In 2023 and 2024, 18-year-olds received their own small budget for cultural activities from the federal government.

One hundred euros for cinema, theater, books, or concerts: The Green Party is calling for a future for the culture pass for 18-year-olds, introduced two years ago. Especially for young people from low-income families, the culture pass opens doors that would otherwise often remain closed, deputy parliamentary group leader Misbah Khan told the German Press Agency. "Those who question this offer primarily affect those whose access to art and culture is already too often restricted."

The Culture Pass was launched two years ago with a cost of €200 for young people born in 2005. Last year, 18-year-olds were still able to secure €100 as a personal cultural budget. Funding is lacking this year because the federal budget has not yet been passed. Whether money will be provided for the project will be decided in the upcoming budget negotiations.

Minister of State for Culture Wolfram Weimer has not yet publicly stated whether he will support the project of his predecessor, Claudia Roth (Greens). A spokeswoman explained in response to a query: "The coalition agreement for the 21st legislative period of the German Bundestag stipulates that the continuation of the Culture Pass should be examined. The evaluation of the Culture Pass is currently underway." A decision on its continuation and opening to new cohorts will then be made promptly, the statement added.

Green Party politician Khan warned: "Culture is increasingly becoming a luxury, yet it is a central prerequisite for social participation. Those who cannot participate in cultural experiences are also excluded from many social discourses."