German anti-extremism program cuts funding to 200 initiatives

Germany's federal program 'Demokratie leben' (Living Democracy) is cutting funding to 200 initiatives, primarily in structurally weak regions of eastern Germany. The program, established in 2015 by the Federal Ministry for Education, Family, Seniors, Women and Youth in response to the murders by the far-right terrorist group National Socialist Underground, aims to promote democracy, shape diversity, and prevent extremism. However, Family Minister Karin Prien (CDU) stated in March that the program targets a 'left-liberal milieu' too heavily, leading to a shift in focus. Critics warn that the cuts will weaken democratic engagement and strengthen far-right forces in the east.