Werner Faymann entered federal politics in 2007 as Austria’s Minister for Transport, Innovation and Technology, marking the start of a decade-long climb through the upper echelons of the state. He navigated the complexities of coalition governance for eight years, eventually serving as Federal Chancellor from 2008 until his unexpected resignation in May 2016.
Early Career and Viennese Politics
Born in Vienna in 1960, Faymann pursued studies in jurisprudence, political science, and history of art at the University of Vienna. His political ascent began within the Socialist Youth Vienna, where he served as provincial chairman starting in 1981. Between 1985 and 1988, he worked as a consultant for Zentralsparkasse, a bank linked to the municipal government. His early legislative experience was gained as a member of the regional parliament of Vienna, a role he held from 1985 to 1994, focusing primarily on housing and urban renewal.
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In 2007, Faymann joined the Cabinet of Chancellor Alfred Gusenbauer. Following Gusenbauer's resignation in June 2008, Faymann became chairman of the Social Democratic Party of Austria. He led the party through the snap elections of September 2008, maintaining a coalition with the Austrian People's Party. He was officially tasked by Federal President Heinz Fischer to form a government, which was sworn in on 2 December 2008.
Policy Challenges and Resignation
Faymann’s tenure faced significant turbulence during the 2015 migrant crisis. While he initially aligned with German Chancellor Angela Merkel regarding asylum policies, the mounting pressure of hundreds of thousands of arrivals led to a shift in his strategy, including stricter measures along the Balkan route. Internal party criticism and the electoral success of right-wing candidates ultimately weakened his position. He resigned from his roles as chancellor and party leader on 9 May 2016.
Post-Governmental Activity
Following his departure from the chancellery, Faymann remained active in international and private capacities. In August 2016, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon appointed him as the United Nations' Special Envoy on Youth Unemployment. In this role, he collaborated with Ahmad Alhendawi. By September 2016, he had established a private communications consultancy in Vienna alongside his former spokesperson, Matthias Euler-Rolle.
Fast facts
- Born: 1960, Vienna
- Citizenship: Austria
- Education: University of Vienna
- Federal Chancellor of Austria: 2008-2016
- SPÖ Chairman: 2008-2016
- Religion: Catholicism
- Languages: German
Questions readers ask
What official positions did Werner Faymann hold after 2016?
He served as the United Nations' Special Envoy on Youth Unemployment and founded a private communications consultancy.
Why did Werner Faymann resign in 2016?
He resigned amid widening criticism from within the Social Democratic Party and political pressure following the first round of the 2016 presidential elections.
Achievements
- Federal Chancellor of Austria (2008–2016)
- member of the National Council of Austria (2008–2008)
- member of the National Council of Austria (2013–2013)
- Federal Minister for Transport, Innovation and Technology (2007–2008)
- Educated at University of Vienna
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