Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg Appointed as Austria’s Caretaker Chancellor

Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg has been designated as caretaker chancellor following the resignation of Karl Nehammer. Schallenberg, who previously served as chancellor in 2021 after Sebastian Kurz’s departure, will temporarily lead the Austrian People’s Party (ÖVP)-dominated government until a new coalition is formed.

The political transition comes after the collapse of initial post-election coalition talks. Austria’s far-right Freedom Party (FPÖ), led by Herbert Kickl, emerged victorious in recent parliamentary elections, securing 28.8% of the vote and surpassing the ÖVP, which finished second. Despite Kickl’s win, the ÖVP has refused to join a coalition under his leadership, resulting in a political impasse.

Outgoing Chancellor Nehammer announced his resignation after the ÖVP’s failure to form a coalition by early January. Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen has since authorized Kickl to attempt building a governing majority.

Kickl, known for his controversial policies, has expressed willingness to extend a conciliatory hand to the ÖVP, inviting them to coalition discussions despite their history of conflicts. Observers now await the outcome of these talks, which will determine whether Austria can resolve its political gridlock and establish a functioning government.