VIENNA - Austria's new coalition government was sworn in by President Alexander Van der Bellen at the presidential residence of Hofburg Palace on Monday, amidst protests concerning its right-wing leanings.

The leader of the conservative People's Party (OVP), the 31-year-old Sebastian Kurz, is now chancellor of the country, and the youngest leader in Europe.

Coalition partner, the far-right Freedom Party (FPO), has seen a return to power, following protracted negotiations with the OVP after the Oct 15 election. Party leader Heinz-Christian Strache is new vice-chancellor.