Thousands protested on February 4 in Vienna against negotiations for Austria’s first far-right-led government, with efforts to form a ruling coalition dragging on towards a record period of time. 30,000 protesters gathered outside the Austrian Chancellery, organized by civil society groups, human rights advocates, and students.
Key concerns included fears that an FPÖ-led government would undermine the rule of law, minority rights, and democratic institutions. Protesters carried signs like “Nazis out” and “Never again,” referencing Austria’s historical reckoning with fascism.
The protests mirrored broader European anxieties about rising far-right influence, with parallel demonstrations in Germany drawing 160,000 people days earlier.
Negotiations between the FPÖ (which won 29% in September 2024 elections) and ÖVP (second place) have surpassed Austria’s previous record of 129 days of government formation talks set in the 1960s.
Despite public backlash, analysts predict the FPÖ-ÖVP coalition is still the most likely outcome, though key disagreements persist:
