Austria is heading into a closely contested election, with the far-right Freedom Party, led by Herbert Kickl, polling ahead of the conservative party. Kickl has gained traction by addressing voter concerns over migration, the war in Ukraine, and the handling of the Covid pandemic. The election outcome could mark a historic shift in Austrian politics, with the far-right potentially taking power. The new government will also face significant challenges, including reducing reliance on Russian gas and addressing economic stagnation.
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Austria election brings into focus Russian gas habit and a sputtering economy
The government that takes power in Austria after next Sunday's general election will face growing pressure to diversify its energy supply away from dependence on Russian gas, just as the economy is stuck in reverse gear.