Bundeszentrale für politische Bildung

The Federal Agency for Civic Education (bpb) is a specialized authority of the Federal Ministry of the Interior and Community (BMI) based in Bonn. Its mandate is to promote political education and strengthen democratic participation among the population. Within the framework of the federal program "Cohesion through Participation" (Z:T), the bpb implements the program, which supports projects in rural or structurally weak regions aimed at fostering democratic culture and preventing extremism. Since its inception in 2010, over 200 projects have been funded and more than 2,000 individuals have been trained as democracy advisors. The annual funding volume amounts to EUR 12 million; the current fourth funding phase runs until the end of 2024, and a new directive for 2025–2029 is already in effect.

The Federal Agency for Civic Education aims to establish democratic culture and practice in all areas of life. It supports regionally rooted associations and organizations in further developing their structures to be participation- and inclusion-oriented, in providing anti-discrimination and extremism prevention, and in promoting the democratic participation of all people regardless of origin, beliefs, or social status.

The program "Cohesion through Participation" is primarily aimed at associations and clubs in rural or structurally disadvantaged areas of Germany. Funding is provided to nationwide non-profit organizations with volunteer and full-time staff who strengthen democratic participation locally, design their structures inclusively, and wish to offer democracy counseling in cases of conflict. Accompanying measures can also be applied for by non-profit organizations that have extensive experience in supporting democracy promotion projects and have access to the projects funded under C:P.