Those Afghan men and women who have sought refuge abroad since the Taliban seized power, have included representatives from the worlds of science, culture and civil society. The Gerda Henkel Foundation has set up an emergency programme of assistance for such people. As part of this “Temporary funding initiative for men and women from the field of science, museum staff, and intellectuals from Afghanistan”, the Foundation is, with immediate effect, issuing scholarships for stays in host countries. In collaboration with the relevant support institutions, the foundation is funding measures that will lead to professional qualifications, for example in art restoration. It is also possible to apply for projects to preserve Afghanistan’s cultural heritage. Women will be given priority.

This temporary initiative is aimed particularly at female scholars, restorers, curators, journalists, and vulnerable intellectuals. The objective of the measures is to swiftly help offer the affected persons a living wage. In terms of the spheres of activity, the Gerda Henkel Foundation is acting in accordance with its statutory purpose, whereby fundings is primarily provided for projects in the historical humanities. With its “Patrimonies” funding initiative it promotes the preservation of the cultural heritage, specifically in regions experiencing crisis. In connection with funded projects, the Foundation also provides assistance for social support measures as part of complementary projects.

Contact:
Gerda Henkel Foundation press office
Dr Sybille Wüstemann
Telephone +49 211 93 65 24 - 19
Telefax +49 211 93 65 24 44
wuestemann@gerda-henkel-stiftung.de