Is Austria's far right poised for historic win in Sunday elections?
Briefly

Katalin Miklossy emphasizes the rising anti-migration sentiment across Europe, pointing out that the Freedom Party of Austria's success is part of a larger trend seen in East German elections, where populist parties have been gaining traction. Such movements, she suggests, are also reflecting the desperation of mainstream politicians like the German chancellor, who has promised to take drastic measures, such as closing borders and sending back illegal immigrants, to address the public’s growing frustration over immigration.
The Freedom Party of Austria, led by Herbert Kickl, has a platform that is notably tough on immigration, advocating for deportation of law-breaking migrants and stringent measures on asylum approvals. Kickl himself has drawn controversial historical parallels by labeling himself as 'Volkskanzler,' reminiscent of Adolf Hitler's terminology. This raises significant concerns about the party's ideological direction and its potential impact on Austria's social fabric, particularly regarding race and immigration policies.
The FPO’s manifesto not only calls for the 'de-migration' of uninvited foreigners but also suggests limiting social benefits strictly to Austrian natives. This rhetoric and policy direction marks a troubling shift towards greater racial and cultural homogeneity, aligned with far-right sentiments across Europe. It highlights a growing trend among European parties to capitalize on anti-immigration sentiments to garner votes, which complicates the political landscape significantly in Austria.
Read at www.aljazeera.com
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