Austrian centre-right coalition faces difficult future

Significance

The government consists largely of newcomers and politicians with dubious links to the far right. It embarks upon a five-year reform programme for Austria which is thin on detail but could lead to radical changes.

Impacts

• A tougher stance on migrants and asylum seekers could foster a wider reluctance in some EU states to accept refugees.
• Major constitutional changes are unlikely as the government would need the support of the SPOe or the small Neos party.
• Any extreme right-wing tendencies will concern Brussels and Israel, which will keep a close eye on the government.
• Austria will be an unpredictable ally, sometimes siding with Macron and at other times favouring alliances with Eastern European countries.
• The SPOe’s loss of office could lead to changes in personnel and programmatic position.