35. Are there provisions for any other form of indirect public funding?

These benefits are not part of the Political Party Act, but rather spread across different laws.

Indirect Public Funding for Political Parties

– Subsidized Media Access:
Parties receive airtime on public broadcasters (and in some cases private broadcasters) for election advertising at self-cost reimbursement, proportional to the party’s electoral significance.

– Access to Public Spaces for Campaigning:
Parties are allowed to use streets, squares, and public facilities for: Posters and billboards; Loudspeakers and megaphones; Information booths.
Permissions are granted by local municipalities, often at minimal or no cost, thereby reducing campaign expenses.

– Discounted Postage:
Parties benefit from reduced postage rates for election-related mail sent to voters, lowering communication costs.

– Tax Advantages:
Political parties enjoy tax privileges, including: Tax-deductible donations for donors; Reduced taxation on party income and certain assets.

– Political Foundations:
Many parties operate affiliated political foundations that receive public funding for: Civic education and political training programs; Research and international cooperation
These foundations enable parties to fulfill educational and societal functions without directly burdening party budgets.

– Access to Public Information:
Parties receive official election data and government information to support campaigning, reducing the need for private data collection.