Trial run for a new Austrian and European systemic equilibrium

This paper analyzes the evolving political and institutional framework in Austria and its implications for the European Union, framed as a “trial run” for a potential new systemic equilibrium. The study first provides an overview of Austria's political structure and electoral system (i.e. Baugesetze der österreichischen Bundesverfassung) to contextualize the forces shaping its political landscape. It then examines the 2019 European elections as a critical moment, highlighting the key political parties, campaign strategies, and their competing ideological positions. The electoral results are dissected to reveal underlying shifts in voter sentiment and the impact of emerging political forces. Finally, the paper presents a discussion on possible future scenarios, suggesting that Austria’s experience might be a precursor to broader transformations within the EU's political system, potentially affecting governance structures and cross-national alliances.