Austrian Greens launch campaign against FPÖ

The Austrian Green Party has launched its autumn campaign, positioning itself as the “only alternative” to a potential takeover by the Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ). Party leader Leonore Gewessler stated that the party aims to lead a “cosmopolitan camp” to prevent what she described as the destruction of liberal democracy by right-wing forces.

Gewessler criticized the current federal government—composed of the ÖVP, SPÖ, and NEOS—for merely managing the status quo rather than taking decisive action. She specifically highlighted the need to oppose Herbert Kickl and his environment, which she characterized as potentially violent.

Despite the FPÖ's rising popularity in recent polls, Gewessler noted that the Greens have seen an increase in support, currently polling at 12.9 percent compared to 8.2 percent in the previous election. The campaign will consist of events and discussions across Austria over the next five weeks.