© Kai Gembler / Tobias Bruns
Civil societies around the world are facing major challenges: global crises, growing inequalities, and technological upheavals are putting pressure on democratic structures. At the same time, Antisemitism, Antigypsyism, and racism are being exploited for political goals. As a partner to an effective, connected and value-oriented civil society, the EVZ Foundation is resolutely opposing these developments. It supports democracy wherever it is currently under threat.
In Ukraine, the EVZ Foundation provided immediate financial aid to support survivors of Nazi persecution in need and to stabilize civil society structures as soon as the Russian attack began in 2022. Since 2024, the YeMistechko program has been transforming museums and cultural centers into so-called “third places”: spaces are being created that bring displaced persons and the local population together, offer support to a society shaken by war, and encourage engagement.
A strong civil society that actively shapes society must give space to as many perspectives as possible. That is why the EVZ Foundation supports particularly marginalized and vulnerable groups whose voices are often overlooked in society and politics: it promotes self-organization among Sinti and Roma and strengthens LGBTIQ organizations in Europe.
Even though its manifestations vary greatly, Antisemitism is always a threat to our entire society. To combat this effectively, the EVZ Foundation supports places where social cooperation is created, helping them to develop their own strategies against Antisemitism, gain confidence in taking action, and create spaces for respectful coexistence. The project “Informed, courageous, committed!” goes where people from a wide variety of backgrounds meet every day: at work. The aim is to raise awareness of anti-semitic prejudices, highlight discriminatory structures, and strengthen the ability to actively intervene.
