Schallenberg takes over as Austria’s caretaker chancellor amid political transition

Alexander Schallenberg has been sworn in as Austria’s caretaker chancellor, succeeding Karl Nehammer after his unsuccessful bid to form a centrist coalition, as the far-right Freedom Party prepares for coalition talks with the conservative ÖVP.

Alexander Schallenberg, Austria's foreign minister, was sworn in as caretaker chancellor on Friday following the resignation of Karl Nehammer, leader of the conservative People’s Party (ÖVP). Nehammer stepped down last weekend after his efforts to form a centrist coalition government failed, leaving the political landscape open to change.

The current ÖVP-led government has been operating in a caretaker capacity since parliamentary elections in September. These elections saw the far-right Freedom Party (FPÖ) emerge as the largest party, securing a mandate to form the next government.

The FPÖ is set to begin coalition negotiations with the ÖVP, marking a significant step toward establishing a new government. Schallenberg’s interim leadership will guide Austria through this transitional period until a stable coalition is formed.

This political shift reflects Austria’s evolving electoral landscape, with the FPÖ’s victory signalling a rise in support for far-right policies. The coming weeks are expected to shape the country's political direction, as coalition talks determine the composition and priorities of the next administration.

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