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Austria Today

Austrian news in English

Saturday, January 18, 2025

Austrian Coalition Talks in Turmoil

Published: 2024-12-03

Austria's coalition negotiations are in disarray as the ÖVP, SPÖ, and Neos struggle to find common ground on budgetary issues.

The SPÖ insists on taxing the wealthy to address budget deficits, while the ÖVP opposes new taxes, favoring spending cuts instead.

This disagreement has led to public disputes between party leaders, with SPÖ's Andreas Babler threatening a pause in negotiations if the ÖVP doesn't provide necessary financial data.

The Neos, caught in the middle, have criticized both parties for their handling of civil servant salary negotiations.

Despite attempts to downplay tensions, the coalition's future remains uncertain as the December 12 deadline for progress looms.