In a controversial move, Austria's Freedom Party (FPÖ), currently leading in polls for the upcoming general election on September 29, 2024, has proposed significant changes to the country's approach to gender and LGBTQ+ issues. The far-right party aims to modify Austria's constitution, which has been in place since 1920 with revisions in 1929, to recognize only two genders.
The FPÖ's manifesto outlines several measures targeting what they term "woke madness." These include prohibiting transgender athletes from participating in women's sports and ending public funding for initiatives they consider part of "woke ideology." The party also plans to ban civil servants from using gender-inclusive language and restrict options for gender identification in civil registers.
Critics have strongly condemned these proposals. Representatives from international LGBTQ+ rights organizations have described the FPÖ's policies as a "direct attack on the dignity and rights of trans people" and a "blatant violation of human rights."
The FPÖ's rise to prominence follows its ousting from the coalition government in 2019 due to a corruption scandal. Under the leadership of Herbert Kickl since 2021, the party has capitalized on public concerns over COVID-19 regulations and immigration. The party's manifesto promises to pardon those convicted of breaching coronavirus rules and repay fines imposed during the pandemic.
Austria, a country with a rich cultural heritage and a population of approximately 9 million, has been an EU member since 1995. The FPÖ's stance on European issues is notably Eurosceptic, with the party manifesto warning against the increasing influence of Brussels on Austrian affairs. The party also advocates for maintaining Austria's constitutional neutrality, a policy in place since 1955.
"The government of the state is increasingly no longer in Vienna, but in Brussels. The space of the state is being eliminated by the de facto principle of open borders. The people of the state are gradually being replaced by permanent mass immigration."
On immigration, the FPÖ proposes building "Fortress Austria," opposing EU migrant quotas, and establishing offshore processing centers for asylum seekers. These policies align with the party's emphasis on protecting national identity and opposing what they term "political Islam."
Despite leading in polls with around 30% support, the FPÖ may face challenges in forming a coalition government. Leaders of all five rival parliamentary parties have stated they will not form a coalition with Kickl. However, analysts suggest that the Austrian People's Party (ÖVP) remains the most likely potential coalition partner, given policy overlaps and previous collaborations.
As Austria approaches this pivotal election, the country's strong tradition of direct democracy and environmental protection may play a role in shaping public opinion on these contentious issues. The outcome of this election could significantly impact Austria's domestic policies and its position within the European Union.