Overview
- The federal budget line for political foundations was lifted to roughly €194 million, with an added €16 million that aligns with a potential allocation to the Desiderius-Erasmus-Stiftung.
- Interior Ministry experts say the AfD-linked foundation meets the three-legislature eligibility threshold set by the 2023 financing law, but the substantive certification is still pending.
- The ministry confirmed it is reviewing the DES application for global grants and declined further comment on the ongoing procedure.
- If certification is denied, the additional funds could be redistributed to other party-affiliated foundations under the statutory allocation rules.
- DES leaders have outlined plans to seek about €18 million annually from 2026 for staffing, events, and scholarships, while Green lawmakers and other opponents urge blocking any payout.