Overview
- Frank-Walter Steinmeier urged more civic work during a visit to Bernburg, saying volunteers hold society together.
- He invited people to join a first nationwide 'Ehrentag' to mark the May 23 anniversary of Germany’s Basic Law.
- Hate Aid, which helps people targeted by online hate, took part in the launch and may be hit by planned cuts to the federal 'Demokratie leben' fund, according to reporting.
- An opinion piece criticized the president for not challenging the government on those reductions during the ceremony.
- 'Demokratie leben' finances local democracy and anti-extremism projects, and smaller grants could mean less legal help and advice for victims of digital abuse.