputs from agencies.)