Campaign Group Targets Tax Offices Over Potentially Uncharitable Lobbying
Activist organization Campact has lodged complaints with various tax authorities in Germany, pointing to the possible loss of non-profit status for six regional branches of the German Taxpayers' Association. The complainants claim that the association's extensive political involvement undermines its charitable status.
The significance of these complaints lies in the fact that many non-profit groups, such as foundations, institutions, and associations, rely chiefly on donations for funding. Without the non-profit label, donors can no longer claim tax deductions for their contributions. This situation reinforces the potential financial impact of Campact's actions against the German Taxpayers' Association.
Focusing on political statements
At the heart of Campact's controversy is the Taxpayers' Association's (BdSt) habit of publicly stating its opinions on political matters. For instance, the organization vehemently advocated against a wealth tax before the last federal election, as revealed by Campact board member Felix Kolb.
Critics argue that such politically charged stances are not congruent with the tenets of charitable activities. According to the Federal Fiscal Court, ideological statements primarily aimed at promoting one's interests is not considered charitable under the guise of political educational work.
Unequal treatment accusations
The unequal treatment of civil society organizations that engage in political activism is a major concern for Campact. In their complaint, they cite the legal opinion they acquired on the BdSt's activities, suggesting that the six regional branches, all based in Rhineland-Palatinate, Hesse, Thuringia, Schleswig-Holstein, Bremen/Lower Saxony, and Saxony-Anhalt, should, like Attac, lose their non-profit status.
Emphasizing their intentions
Campact representative Kolb insists that their objective is not to target the Taxpayers' Association but rather to expose the inconsistency in the interpretation of non-profit laws using a high-profile example. Undermining the imbalance in supporting civil society groups that advocate for human rights, democracy, and social justice is a priority for Campact.
The future of non-profit laws
The group expects a draft bill for political revisions to the non-profit law by early 2024. Campact advocates for recognition of commitments to fundamental rights, democracy, anti-discrimination, social justice, and peace as charitable purposes in the revised legislation. Furthermore, they propose allowing sports clubs to call for public demonstrations against racism.
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