Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen is navigating a complex political landscape following the recent national elections.

The far-right Freedom Party (FPÖ) emerged as the strongest party in the elections held at the end of September 2024, garnering nearly 29% of the vote.

However, the Social Democrats (SPÖ), the liberal Neos, and the Greens have all ruled out cooperation with the FPÖ, while the ÖVP is hesitant but has not completely refused.

Van der Bellen has expressed concerns about the implications of an FPÖ-led government on democratic values, the rule of law, and Austria's EU membership.

This electoral success is largely attributed to rising public concerns over immigration, inflation, and geopolitical tensions, particularly Russia's war in Ukraine.

In a national address, Van der Bellen stated he would break with tradition by not assigning the election winner, the FPÖ, the task of forming a government.

If Kickl fails to form a government, an alternative coalition could potentially include the ÖVP, SPÖ, and possibly the Neos.

Tasking the FPÖ to form a government would be unprecedented, as it would mark the first time a party with such a controversial history has been given this mandate.

Despite a positive outlook, a final decision on government formation remains pending, as Van der Bellen hesitates to mandate FPÖ leader Herbert Kickl due to coalition refusals from other parties.

Until a new government is formed, the existing coalition of the ÖVP and Greens will remain in power.

In light of the coalition stalemate, President Van der Bellen has called for talks among the three leading political parties to resolve the situation.

He has given the parties a deadline until the end of next week to provide clearer insights into their positions.