Criticism of Downplaying East Germany's Repression Gains Momentum

The SED victim commissioner, Evelyn Zupke, has voiced strong disapproval of comparisons made between the Federal Republic of Germany and the former German Democratic Republic (GDR). In her statements, Zupke highlighted the troubling trend of political figures equating the actions of the contemporary state with the oppressive structures of the past. She emphasized that such rhetoric trivializes the GDR's dictatorial regime and jeopardizes the concerns of individuals who faced political persecution during that time.

Moreover, Zupke expressed her discontent regarding a recent address by Gregor Gysi, a politician from the Left Party, who remarked that while people in the GDR gained more freedom post-reunification, they also lost much. According to Zupke, Gysi's perspective reflects the privileged viewpoint of someone who held a position of power in the SED, the ruling party in the East. She contended that for each political prisoner released from incarceration and for every individual who could finally embrace their freedom, the struggles and challenges endured were undeniably worthwhile.

Zupke's comments were made in conjunction with the upcoming federal congress of the state commissioners for the evaluation of the SED dictatorship, scheduled to take place in Berlin. She argued that even 35 years after the GDR's dissolution, it remains essential to reflect on the dictatorship to better assist and support the survivors of its violence.

She noted that the long-lasting impact of political violence continues to affect many individuals, underscoring the importance of understanding this historical context to provide adequate help to those affected. Zupke highlighted recent improvements in access to support for traumatized victims, which have been implemented to aid those who suffered under the regime.

Frank Ebert, the Berlin commissioner for the evaluation of the GDR's history, also reflected on the legacy of the division of Germany. He remarked that while freedom can sometimes be overwhelming and lead to insecurity, the experiences of countless individuals living under dictatorships illustrate that without freedom, there can be no true security for a self-determined life. Ebert emphasized the need for authentic and publicly accessible sites that can help educate young people about life in a dictatorship, noting that Berlin has many such locations and that numerous individuals and organizations are committed to this cause. He called for sustained financial support for these initiatives, even amid budget constraints.