German Ministry cuts funding for Lambda queer youth network

The CDU‑led Federal Ministry for Family Affairs ended the annual framework grant of €380,000 for Lambda e.V., a queer youth network founded in 1990, after 36 years of state support. Lambda warned that without the funding it may have to close its doors at the end of the year, leaving many LGBTI+ young people—especially in rural areas—without vital services. Around 200 organisations signed an open letter to Minister Karin Prien demanding the funding be restored.

The ministry offered only project‑based funding, with no decision yet on a new concept, and said the broader "Democracy Live!" programme would be cut by about 10%, shifting priority to deradicalisation projects. The move sparked criticism from SPD MP Felix Döring and other groups, who called it a harmful signal for queer‑focused initiatives.

Lambda stresses that youth work cannot rely solely on isolated projects and needs stable, long‑term support to continue its workshops, meetings and lobbying for LGBTI+ youth rights.