Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer Resigns Amid Failed Government Talks
TL/DR –
Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer announced his impending resignation following unsuccessful coalition talks, with his People’s Party citing “destructive forces” in the Social Democratic Party as the reason for the halt in negotiations. The next Austrian government will be tasked with addressing a record deficit, unemployment, and necessary savings of 18 to 24 billion euros. These negotiations were initiated after all Austrian parties refused to cooperate with the leader of the far-right Freedom Party, which won the national election with 29.2% of the vote.
Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer to Resign Amidst Failed Government Talks
Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer announced his forthcoming resignation due to unsuccessful attempts at forming a new government.
Talks between the People’s Party and the Social Democrats continued, even after the unexpected withdrawal of the liberal Neos party from discussions. Despite these efforts, negotiations have now ended, as confirmed by Nehammer’s statement on social media.
The conservative leader criticized the Social Democratic Party, stating “destructive forces” had “gained the upper hand”. He asserted that the People’s Party could not support a program against economic competitiveness.
Social democratic leader Andreas Babler expressed regret at this decision, stating it was “not a good decision for our country”.
Babler highlighted the “record deficit” left by the previous government as a primary negotiation hurdle. He publicly called on Nehammer and the People’s Party to continue negotiations.
The incoming Austrian government must address an estimated 18 to 24 billion euros deficit, as per the EU Commission. The country has seen rising unemployment during its two-year recession, while its 3.7% budget deficit exceeds the EU limit of 3%.
Nehammer had been tasked with forming a new government since October, following other parties’ refusal to work with the leader of the far-right Freedom Party, who won a national election for the first time garnering 29.2% of the vote.
—
Read More US Political News