SED victims finally get higher compensation-a milestone!

SED victims finally get higher compensation-a milestone!

Zicherie, Niedersachsen, Deutschland - On July 1, 2025, a significant change in the law came into force, which ensures SED victims higher and more uncomplicated compensation. From now on, those affected can expect financial support from forced relocations on the former inner German border. According to Tagesschau receive a one-time payment of 7,500 euros, which represents a significant increase compared to the previous 1,500 euros. This change is rated by the SED victim representative Evelyn Zupke as "an impressive signal" for the 35th anniversary of German unity.

A nationwide hardship fund is also launched to help those affected in special emergencies. The reform of rehabilitation law, which was already unanimously decided by the Bundestag on January 30, 2025, brings with it many improvements. Johannes Beleites, state representative for the processing of the GDR dictatorship, emphasizes that the need for need for compensation is no longer necessary and that it will be easier in the future to recognize health damage. This is a massive relief for many people who have often not known for years as they can assert their claims.

memories of the forced relocation

The forced relocation, a dark chapter in GDR history, affects many families who had to suffer from the direct command of the SED. Inge Jakobs tells of her own experience as an example when her family was shown in 1952 as part of the "Aktion Ungensteier" from Böckwitz. After the eviction, the family lived in various camps before finally arriving in Zicherie, Lower Saxony. "We could only take the most necessary," she recalls. Her experiences are recognized in the Böckwitz museum association, which has been operating a border trail since 1996.

The reform not only brings financial relief: the persecution period for compensation has been shortened to two years, which facilitates access for many applicants. Furthermore, Burkhard Bley, state representative for the processing of the SED dictatorship, notes that the need for advice in the only professional advice center in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania remains unbroken and is expected to increase. In 2024, 657 affected people were advised and many new applications are to be expected.

a ray of hope in difficult times

The changes in the law are a ray of hope for the approximately 12,000 affected people of forced relocations on the former inner -German border. Many of them only deal with their past and the role of their families in the GDR in old age. These reforms could help people to deal with these memories better and to receive compensation that hopefully give them back part of the lost life.

Overall, the new legislation not only brings financial aid, but also recognition of the fate of those affected. This could have far -reaching positive effects on society and the view of the history of the GDR. As Evelyn Zupke aptly put it: "It is an important signal that should show that the stories of these people are not forgotten." Further information on the new regulations can also be found at MDR and State representative .