Statement by the Documentation Center on the NSU Complex on the planned cuts to the federal program “Live Democracy!”
Open process – a documentation center on the NSU complex views the planned restructuring of the federal “Live Democracy!” program with great concern. According to recent reports, around 200 projects could lose their current funding by the end of 2026 as a result of the reorganization.
Since 2015, “Demokratie leben!” has been a key instrument for strengthening civil society engagement against racism, anti-Semitism, right-wing violence and other forms of anti-democratic ideologies. The program thus touches on key issues that continue to shape society’s reappraisal of the NSU complex to this day.
The NSU series of murders has revealed in a shocking way how serious the consequences of institutional failure, racist misjudgements and a lack of sensitivity to right-wing terror can be. This is precisely why a strong, independent civil society is indispensable – a civil society that strengthens the perspectives of those affected, keeps memories alive and promotes democratic resilience.
If established funding structures are weakened or terminated in this situation, it is not just a budgetary policy signal. It is a political decision with far-reaching consequences for prevention, educational work and the protection of democratic culture on the ground.
It is particularly worrying that these cuts come at a time when right-wing extremist threats are on the rise and racist discourse is gaining visibility. Those who weaken democratic infrastructure now risk strengthening the very forces that are fighting against an open and united society.
We therefore urge the Federal Government to withdraw the announced plans for cuts and restructuring, to await ongoing evaluations and to fund the federal “Live Democracy!” program permanently, reliably and in line with requirements. The memory of those murdered by the NSU obliges us to create the social conditions to ensure that such crimes are not repeated.
