MEP Mary Khan (ESN) has submitted a written parliamentary question to the European Commission, alleging that Erasmus+ funds have been used to finance projects that label the German political party Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) as 'fascist' and 'dangerous', which she argues constitutes political interference in a Member State's democratic processes. The question, filed on 20 April 2026, cites three specific Erasmus+ projects that describe the AfD in such terms, raising concerns about political neutrality and the misuse of EU taxpayers' money.
first, whether the Commission considers such funding as political interference; second, whether labelling democratic parties as 'fascist' is compatible with the principle of political neutrality; and third, whether the Commission will commit to a full review of Erasmus+ projects to prevent future interference. The MEP highlights the irony of the EU warning against foreign interference while allegedly financing activities that interfere in Germany's internal political debate.
Khan advocates for stricter oversight and political neutrality in EU-funded educational programmes, pushing back against what she sees as ideological indoctrination under the guise of promoting 'European values'. The question targets the Commission's role in ensuring that Erasmus+ projects remain non-partisan and do not delegitimise democratic opposition parties.
Under Rule 144, the Commission is expected to respond within approximately six weeks. The answer will signal the Commission's stance on the political neutrality of EU-funded projects and whether it sees a need to revise guidelines or conduct audits. This question could have implications for the administration of Erasmus+ funds, particularly for projects focused on democracy and tolerance, and may affect how future projects address political parties in Member States.
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