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MewsAustria, Fritz Hahn Gasse 1, Vienna (2024)

02/10/2024

A 15-year-old boy from Vienna has been sentenced following a high-speed car chase in which he threatened police with a terror attack. The teenager, referred to as Loma K. (name changed), had previously faced court on June 13, but just weeks later, he was back in trouble. According to authorities, he had stolen at least 12 cars simply for joyriding, claiming, "The cars were unlocked with keys inside. I love driving."

On August 17, the teen reportedly stole a VW Golf and raced through Vienna’s Donaustadt district and into Lower Austria, reaching speeds of up to 140 km/h. A police patrol noticed his reckless driving and attempted to stop him. Instead, Loma K. accelerated, leading officers on a dangerous pursuit that ended when he lost control of the vehicle, crashing over an embankment.

During his arrest, the 15-year-old allegedly threatened the officers, saying, "I will blow up your police station with my Chechen brothers." In court, he admitted to the threat, saying it was made out of anger.

The young offender, who had been living in a supervised group home, has been sentenced to 12 months, with part of the sentence suspended. His previous six-week probation was also revoked, meaning he will spend additional time behind bars. The total damage caused by his actions, including theft of valuables from the vehicles, amounts to tens of thousands of euros.

The court emphasized how fortunate it was that he had been caught before committing further crimes. Despite his lawyer expressing the boy’s remorse, the severity of the situation means Loma K. will remain in custody.

02/10/2024

Katharina Nehammer, wife of Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer, has taken on a new role in the media industry. As of October 1st, she has been appointed Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the Austrian Agricultural Publishing House, which operates under the Raiffeisen Group. This publishing house produces 25 specialized magazines and manages 18 online portals, focusing on topics such as agriculture, forestry, gardening, real estate, and finance.

Notable publications include Pferderevue, Der Winzer, and the Raiffeisenblatt. The publishing house was acquired by Raiffeisen earlier this year, having previously been owned by the Lower Austrian Farmers' Association.

Katharina Nehammer brings extensive media experience to the role. She started her career at the Barbara Karlich Show before moving to the newly launched Viennese station Puls TV in the 2000s. Later, she shifted into politics, serving as a spokesperson in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs under Sebastian Kurz, and later in other ministries.

Although she has largely worked behind the scenes as an advisor to her husband, this new position marks her return to the media world in a senior management role.

01/10/2024

On Wednesday, the Austrian federal government will offer its resignation to the president. The move will have significant implications for Vice Chancellor Werner Kogler.

As of Wednesday, Werner Kogler will no longer be Vice Chancellor, with his position being downgraded to a regular minister.

Following the national election, the outgoing coalition of the ÖVP (Austrian People's Party) and the Greens has been reduced to just 34.47% of the vote. The next step for the political parties is to negotiate a new parliamentary majority and form a government, which will then be sworn in by the president.

Traditionally, after elections, the outgoing government offers its resignation to the president within a few days to acknowledge the voters' decision. The president usually asks the current government to remain in office temporarily, continuing to handle essential duties until a new government is established—a process that can take several months.

During this interim period, ministers will continue in their roles and receive their salaries. However, there’s a key detail to note: According to Article 71, only members of the previous federal government are tasked with continuing their duties. State secretaries, for example, are typically not part of this arrangement. The roles of Vice Chancellor, Minister for the Chancellery, and ministers without portfolios are also technically dissolved during this phase.

Andrea Mayer has already announced her resignation. Theoretically, Claudia Plakolm, Susanne Kraus-Winkler, Karoline Edtstadler, and Susanne Raab could also become unemployed by Wednesday. However, there have been cases where even Chancellery ministers and state secretaries continued in their roles, even though they are not officially heading a ministry, as required by the constitution.

So, what will happen in the coming months with Kogler, Edtstadler, Raab, Plakolm, and Kraus-Winkler?

01/10/2024

Simone Lugner began her new role at Lugner City on August 1, leaving her position as deputy store manager at Hornbach to work alongside her husband, Richard Lugner. However, just a few months later, she has been informed that her last day will be November 15. The management of Lugner City, led by Gerald Friede and Richard Lugner's daughter, Jacqueline, made the decision to terminate her employment.

The news of her dismissal came as a shock to Simone when she received the official notice on Monday, September 30. "I gave up a secure and well-paid job, my old life, for Richard," she said. "I was excited to work with him at Lugner City. If he were still here, everything would have been fine."

Richard Lugner, the famous Austrian entrepreneur and founder of Lugner City, passed away recently, and his funeral took place at St. Stephen's Cathedral. Simone, still grieving, believes her late husband would not have approved of the decision to let her go.

In an official statement, the management explained the reason for her dismissal, citing a company reorganization. "Due to changed circumstances, the management of Lugner City has decided on several adjustments, including the termination of Simone Lugner's employment," the statement read.

When asked about her future plans, Simone made it clear that returning to her previous job at Hornbach was not an option. "I'll have to find something else," she said, adding that her true desire is to continue working at Lugner City. "I want to carry on Richard's legacy. His dream was for me to take over when he was gone."

01/10/2024

Following a historic election victory, Austria's Freedom Party (FPÖ) could secure a prestigious position in just three weeks—the office of the President of the National Council.

In a meeting on Tuesday, the leadership of the Austrian People's Party (ÖVP) unanimously endorsed Karl Nehammer as their lead negotiator for potential coalition talks, signaling their readiness for negotiations. "The ball is now in the president's court regarding the next steps," Nehammer stated. "In my view, it's clear that the party with the most votes should be tasked with exploratory talks."

However, there are indications that President Alexander Van der Bellen is contemplating an open negotiation phase rather than immediately giving FPÖ leader Herbert Kickl a mandate to form a government. Van der Bellen, according to well-placed sources, seems reluctant to block Kickl and leave the FPÖ feeling isolated. Instead, he reportedly prefers to wait for any party that can form a majority coalition to approach him.

By Wednesday, the current government will formally offer its resignation to Van der Bellen, who is expected to accept it and reappoint Nehammer's administration on an interim basis until a new government is formed. While FPÖ's Kickl is expected to lead initial coalition talks, he faces reluctance from other parties to join forces with him. A high-ranking ÖVP official stated, "Of course, we can't refuse to engage in discussions."

In a move to appease the FPÖ, Nehammer has acknowledged that the party with the most votes should hold the position of National Council President. This paves the way for former presidential candidate Norbert Hofer to return to prominence, with the FPÖ potentially securing this key role by October 24. Hofer’s broad acceptance makes him a likely choice, signaling another victory for Kickl.

30/09/2024

Following the Austrian National Council election, all eyes are now on President Alexander Van der Bellen. As per tradition, the Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ), led by Herbert Kickl, is expected to be given the mandate to form a government as the party with the most votes. However, there is no legal obligation for the president to follow this practice. On election night, Van der Bellen did not immediately confirm whether Kickl would be asked to form a government.

In his post-election address, President Van der Bellen emphasized key democratic principles that will guide the formation of the new government. He highlighted the rule of law, the separation of powers, human and minority rights, the importance of an independent media, and Austria’s commitment to the European Union as essential pillars of the country's democracy. "These are the foundations of our prosperity and security. Whatever the composition of the next government, its main goal must be to ensure a better future for all of us, including our children and grandchildren," Van der Bellen stated.

The process of forming a government has now begun. "There are clear democratic rules to follow," the president said. "It’s time for dialogue, negotiation, and compromise. Finding these solutions may take some time, but it is time well spent."

The Austrian Constitution requires the president to convene the newly elected National Council within 30 days of the election, but beyond that, the president’s role is not tightly prescribed by law. Regardless of elections, the constitution mandates that there must always be a functioning government in place.

Traditionally, following an election, the outgoing government offers its resignation, signaling recognition of the new political balance. Van der Bellen is expected to accept this resignation and instruct the current ministers to continue their work until a new government is formed.

30/09/2024

The Austrian Social Democratic Party (SPÖ) is aiming for a coalition with the Austrian People’s Party (ÖVP), largely to prevent the far-right Freedom Party (FPÖ) from gaining power. However, Josef Kalina, former SPÖ general secretary, has strongly criticized party leader Andreas Babler's insistence on inheritance and wealth taxes, arguing it is counterproductive for coalition talks.

Although ÖVP leader Karl Nehammer has ruled out a partnership with FPÖ leader Herbert Kickl, he left the door open for cooperation with other "reasonable" elements within the FPÖ. However, such a scenario is seen as highly unlikely, making a coalition between the ÖVP and SPÖ the most plausible option. Together, they would hold a slim majority in the National Council, and may need additional support from smaller parties like the NEOS or the Greens.

Despite suffering a historically poor election result, the SPÖ is positioning itself for a potential coalition with the ÖVP. Speaking on the "Ö1 Midday Journal," Kalina suggested the party should avoid internal debates and reframe its policies. Babler’s emphasis on new taxes, Kalina argued, had alienated voters, as seen in the election results.

For future negotiations, Kalina advised focusing on common ground such as economic and healthcare reforms, rather than divisive topics like tax policy. He also noted that the ÖVP had historically been a barrier to progress in areas like education.

Kalina was particularly critical of Babler’s focus on inheritance and wealth taxes, which he saw as an electoral misstep. "No election has ever been won with the promise of two new taxes," he said, adding that voters do not support such measures in Austria. Instead, Kalina argued that Babler’s approach gave the impression of hostility towards wealthier citizens, which he felt was unappealing to the broader electorate.

He concluded that such a stance would not be helpful in negotiations with the ÖVP or NEOS.

30/09/2024

The recent Austrian National Council election has brought significant financial shifts for the country's political parties. With 29.21% of the vote, the Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ) claimed its first-ever victory in a national election, marking a historic moment. Meanwhile, the Austrian People's Party (ÖVP) suffered a major defeat, losing a significant portion of its support, while the Social Democratic Party (SPÖ) fell to third place for the first time.

These electoral changes have immediate financial implications. Due to Austria's system of party financing, where state funds are distributed based on election results, the FPÖ will see its annual funding increase by nearly €5 million, taking their yearly total from €6.2 million to €11.3 million.

Conversely, the ÖVP faces a severe reduction in its funding, with a loss of approximately €4 million. This brings their yearly budget down from €14 million to around €10 million. The Greens also experienced a financial hit, with their budget dropping from €5.5 million to €3.5 million. On the other hand, the NEOS, who gained 9.2% of the vote, will receive an additional €500,000, while the SPÖ gains about €200,000 in extra funding.

Even smaller parties that did not win seats in the National Council, such as the Communist Party of Austria (KPÖ) and the Beer Party, benefit financially. The KPÖ, with 2.56% of the vote, will receive a one-time payment of €364,036, while the Beer Party, with 1.98%, is set to receive €302,467. Under Austrian law, parties that win at least 1% of the vote but fail to enter parliament are entitled to election campaign reimbursement at a rate of €3.16 per vote.

These changes underscore the significant financial stakes involved in Austria's political landscape, as parties must now adjust their strategies for the next legislative period.

29/09/2024

In the 2024 Austrian National Council elections, the Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ) achieved its best result in history under the leadership of party chairman Herbert Kickl. In his first reaction, Kickl expressed his deep gratitude to the voters for their optimism, confidence, and courage, which led the FPÖ to this significant victory.

“Elections are the cornerstone of democracy,” Kickl stated, underscoring the importance of the popular vote. When asked why no other party wants to form a coalition with him, he remarked that such questions should be directed at those parties. He emphasized that the election result clearly signals that the status quo cannot continue: "The voters have spoken."

Kickl reaffirmed the FPÖ’s willingness to take on a governing role, a stance they had maintained throughout the campaign. When asked if he expects Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen to invite him to form a government, Kickl remained cautious, noting that the final results were not yet confirmed. He suggested that all parties take time to reflect on their strategies, especially in light of historically poor performances by the ÖVP and SPÖ.

Kickl pointed out that the Austrian constitution is based on the strength of parties, and he implied that the president should consider the FPÖ's strong result when making decisions.

Kickl did not hold back in criticizing ÖVP leader and outgoing Chancellor Karl Nehammer, claiming that Nehammer had been "voted out of office." He stressed that the election was not a validation for Nehammer, but rather a call for political parties to reconnect with the people’s needs and interests. Kickl referred to the other parties as a "unified bloc" that, in his view, had often acted in concert on key issues, which had now been rejected by voters.

Despite being shunned by other parties for a potential coalition, Kickl remained unfazed, asserting that they would need to answer questions about their commitment to democracy.

29/09/2024

Vienna remains a stronghold for the Social Democrats (SPÖ), showing a 2.8% gain and securing 30% of the vote. The Freedom Party (FPÖ) follows in second place with 21%.

According to the latest projection, which includes postal votes, the SPÖ leads in the Austrian capital, outperforming its national result of 21% by reaching 30%—a 2.8% increase compared to the 2019 election.

The Freedom Party (FPÖ) made significant strides, gaining 8.1%, bringing it to 21%, securing second place under party leader Dominik Nepp.

The Austrian People's Party (ÖVP), which soared under former Chancellor Sebastian Kurz, has dropped to third place in Vienna. It garnered 17.5% of the vote, a notable decline of 7.1%.

The Greens secured fourth place with 12.1%, despite losing a third of their support (down by 8.6%). They narrowly outperformed the liberal Neos, who saw a slight gain of 0.9%, bringing them to 10.8%.

Further down the list, the Communist Party of Austria (KPÖ) captured 4.1% (+3.3%), while Dominik Wlazny's Beer Party secured 2.1% (+1.5%). Other minor parties include LMP at 0.6% and "None" at 0.4% (-0.1%). A further 1.4% of votes went to other parties.

This early projection highlights Vienna's ongoing political distinctiveness, with the SPÖ maintaining its dominance and the FPÖ seeing significant growth, while the ÖVP suffers a major setback.

29/09/2024

A significant political shift appears to be unfolding in Austria, as early projections from Sunday’s National Council election indicate a major victory for the right-wing FPÖ (Freedom Party of Austria), led by Herbert Kickl. According to preliminary results, the FPÖ is well ahead, surpassing both the ruling ÖVP (Austrian People's Party) and the SPÖ (Social Democratic Party).

The election has dealt a heavy blow to the ÖVP, the party of Chancellor Karl Nehammer, which has suffered double-digit losses. The SPÖ, led by Andreas Babler, is also experiencing a historically poor showing, marking another decline after already recording its worst result in 2019. The FPÖ, however, is poised for a historic success, likely gaining a significant double-digit increase compared to its 2019 performance.

The FPÖ's previous record was set in 1999 under Jörg Haider when the party garnered 26.9% of the vote, finishing in second place. Now, after winning the EU elections in May, the 2024 National Council election looks to be the second nationwide victory for Kickl's FPÖ this year.

The ÖVP, which had hoped for a late surge in support, is now facing a painful defeat. Under former Chancellor Sebastian Kurz, the party achieved 37.5% of the vote in 2019 after the Ibiza scandal. However, many of those Kurz-era voters appear to have returned to the FPÖ this time.

The Greens, part of the outgoing government, have not been rewarded for their five years in office, with their support falling by around 5%, placing them behind the liberal NEOS, who saw a slight increase in support.

Meanwhile, smaller parties such as the KPÖ (Communist Party of Austria) and the satirical BIER Party have failed to meet the threshold for entry into parliament, according to initial projections.

28/09/2024

Gina Schumacher, daughter of Formula 1 legend Michael Schumacher, married her long-time partner Iain Bethke in a private ceremony on Saturday. The intimate wedding took place in the presence of family and close friends at the family’s estate in Mallorca, nestled in the mountains near Port d’Andratx.

The couple, who have been together for seven years, became engaged last summer. The ceremony, held in the estate's palm garden, saw the couple exchange rings at 4:47 PM in a white pavilion, according to reports.

For her big day, Gina, 27, wore the "Petal" dress by Blue by Enzoani, valued at approximately €3,000, featuring delicate floral lace. She accessorized with a gold Cartier bracelet. Iain, 28, opted for a classic pinstripe suit with a grey waistcoat and tie.

Gina is the daughter of seven-time Formula 1 world champion Michael Schumacher and sister of Mick Schumacher, who has also competed in Formula 1. Michael Schumacher, now 55, has remained out of the public eye since sustaining a severe head injury in a skiing accident in December 2013. His current health condition remains undisclosed.

28/09/2024

Five years after Sebastian Kurz painted the country turquoise with a 37.5% victory in 2019, ÖVP Chancellor Karl Nehammer and FPÖ leader Herbert Kickl are set to go head-to-head in a fierce battle for the chancellorship in the upcoming 2024 National Council election.

Back in 2017, Kurz’s rebranded ÖVP ousted the SPÖ from power, and in 2019, he solidified his dominance, leaving Vienna as the only red (SPÖ) stronghold. Meanwhile, the FPÖ, plagued by the Ibiza scandal, suffered significant losses, dropping nearly 10 percentage points and losing 21 of its 51 parliamentary seats. However, the big surprise of that election was the resurgence of the Greens, who, after failing to enter parliament in 2017 with only 3.8%, bounced back with 13.9% under the leadership of Werner Kogler.

As the 2024 election approaches, most political experts believe the FPÖ is poised for victory unless a major scandal akin to Ibiza 2.0 derails their campaign. However, the recent floods have shaken up the race, with Nehammer’s ÖVP benefiting from his crisis management and leadership image. As a result, the party has narrowed the gap with the FPÖ in the polls, but the final outcome remains uncertain.

In addition to the main contenders, smaller parties like the Beer Party, led by Dominik Wlazny, and the Communist Party (KPÖ) under Tobias Schweiger, are fighting for a place in parliament. Despite promising poll numbers, the Beer Party's position has weakened in recent surveys, making their entry into parliament uncertain. Similarly, the KPÖ is teetering on the edge of making a breakthrough.

Since December 2022, the FPÖ has consistently led the polls, surpassing both the SPÖ and the ÖVP. Whether this lead will hold on election day remains to be seen.

27/09/2024

On Friday, the Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ) held its final campaign rally ahead of the 2024 national election at Vienna’s iconic Stephansplatz. In a fervent speech, party leader Herbert Kickl rallied supporters, expressing confidence that the FPÖ will secure the chancellorship.

Kickl's speech drew parallels to a similar FPÖ rally 25 years earlier, led by former party leader Jörg Haider. He recalled being deeply moved at that time and emphasized that this year would be different, stating, "25 years ago, we achieved a great result, but it wasn’t enough. This time, we will win."

As crowds filled the square in blue, FPÖ’s signature color, Kickl sharply criticized Austria’s current government, accusing Chancellor Karl Nehammer of betraying promises, particularly in asylum and social policies. "Nehammer represents pure unreliability," Kickl said, calling his tenure a failure. He went on to accuse both Nehammer and Deputy Chancellor Werner Kogler of leading Austria down a path of broken promises, urging voters to turn their backs on the "unified establishment parties."

Kickl's message focused on key issues such as asylum, national identity, and a call for greater sovereignty. He emphasized the need to combat "imported crime" and promoted the concept of "remigration," which his supporters chanted loudly throughout the speech.

The rally was not without opposition. Protesters gathered outside the venue, carrying signs reading "N***s out of Parliament." A strong police presence was in place to manage the event.

Kickl concluded his speech with a plea for voter participation, declaring that a vote for the FPÖ would ensure a brighter future for Austria. "This vote – that's what they fear. We will work tirelessly for you, but you need to make that cross on the ballot." He closed by promising "five good years for Austria."

With national elections just days away, the FPÖ hopes to capitalize on growing discontent and push for a significant shift in the country’s political landscape.

27/09/2024

Two boys in Hollabrunn, Lower Austria, were told to change their clothes after wearing football shirts with "Kickl on the 1" printed on them. The shirts, featuring designs from the Italian national team and German football club Schalke 04, sparked outrage among teachers at the middle school (NMS).

The boys, aged 13, had worn the shirts to school to show their support for Austrian politician Herbert Kickl, but were reportedly asked by three teachers to change after the second class of the day.

Their father expressed shock at the incident: "Why can’t children wear football shirts to school? How can a teacher force them to take their shirts off?" He added that his sons were left uncomfortable, having to wear their sweaty gym clothes for the remainder of the day.

The incident quickly sparked debate, with Michael Sommer, a regional FPÖ (Freedom Party of Austria) representative, questioning if the same reaction would have occurred with other names. Sommer called for the depoliticization of schools, stating, "Our children should not be coerced by woke teachers."

However, according to the school’s dress code, students are expected to wear appropriate attire. The policy explicitly prohibits clothing with provocative slogans or symbols.

27/09/2024

As the election campaign draws to a close, Austria’s Chancellor Karl Nehammer has ruled out a coalition with far-right FPÖ leader Herbert Kickl, asserting that such an alliance would not form a "sustainable government."

Speaking at the ÖVP’s final campaign rally on Friday, Nehammer highlighted the party’s commitment to centrist policies, stability, and problem-solving. "Our path is one of the positive center," he said to cheering supporters, emphasizing that this direction cannot be pursued through "division and fearmongering." He pointed to recent successes, including strengthening Austria’s disaster relief fund following devastating floods.

While ÖVP General Secretary Christian Stocker anticipates a tight race, with the election potentially coming down to a "photo finish," he reiterated the party's determination to campaign until the very last moment. Nehammer reaffirmed his stance that, while no party in parliament is automatically excluded, a coalition with Kickl’s FPÖ would not lead to a stable or functional government.

26/09/2024

In Vienna, a parking company has been accused of using threatening letters to extort money from drivers, even when they stop on public streets. The latest incident involves a woman, Renate* (name changed), who received a demand for €495 after briefly stopping her car on Große Sperlgasse in the Leopoldstadt district, far from any private property.

Renate was shocked when she received a letter in mid-September from PV 22 Parkplatzvermietung GmbH, a company notorious for targeting drivers with possession disturbance claims. Despite being several meters away from two nearby garage doors, she was accused of obstructing private property.

For years, unsuspecting drivers in Vienna have been receiving similar letters from parking firms, threatening legal action unless they pay fines as high as €495. These companies often capture footage of drivers with cameras installed near private garages. In Renate’s case, she had stopped briefly on a public road, far from any entrance or garage, raising serious questions about the validity of the claim.

According to the Austrian Automobile Club (ÖAMTC), drivers are allowed to stop in front of entrances for up to 10 minutes, as long as they remain in the vehicle. Renate, now seeking legal advice, refuses to pay the fine.

This is not an isolated case. Several streets in Vienna have become hotspots for what many are calling “parking traps.” Other areas where drivers have been targeted include Wiesinger Straße, Schelleingasse, and Lützowgasse.

The tactics involve garage owners filming public streets, often in violation of privacy laws, and passing the footage to parking companies and their lawyers, who then issue these letters. Privacy concerns have been raised, as this practice involves collecting license plate information from vehicles on public roads—a clear overstep of privacy laws, say experts. However, authorities, including the Austrian Data Protection Authority, have been slow to respond, leaving many drivers vulnerable to these dubious fines.

26/09/2024

Before his passing, Richard Lugner appointed his wife, Simone, to a position at Lugner City. However, she has now been prohibited from discussing her role there.

On August 1, 2024, Simone Lugner, 42, began her new job at Lugner City, working alongside her husband. Their offices were separated by just one room. Proudly, the construction tycoon gave her a tour of his beloved shopping center, filmed TikToks with her, and introduced her to the staff with great enthusiasm.

Unfortunately, their time working together was cut short. On August 12, Richard Lugner, aged 91, passed away. Simone, who had been married to him for only 72 days, was left a widow.

After a brief mourning period, Simone resumed her duties at Lugner City following Richard’s funeral on August 31. However, her exact responsibilities remain unclear, as they were closely tied to those of her late husband.

In a recent interview with the broadcaster Puls4, Simone spoke about her grief, her loss, and what lies ahead. When asked about her role at Lugner City, she smiled and said, "I am not allowed to discuss my responsibilities at Lugner City."

She went on to explain: "I can't talk about Lugner City in general. That’s the decision of the management." This directive reportedly comes from Jacqueline Lugner and Gerald Friede, the new managing directors of the shopping center.

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