Politics Austria: New three-party government in office
The new three-party government is in office in Austria. Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen swore in the members of the cabinet.
03.03.2025, 12:22
SDA
He reminded the government partners to always put the state as a whole above party interests. In view of the highly uncertain global political situation, he called for Austria to play an active role in strengthening the EU. "We must strategically secure peace in Austria and in Europe."
The government is headed by 64-year-old ÖVP leader Christian Stocker as Chancellor. The Vice-Chancellor is SPÖ leader Andreas Babler. In addition to the conservative ÖVP and social democratic SPÖ, the alliance also includes the liberal Neos party. The ÖVP and SPÖ each have six cabinet members, the Neos have two ministerial posts.
Coalition starts in a difficult economic situation
Five months after the parliamentary elections, the coalition is starting in difficult economic times. According to the latest figures, unemployment rose again in February. In addition, the large budget gap must be significantly reduced. The coalition partners had already agreed on significant savings in the budget for 2025 and 2026.
In this context, the head of state called for economic stability and social security to be ensured. When it comes to migration, it is important to provide protection to those who need it and "take consistent measures against irregular migration."
Van der Bellen is very familiar with swearing-in ceremonies. In his eight years in office to date, several governments have changed hands. In total, the 81-year-old has now sworn in around 200 members of government.
