Brief an Ministerin: „Abschottung schwächt Deutschland“: Konzerne fordern mehr Entwicklungshilfe

Several major German corporations are advocating for stronger development cooperation. In an appeal, Bayer, Condor, Hapag-Lloyd, and DHL among others have signed. The unpublicized letter is reportedly in the possession of Handelsblatt. Development Minister Alabali Radovan (SPD) backed the initiative, saying that "Closing off harms Germany and endangers our prosperity."

She claims that foreign partnerships are essential for job security and competitiveness, stating, "We need reliable partners worldwide who benefit both sides." The motivation behind the initiative is growing criticism of international development cooperation, with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) demanding cuts in development aid.

A joint project for bicycle paths in Peru, funded by Germany, has been criticized by right-wing politicians for wasteful spending. The corporations emphasize the economic benefits of development aid, stating, "Germany lives off its international cooperation like no other country." They need global contacts, new markets, and strong, reliable partners.

Companies require markets, access to raw materials, secure supply chains, and skill exchange with foreign states. German economic strength stems from openness and international networking, says BGA President Dirk Jandura. "In a time of growing geopolitical uncertainty, our companies need more reliable partnerships, diversification, and reliable access to worldwide markets."

International cooperation is not an end in itself but a "central prerequisite for competitiveness, resilience, and prosperity." Radovan had already outlined plans in late 2025 for closer integration between economic cooperations and development aid. German private industry should be more involved and earlier in development cooperation in future, according to reports from late 2025.

Consultations with domestic companies should precede negotiations with strategically important partner countries to consider economic interests abroad. Domestic companies should be consulted in the development of key infrastructure projects to bring national expertise, quality, and sustainability standards. The AfD, currently the strongest political force in nationwide polls, opposes reducing German development aid, especially regarding cooperation with the EU in economic relations with third states.

In its 2025 Bundestag election program, the AfD demands a reduction in financial contributions to third countries and that development policy be returned to the national level.