Mon Mar 03 16:38:29 UTC 2025: ## Austria Forms New Three-Party Coalition Government After Record-Breaking Delay

**Vienna, Austria** – Austria’s new government was sworn in on Monday, March 3, 2025, ending a five-month period of political uncertainty following September’s parliamentary elections. Christian Stocker, leader of the Austrian People’s Party (ÖVP), assumed the chancellorship, heading a coalition comprised of the ÖVP, the Social Democrats (SPÖ), and the liberal Neos party. This marks Austria’s first-ever three-party government.

The formation of this coalition followed a protracted negotiation process, the longest in Austria’s post-World War II history. Initial attempts to form a government faltered, partly due to the strong showing of the far-right Freedom Party (FPÖ) in the September elections. A previous attempt at a coalition involving the ÖVP and the FPÖ collapsed in February.

The new government faces significant challenges, including rising unemployment, a looming recession, and budgetary constraints. The coalition agreement includes stricter asylum rules. Chancellor Stocker emphasized his commitment to serving all Austrians, while President Alexander Van der Bellen expressed cautious optimism about the new administration’s prospects.

Several key ministerial positions changed hands. Andreas Babler of the SPÖ became Vice Chancellor, and Beate Meinl-Reisinger of Neos assumed the role of Foreign Minister, replacing Alexander Schallenberg, who served as interim Chancellor and is now leaving politics. The Finance Ministry transitioned from the ÖVP to the SPÖ.

Despite the lengthy delay, the new government is seen as pro-European, a stark contrast to the potential FPÖ-led government that seemed likely earlier this year. The coalition’s success in navigating the country’s economic and social challenges remains to be seen.

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