PRESS RELEASE: The general assembly of the Heinrich Böll Foundation re-elected its two directors, Ralf Fücks and Barbara Unmüßig, for another five year term. Ralf Fücks has held the position since the Heinrich Böll Foundation was rebuilt in Berlin in 1996, while Barbara Unmüßig was first elected in 2002.
Over the past few years, the Heinrich Böll Foundation has become a widely recognized actor in the field of political education both within Germany and abroad. Our foundation’s headquarters in Berlin-Mitte is an important venue for political debates, international encounters and cultural events. Our studies, political analyses, and alternative concepts provide important impulses that go beyond the discussion of a green program. With offices in 29 countries and a network of partners, the foundation supports democratic actors all over the world. We are actively engaged in issues such as environmental protection and political participation, in particular for women.
The two directors intend to further develop these assets in the upcoming years. The conceptual work shall be strengthened and the range of partners of the foundation shall be expanded. We want to form alliances for ecological and social reforms and seek dialogue with unions and companies. At the same time, we support movements that engage critically with undesirable ecological and social developments.
Working in political education, the internet is playing an increasingly important role as a medium for information and communication. The foundation is therefore planning to further increase its online activities. The cooperation with the 16 Landesstiftungen shall be enhanced to a nationwide network of foundations. Gender equality and the equal participation of migrants continue to be guiding policies for our work both internally as well as externally.
In the light of the fundamental changes in international politics and in the Federal Republic of Germany, political foundations are increasingly called upon in their capacities as think tanks, as facilitators of debates, and for their international political networks. The Heinrich Böll Foundation wants to encourage political involvement and offer guidance in this uncertain time. Its main focus will continue to be on the ecological transformation of the industrial society, on a just and peaceful world order, on social participation, and on human rights and democracy.
Click here for the biographies of the board members of the Heinrich Böll Foundation