This master’s thesis analyses the role of political foundations in the European Union, with a particular focus on their legal frameworks, funding systems, and contributions to democratic processes. Based on a qualitative comparative analysis of five EU member states – Austria, Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, and Slovenia – the research confirms that the institutional strength of political foundations has a decisive impact on their ability to provide political education, foster participation, and shape political culture.
In countries with a strong legal basis and public funding (e.g., Germany and Austria), political foundations effectively complement the activities of political parties and contribute to the stability of democracy. In other cases (e.g., Slovenia and Sweden), their role remains limited, reflected in weaker institutional support and a more modest range of activities. At the EU level, political foundations act as connecting actors between European political parties and civil society, yet they face persistent challenges related to legitimacy, transparency, and dependence on party structures.
The thesis further highlights that variations in legal frameworks and financial mechanisms significantly affect the effectiveness of political foundations. Organizations that are stably financed and legally well-defined are more successful in carrying out educational and research functions. The study thus opens the door for further discussion on the necessity of greater institutionalization of foundations, which could in the long term strengthen democratic values, enhance political participation, and reinforce European political culture.
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