Herbert Kickl, leader of Austria’s Freedom Party (FPÖ), has been tasked with forming a government after the collapse of a coalition among mainstream parties. Kickl, a staunch Euroskeptic and outspoken conservative, has sparked controversy with his policies, including a bold stance on immigration and opposition to EU climate and economic policies.
President Alexander Van der Bellen, despite past criticism from Kickl, assigned him the responsibility of building a coalition. The FPÖ emerged as the most-voted party in November’s elections, but earlier efforts by establishment parties to sideline them through an alternative coalition failed. Kickl’s path to governance now appears more viable, as the Austrian People’s Party (ÖVP) has shown a willingness to negotiate.
Kickl’s platform includes reducing Austria’s contributions to the European Union, opposing the Green Deal, and lifting what he calls “irresponsible” EU sanctions on Russia. However, his strongest and most polarizing policies target immigration. His proposal for a “Fortress Austria” includes suspending asylum applications while numbers remain “above average,” legalizing border pushbacks, and limiting welfare and family reunification programs for migrants.
Kickl’s manifesto also advocates the deportation of illegal immigrants and economic migrants entering Austria via safe third countries. With Austria surrounded by stable, developed nations, this policy could effectively reject most irregular asylum claims. Additionally, Kickl proposes penalties for human trafficking and migrants who participate in illegal crossings.
Critics, including liberal media outlets like Euronews, describe these measures as extreme, with some labeling the proposed “remigration” of uninvited migrants a “soft form of ethnic cleansing.” Kickl defends his policies as necessary for preserving Austrian sovereignty and addressing the pressures of migration.
As coalition negotiations continue, Kickl faces a delicate balancing act. The FPÖ’s potential partnership with the ÖVP could reshape Austria’s domestic and EU policies significantly, particularly on issues of migration, energy, and national sovereignty. However, opposition from Brussels and liberal critics may test the coalition’s resolve.
If successful, Kickl’s leadership could mark a significant shift in Austria’s political landscape, advancing conservative priorities and challenging EU orthodoxy.
