That controversial party had emerged from the parliamentary elections held in early October as the largest party; the FPÖ received over 29% of the vote, but no one wants to form a government with the pro-Putin politician. President Van der Bellen (Greens) has now tasked Nehammer with breaking the deadlock.
Nehammer now faces the challenge of forming a workable coalition, at least with the social-democratic SPÖ. Although there are significant policy differences, particularly on tax reforms and climate policy, their coalition is the most likely option, supplemented by support from the Greens and/or the liberal Neos. A two-party coalition of ÖVP and SPÖ holds only a one-seat majority. In this scenario, the liberals and greens could be effective supplementary partners.
The role of the Greens can provide a balance between center-right and center-left views. Their dominance lies mainly in environmental policy and social justice, which may lead to tense negotiations with the more traditionally oriented ÖVP.
Additionally, the liberals from Neos remain an attractive option, particularly because of their emphasis on necessary economic reforms and progressive policies, which could appeal to both the ÖVP and the SPÖ.
The regional elections in a few months will be crucial for the further positioning of the right-radical FPÖ and their potential influence on future government policy. The question is whether ÖVP leader Nehammer will succeed in forging a sustainable coalition in the coming weeks or whether Austria will face a prolonged period of political instability.
The regional elections will, in that latter case, be the next test for the Austrian political parties. If Nehammer manages to break the deadlock successfully, it could strengthen his ÖVP, but a failed formation could further benefit the FPÖ and cause more division in Austrian politics.