Stop cuts to the federal budget!

In light of the proposed cuts to development cooperation and humanitarian aid in the 2026 draft budget Terre des Hommes , together with numerous other organizations, is making an urgent appeal to Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil: Germany must not shirk its global responsibility. The German government must initiate a U-turn and provide the necessary funds to address and stabilize the many crises around the world – also in its own self-interest.

“The planned budget cuts will hit children in the world’s poorest regions particularly hard – they will lose protection, education, and future opportunities. Anyone who cuts humanitarian aid and development cooperation now is accepting more suffering, hunger, and hopelessness. Germany is threatening to jeopardize its responsibility for human rights and global stability. Those who want a safe and just world must invest in children’s futures – not cut back on them,” warns Joshua Hofert, spokesperson for the board of Terre des Hommes

The NGO alliance #LuftNachOber (Air to the Top) emphasizes: Investments in development cooperation and humanitarian aid are investments in global security, human rights, and economic prosperity – both locally and in Germany. Development cooperation strengthens growth in partner countries, creates new economic opportunities, stabilizes fragile states, and supports the development of the rule of law.

The alliance therefore appeals to the German government to reconsider the planned budget cuts and to reaffirm its clear commitment to a values-based, responsible foreign policy. Germany's strength lies not only in its economic performance, but also in its moral leadership.

Open letter to the federal government