Contemporary Austrian Politics

Description

Tracing the disruption of the "post-war pattern" in Austria, this work explores the recent dramatic evolution in that country's formerly tranquil political system. The contributors follow the decline of the Socialist and Conservative parties and the rise of the "reformed" right-wing Freedom Party and newly-emerged Green and Liberal parties. Austria has also plunged into the international arena, abandoning its long-held neutrality and joining the European Union. Reflecting on the end of an era of tranquillity - and rigidity - the contributors assess the implications of sweeping changes on the country's polity, economy and society. Contents Tables, Figures and Graphs Acknowledgments 1 History and International Context 2 Political Institutions 3 Political Parties 4 Corporatism The Austrian Model 5 Economic Policy 6 Foreign Policy 7 Environmental Politics and Policy 8 Political Culture 9 Agencies of Socialization 10 The Politics of Regional Subdivisions 11 Conclusion and Outlook Chronology List of Acronyms Selected Bibliography Postscript About the Contributors About the Book Index