Meetings with lobbyists
Lobbying is not always a bad thing. Human rights activists, peace activists and oppressed minorities also need associations or groups to represent them in politics. Lobbying is part of this, but it must not become backroom politics.
That is why our group has voluntarily committed itself to transparency. Under the following link you can follow up with which lobby groups or representatives I have met so far. However, there is one exception and that is activists who are politically persecuted and are not safe. In order to protect these people, such meetings are not listed publicly.
Office expenses
At Greens/EFA, transparency is a core value. This applies not only to our political work but also to how we use public funds. Every Member of the European Parliament (MEP) receives a monthly General Expenditure Allowance (GEA) from the European Parliament to cover office-related costs.
In 2024, I received €59,547.00 for these expenses. Of this, I spent €48,638.97, with the remaining €10,908.03 carried over to 2025. Below is a breakdown of how I used these funds:
Office Equipment
The largest share of my expenses in 2024 went to office equipment. This covered costs for technical devices, furniture, and other necessary items for my office. Since a new legislative period began in July 2024, these costs were higher than usual due to initial setup and upgrades.
Office Supplies
This category covers ongoing office expenses, including folders, paper, paper clips, and software licenses—everything needed to keep daily operations running smoothly.
Further Education
Continuous learning is important for me and my team. This category includes coaching and training expenses to strengthen our skills and expertise.
Travel
This includes travel expenses for myself and my team, covering transportation and accommodation costs. In 2024, it covered part of my trip to the Munich Security Conference, as well as overnight stays in my constituency and other European countries. While the European Parliament provides a travel budget, it is not sufficient for a foreign policy-focused MEP like me.
Telephone Costs
This category includes mobile phone contracts and data plans for me and my team, ensuring we stay connected while working across Europe.
Representation & Events
These funds were used for events, meetings, and hosting visitors from abroad or my constituency. The negative amount in this category for 2024 results from reimbursements received from the European Parliament in 2023, which exceeded this year’s expenses.
Administrative Expenses
This includes bank fees and my share of the joint office and travel expenses for the two staff members working for the German Greens in the European Parliament.
Transparency & Accountability
I hope this breakdown helps you understand how I used my GEA funds in 2024. Every expense is documented with receipts. Additionally, I voluntarily audit my expenses annually, ensuring full accountability. This results in the issuance of the Voluntary Confirmation on the use of the General Expenditure Allowance.
Below, you will find an overview of my expenses for 2024. If you have any justified inquiries, I am happy to provide further information.
