No time for poker games .

Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker has intensified efforts this week to resolve the long-standing debate over extending conscription within the coalition government, which includes the Austrian People’s Party (ÖVP), Social Democratic Party (SPÖ), and NEOS. The issue has gained new momentum with the introduction of two competing proposals: one suggesting eight months of basic military service followed by two months of militia training, and another proposing six months of basic service combined with three months of militia exercises. This shift comes amid growing pressure to address national security concerns in light of increasingly unstable geopolitical conditions. The discussion initially centered around the recommendation of an expert commission, which proposed an eight-month basic military service period and two months of militia training. However, recent developments have introduced alternative models into the negotiations. While the ÖVP and Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner continue to support the expert panel's proposal, they could argue that even a modified version, six months of basic service with three months of militia training, would represent some progress. Meanwhile, the SPÖ has consistently advocated for maintaining the current six-month basic service model, with militia training extended to three months instead of the previously suggested two. NEOS, however, remains opposed to any changes, despite its broader goal of establishing a European army. Critics argue that the political maneuvering surrounding the conscription reform reflects more internal party politics than genuine concern for national defense. The attempt to secure symbolic victories for each coalition partner risks undermining public confidence in the government. As divisions deepen, the coalition appears increasingly fragmented, with each party seeking to assert influence rather than reaching consensus. The Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ), meanwhile, has positioned itself as a supporter of the expert commission’s findings, further complicating the already tense political landscape. Analysts suggest that the coalition had a clear opportunity earlier this year to unify behind the expert commission’s recommendations. In January, public opinion polls indicated broad support for extending conscription, and the inclusion of civil society representatives in the commission’s composition would have been a compelling argument against internal critics. Instead, the government failed to capitalize on this moment, allowing the issue to stagnate and lose public trust. In addition to the military reforms, the proposed changes also include extending civilian service to twelve months. This measure is considered equally vital to the country’s resilience as a well-trained military force. With the ongoing discussions showing little sign of resolution, the situation continues to highlight the challenges faced by the coalition government in balancing domestic policy priorities with external security threats. The lack of agreement on conscription reform threatens to further erode the government’s credibility, particularly as the geopolitical environment becomes more unpredictable.