According to the report, 'massive' financial deficits at WWF
**According to a media report by NDR, WDR, and "Süddeutsche Zeitung," the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Germany is facing "massive" financial gaps. In their budget, there is reportedly a hole totaling several millions of euros. The WWF Germany had announced on Thursday an "in-depth restructuring with organizational changes and cuts." Unfortunately, necessary job terminations were also required. According to the media report, up to 80 of the approximately 500 employees may leave.
The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) is one of the largest and most experienced nature conservation organizations in the world and is active in nearly 100 countries. It has existed for over 60 years. In Germany, the WWF is organized as a charitable foundation. It finances itself through donations, public contracts, and corporate cooperations, such as with Edeka.
In the financial year 2023, which runs from July 2022 to June 2023, the WWF reportedly took in nearly 55 million euros in donations. The total revenues amounted to approximately 125 million euros. The expenses were reportedly 122.4 million euros. To cover rising costs, reserves were reportedly drawn down, according to the WWF. However, this is not a long-term solution.
NDR, WDR, and "SZ" reported, citing an internal presentation by the board to employees, that a loss of at least five million euros is expected in this financial year. Without savings, the deficit could reach nine million euros in the next financial year. Therefore, "central departments" are to be dissolved, and 4.5 million euros in personnel costs are to be saved annually through terminations.
The WWF stated that certain focus areas, such as German agricultural policy or traditional environmental education programs, would no longer "be in the spotlight of our work." However, engagement in global nature protection areas, such as the preservation of biodiversity, the fight against climate change, and the reduction of plastic pollution, would "continue unabated." The goal is to "continue to work efficiently and responsibly with the available resources."**
The WWF Germany's financial report reveal discharges, indicating significant financial holes, with a projected loss of at least five million euros in the current financial year. Consequent to these discharges, the WWF has announced necessary job terminations to save on personnel costs, potentially affecting up to 80 of its 500 employees.
