The negotiations over a possible government coalition between the ÖVP, SPÖ and NEOS have yet to yield a breakthrough. After hours of talks on Friday, the party leaders Christian Stocker (ÖVP), Andreas Babler (SPÖ) and Beate Meinl-Reisinger (NEOS) continued their discussions on Saturday.
Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen will receive the top representatives of the three parties on Sunday at 1 pm in the Hofburg to be informed about the current state of the negotiations. Press conferences are planned to follow.
President Van der Bellen had already emphasized his expectation of a swift agreement on Friday. However, content differences still persist, particularly in the distribution of ministerial portfolios.
A central point of contention is the allocation of the Justice Ministry. The NEOS, who are to be brought in as the third coalition partner, claim the portfolio to ensure an independent judiciary. In contrast, the ÖVP wants to maintain its influence in this area, while the SPÖ prefers a neutral solution.
Besides the personnel question, there are differences in budget and education policy. Although an agreement on a budget is seen as a step forward, the NEOS are not satisfied with the current arrangements and demand further adjustments.
The ongoing negotiations have led to speculation about the possibility of a failure to form a government and subsequent new elections. According to a recent survey by the OGM Institute for ServusTV, 34 percent of respondents are in favor of a swift new election. The FPÖ is currently the strongest force, with 34 percent support, while the ÖVP is losing popularity, with 19 percent support.
A decision on the next course of action is expected in the coming days. The President could, if no stable coalition is formed, establish an expert government or propose new elections. The political parties are thus facing a decisive decision.