As a reaction against the disturbing increase of neo-Nazi activities in Germany, the magazine STERN started the "Fighting right-wing violence" campaign in August 2000. STERN wished to send an unmistakable signal and firmly oppose hate, exclusion, racism and intolerance.

More than 2 million marks were collected in the first 12 months. This money was given to the "Amadeu Antonio Foundation" that supports projects which respond quickly and directly on a local level. In 1990, the Angolan Amadeu was the first murder victim of racist violence after the fall of the Berlin wall. The president of the German parliament, Wolfgang Thierse, is the sponsor of the foundation.

One of the pilot projects is EXIT. EXIT was designed by the Berlin criminologist, Bernd Wagner together with the "Amadeu Antonio Foundation" based on the project of the same name in Sweden. It seeks to help repentant right-wing extremists opt out of neo-Nazi groups and organizations. The success of EXIT is demonstrable: 64 neo-Nazis wishing to get out have been counseled, and 31 cases have been successfully concluded. Only one case was terminated due to continued involvement in extreme right-wing activity. EXIT is a project that already serves as an example for government models.

Donations can be sent to the following account:
Amadeu-Antonio-Stiftung (Amadeu Antonio Foundation)
Keyword: stern-Aktion
Account number 034 059 629,
Deutsche Bank Heppenheim
Routing number 509 700 04

STERN will make sure that the funds received from its readers and sponsors will be distributed to assist "Fighting right-wing violence." Ongoing reports will be provided of the supported projects and initiatives.