ÖVP and SPÖ worry about Neos in Austria's coalition

Tensions are simmering within Austria's coalition government, with the conservative ÖVP and the social democratic SPÖ expressing significant unease about their junior partner, the liberal Neos. The mood ranges from strained to irritated, fueled by recent political maneuvering and lingering memories of past coalition negotiations.

Ten days after an agreement on mandatory military service, a palpable sense of frustration persists, particularly within the ÖVP. This "turquoise" faction recalls the turbulent end of 2024/25 when the Neos initially scuttled coalition talks. Recent public statements by the Neos, including criticism of the Bauernbund (farmers' association) as "dusty," have further exacerbated the situation. Meanwhile, the ÖVP itself has reignited a debate on pensions, unwelcome by the SPÖ.

The core anxiety for the ÖVP and SPÖ is the perceived risk of the Neos, a party inexperienced in government, potentially triggering an early collapse of the coalition. This fear is amplified by the Neos' rising poll numbers and a "double strategy" theory: presenting a cooperative facade while internally exploring exit options. The behavior of Neos parliamentary leader Yannick Shetty, seen as increasingly confrontational, is interpreted by larger parties as an attempt to appease internal critics like Nikolaus Scherak.

Despite these concerns, the Neos maintain they are essential for implementing reforms. "We Neos are needed in this government so that reforms are actually implemented, not just talked about for decades more," stated Secretary-General Douglas Hoyos. Those close to party leader Shetty reportedly find the coalition partners' irritation amusing, even a source of pride, suggesting their assertive stance is necessary. The internal dynamics within the Neos, with a significant group of critics centered around Scherak, add another layer of complexity and nervousness for their coalition partners.