Austria is grappling with a significant budget deficit, sparking debates on how to address the issue.

The EU's Maastricht criteria require Austria to reduce its deficit to 3% of GDP by 2025, but current projections show a shortfall of 4.1%.

The incoming government, potentially a coalition of ÖVP, SPÖ, and Neos, faces tough choices: submit a budget plan to the EU or risk an EU deficit procedure.

The SPÖ supports the latter, arguing it allows more time and flexibility, while ÖVP and Neos prefer immediate spending cuts.

Experts warn that an EU procedure could harm Austria's reputation but might ease short-term fiscal pressures.

The FPÖ has seized the moment to criticize all sides, framing the crisis as a failure of leadership.