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19 September 2013

EV: Austria's big two on course to win, but losing support


The odds are that Austria's biggest parties from left and right will continue their 'grand coalition' after the general election on 29 September. However, it is possible that – even while nominally victorious – the two parties will see a decline in support.

Opinion polls suggest that the Social Democratic Party (SPÖ) and the Austrian People's Party (ÖVP) might fall below a combined 50% of the vote for the first time since 1945, forcing the grand coalition to seek a third partner to achieve a majority in parliament or to govern as a minority coalition.

The SPÖ is polling at around 26%-27.5% against the ÖVP's 22%-23%, followed by the far-right Freedom Party at up to 20%, the Greens at 14%-15%, and Team Stronach at around 6%-9%. Other parties are below the 4% threshold needed to enter parliament.

Many voters remain undecided – another symptom of the weakening hold of the traditional parties on their constituents – and there is apathy and boredom abound. Corruption scandals have damaged both parties, compromising their attempts to mobilise support.

The European Union has played only a marginal role in the campaign.

Full article (EV subscription required)



© European Voice


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