Austria’s Chancellor Christian Stocker has issued a firm warning against what he calls destructive politics, distancing himself sharply from the far-right Freedom Party (FPÖ) while defending his government’s reform agenda.
In an interview with Kleine Zeitung, the ÖVP leader described Austria as facing serious political challenges. He stressed the need for steady reforms, while also acknowledging that his party must reconnect with voters on a more emotional level.
Stocker was particularly critical of the FPÖ’s tone, accusing it of fostering division and hostility. He warned that such rhetoric risks shaping a society driven by contempt rather than cooperation. Reflecting on history, he suggested that politics rooted in anger and dismantling institutions could lead the country down a dangerous path.
“There is no value in wanting to destroy everything,” Stocker said. “What happens when nothing is left? Do we want a republic in ruins? I do not. I want a better Second Republic.”
At the same time, the chancellor admitted that the ÖVP has lost voter support to the FPÖ in recent years. He linked this shift to a series of crises, as well as declining public trust following political scandals and parliamentary investigations.
Despite improvements in economic indicators, Stocker conceded that these gains have not translated into stronger public support. He argued that the government has failed to communicate its policies in a way that resonates with people’s everyday concerns.
On healthcare reform, Stocker rejected fears of hospital closures, insisting the plan is focused instead on expanding telemedicine and strengthening primary care and specialist centers to ease pressure on hospitals.
Addressing the national budget, he expressed cautious optimism. He pointed to last year’s performance, when deficit predictions proved overly pessimistic and fiscal targets were exceeded.
Stocker also emphasized the importance of compromise within Austria’s coalition government with the Social Democrats (SPÖ) and NEOS, saying effective governance depends on continued decision-making.
On military service reform, he pushed for an agreement by the end of summer, aiming for implementation in January 2027. If talks fail, he supports holding a public referendum, warning that national defense cannot be neglected.
