SPD family policy spokesperson Jasmina Hostert criticized the plan, stating that redirecting funds from civil society to the ‘quiet’ center risks detrimental investments for democracy. She emphasized the importance of supporting local initiatives and warned against the perception that societal diversity is no longer a democratic value. Prien’s approach, which seeks to prioritize institutions like schools and sports clubs over NGOs focused on democratic promotion, has faced backlash for potentially sidelining critical organizations engaged in combating extremism and fostering societal cohesion.