Volt Austria's foundational program

A European manifesto for a decent life for everyone in Austria

Europe stands at a historic crossroads. The challenges of our time - from the climate crisis and digital transformation to social inequality and geopolitical tensions - can no longer be solved at the national level due to globalization. Only a Europe that is capable of taking action, democratic, and united in solidarity can permanently ensure security, prosperity, and freedom for all.

Volt Austria is part of the pan-European movement that advocates for a united Europe of the people - a Europe that respects diversity, promotes justice, and shapes the future. We believe in a European republic where decisions are made collectively and democratically, and where regions and nations are strong not against one another, but together.

As a cosmopolitan country and a successful democracy, Austria has a special responsibility to actively help shape this Europe. We advocate for an Austria that sees its future as part of a federal Europe - not as a contradiction to national identity, but as its modern, natural, and logical extension.

Our platform is a commitment to this new European way of thinking. It is based on the conviction that progress and justice go hand in hand; that technological change only benefits society if it includes everyone; and that belonging to Europe must be a voluntary yet conscious choice - made out of hope, not fear.

This policy platform builds on Volt Europa’s Mapping of Policies (MoP). Volt Austria reaffirms the contents of the MoP and endorses them in their entirety. It provides the long-term framework for our policies - our political DNA - upon which specific demands and measures in election and position papers are based.

We call for bold reforms - in government, in the economy, and in the social welfare system. We want a good life and fair opportunities for all people living in Austria - and thus also in Europe - regardless of their background or citizenship. And we are convinced that we will not achieve this goal in spite of the European Union, but only through a stronger European republic in which everyone can actively participate.

Volt thinks in European terms, sustainably, and socially, and acts with courage. This platform is our invitation to everyone to join us in building a better future - for Austria, for Europe, for everyone.

The 5+1 Challenges

Volt has defined 5+1 fundamental Challenges that need to be tackled in each European country and in Europe as a whole.

Why 5+1 Challenges?

The 5 Challenges are basically the same for every country, but their implementation can be adapted on the national level to take into account local realities.

The +1 Challenge - our proposal to reform and strengthen the EU - is identical across all our national programmes.

European election program 2024-29
  • 01

    Smart State

    Education and digitalisation are key elements of the 21st century

  • 02

    Economic Renaissance

    An innovative economy must be the engine of society's progress

  • 03

    Social Equality

    No-one should be left behind - no matter their gender, income, religion. or origin

  • 04

    Global Balance

    Europe needs to assume responsibility for its role in global challenges

  • 05

    Citizen Empowerment

    People must be empowered to influence politics beyond elections alone

  • +1

    EU Reform

    We love the EU - this doesn't mean there is no room for improvement