The Greens (Austria)

The Greens (German: Die Grünen) are a political party in Austria. Officially named Die Grünen – Die Grüne Alternative (The Greens – The Green Alternative), they are a green political party with a focus on environmentalism, social justice, non-violence, and direct democracy.

The party was founded in 1986, evolving from various environmental and citizens' initiatives of the 1970s and early 1980s, including the anti-nuclear movement. Initially, the party faced challenges in gaining widespread support and struggled to maintain representation in the National Council (Nationalrat), the lower house of the Austrian Parliament.

However, The Greens gradually increased their electoral success, becoming a stable presence in Austrian politics. Their platform advocates for policies aimed at combating climate change, promoting renewable energy sources, strengthening social welfare programs, advancing gender equality, and upholding human rights. They also advocate for increased transparency and citizen participation in government decision-making.

The Greens have participated in various coalition governments at the state level (Land) and, in 2020, entered a national coalition government with the conservative Austrian People's Party (ÖVP). This marked a significant shift, showcasing the party's increasing influence and willingness to compromise to implement its agenda. The coalition focused on areas like environmental protection, fiscal responsibility, and justice reform, although tensions between the coalition partners have been present.

The party's organizational structure includes a federal executive board, state organizations, and various working groups. Their membership consists of individuals committed to the party's core principles, and they are affiliated with the Global Greens international network. Key figures within the party have included Alexander Van der Bellen (who later became President of Austria), Eva Glawischnig-Piesczek, and Werner Kogler, who served as Vice-Chancellor in the ÖVP-Greens coalition.