GDR dictatorship: the victims are still suffering

The legacy of the East German dictatorship continues to cast its shadow over many lives today, as highlighted during a recent visit to the former Stasi interrogation prison in Hohenschönhausen, Berlin. On Wednesday, the current SED victim commissioner, Evelyn Zupke, presented her annual report to Bundestag President Julia Klöckner (CDU). The SED, or Socialist Unity Party of Germany, was the ruling party during the time of the German Democratic Republic (DDR).

This event took place at a location rich in historical significance, where thousands were imprisoned and subjected to physical and psychological torture under the communist regime. Normally, such meetings occur within the Reichstag, the seat of Germany's parliament. However, this year marked a departure from tradition, as Klöckner and the entire Bundestag presidency were led on a guided tour of the basement chambers of the former Stasi prison. Accompanying them was Mario Röllig, a former prisoner who had been incarcerated in 1987 after a failed escape attempt from the DDR.

During the tour, the group experienced firsthand the conditions endured by those held captive here. It is estimated that approximately 10,000 individuals were detained at Hohenschönhausen before the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989. Overall, experts have determined that between 170,000 and 280,000 people suffered persecution and imprisonment under the DDR regime.

Zupke emphasized that the victims of the SED state’s arbitrary rule should not be forgotten. She noted that many continue to suffer from health issues stemming from their experiences in custody and repression, both physically and mentally. The victims can apply for the compensation pension introduced by the Bundestag in 2007, which has seen an increase matching the statutory old-age pension since this year. Currently, nearly 37,000 formerly politically persecuted individuals benefit from this program, receiving up to 417 euros per month.

In addition to the compensation pension, there is also a hardship fund established in 2025 specifically for those facing severe financial difficulties. According to Zupke, more than 300 people have already received assistance from this fund. She expressed deep emotion upon hearing about individual stories, such as that of a man who could no longer tolerate confined spaces due to traumatic experiences during his imprisonment. He was given an electric bicycle, allowing him to regain mobility and participate more fully in social life.

The hardship fund is supported by government funds and receives additional contributions from private entities. One notable example is IKEA, which has donated six million euros to support this initiative. During the period of the DDR, IKEA produced some products in the Eastern Bloc using labor from prisoners. Zupke hopes other companies will follow this example and contribute to helping those affected by the past.

She urged businesses that have hesitated to take action towards those who were forced to work for their firms while imprisoned in DDR prisons. Her message is clear: it is never too late to reach out to those who suffered under the regime. As she delivered her annual report to Klöckner, Zupke underscored the ongoing need for recognition and support for those still grappling with the consequences of the past.