Förderung: Prien: Hohe Beteiligung bei „Demokratie leben!“

Karin Prien, the Family Minister of Germany, expressed satisfaction with the expansion of the "Demokratie leben!" program, despite varying criticisms. She informed Deutsche Presse-Agentur that there were over 1,300 expressions of interest, with a jury set to evaluate the projects after September 4th. Prien anticipates sending out funding decisions before January 1st, as the program, established in 2014, has a budget of approximately 190 million Euros.

Prien adjusted the program to better reach the middle of society, resulting in a larger pool of applicants and clearer objectives. The program will fund around 200 projects by year-end, a change that has caused concern and criticism among some recipients. Prien noted that there has been increased interest in digital projects, which were previously underrepresented in extremism prevention and democracy education.

She also expressed relief that the criticism has lessened, but acknowledged the unrest in the scene. Prien stated that she understands many civil structures in Eastern German states are less developed, necessitating additional support. This will be incorporated into the program, such as through fostering partnerships for democracy in the east.

Prien also recognized the need to protect queer groups from feeling or facing objective threats in their surroundings, and they plan to address these concerns through their funding guidelines.

In addition to the program's expansion, Prien announced that six million Euros will be allocated for deradicalization programs following the Islamist attack on Christopher Street Day in Berlin. The funds will be allocated specifically to prevent individuals from radicalizing, alongside necessary repressive measures to prevent criminal acts.