Mass Protests in Austria as Far-Right Leader Attempts to Form Government

Tens of thousands gather in Vienna to oppose Herbert Kickl's FPÖ, which is on the verge of leading the government for the first time in Austria's postwar history.

• Herbert Kickl, leader of the far-right Freedom Party (FPÖ), has been tasked with forming a government after coalition talks among centrist parties failed.
• Protesters in Vienna, estimated at 50,000 by organizers, voiced concerns over potential threats to democracy and human rights under a far-right-led government.
• The FPÖ, originally founded by former Nazis, has previously held minor roles in government but has never led the Austrian chancellery.
• Critics fear Austria could follow Hungary's path under Viktor Orbán, where democratic institutions have been significantly weakened.
• Demonstrations against the FPÖ also took place in other cities, including Salzburg and Graz, highlighting widespread opposition to the party's rise to power.

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