The Federal Government’s Special Representative for Eastern Germany, Elisabeth Kaiser (SPD), has called for a “protective shield” for eastern German civil society and also seeks financial security for these organizations. Speaking to the “Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland,” the SPD politician made this demand in light of the potential governmental takeover by the AfD in Saxony-Anhalt. She stated, “The eastern German civil society needs a protective shield. Democracy advocates in the East are facing massive pressure. They are being silenced and blockaded by stripping them of their financial basis. Yet, they are the glue that holds our society together.” Kaiser called on the federal government to stand firm alongside those who defend our values every day during these difficult times. She added, “Democracy is the foundation for our prosperity, innovation, and security. That is why I am strongly advocating for the financial security of the democratic infrastructure in Eastern Germany.” Kaiser has invited 24 representatives of eastern German civil society to an expert discussion on Monday. Federal Finance Minister and Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil (SPD), under whose authority the Special Representative works as a State Minister, is also scheduled to attend. The meeting will address the current situation and the question: “What must funding instruments achieve to be effective in the current local conditions?”
Politics
