Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer has announced that his conservative Austrian People's Party will continue its coalition with the Green party, despite disagreements over the Nature Restoration plan. This decision comes after Environment Minister Leonore Gewessler voted in favor of the plan in a European Union ballot, causing tension within the coalition.
Nehammer expressed his commitment to maintaining stability until the upcoming national election on Sept. 29, stating that it is his responsibility as federal chancellor to ensure an orderly path forward. Despite the emotional strain caused by the disagreement, Nehammer emphasized that he will not dissolve the coalition.
Gewessler defended her vote by stating that courageous decisions are necessary when the well-being of future generations is at stake. However, Nehammer's office argued that her vote was unlawful and announced plans to file a suit at the European Court of Justice to nullify it. Additionally, Nehammer's party intends to press criminal charges against Gewessler for alleged abuse of office.
The Nature Restoration plan is a key component of the EU's European Green Deal, aimed at setting ambitious climate and biodiversity targets. The plan has faced criticism from some sectors, including European farmers who believe that environmental regulations are negatively impacting their livelihoods.
Nehammer's party recently experienced a setback in the European Parliament election, with the far-right Freedom Party narrowly defeating the Austrian People's Party. Acknowledging the dissatisfaction among voters, Nehammer pledged to address concerns related to migration and overregulation in the coming months.
