Vienna faces a big challenge: presented a new government program

Vienna faces a big challenge: presented a new government program

After the election in Vienna, the mood is tense, the decisions of the new government must be made. On Monday evening, a government program was circulating that is primarily aimed at work and business. The details of this program are presented today after discussions among the coalition partners have already been played in the background. Kurier reports that Michael Ludwig will take the lead as mayor, while Bettina Emmerling is likely to become vice-mayor. However, it remains unclear who heads the finance department, since Peter Hanke has switched to the federal government and the austerity measures in Vienna are not in coming.

Especially with the financial situation of the city, the debate is bubbling. Particular attention is paid to the financability of the current minimum security model, which is again questioned. The city senate currently comprises twelve members, but the SPÖ is under pressure: If the size is retained, it would have to make do with only five city councils, which is considered unlikely. Despite all the challenges, there could be surprises in the program presentation, similar to five years ago, when a symbolic performance took place with a large punch donut.

key points of the government program

The new government coordination has a lot plans. The chairman of the SPÖ, Andreas Babler, emphasizes the importance of cooperation in times of crisis and refers to the reconstruction after the financial crisis of 2008. Current challenges, including the third year of recession, household consolidation and the inflation crisis, want to tackle the new coalitioners with concrete solutions. SPÖ names the government primarily the investments in security, health, education and integration as a focus.

planned are not only measures for social budget consolidation, but also an economic revival to secure jobs. The combating of the inflation and the offer of affordable living space is also on the agenda, in addition to strengthening the public health system and a specific security package for women. The introduction of a second mandatory and free kindergarten year as well as the expansion of all -day schools and against child poverty.

financial challenges and solutions

With the new government program, physical challenges are also pending. Budget policy is characterized by a tension between consolidation and stabilizing measures. The European Commission forecast a consolidation requirement of 6.3 billion euros for 2025. Initially, a consolidation volume of 1.24 billion euros is sought for 2025, which is due to increase to 1.65 billion by 2026. parlament.gv.at highlights the importance of complying with the European fiscal rules and minimizing the bureaucratic hurdles for the implementation of the measures.

The measures include increasing the stability tax for banks and the extension of the energy crisis contributions as well as various tax adjustments and savings in the administrative area. However, resistance await the new ones with regard to the abolition of the climate monus from 2025. The associated savings should support consolidation and are in accordance with a comprehensive reform and investment package.

In the coming weeks, it will be shown how the SPÖ and its partners can implement the plans and whether they actually bring the desired success. The Viennese can be excited to see what the future brings.