Die Methoden der Staatssicherheit

In the organizer's words:

The Stasi used a variety of different methods to monitor the GDR population. Plans, protocols and reflections on these so-called measures are often part of the files that the secret police kept on individuals. The main aim was the complete surveillance of a person and their environment. Filtering out information on potential oppositional behavior and preventing activities that could harm the SED dictatorship's grip on power were the declared goals when carrying out, for example, mail checks, covert surveillance of people of almost every age group, and even so-called "decomposition".

How were the methods planned and carried out? Were those affected aware of this? What consequences did the measures have for them?

Using exemplary cases and examples of files, the tour will illustrate the function and role of the various surveillance methods used by the State Security.

After the tour, you can visit the Stasi Records Archive's collection of sample files and apply for access to the files directly on site.

The number of participants is limited to 15. Pre-registration is possible at: besuch.stasiunterlagenarchiv@bundesarchiv.de or by telephone on 030 18 665-6699.