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EU grants for NGOs: self-sabotage or necessary support?
The article examines the NGO complex in the EU, funding, lobbying and the role of Karl Lauterbach in the climate emergency.
EU grants for NGOs: self-sabotage or necessary support?
In recent weeks, the issue of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and their relations with the EU has increasingly come to the fore. Loud exxpress.at Numerous NGOs are active by attacking companies from Germany and Europe in areas such as energy, agriculture and industry. Critics see this as a form of “self-sabotage with taxpayer money” and are calling for a comprehensive discussion about the connections between NGOs, politics and the EU.
Particularly noteworthy is the accusation that the EU Commission pays NGOs for lobbying. This accusation is reportedly based on secret contracts recently published by Welt am Sonntag. These agreements meant that environmental groups such as ClientEarth received funding to wage campaigns and lawsuits against companies, including German companies. For example, a secret contract from 2022 obliges ClientEarth to take legal action against coal-fired power plants and has promised the NGO 350,000 euros for a concept to support the coal phase-out, as in the information from tagesschau.de can be read.
Accusations and reactions
The allegations against the EU Commission also result in political reactions. CSU European Parliament member Monika Hohlmeier has expressed concerns that some NGOs are using EU grants for radical projects. She emphasizes that EU funds must not be used to undermine the rule of law. However, the EU Commission has firmly rejected the allegations and defended its transparency in providing financial resources. Information about recipients of EU funds is publicly available.
In addition, it was underlined that the EU Commission has issued strict instructions to ensure that NGO work programs are not approved if they are directed against institutions. The European Court of Auditors has meanwhile criticized the lack of transparency in the financing of NGOs. In May it was also announced that the rules for financial support for NGOs would be tightened in order to ensure the traceability of funds, the website informs br.de.
Future prospects
In the midst of this debate, the role of former Health Minister Karl Lauterbach should also be mentioned. He was appointed adviser on climate and health at the WHO and advocates for a global “climate emergency.” This raises questions about possible restrictions and realignments, which are being discussed by the wider public.
Economic forecasts for 2025 make it clear that the Austrian National Bank expects moderate growth, while experts advise caution. Risks such as inflation and skills shortages could jeopardize the recovery, further complicating the already complex situation surrounding NGOs.
The debate over the NGO complex is likely to intensify as the EU continues to face criticism over how it allocates funding and the impact this has on society.