The far-right Freedom Party of Austria (FPO) is leading in the polls ahead of Sunday’s parliamentary elections.

A survey conducted by the Institute for Demoscopy and Data Analysis this week has indicated that the FPO holds 27% of the vote, while the ruling Austrian People's Party (OVP) follows closely with 25%. 

In third place is the Social Democratic Party of Austria (SPO) with 21%. The Greens and the New Austria and Liberal Forum Party (NEOS) are tied for fourth with 9%.

A survey published in May on the statistics website Statista.com identified the three most significant issues in the parliamentary elections as social security (65%), asylum/migration (57%), and climate/environmental protection (38%).

The FPO advocates for a stringent asylum and migration policy and frequently emphasises this topic in its campaign.

It emerged as the dominant party in Austria during this year's European Parliament elections, marking the first time since World War II that an extreme right-wing party topped an election.

In contrast, the conservative OVP, which is currently in government with the Greens and led by Federal Chancellor Karl Nehammer, emphasises themes of “performance, family, and security” in its election program.

The program is an “offer to the middle,” according to its election manifesto.

“We want to reward performance, generate growth and increase prosperity,” Nehammer said during the presentation of the program at a press conference earlier this month.

That said, the OVP is also advocating for a stricter migration policy. In January of this year, the party proposed that asylum seekers' cash be confiscated upon entry as part of its “Vision for Austria.” 

Additionally, the OVP has called for limitations on the movement of asylum seekers within Austria and suggested that asylum status should be revoked if individuals travel back to their home country for a holiday.

The Social Democratic Party of Austria (SPO) prioritises social justice in its platform. In its election manifesto, the party advocates for implementing a 32-hour work week and increasing wages for employees, among other proposals.

Whereas in its election manifesto, the liberal NEOS party highlights the need to strengthen the economy and reduce bureaucracy. They also aim to combat corruption more effectively by promoting greater transparency.

Moreover, according to their statements, the Greens stand for tolerance, individual freedom, and respect for diverse lifestyles. They also stress a connection to social liberal traditions and the socialist ideals of justice and solidarity.

After the polls close at 5pm on Sunday and the final votes are counted, the largest party in the new parliament is traditionally invited to form a government. Coalition negotiations could potentially take several months to finalise.