Austria is a small country with a population of 10 million people, but its politics hold significant consequences. The upcoming election could be won by the far-right, pro-Russia Freedom Party, which has historical connections to former Nazis. The party’s victory could shift the balance of power between Russia and the West due to its opposition to supporting Ukraine and strong links to Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Led by Herbert Kickl, the FPÖ has capitalized on Europe’s migration crisis and proposed extreme measures such as registering and detaining immigrants, as well as promoting the deportation of migrants to their home countries. Critics have labeled the party as xenophobic, racist, and Islamophobic, with some even accusing them of using antisemitic tropes.
Austrian politicians across the spectrum, including incumbent leader Karl Nehammer, have criticized Kickl and the FPÖ as right-wing extremists and dangerous for the country. There are concerns that the party’s influence could extend beyond Austria’s borders, forming a Ukraine-skeptical bloc with other like-minded countries in Europe.
The FPÖ’s return to power is currently uncertain, with the party polling at 27%. Opposition groups, such as “A Promise for the Republic,” are working to prevent the party from gaining control by urging Austrian politicians to rule out collaboration. The election in Austria is seen as part of a broader rightward lurch across Europe, with voters rejecting mainstream centrists on various issues beyond immigration, the economy, and environmental concerns.
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