The political foundations are important actors in development cooperation. They promote institutions and social groups in developing countries and the countries of the former East bloc. Their goal is to contribute towards embedding democratic structures in the partner countries. They are also committed to popular participation in political decision-making processes and to strengthening the economic independence of partner countries. A priority in the foundations’ development policy activity is strengthening trade unions and political parties – for example, by promoting their training establishments and encouraging free media. The foundations also support self-help organisations, particularly in rural areas. They promote adult education in social issues and the strengthening of sociological research capacity in the partner countries.

Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung
The Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES) was founded in 1925 as the political legacy of Germany's first democratically elected president, Friedrich Ebert. Its goal is to promote the political and social education of people from all walks of life in the spirit of democracy and pluralism, and to contribute to international understanding and cooperation. The foundation is working in more than 100 countries.

Friedrich-Naumann-Stiftung
The Friedrich Naumann Foundation seeks to help promote the principle “freedom in human dignity” in all areas of society. It works towards this goal in Germany and abroad. The foundation is active in more than 50 countries.

Hans-Seidel-Stiftung
The Hanns Seidel Foundation works in Germany and abroad for democracy, peace and development. Its Institute for International Contact and Cooperation is working in 55 countries in all, focusing on poverty reduction, population growth, environmental destruction and organised crime.

Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung
The Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung works in Germany and abroad. Its goal is to promote democracy, social policy involvement and understanding between nations. It follows the basic political values of ecology, democracy, solidarity and freedom from violence.

Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung
The Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung works nationally and internationally for peace, freedom and justice. One of its priorities is development policy. The foundation supports more than 200 projects worldwide in development cooperation in over 120 countries.

Rosa-Luxemburg-Stiftung
The Rosa Luxemburg Foundation sees itself as part of the political movement for democratic socialism. It is active in the field of political education, and also promotes research projects on this topic. In its international projects, the foundation works with unions, women’s organisations, social movements and international organisations.

All foundations assign highly qualified specialists in their projects and programmes within a limited framework. Further information can be obtained from their relevant web sites.