State Government Out of Climate Foundation After Charter Change - Mecklenburg-Vorpommern Climate Foundation Survives Russian Funding Scandal, Now Fully Independent
The Climate and Environmental Protection Foundation Mecklenburg-Vorpommern has undergone significant changes. Initially funded with Russian money, including a 20 million euro contribution from Nord Stream 2 AG, the foundation's governance has shifted away from government control. The state has withdrawn its support following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, but the foundation persists, now fully in the hands of civil society.
Established in early 2021, the foundation's purpose of climate and environmental protection is considered perpetual. Critics initially suggested its creation was to secure the completion of the Nord Stream 2 pipeline. The foundation was led by former Minister-President Erwin Sellering, who resisted efforts to dissolve it. However, following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the government withdrew its support, and attempts to dissolve the foundation failed.
The foundation's governance has since changed. The approval of the new draft statutes allows the board and committee to be determined remotely, independent of the Minister-President. The state's initial contribution of 200,000 euros remains as a basic endowment. The honorary board now consists of Christoph Morgen and Detlef Kurreck, effective since the end of 2024.
Despite the government's withdrawal and initial criticism, the Climate and Environmental Protection Foundation Mecklenburg-Vorpommern continues to operate. Now fully independent and in the hands of civil society, it can continue to support climate protection initiatives in the region.
