Berlin to Establish Landmark Democracy Promotion Law
Berlin, February 23 – Berlin is on track to become the first German federal state to pass a dedicated law for the promotion of democracy. Social Senator Cansel Kiziltepe announced that the proposed legislation, known as the State Democracy Promotion Act, is expected to be finalized by summer 2026. This move signals a strong commitment from the capital city to bolster democratic values amidst growing challenges.
“In times when our democracy is increasingly under attack, Berlin is sending a clear signal with the State Democracy Promotion Act,” stated Kiziltepe, a Social Democratic Party (SPD) politician, in response to a dpa inquiry.
Securing Long-Term Support for Civil Society
The primary objective of the new law is to enshrine the promotion of democracy as a permanent state responsibility. This will provide a stable framework for the long-term funding of organizations actively engaged in democratic projects. Consequently, the legislation aims to make it more difficult to implement budget cuts that have recently drawn significant criticism from civil society groups.
“We stand by the organizations and committed individuals who, with courage and perseverance, advocate for cohesion, diversity, and respect – and resolutely oppose right-wing extremism, antisemitism, and all forms of group-focused misanthropy,” Kiziltepe emphasized. She added that the planned law would offer these groups the support and secure environment their work deserves.
Legislative Process and Timeline
The usual hearing process involving relevant associations has been underway since late January. A draft bill is expected to be prepared in May and subsequently introduced to the Senate. The Social Administration, responsible for diversity and anti-discrimination issues, anticipates that the law will be passed by the House of Representatives at its last plenary session before the summer recess, scheduled for July 2.
Cross-Party Agreement, Opposition Skepticism
The ruling coalition of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and SPD had already agreed in their policy guidelines to develop a state-level democracy promotion law. However, the CDU parliamentary group declined to comment on whether the law would indeed be passed by summer. The opposition, particularly the Green Party, has expressed doubts.
Werner Graf, chairman of the Green Party parliamentary group, criticized the governing coalition for taking too long to act. He argued that the association hearing began too late to allow for meaningful participation and to make a decision before the summer break a realistic prospect.
“The chaotic procedure of the Senate harms our democracy,” Graf asserted. He warned that democracy is increasingly under pressure, citing “the strengthening of the extreme right, Russian influence in Germany through hackers and bots, and increasing antisemitism” as serious threats.
This initiative positions Berlin at the forefront of German states in institutionalizing support for democratic principles, aiming to create a resilient environment for civil society organizations working to uphold these values.
Source: https://www.zeit.de/news/2026-02/23/berlin-plant-erstes-landesgesetz-zur-demokratiefoerderung
