Executive Vice-President Roxana Mînzatu, in a written answer on 30 June 2026, rejected claims that Erasmus+ funds have been misused for political bias or interference in democratic opposition, arguing that the cited projects promoted democratic participation and common EU values rather than political activity. The answer, addressed to a question by ESN MEP Mary Khan, stated that EU funds are not provided for political purposes and must respect the values of Article 2 TEU, but that there is no obligation of political neutrality for beneficiaries, who can exercise freedom of expression as long as they comply with grant agreements and applicable laws.
The question, submitted on 20 April 2026, cited three Erasmus+ projects that described the German party Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) as 'fascist' or 'dangerous', and asked whether such labelling constitutes political interference and whether the Commission would commit to a full review of Erasmus+ projects. Mînzatu's answer did not announce any new review or concrete measures, instead reiterating that national agencies systematically review final reports to ensure compliance with EU law and grant obligations. The Commission's stance signals a policy orientation that prioritises the promotion of democratic participation and fundamental rights over political neutrality, potentially impacting EU-funded educational and youth projects, national agencies overseeing Erasmus+, and political parties in member states that may be criticised in such projects. No immediate institutional follow-up was announced, but the answer leaves the door open for future scrutiny by the European Parliament or the European Ombudsman.