General Discussion

State Security in the SED Dictatorship

After World War II, under the direction of the Soviets, German communists began establishing a dictatorial regime in the Soviet occupation zone in Germany. In 1946, also under Soviet pressure, the German Communist Party (KPD) and German Social Democratic Party (SPD) were merged to form the Socialist Unity Party (SED). The SED remained the centre of power in the GDR until 1989.

The rulers created a system of power based on force, threats, rewards and privilege. Individuals were taught to conform, comply and, whenever possible, participate. The SED, with unrestrained access to almost all areas of life - the churches remained an exception - was able to comprehensively control the population and to reward and reprimand as needed.

The Ministry for State Security (MfS) constituted the centre of the ruling apparatus. Under the SED leadership, the so-called “Shield and Sword of the Party” was responsible for protecting the “workers’ and peasants’ state” and securing the SED dictatorship.

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The offices of Erich Mielke, the last GDR Minister for State Security, are preserved in their original condition and form the centrepiece of the exhibition.

Source: https://www.stasimuseum.de/en/enausstellung.htm



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