Austrian Coalition Talks Face Budget Deadlock

Published: 2024-12-19

Austria's coalition negotiations between ÖVP, SPÖ, and Neos remain tense as budget and economic issues dominate discussions.

Despite some progress in areas like social welfare reform and education, major disagreements persist, particularly on tax policies and budget consolidation.

SPÖ leader Andreas Babler continues to push for wealth taxes, while ÖVP and Neos oppose such measures.

Burgenland's SPÖ leader Hans Peter Doskozil criticized the talks as a "shameful spectacle," expressing frustration over the lack of clarity on the budget deficit.

Talks are set to continue over the holidays, with no resolution expected before Christmas.