NGO Financing: FPÖ Initiates "Small Inquiry Committee"

The audit mandate for the body, also known as the "small investigative committee," was asserted by the FPÖ faction. The Freedom Party has been attacking non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in unison with other right-wing parties in Europe for some time.

According to the information, all payments to associations, non-profit GmbHs, and foundations by federal ministries or companies and institutions of the federal government in this and the previous legislative period are to be examined. The Freedom Party wants to know which NGOs received subsidies, the total amount, and the funding criteria, as well as the purpose for which performance agreements, particularly work and service contracts, were concluded. They are also interested in questions of political influence, which transparency obligations were imposed, and whether the services were monitored.

FPÖ wants to "shut down propaganda networks"

The demand is justified in relation to the response to parliamentary inquiries on the subject. These have made it clear that numerous NGOs receive funding in the billions, which from the FPÖ's perspective raises fundamental questions about transparency, efficiency, and the appropriateness of the use of funds. Abuse, cronyism, and waste cannot be ruled out.

In a press conference in July, the FPÖ spoke of an "NGO industry" that misuses money and advances a political agenda. Together with other right-wing parties in Europe, they want to "shut down this massive propaganda network," said FPÖ Member of the European Parliament Petra Steger at the time.

According to the rules of procedure of the National Council, the subcommittee must begin deliberations within four weeks of receiving such a request and report to the Court of Audit Committee within a further six months, according to the parliamentary correspondence. This report can be presented to the National Council.

(APA/Red)

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