Overview

• The CDU/CSU submitted a 551-question inquiry to the federal government, scrutinizing the funding and tax-exempt status of several NGOs, including Greenpeace and Deutsche Umwelthilfe.
• The inquiry follows protests against the CDU's collaboration with the AfD on a migration policy vote, which some NGOs reportedly supported.
• SPD leader Lars Klingbeil criticized the move as a 'foul play,' calling for the Union to withdraw the inquiry, citing its potential to strain coalition negotiations.
• CDU Parliamentary Secretary Thorsten Frei defended the inquiry, stating it is standard practice to ensure organizations benefiting from public funds adhere to neutrality requirements.
• NGOs and opposition parties argue the inquiry targets civil society groups critical of the CDU, with some viewing it as an attempt to intimidate dissenting voices.