Anyone who gets involved will sooner or later encounter legal issues. This is especially true when it comes to founding an organization, obtaining nonprofit status, or engaging in political activism—such as against right-wing extremism. Unfortunately, these issues are often complicated, and there is a lack of clear, practical support.
The initiative zivilgesellschaft-ist-gemeinnuetzig.de compiles helpful information, experiences, and concrete support services for exactly these kinds of situations. The site is aimed at associations, initiatives, and activists who want to ensure they’re legally protected or seek advice—without having to hire a law firm right away.
Common Problems—and How This Site Can Help
Many volunteers report facing similar challenges:
- The tax office does not recognize the organization’s bylaws as qualifying for nonprofit status.
- There are threats or attacks due to political activism.
- Nonprofit status is at risk, for example, due to participation in demonstrations.
zivilgesellschaft-ist-gemeinnuetzig.de does not offer individual legal advice, but instead provides a structured collection of resources, legal assessments, and contact information. The site also publicly highlights political cases to raise awareness of structural issues.
An Overview of Key Offers
Allianz Guidelines on Legal Topics
Brief, easy-to-understand explanations of common questions: What can a nonprofit association say about politics? How are bylaws recognized?
View the list of guides
Finding Lawyers – What Matters
This page explains why specialized advice on nonprofit law is hard to find and offers tips on how to find the right support. Many law firms offer free initial consultations.
Free Consultation Services Offered by Other Organizations
There are various resources that provide legal assessments or initial consultations, such as for questions regarding bylaws or plans to establish an organization.
Legal Aid Fund for Challenges to Nonprofit Status
Activists working against right-wing extremism can receive support through a fund established by Campact and the Society for Civil Liberties (GFF) if their nonprofit status is threatened with revocation.
More information here
Contact: gemeinnuetzig-gegen-rechts@freiheitsrechte.org
Protection Against Right-Wing Extremism in Cases of Cease-and-Desist Letters and Lawsuits
Anyone who is sued or receives a cease-and-desist letter due to articles, statements, or projects can access legal advice and a support network through “Frag den Staat.”
Legal advice from the DSEE
The German Foundation for Civic Engagement and Volunteering (DSEE) offers free advice on issues related to founding an association, bylaws, and other legal matters.
For legal advice from the DSEE
“Gegenwind” Grant Fund
Through the “Gegenwind” grant fund, the Amadeu Antonio Foundation offers financial support for security measures and legal advice in eastern Germany.
More information about the grant fund
No-SLAPP Help Desk
This resource center supports organizations facing lawsuits due to their publications. It provides initial assessments and connects organizations with specialized networks.
About the No-SLAPP Help Desk
Your Local Tax Office as a Point of Contact
Your local tax office can also provide an initial assessment—for example, regarding bylaws or planned activities. While this information is not binding, it is often helpful.
What are SLAPPs?
SLAPP stands for "Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation." Such lawsuits are intended to silence critical voices. They are often directed against the media, activists, or organizations—with the aim of deterring them through high costs and lengthy legal proceedings. Attempts to revoke nonprofit status can also serve as a means of exerting pressure.
The EU has now adopted an anti-SLAPP directive, which is being transposed into national law. Until then, remedies such as reciprocal legal protection or the No-SLAPP help desk can provide assistance .
Conclusion
Anyone who gets involved should have legal protection—especially when it comes to political issues. The website zivilgesellschaft-ist-gemeinnuetzig.de offers a helpful overview of legal issues and support services. One thing is clear: Those who act courageously need not only conviction but also backing. Here, you’ll find both.
