Ingrid Kerz-Rhling

Tomas Plnkers

Traitor or Seduced
A psychoanalytic investigation of Stasi unofficial collaborators
(Machine-translated from the original German)

Over the 40 year existence of the German Democratic Republic, more than
600,000 people were recruited by the Ministry for State Security (Stasi) as
unofficial collaborators. Whether out of political conviction or a sense of
adventure, for career reasons or revenge, for fear of reprisals or the desire
for recognition and security, an incurable and afflictive alliance was
entered into with the Stasi whereby colleagues, acquaintances, friends, or
even their own family were surveilled and betrayed. How do these people stand
by their former conspiratorial activities 14 years after dissolution of the
Stasi?
For the first time, this psychoanalytic investigation creates an opportunity
to question the unconscious motivations for their actions. Twenty former
unofficial collaborators told their life stories and a group of five
psychoanalysts drew up an overall assessment which takes into account the
different perceptions by the collaborators and their case officers, yielding
an assessment of fact and perpetrators alike.
ISBN 3-86153-327-8
9 783861 533276

Research on the GDR society

Ingrid Kerz-Rhling / Tomas Plnkers
Traitor or Seduced
A psychoanalytic investigation of Stasi unofficial collaborators
Assisted by Helmut Mller-Enbergs
Ch. Links Verlag, Berlin
The conduct of the investigation and the printing carried out with the
financial support of the Foundation for the Reconciliation of the SED
Dictatorship.
The German National Library lists this publication in the German National
Bibliography; detailed bibliographic data are available on the Internet at
http://dnb.ddb.de.

1st edition, March 2004

Christoph Links Verlag - Links Druck GmbH
Schnhauser Allee 36, 10435 Berlin, Tel .: (030) 44 02 32-0
www.linksverlag.de; mail@linksverlag.de
Cover design: KahaneDesign, Berlin, using a photo of Edda Fensch, Ch Links
Verlag, Berlin.
Proofreading: Ingrid Kirschey-Feix, Berlin
Set: Ch Links Verlag, Berlin.
Printing and binding works: AZ Druck und Datentechnik, Kempten
ISBN 3-86153-327-8

Contents
Foreword.................................................................... 6
1 Introduction.............................................................. 8
1.1 Overview of the structure of the Stasi and its functions .............. 8
1.2 Selection and use of unofficial collaborators ........................ 10
1.3 The psychodynamics of surveillance and betrayal relations ............ 13
1.4 Question and objectives .............................................. 17
1.5 Method ............................................................... 17
1.6 Evaluation ........................................................... 18
1.7 Data framework of the surveyed unofficial collaborators .............. 19
2 Summaries of 20 interviews............................................... 21
Mr. Opitz (1) ............................................................ 21
Mr. Jahn (2) ............................................................. 26
Ms. Ring (3) ............................................................. 29
Mr. Gabler (4) ........................................................... 33
Mrs. Jung (5) ............................................................ 35
Ms. Urban (6) ............................................................ 38
Ms. Pohl (7) ............................................................. 41
Mrs. Forster (8) ......................................................... 44
Ms. Langer (9) ........................................................... 46
Mrs. Quindt (10) ......................................................... 47
Mr. Pollok (11) .......................................................... 51
Ms. Vogel (12) ........................................................... 54
Mr. Erler (13) ........................................................... 58
Mr. Voss (14) ............................................................ 60
Mr. Stahl (15) ........................................................... 63
Mr. Mahler (16) .......................................................... 66
Ms. Onken (17) ........................................................... 69
Mr. Lenz (18) ............................................................ 71
Mr. Hartel (19) .......................................................... 73
Mr. Dahm (20) ............................................................ 77
3 Overall Assessment....................................................... 81
3.1 Motives for participation in the project and relationship with the
interviewer .............................................................. 81
3.1.1 Attempts to deal with feelings of shame and guilt because of IM
activities ............................................................. 81
3.1.2 Searching for narcissistic gratification ......................... 81
3.1.3 Search-sufficient / therapeutic object relationship .............. 81
3.1.4 Desire to aggressively advocate for the Stasi, to justify it, the
West against right to represent .................................... 82

3.1.5 The relationship with the interviewer ............................ 82

3.2 Recruitment .......................................................... 83
3.2.1 The bribed ....................................................... 83
3.2.2 The extorted ..................................................... 84
3.2.3 Convinced Socialists ............................................. 85
3.2.4 The deluded ...................................................... 85
3.2.5 Date and place of contact with the Stasi ......................... 86
3.2.6 Reactions of candidates on recruitment ........................... 88
3.3 Duration and type of informal cooperation ............................ 88
3.4 Unconscious and conscious motives for cooperation with the Stasi ..... 89
3.4.1 Search love and care by an understanding partner ................. 90
3.4.2 Compensatory narcissistic deficits ............................... 90
3.4.3 Restitution own or parental failings ............................. 90
3.4.4 Satisfaction of hatred and revenge ............................... 91
3.4.5 Participation in the power and pleasure of a double life ......... 91
3.4.6 Fear of punitive measures ........................................ 91
3.4.7 Expectation of reward for cooperation ............................ 92
3.5 Relationship to the case officer and commitment to the IM activities . 92
3.5.1 Cooperation with the case officer ................................ 92
3.5.2 Commitment to the IM activities .................................. 94
3.6 Personality structure and conflict ................................... 95
3.7 Mental processing of conspiracy ...................................... 98
3.8 detection and contemporary view of IM activities .................... 101
4 File location and personal statements of those interviewed.............. 105
4.1 Ten acts perspectives (Helmut Mller-Enbergs) ....................... 105
4.1.1 Motives that arise from the Stasi documents ..................... 105
4.1.2 The lack of IM records .......................................... 106
4.1.3 Mostly ideological motives ...................................... 106
4.1.4 Mostly benefit considerations ................................... 119
4.1.5 Predominantly printing experience ............................... 121
4.2 Conclusion .......................................................... 131
4.3 Considerations for comparison between interview and record .......... 133
5 Detailed representation of two selected cases........................... 135
6 Final considerations.................................................... 158
6.1 Subsequent editing of biographical narratives ....................... 158
6.2 Why it was many GDR citizens not possible to evade recruitment by the
Stasi? .................................................................. 160
6.3 Processing of surveillance and repression in the GDR ................ 161
6.4 Generalization of findings possibility and validity of interpretations
........................................................................ 164

6.5 Social and individual disease ....................................... 164

Appendix.................................................................. 166
Bibliography.............................................................. 167
Information about the authors............................................. 170
Analyzes and documents.................................................... 171

Foreword

Foreword
After the election of the Peoples Chamber in March 1990, the question arose,
what will become of the state security apparatus of the GDR. It was not until
June 1990 that the Peoples Chamber adopted a decision on the dissolution of
the Ministry for State Security (MfS, commonly known as the Stasi), with
Joachim Gauck as chairman of a Special Committee for monitoring the final
dissolution of the Stasi / AfNS. The end of 1991 adopted the Stasi Records
Act (StUG), which allowed all citizens who had been monitored by the Stasi to
inspect their files. Thus began a controversial discussion about the meaning
and function of the unofficial collaborators (abbreviated IM, from the
original German term Inoffizieller Mitarbeiter), who has come through getting
new disclosures and press releases to date to no end. Those who learned in
their files of the monitoring, control and other measures the Stasi first
time after 1991 responded, shocked by the extent of control and spying,
especially when they realized that friends, colleagues or family members had
abused their trust. That public punishment of the perpetrators was demanded
is well understood. Of them could not be expected that they strove to
understand those who had monitored and betray them. Law enforcement, review
and dismissal of unofficial collaborators were a certain satisfaction,
without being asked why a person had become an informer for them. If
unofficial collaborators disclosed themselves and even admitted their guilt,
they met often with little willingness to listen to the reasons for their
cooperation. This in turn led many IM to deny their involvement and to no
longer deal with their past. So far only in therapeutic conversations has
succeeded in some cases, to gain insight into the difficult life stories,
conflicts, fears and needs that made a person receceptive to recruitment by
the Stasi. Especially those who had been put under pressure or recruited with
hardly inscrutable legends felt misjudged and fought for their rights. Many
IM had experience only as agents of the Stasi, and had to follow the
instructions of case officers and had no decision opportunities. Under these
circumstances, it was very difficult for them to feel responsible for their
actions. Those, however, who had been used out of conviction for their
country, found themselves a more than equal and self-responsible partner and
may still defend their activities for the Stasi.
To understand these different settings, it seems necessary to clarify
the motives for collaboration, using biographical backgrounds and the
subsequent processing of detailed psychoanalytic interviews with former
collaborators. Only in this way is it possible to assess whether their
motives were ideological conviction, submission, hope for satisfaction of
needs, revenge, or fear of punitive measures. As psychoanalysts we are
interested not only in the conscious motives and explanations of our
interviewees, rather we also attempted rather to identify the unconscious
conflicts and traumas that shaped their personalities.
The results of our study show a very heterogeneous picture of
personality structures and motives. Even though we shortened the title of the
book to Traitors or Seduced, the interviews show in all clarity that it is
not one-sided and that traitor or seduced are but an interplay of various
motives. It was both submission to an omnipotent apparatus, which they felt
delivered up to the hope of getting previously unmet needs fulfilled by the
case officer, and desires to the conviction to protect the socialist society,
and to the possibility of secret revenge to supervisors and acquaintances to
be able to practice, as well as to the standstill of blackmail. Since most of
those who were unofficially worked for the Stasi, no longer want to deal with
this part of their life story, it was not easy for us to find interview
partners. With the help of Helmut Mller-Enbergs, employees of the Federal
Commissioner for the Records of the State Security Ser0vice of the former

Foreword

German Democratic Republic (Stasi), and Gebhard Klenz, employees at the

Berlin State Commissioner for the Stasi files, which we would like to thank
for their support, we were finally able, contact take former IM. That ready
explained by a greater number of requested finally 20 people for
conversation, allowed us to study and thus very deep insights into the
biographical background of people who allied themselves through their work
for the Stasi with the DDR system. We want to thank again all those
interviewed at this point for it. We know this willingness to talk to
appreciate all the more so as they, inter alia, touched personal experiences
that were associated with shame, guilt or painful memories.
As for cooperation with the Stasi, the most diverse motives were to
make out, so there was very heterogeneous reasons for participating in our
survey. At the evaluation of the interviews participated as psychoanalytic
experts Halina Berger, Renate Franke and Friedrich Markert, the test
psychological evaluation was by Bernd Liebermann Performed. Helmut MllerEnbergs has seen the files of some of us and interviewee described in a
contribution of motivation, scope and reliability of the IM from the
perspective of the Stasi. All of you, we thank for their cooperation.
With this publication we want to help to enable an adequate assessment
of the unofficial collaborators and their actions based on the findings on
the mental aspects of the secret cooperation. The results are used either to
justify the secret observation nor condemnation, but should help to eliminate
prejudices in the public and possibly stimulate a reflection at victims and
perpetrators. We also wish to thank the Foundation for the Study of the SED
dictatorship, which has enabled us to carry out the investigation
financially.
In the following all the names of people and places have been changed
for reasons of privacy protection.

1 Introduction

1 Introduction
14 years after the collapse of the SED Dictatorship, the impact of the work
of the Ministry of State Security is still noticeable for many former GDR
citizens. Not only do the victims of the Stasi still suffer from the earlier
prosecution, but also many unofficial collaborators of the Stasi have to
continue to deal with the consequences of their involvement in monitoring and
denunciation opposition. In addition to the group of IM, which is related to
their previous jobs still quite self-conscious even today, there are those
for which the voluntary or enforced cooperation with the Stasi still
represents a psychological burden. They have partially lost their jobs,
suffer from social isolation and have to cope with guilt and shame. They are
also faced with the fact that previously recognized benefits for the GDR
State be condemned today as a criminal offense.
How could the Stasi win such a great power that approximately 600,000
people were prepared in the course of 40 years, more or less voluntarily to
work for the secret service? In addition to the political situation in the
divided Germany, by the German Democratic Republic feared more than any other
Eastern bloc states penetration imperialist enemies, the fact played a role
that the population had already lived before the founding of the GDR years
under a dictatorship, and hardly meet democratic freedoms could. In addition,
the Stasi tried to cleverly set by a special psychological training to its
full-time staff on needs, fears and personality of future IM and to create
the conditions for successful recruitment in a longer lead time. While
supporting many publications on the unofficial collaborator on the evaluation
of the files of the Stasi, no work, the study based on interviews with the
IM, the conscious and unconscious motives and conflicts of these people.
However, knowledge of the psychological aspects of conspiratorial activity
constitutes a prerequisite for understanding why so many people were willing
to cooperate with the Stasi.

1.1 Overview of the structure of the Stasi and its functions

Although the war ended in 1945 the Soviet security organs in the Soviet
occupation zone took control, yet a partys own defense service was set up
even before the establishment of the Ministry for State Security in 1950,
whose employees worked in different departments of the party apparatus of the
SED. In particular, the so-called police stations 5, a kind of political
police, had among other things, the task of uncovering the opponents of the
new order. Another precursor of the Stasi was the Committee for the
Protection of Peoples Property (Gieseke, 2001). Finally, the establishment
of the Ministry for State Security was decided in February 1950. The Peoples
Chamber to protect the GDR especially against saboteurs and spies from the
imperialist countries. The Stasi, shield and sword of the party, was only
accountable to the SED, not the Parliament, and not subject to any democratic
control. The stock of initially about 1,000 full-time employees grew rapidly,
in 1989 there were about 91,000 who were working full-time for the Stasi. The
recruitment of unofficial collaborators began shortly after the founding of
the Ministry. A total of about 600,000 citizens worked during the existence
of the GDR unofficially for State Security, the collapse of the GDR, there
were still about 174,000 IM. The Stasi pursued real and alleged enemies of
the GDR within and beyond its borders, adopted prior arrests and entertained
own detention centers. From 1953, the foreign intelligence service was
incorporated as a Main Intelligence (HVA) the Stasi. After the demonstrations
at the popular uprising of 17 June 1953 by the State Security had been

1 Introduction

surprised, it was until 1955, assigned to the Ministry of Interior in order

since to act after the restructuring of the security forces again as an
independent ministry directed 1957-1989 by Erich Mielke has been. Disoriented
by the unrest in Poland and Hungary in the 50s, the main interest of the
Stasi focused on strengthening internal security, in order to prevent any
uprising of the population. Even after the Wall was built in 1961, which
should serve mainly to prevent the flight of many GDR citizens to the West,
the number of Stasi employees was further increased in order to combat
espionage threat from the West better. The East-West German Basic Treaty in
1972 caused the Stasi again to a strengthening of its monitoring activities,
as more Western citizens were able to travel to East Germany and thus from
the perspective of national security increased diversion and enemy contacts.
1975 therefore reached the number of IM peaked at about 180,000 (Gieseke,
2001). The uncertainty of the SED increased by the partial opening of
borders, as they feared for the loyalty of their citizens all the more so the
more intense they had by the dtente contacts in the West. In particular, the
increase in emigration applications caused the Stasi to watch hostile
negative actions departure willing people. But also by the greater activity
of oppositional church, peace, human rights and environmental groups saw in
the 80s, the Stasi forced to inject their unofficial collaborators in these
groups.
The large number of employees of the Stasi to 1989 can be, among other
things due to the fact that the Ministry took over a variety of tasks, which
are carried out in other countries by the police and other institutions
(Gieseke, 2001). But the Berlin headquarters had approximately sixty service
units. The tasks included ensuring the economy, the control of Post and
Telecommunications, passport control, the monitoring of tourism, the fight
against terrorism, counter-espionage and surveillance of subversive groups
and individuals.
When in 1989 it became clear that the GDR threatened to collapse,
measures have been taken, the huge mountains of files partly destroy. The
Stasi was converted in November 1989 to the Office of National Security, but
did not have a long inventory more. Shortly thereafter, in December 1989,
protesting citizens, county councils and county departments began to be
filled, to prevent destruction of the files. On 5 April 1990 the Peoples
Chamber deputies decided to check the Stasi activities and the possibility of
access to open in its own file. The adopted by the Bundestag in 1991 Stasi
Records Act opened the way for an opening of the files of the Stasi. Joachim
Gauck was used as the first Federal Commissioner for the Records of the
State Security Service of the former GDR. In the last twelve years, since
there was not only an opportunity for the Stasi under surveillance and being
followed to consult their own files, but many people of public service and
public officials were subject to review. The work of the review committees in
the public sector often showed discrepancies between the assessment of BStU
basis of the material situation and the memories of the individual in its
cooperation with the State Security. Since neither the files of the Stasi nor
the memories of individuals in representing the historical truth, the work-up
of the 40 years of the SED dictatorship is associated with many difficulties.
For a willingness to engage with the IM of conspiratorial activity and the
admission of his guilt, the inspections often proved useful as a little. This
was, inter alia, an occasion for our investigation, through which we wanted
to try in intensive psychoanalytically oriented discussions to better
understand the conscious and unconscious motives as well as the biographical
backgrounds for the willingness to secret loan activity and possibly to give
the interviewee the possibility of a subsequent reflection.

1 Introduction

1.2 Selection and use of unofficial collaborators

Knowledge of number and function of unofficial collaborators of the Stasi
came, unlike in other Eastern Bloc countries, thus to the public that the
files have been opened for both the persecuted and for scientific studies.
The extent of surveillance and denunciation in the GDR has exceeded all
expectations, which, inter alia, led to a general condemnation of unofficial
collaborators. It must be remembered, however, that the individual IM at the
time of the GDR often knew nothing of the large number of conspiratorial
people and himself did not live as a secret informer by gave legends faith or
to protect themselves and the upper napkins with banal information meant. The
concept of unofficial collaborator was not known in the population during
the GDR era, there was talk of true spies, who were all active in society.
Compared to spontaneous denunciation, as they played an important role in
National Socialism, the IM system in the GDR was strictly regulated, compared
to voluntary applicants one was extremely skeptical and rejected them in
general. The spontaneous denunciation, as they were often at the time of
National Socialism, often occurred less out of political conviction, they
were rather of the individual conflict resolution, for example, in family
disputes, neighborhood conflicts and problems in the workplace. You could by
the betrayal of unwanted partners unpunished revenge (Diewald-Kerkmann,
1998). Will also reduce those personal motives, governed a large number of
differentiated policies, the activities of the IM of the review of its
suitability in a forward, the recruitment, their upbringing, the
conspiratorial meetings up to details of their activities. In the final
version of the Directive in December 1979, the IM can be described as the
main weapon in the fight against the enemy, which should contribute to
safeguarding internal security of the GDR and the strengthening of the
socialist community (Mller-Enbergs, 1996, p 305).
Unofficial collaborators were people who had met with the Stasi a
typically written agreement, the protection and security of the GDR to work
for conspiratorially. The activities of unofficial collaborators shall be
intended to gather information about anti-state people, to support the enemy
fighting, to influence the development of society or to fulfill logistical
tasks, such as the apartment for conspiratorial meetings to provide (Gieseke,
2001; Mller-Enbergs, 1996 Sauerland, 2000). In the fight against political
enemies it was not just about their observation, but also to decomposition
measures, i.e. uncertainty, isolation and psychological destruction. Over the
history of the GDR, the profile of IM has changed several times, as the
guidelines of the Stasi show (Mller-Enbergs, 1996). Even the name of the
secret staff was changed repeatedly. The term unofficial collaborator,
which replaced since 1968 from secret collaborator (GM), should the
informants suggest to be a true partner of the Stasi and not a secret
informer.
The people had to be selected to meet certain requirement profiles, in
which the features of the future IM were formulated depending on its field of
application in advance. Beginning in 1979, a so-called Stasi was designed by
specific request screen, based on which the selection of candidates was
carried IM (Mller-Enbergs, 1996). This image included features such as
social and professional status, age, personal connections and skills as well
as political and character personality qualities. Economists expected of an
operational staff and Others Honesty, reliability, and adaptability to the
Stasi while willingness to betrayal and dishonesty towards the Observierten.
According to a prior review in a preliminary phase, the recruitment was
carried out often with a legend, i.e. with a motivating story, which was an
honorable, morally creditable basis of the expected collaboration with the
Stasi. These legends were seen through quickly by the majority of the

10

1 Introduction

addressee, as the case officers went out of their most recognizable as such.
Some of the persons contacted, however believed the legend to the end of
their meeting with the Stasi.
The contact was made directly by the employees of the Stasi, in
writing, by phone or via a third person. The case officer said the potential
of IM in the workplace, on the way to work or at home. Many were summoned by
an authority or the human resources department of their operation under a
pretext and there enlisted by enforcement officers. When prompted, present
themselves for an interview, the candidates usually did not know that they
were the Stasi. In addition to this type of recruitment but there was also
extortion and threat of sanctions, for example, in people who had been in GDR
prisons, detention or which anything had been guilty or was present against
the allegedly compromising material. Through its involvement with the Stasi
them should be allowed a reparation.
Approximately 90 percent of IM were men, most between 25 and 40 years,
the proportion of women and young people up to 25 years was in the 80s at ten
per cent, of. The minors at one percent. One third of the IM were SED members
in the 80s. Approximately one in three mentioned GDR citizens rejected the
attempted recruitment, what by Dekonspiration was easiest possible (MllerEnbergs, 2000). Although the refusal could be punished by sanctions, but a
large number of objectors has endured no serious sanctions (Mller-Enbergs,
2000).
The areas of the IM were varied. According to your different tasks
there was for them each special designations: IMS was an IM to secure the
area of responsibility, the IMF were persons who work directly on hostile
working people, have their confidence, have invaded their conspiracy ....
Under IME was understood so-called expert IM. Unofficial collaborators who
put their apartments for conspiratorial meetings or your telephone connection
is available, welcomed IMK, i.e. IM to ensure the conspiracy. Full-time IM
(HIM) were reliable and verified IM, set up under special conditions or
special skills to tasks in other states. They received an allowance and an
apparent activity that should keep secret the true activities before her
family and environment (Mueller Enbergs, 1996). It cannot be all categories
listed here, only the mentioned give an impression of the complicated
structure of the IM system. Depending on the intended field of application
persons were recruited, who were considered suitable or who were forced as
members of opposition groups to conspiratorial collaboration with extortion.
The large network of IM in all areas of society exercised an intimidating and
disciplining effect on the population, even though many of the Stasi been
transmitted information often seem banal. It should also help to register any
possible unrest and protests among the population in time.
The motives for cooperation with the Stasi, both in political
conviction, as well as in psychological factors, to seek personal benefits
and fears. The motives given in the Stasi files do not always coincide with
those stated by the former IM because the enforcement officers had an
interest to emphasize the conviction as the main motif. By the socialist
conviction of IM a high level of commitment and reliability was assured.
Although the documented by the Stasi willingness of conviction was not
always accepted by respondents after the transition, so there were just under
technicians the desire to strengthen and safeguard the production (Barkleit
u. Dunsch, 1998). As nichtideologische motives personal benefits, recognizing
the needs of society and the reparation of sins were called by the Stasi. The
latter stated that the advertiser to IM was blackmailed by vorliegendes
against him compromising material to cooperate. Were pressured women if they
had violated the ban on prostitution in the GDR. They were, inter alia,
forced to establish contacts with western businessmen to spy on them. These
women received some financial support, but were also constantly threatened

11

1 Introduction

with punitive measures. So-called cells informers were prisoners who should
observe their cellmates and received prison for reductions or concessions.
The recruitment of unofficial collaborators by the enforcement officers
required a good knowledge of the person of the potential IM, his interests
and preferences, his relationships, the family situation, his career plans
and also the effect of intimidating measures. These idiosyncrasies had the
case officer determined in a reconnaissance phase, then to-audit or after.
Preliminary phase to clarify the suitability of candidate IM (see FIG.
Richter, 2001). These data have already been recorded in a flow file. Under
pressure to promote a sufficient number of IM, it took the lead officers with
these rules is not always as accurate. Despite the training in operational
psychology, such as those has taught at the MfS College in Potsdam, the
subjective requirements of the advertiser to not getting enough consideration
was given (Behnke and Fuchs, 1995;. Mller-Enbergs, 1995). The contact took
place often under false pretenses by the future IM e.g., was summoned to
check his identity papers by an authority other than the Stasi.
The requests of the Stasi with respect to an increase or employees
were not always answered positively. Many were rejected (cf. Mller-Enbergs,
1995). Others in turn meant the request as not a question, but a command to
which they had to submit. These different survival and response patterns
indicate different mental dispositions, which are crucial in determining
whether they consented to a collaboration with the Stasi or not. The
advertising of the Stasi spoke basically two sides: on the one hand a certain
order dimension in terms of the required monitoring and information
gathering; On the other hand a social offer, that is to meet regularly from
now on with a case officer to get his attention and attention. Both sides
must be taken into consideration in order to understand the individual
effective motives for cooperation.
If he had managed to recruit an IM, followed by the education by the
case officer, which should make him a good employee. In addition to the
placement of the order and to clarify the nature of the meetings and the
reports also included the psychological support of the IM. A case officer in
charge ten to eleven IM on average. Depending on the personality of the IM
management officer had to give the job to be a role model, recognition and
attention to get involved as a trusted interlocutor and the IM to convince
them of the importance of his task for backing of socialism. As MllerEnbergs (1996), Gieseke (2001) and others describe existed between the
expectations of the Stasi and the reality is often a large discrepancy,
because many, especially young executive officers, these tasks were not
grown. From psychological interest is other than the relationship of the IM
for the case officer to Observierten or denounced. It concerns with the
treachery always a triangular relationship between a state institution, i.e.
in the case of the GDR by the Stasi, the upper napkins and the informers. In
many situations, both the informant and the under observation is exposed to a
threat of persecution, similar to siblings, where a penalty by strict
almighty parents threatened (Kothe-Meyer, 1997; Hennig, 1997). This was
especially the case with those e.g., in the GDR because Western relatives,
close to the church or own exit plans were under observation. By being
willing to be obedient, they were able to escape punishment, but it had
another person the power of the Stasi deliver. In other cases, the envy
played on the denounced, who dared to plan an escape or take an oppositional
stance, an important role for the betrayal.
The IM activity was terminated by the Stasi, if the information were
not productive or IM proved unsuitable, unreliable or dishonest or
cooperation appeared no prospects. In the period from 1985 to 1989, the
cooperation with about ten percent of IM has been annually adjusted, and as
many new IM were recruited (Mller-Enbergs, 1995). But the unofficial

12

1 Introduction

collaborators it was possible to eliminate by refusing or Dekonspiration,

without fear of sanctions in any case.
Since the adoption of the Law for the documents of the State Security in
1991, the opening of the Stasi files and the possibility of accessing victims
of the Stasi still unofficial former collaborators are to this day uncovered
and partly lose their jobs. That people who have been damaged by the
activities of IM, punishing the perpetrators expected, is understandable for
everyone. It is also understood that you do not like his children would like
to be informed of teachers who have worked for the Stasi, and politicians and
lawyers who have committed treason, did not want to be in their offices. But
in dealing with the Stasi past, the individual backgrounds of entanglement
were not always sufficiently taken into account in the checks. This meant
that feel some IM after turning themselves as victims, particularly those who
have worked under duress with the Stasi. They did not know the GDR era the
concept of IM, had contact with the Stasi not rejected out of fear of
sanctions, were after the turn but completely surprised to be assigned to the
category of unofficial collaborators. Many have made fear of exposure in the
family and the public after 1989 concealed their activities or hoped that the
files had disappeared. Few found the courage to admit their conspiratorial
activities himself publicly.
The given here a short sketch of the importance of unofficial
collaborators for securing the GDR, their selection, motivation and function
is very cursory, however, seems necessary for a preliminary understanding of
we interviewed former IM. The extensive literature on the guidelines of the
Stasi and the conspiratorial activities of IM and its impact on the
observierten individuals and groups is mainly based on the files evaluation,
personal accounts of IM and victims, as well as experience gained from
interviews and individual psychotherapies (Aretz u. Stock, 1997 Behnke and
Fuchs, 1995;. Behnke and Wolf, 1997;. Diewald-Kerkmann, 1998; Florath among
others, 1992; Hartmann, 1995; Jerouschek among others, 1997; Kalinka, 1997;
Kerz-Rhling, 2000; Kukutz u Havemann. , 1990; Maaz, 1992; Miller, 1999;
Moser, 1992 and 1993;. Sauerland, 2000; Sweet, 1999; Wanitschke, 2001). It is
to be found so far, however, no socio-psychological work that unconscious
motives, conflicts and the personality structure of the unofficial
collaborator systematically studied. Only the knowledge of the relationship
between biography and conspiratorial activity allows a comprehensive,
sophisticated understanding of the psychological conditions for the
willingness of so many people in the GDR, to cooperate with the Stasi.

1.3 The psychodynamics of surveillance and betrayal relations

The end of the war meant for Germany the division into two hostile opposing
occupation zones. From a psychological perspective, it was, inter alia, also
the end of the experiment, implement political fantasies of omnipotence, and
led to a substantial denial of reality, to the predominance of manic
mechanisms and a mentally not immediately processable guilt (cf. Appy, 1992).
In identifying with the occupying powers was the ability to take the place of
a negative, destructive self-image is a good self-image: in the east of the
ideal of the upright socialists, in the west of the freedom-loving democrats.
In the other half of the country then was the evil empire identified, with
which one wanted to have anything to do, but subliminally always remained
closely linked by the common bad history. This was the psycho-historical
background for the work of the secret services, for scheduled clandestine
scrutinizing the operations at each other part of Germany. The
auszuspionierende strangers - so our hypothesis - was seen psychodynamically

13

1 Introduction

the cleaved own evil. It is reasonable to assume that a large part of the
people who were involved here were close by their personality structurally
these mechanisms of splitting and projective externalization.
First, the order dimension of information gathering qua espionage.
Targeted and planned to monitor another person for political purposes means
from a psychoanalytic point of view, to establish a special relationship to
form the monitored which has indeed conscious of play, but is mostly
unconscious. This means that the monitor cannot be accessed normally the real
motives of his actions. This unconscious relationship is not one that is a
really mature interest to want to get to know the other, determined. Because
this is the psychic ability ahead to perceive the other as separate from
themselves, and be able to endure this as well. The latter constitutes the
sine qua non for the development of privacy and respect. However, monitoring
relations are characterized by the fact that they do not leave the other his
freedom and not just accept respectful interpersonal boundaries. Surveillance
and betrayal relations are rather determined by an aggressive invading
interest: the observer penetrates in principle within the personal scope of
the other one, abused his innocence and trust, or tries to seduce to indicate
private things. This also applies to so seemingly trivial operations such
targeted monitoring and registration of the public movement of people on the
streets and squares. Because people therefore do not show themselves in
public, to be photographed and the subject of behavior protocols. Monitoring
as a conscious and intentional observation subjects the relationship with a
predefined purpose. Unlike in a Love or Friendship Relationship for example,
which is characterized by affection, excitement, empathy or friendly
interest, it goes here in the broadest sense about the other to do
something, to use it without the person concerned it somewhat may know.
Basically playing hostile impulses play a role, since the observer plays a
directed towards the best interests of the observed position and at the same
time formed a coalition with anyone against the monitored.
Like all relationships, which entertain adult humans, have also such a
relationship forms biographical precursors which are effective in shape
mentally internalized, unconscious forms of relationship in the present. It
seems to us important to emphasize this, because only this view makes it
clear which freedom is restricted in the choice of certain forms of
relationship. Because the unconscious requirements beyond just conscious
control and are the conscious intentions of people across effectively. The
only way to explain the fact that, for example, the commercial and blackmail
of the Stasi were partially successful only that any allowances and
cancellations were, yes and naysayers, followers and members of the
opposition. There are unconsciously conducting relationship forms that decide
to realize what people in the present and what is not. And it is precisely
those forms of relationship unconsciously effective, which experienced in
childhood and part of the basic equipment were psychic. This does not mean
that the relationship experiences of the child with the parents and siblings
are taken one by one from the outside inwards. But they form the basis of a
complex, lifelong mental processing process. Hence the question as to which
childhood experiences and which processing operations are later, let an adult
human to be willing to supervise other spy and betray. This to clarify
empirically, is the subject of our investigation. However, we take this as a
very extensive a now psychoanalytic body of knowledge regarding the causes
and the development of damaged relationships. This allows the designation of
a number of predisposing factors that the ability to develop and maintain
mature relationship shapes damage, or not arising in the first. We speak of
mature forms of relationship, because we espionage relationship already
appears as a form of relationship, go to the lost values such as respect and
honesty. Since a variety of psychological conflicts undermine this maturity

14

1 Introduction

ideals in everyday practice, it can be assumed in principle to consent to the

regressive relationship offer the Stasi also a variety of unconscious
motives. These are not shown here generally exhaustive but only based on a
few, biographically determinants. Here are mainly the experiences in the
first years of life is crucial.
Every newborn needs after his birth a protected space in which it can
on the one hand to make the experience a continuously undivided relationship
with the mother, on the other hand but also first separation experiences
within an era marked by empathy and understanding relationship. The missing
Verbalisierungsmglichkeiten make the child absolutely depends on the
understanding of his caregiver, usually by his mother. The experience, to be
understood in its primary needs and fears is crucial to the internalization
of understanding function and thus for the development of thinking in
general. The English psychoanalyst Wilfred Bion (1962) makes this especially
tolerability of disallowances responsible. If the child seems to be large and
therefore supplied psychologically unmanageable frustrations, cannot occur,
the experience of a succeeding Got-becoming. And that is also the evolving
ability to understand themselves and others, damage. Erik Erikson (1950) saw
reason for this initial development phase, the alternative trust versus
Urmitrauen as crucial. If distrust characterizes the inner psychological
situation arises the willingness to monitor other. Only a trusting
relationship experience in childhood, the ability to meet people with
empathic understanding. This capability means primarily the recognition of
the other as a stranger, which is to meet him as far as possible without
projective attributions and adopt an attitude of getting to know-will towards
him, that is, in the good sense to be interested. This attitude has just
nothing to do with the secret intrusion into the personal world of other
people for the purpose of information gathering and dissemination. The rather
in the good sense Interested-Being recognizes the private boundaries of the
other. This attitude will always be undermined if projective mechanisms are
at work that make the other suspicious.
The projection own desires and not tolerable self-shares represents an
act of externalization from one person to another is. This process plays an
important role in the relationship between IM and Observierten by, on the
Observierten own desires, which does not dare to realize the IM are projected
at the same time fights the other. Also, an IM boost his self-esteem by
eliminating perceived as negative self-interests and their projection onto
the Observierten. He is then the better citizens and receives the recognition
of the state institution and possibly even more bonuses. But not only the
desire to please the powerful, but also individual revenge needs can be
satisfied if, for example, the upper Serving for the IM assumes the role of a
jealous sibling or a strict parent, where one can take the help of the secret
service, without fear of punishment, revenge. Often found in the denunciation
also a hierarchical relationship in which a lower social standing betrays an
superiors, e.g., a supervisor, which he feels powerless subject in everyday
life. The contrary is the fact that the relationship with the case officer
and Others Has aspects of a child-parent relationship. The spy fears one hand
penalty, on the other hand he will be rewarded for cooperation and can be
used as secret employee to participate in the power of authority. By
identifying with the powerful institution on whose behalf he acts, the IM may
delegate responsibility for his actions on it and does not need to take on
debt. In the debt relief it is also supported by the fact that he often does
not know the consequences of his reports.
To be such projection mechanisms for formative element of a character, the
aforementioned Unmanageable frustrations in childhood itself must occur
more frequently. Rarely, it is a singular event that has such personality
formative impact. It is the repeated experience of inadequate maternal

15

1 Introduction

answering the childs needs, resulting in a basal and primordial misconduct

in the encounter between the child and his primary environment. This also
forms the basis for Richter (1962) described betrayal experiences within a
family: the experience, dropped from the mother or father or to be played,
used or misused against a parent. Abuse experiences relate not only to
sexuality, but fundamentally in all situations of misconduct and inadequate
answer childlike needs. On this basis, then develop psychological withdrawal
behavior, narcissistic defects superego defects and basal self- and
relationship disorders. In particular, the interference in the self-esteem
and the construction of a coherent sexual identity a willingness to cooperate
with the Stasi can arise because the advertising as well as the prospect in
the future on a regular basis to meet with a guidance officer, like a
narcissistic listing act that the person concerned an appreciation of its
personality and an identity determination promises.
Of particular importance for the development of suspicious
relationships, which are determined by persecution feelings, traumatic
experience occurs in childhood. Under a trauma is understood in the medical
injury or wound, but also a violent impact on the body. For the mental
development of a trauma represents an overuse of mental processing capacity
that may occur at points or continuously, as a rule. Generally known are
experiences of natural disasters, from ill-treatment or sexual abuse as
traumatic events. But they are only the tip of an iceberg of less
dramatically visible, but long term effective trauma in childhood, such as
certain diseases, continuous misunderstood-Will, physical and mental punish,
sudden experiences of separation, loss of one or both parents or neglected
and / or unloving upbringing. The consequences of psychological traumas are
usually permanent impairment of mental functions, based on the self and its
social environment, and proven neurobiological changes. Interpersonal
relationships is missing then usually some flexibility in the experience and
behavior as well as more or less an ability to form mental symbols. We will
not discuss psychotraumatological aspects into the details at this point. The
key appears in our context rather that in terms of cooperation with the Stasi
must be considered in the IM concerned also at a traumatically induced
disruption, make it impossible that mature interpersonal relationship forms
and an unconscious readiness in surveillance and espionage relationship to
restage their own traumatic experience awaken, can.
Traumatic experiences in childhood may be part of a family pathology, which
is dominated by so-called cleavage mechanisms: The images of self and other
are then in very polar by a black and white thinking. On the one hand then
prevail idealizations ago on the other devaluations. The childs development
is first determined from the fact that, in fact, this polarization in the
perception, especially their parents, prevails. But then usually integrate
these extremes, producing images of primary caregivers, containing both good
and bad play. Mature forms of relationships are always true to a distance to
simple black and white views, are characterized by the quest for balance and
to reality. Political ideologies of all kinds operate mostly on a regressive
level of dedifferentiation: You mean, to dispose of the Shining Path the
ideal and only good life. Anyone who opposes the is to be then per se evil
and worthy, combated and eliminated. This is the stuff that are knitted from
the fairy tales and sagas, and religious and political fundamentalism. But
intelligence services as the Stasi, in the language of heroic legends as
shield and sword of the party referred to, made use of these mindsets to
informants as fighters for the good cause against evil, the inner and
outer class enemy , to win. Here it was crucial whether the Stasi from
wooed tends itself to this regressive mindset or not, if he so in the
political offer an extension of his personal pathology found or not.

16

1 Introduction

Based on these general psychopathological considerations we were in

terms of interviews conducted by us with former unofficial collaborators it
is based, in the biographical reports, the peculiarities of early
relationship experiences in the primary family, serious or sustainable events
differ in traumatic quality and here becomes effective mental to investigate
defense mechanisms.

1.4 Question and objectives

On the basis of psychoanalytically oriented interviews with former Stasi IM
we tried to gain an understanding especially of unconscious conflict and
motivations as well as the psychological stress during the conspiracy and the
processing after reunification. This was not the intention to excuse the
behavior. Rather, it just makes the knowledge of the unconscious aspects of
effective possible to realistically assess the perpetrator. The own
perception initially hidden motives that are often accessible only at a
psychoanalytic editing, just not outside the range of personal
responsibility.
The Commissions investigation therefore focuses on the unconscious
parts of the personality that just opposite the conscious are extremely
effective in accordance with the psychoanalytic model of personality and
decisively determine the behavior.
The investigation should also contribute to better understand the
psychological effects of the SED Dictatorship. Just because the penetration
of its own population was especially great with monitoring agent by
historical standards, the question arises, what mental conditions this
unofficial brought employees of the Stasi. Only by clarifying this issue is
better understood why so many informants from the population supported the
aims and objectives of the SED and the Stasi.

1.5 Method
To clarify our questions, we have both qualitative and quantitative data
collected that support each other in their findings. In particular, was to us
that we underpin from a psychoanalytic theory derived from theses and
interviews resulting findings with data from psychological questionnaires. In
this way, the principle wide room for interpretation of interview data could
be concentrated at some point, on the other hand received the questionnaire
results through the interviews a better interpretative basis.
Object of our study were 20 former unofficial collaborators of the
Ministry for State Security of the GDR. The contact with them has been made
on the authority of the Federal Commissioner for the Stasi documents (BStU),
the different IM asked if they were willing to do an interview with us. With
them, we have led either to their current work, in their homes or in the
Frankfurt Sigmund Freud Institute in 2000 and 2001, one to two
psychoanalytically oriented, so-called semi-structured interviews. In this
interview for a targeted specific issues were addressed and explored, on the
other hand should the interviewees are given sufficient space to express
himself according to his personal character to these areas. Furthermore, the
interviews were far psychoanalytically oriented, as it was also about the
Explorierung latent motives of respondents for us.
Formed the basis of the interviews for us an interview guide in which
we had fixed our topics of interest based on our theoretical preparatory work
and our inquiry. The interviews were recorded with tape and transliterated.

17

1 Introduction

In the preparation of the transcript we were doing in the first place by

writing a legible for evaluating expert text. Therefore should para
linguistic features (such as coughing, sighing, laughing, crying,. See
Mergenthaler et al 1986) only in so far considering, as it seemed absolutely
necessary for understanding of the text.
Quantitative data collection consisted of the collection and analysis
of data by means of molding the personality tests *. The test was, of course,
only be carried out if there are no concerns in this respect on the part of
IM showed. We undertook-according to the different nature of our data, two
separate ways of evaluation. The qualitative analysis of the interview
transcripts was carried out by an expert rating, separated from the
quantitative evaluation of the test sheets.
The basic idea of the expert ratings was to be psychoanalytic expertise
evaluating the interview texts benefit. The expert group was made up of five
experienced psychoanalysts and -analytikerinnen the German Psychoanalytical
Association (see Preface) together, whereby in addition to the two project
managers psychoanalyst / inside from Frankfurt aM participated. This offered
the possibility of counter-transference, i.e. the unconscious subjective
assumptions and reactions of the interviewer, to undergo intersubjective
control. In the Expert Group initially each interview transcript was assessed
individually before they came together in the group for so-called consensus
rating, i.e. for discussion of individual assessments to elaborate on points
of disagreement consensus, so that the group could conclusively formulate a
common assessment.

1.6 Evaluation
To sum up the conspiracy when the individual in the very heterogeneous
designs and processing mechanisms, a certain type of education is necessary.
This categorization means a reduction of the complex material and the
individual does not always do justice to the detail, but it allows to
highlight differences and similarities between the IM. Such a classification
of the interviewees nor does it mean that the individual Family would not be
subsumed under various categories. The classification means rather that the
emphasis of his problem is to be found in this area.
In the evaluation, we tried to take into account the external
conditions of the interviews. For the statements of the individual in it was
meaningful, in which personal situation and political environment which he
was at the time of the conversation and what expectations he had to the
interviewer. The presentation of the biography and the IM activities in the
interview does not always correspond to the historical truth, it is a
remembered or constructed for the addressee life story, enter into the
desires, fears and justifications.
In addition, we tried to clarify before we touch, what preconceptions and
previous experience we would encounter as an interviewer due to different
socialization experience the former IM in order to make a reasonable
interpretation can.

18

1 Introduction

1.7 Data framework of the surveyed unofficial collaborators

Interview Interviewer
partners

Vintage Activity for Type of IM activities

the Stasi
from / to

Political attitude

Professional
Professional
activities
activity after
before the turn the turn

Mr. Opitz Ingrid Kerz- 1962

(1)
Rhling

1982-1985
1987-1989

Observation of friends and

colleagues

critical of the GDR

File Clerk

Student

Mr. Jahn Ingrid Kerz- 1936

(2)
Rhling

1972-1974

Reports of people from the private critical of the GDR

and professional environment

scientific
Assistant

unemployed

Mrs. Ring Ingrid Kerz- 1960

(3)
Rhling

1985-1989

Reports of church groups

critical of the GDR

Employee

independently

Mr.
Gabler
(4)

1929

1951-1990

Reports from a hospital HVA in

Germany

SED Member

HIM at the HVA

Pensioner

Mrs. Jung Ingrid Kerz- 1954

(5)
Rhling

1975-1985

HVA in Germany

SED Member

Activity in the Associate in a

party running a social
business
institution

Ms. Urban Ingrid Kerz- 1926

(6)
Rhling

1967-1969

Reports of observations in the

American Military Command

rather politically
indifferent

Kindergarten
Teacher

Employee

Ms. Pohl Ingrid Kerz- 1942

(7)
Rhling

1962-1968
1972-1980

Reports of people their

environment

convinced communist

Researcher

Various
AHM points

Mrs.
Forster
(8)

Tomas
Plnkers

1944

1978-1989

Observation of individuals

critical of the GDR

Nurse

BU-pensioner

Ms.
Langer
(9)

Tomas
Plnkers

1959

1983-1988

Reports of men in Gastronomy

critical of the GDR

Altenpflegerin

Politician

Mrs.
Quindt
(10)

Tomas
Plnkers

1944

1969-1981

Reports of men in gastronomy, in

bars and hotels

no political affiliations

Saleswoman,
accountant

Administrative
staff

Mr.
Pollock
(11)

Tomas
Plnkers

1948

1966-1980

Observation of friends and

colleagues in church groups

later critical than IM

staunch GDR citizens

Engineer

ABM site

Ms. Vogel Ingrid Kerz- 1934

(12)
Rhling

1962-1989

Observation of different antistate groups and individuals

critical of the GDR

Secretary

Pensioner

Mr. Erler Ingrid Kerz- 1926

(13)
Rhling

1956-1989

Reports of colleagues, as a tour

squad on every stay abroad

SED Member

Life science

Research
Employee

Mr. Voss Ingrid Kerz- 1953

(14)
Rhling

1985-1989

Verification Wiss. Work,

Observation of a work colleague

SED Member

scientific
Employee

Social Advisor

Mr. Stahl Ingrid Kerz- 1953

(15)
Rhling

1971-1973

Observation of people from the

circle of acquaintances

SED Member

Teacher

Teacher

Tomas
Plnkers

19

1 Introduction

Interview
partners

Interviewer

Vintage

Activity for
the Stasi
from / to

Type of IM activities

Political
attitude

Professional
activities
before the turn

Professional activity
after the turn

Mr. Mahler
(16)

Tomas
Plnkers

1953

1973-1974

Observation of comrades
during the NVA-time

critical of the
GDR

Teacher

Managers of long-term
unemployed

Ms. Onken
(17)

Tomas
Plnkers

1965

ca. 1983-1986 Observation of inmates and

co-workers

indifferent,
later critical

Secretary

Administrative staff

Mr. Lenz
(18)

Tomas
Plnkers

1953

1969-1971

Observation of classmates

SED member, later scientific

critical of the
employee
GDR

scientific employee

Mr. Hartel
(19)

Ingrid Kerz- 1952

Rhling

1975-1985

HVA in Germany

SED Member

Press Officer

unemployed

Mr. Dahm
(20)

Ingrid Kerz- 1943

Rhling

1969-1970
1973-1974

Reports of colleagues

critical of the
GDR

Worker in a
cultural
institution

ABM site

The group of interviewees consisted of eleven men and nine women aged 38 to 77 years. The duration of the
activity for the Stasi was between one and 39 years. Of the interviewees were seven SED members, two
convinced Communists without party membership, nine were of the party towards critical and two were rather
politically indifferent. For 18 Investigated there was after the turn or uncovering career changes.

20

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

2 Summaries of 20 interviews
Before the general evaluation of the interviews according to specific angles
is represented by each conversation is a brief summary. The tape transcripts
which comprise between 40 to 80 pages, cannot be published in full in this
framework. We are concerned at the summary above all a representation of the
essential aspects of motivation and processing of IM activities. Important
for us is to let speak for themselves with some exemplary original quotations
from the tape transcripts the interviewees. Are complemented the stories of
IM to some explanations, which drew up the interviewer together with the
volunteers. The handling of the IM with the interviewer, his expectations and
his behavior during the conversation should be considered, because this
information allow to draw conclusions about earlier relationship experiences.
In the subjects who answered the questions of casting tests, the results of
the personality questionnaire to be used with.
The interviews in this study presented us with specific problems. We
came with a request, wanted to obtain information and were often referred to
as guests in the homes of respondents in an unfamiliar situation for us. This
constellation often required a greater restraint in the immediate
interpretation of the story, as we are used to our psychotherapeutic
conversations, especially when we had the impression to get patchy or
embellished information. We wanted to avoid, opposite our interlocutors act
as revisers or accusers. For us it was not primarily concerned to discover
the truth about the IM activity, it is really to be found neither in the
memories of IM still in the Stasi files, but we wanted to understand why
people were willing to conspiratorial activity and how they have processed
after the collapse of the GDR. The discovery after 1990 and the related
stresses such as job loss and social isolation triggered some IM from mental
illness, to which we had to take into consideration. Therefore, we hoped to
help by talking maybe some of those interviewed to better cope with their
difficult situation after the turn.
The occurring in contemporary historical studies difficulty, on the one
hand to take into account the protection of privacy, on the other hand this
does not impede research too much, we tried in the form to solve that we have
personal information of those interviewed who were not relevant to the IM
activity altered, , Many of our interlocutors were understandably ready only
on the condition of preserving their anonymity to talk. Two of those
interviewed did not experience during the discussions with the Stasi as IM,
but found themselves being interrogated or exposed to massive pressure. They
reacted with outrage when they were called after the fall due to the Stasi
files of the Stasi as IM. They are therefore described separately in the
presentation of interviews because they were also the interviewers opposite
to being never been, and did not want to be discriminated against again.

Mr. Opitz (1)

The meeting with Mr. Opitz takes place early in the morning when he is alone
at home because he does not want that his 14 year old son learn of its IM
activity. He believes that this still was too young to understand why his
father worked for the Stasi. In the three-hour-long interview, Mr. Opitz
speaks without hesitation about his contacts with the Stasi, where he made
his cooperation after the discovery in 1991 itself publicly. He behaves
receptive towards me and cannot tell if charged him the renewed confrontation
with the past. Rather, it seems to satisfy him, once again be able to show
that he was willing to be one of the few IM, to take account of his

21

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

conspiratorial activities professional disadvantages in coming. His interview

unlike other subjects striking security and low Leiden feeling can also be
seen in the Personality Test, in which he characterized as a person with a
very positive mood and a tendency to dominance.
Mr. Opitz starts the conversation by saying that he tells
enthusiastically of the time in October 1989, when he came into contact with
many members of the opposition and joined the civil rights movement. He
enjoyed this very optimism, became politically active and was constantly on
the move.
To his life story reported Mr. Opitz, that he had suffered in the first
years of life up to the parents divorce in 1972, when he was 10 years old,
among the frequent quarrels in the family. The parents were very young when
he was born, they had just finished high school and wanted no children. Mr.
Opitz said to have felt this rejection; he felt superfluous. After the
divorce, he lived with his father, who was very impulsive, often beat him and
in which he felt abandoned. The father was very unhappy with his life, as the
majority of his family lived in West Germany and him after graduation a
Leaving from the GDR was no longer possible in 1962. As Mr. Opitz could not
stand before the Father, he was allowed to return in 1976 to the mother, who
also lived with the younger brother. The mother, a teacher by profession, was
little interested in him and was allegedly attention only to him if he
bothered her. Through its relocation from the father to the mother, it came
about that he late joined the FDJ, which was attributed to him by the Stasi
in his file. His first girlfriend, to whom he was very attached, went along
with their parents in 1979 in the Federal Republic, since he to her still
maintained the Brietkontakt, he was even observed by the Stasi, was subject
already with 17 years of operational security check, but what he later
learned from his Stasi file. Also that he took part in the 80s on religious
meetings in Berlin and had a job at the local parish, had been recorded in
his file. He was ordered because of these incidents for an interview with
the Director of the school to which the mother was involved, of which he felt
but little support. But at that time he was left still at rest.
Only when the NVA during his military service he was approached by the
Stasi. He explains it so that the IM, which he gave to each Soldatenstube,
had to have submitted a positive report on him, so that the Stasi kept him
suitable for cooperation. After all, you ordered him for his identity card in
the personnel department, where he was from an employee of the Stasi, without
him it was very clear at first, addressed and invited to observe other
soldiers. He told his mother and friends of the recruitment and hoped to be
left by the Dekonspiration alone. His mother stirred although terribly and
went with him to the authority, but sat down again too little for him. The
Stasi did not, despite the Dekonspiration from him. They turned again and
again to him and promised him a job for his cooperation with the Council of
the district, that he is not yet received by the end of military service, as
he had hoped. His case officer maintained regular contact with him.
Mr. Opitz was then in a difficult situation, he would have liked to
study literature, but did not get a university place. This was possibly his
former Stasi file, he certainly cannot say it. After military service he did
not know what he should do. I had after the army time something like lastminute panic, I stood there without a job, which would have been catastrophic
in the GDR. Finally he got from his case officer to another offer, it was
passed on to the Council of the municipality, where in a way he Kulturreferat
worked and organized together with the FDJ concerts for young people. In
these concerts he was also playing music that was actually not allowed in the
GDR. The SED mayor tried to persuade him in his plans into, and disabled him
in his work. When he was then asked by the Stasi, to observe this mayor, he
was ready to retaliate. He had regular contacts with his case officer and

22

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

experienced him as a fatherly friend. When he learned of the planned escape

attempt of a school friend and his family in 1984, he revealed this during an
interrogation by the Stasi, whereupon the father of his friend was arrested.
The consequences of his betrayal had him at that time not yet known. He
explained his message to the Stasi by saying that he would get himself in
danger, if he had not reported as confidant the escape plan. My intervention
that he was trying to vent in this way his disappointment and anger at their
fathers, Mr. Opitz denies Although at first, then emphasizes, however, that
he had always been in his childhood someone who protested against all that
nagging and the family bothered by , They called me the Rudi Dutschke in the
family.
How difficult was his father relationship, describes Mr. Opitz, by
describing the fathers life. This never had strong ties, often moved his
wives and had to temporarily also undergo psychiatric treatment. The father
had after separation from the mother three more divorces and behaved for Mr.
Opitz often unpredictable. Only the grandmother, the mothers father, stood
close to him, to her, he had a lot of confidence. The parents felt
overwhelmed by parenting because they were at the birth of the children
themselves in their teens. The grandmother was the only person who ever gave
to him and supported him financially even after turning in his studies. She
died three years ago and has read his file before her death. For them, it was
quite clear that he was the right guy for the Stasi, as he had no family
support and felt bound to anyone. In the story about the grandmother Mr.
Opitz loses some of its neutral stance, while he represents as his
relationships else as if they were not very important to him. It is to feel
how much he longed for a trusting relationship.
His Stasi contacts took place in various stages. From 1982 to 1984 Mr.
Opitz forward-IM was then signed in 1984 a declaration of commitment and
also received a code name. 1985 study place was offered to him by the Stasi,
he but did not accept, because he did not want to fall into an excessive
dependence of the Stasi. In 1985 he was a member of the Liberal Democratic
Party and thereby got a position in the district administration of the city
near his hometown. The Stasi had left him in 1985 after rejecting the study
place to 1987 alone. Then suddenly dived to his surprise two Lord of the
State Security District Administration in his office, reminded him of his
earlier IM activity and called on him to observe colleagues in the City
Council, which often made inputs. Why then, he has agreed to again, it is not
quite evident today. He had to produce copies on the inputs that have been
made by colleagues. Although it was officially allowed in the GDR to make
inputs to the State Council, but it was not popular, and colleagues, who did
often made themselves suspicious. Mr. Opitz describes this disclosure of
information to be harmless, they would have harmed anyone.
He had avoided reporting on friends, is also no longer went to church
meetings to Berlin to have no interest to the Stasi information. Thoughts
about what he did, he made the first time, after reading his review
communication 1991st In 1989 he had joined the civil rights movement. A
motive for him was that he trusted no longer renewing the old parties and the
SED had faced increasingly critical. His critical attitude towards the SED
Mr. Opitz founded, inter alia, the fact that his father was an enemy of the
SED. He had often railed against the state and always regretted for not going
to the West. Motives for his collaboration with the Stasi, despite its DDRcritical attitude sees Mr. Opitz especially in his life story. That he did
not report in the civil rights movement from its IM activity, he grounds that
although he had once made an approach to it, but got the impression that it
was not interested. In 1990 he stood as a candidate in the elections and was
member of parliament. In the candidature he had negated the question of a
Stasi activities. He justifies himself by saying that you do not know what

23

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

would become of the files. In reviewing 1991, he himself was shocked by

everything that was in his file. Less about the fact that they had under
surveillance himself, than about what he was alleged to have delivered to
information.
Mr. Opitz reported that he had made no real idea about the Stasi before
the turn and had first learned about the extent of surveillance and
repression in the GDR, as in 1990 at a meeting of the Peoples Chamber, the
work of the State Security Service was disclosed. He had always seen before
the collapse of its work for the Stasi only as an activity in its own
personal environment and not so dealt that he may thus supported the regime
of the GDR. That he had been grouped as IM, has surprised him, as he had
imagined under one IM something else. As Ive always topsy presented, that
is someone who speak every day goes to a dead drop and once somewhere
collects money every month.
When I confront him with the conflict in 1989 on the one hand belongs
to an opposition group and to have worked at the same time for the Stasi, he
cannot see the contradiction first. For me this was not a contradiction,
because I was thinking, so I am. Later in the conversation, he can
understand the basis of my interpretation, that there has been no conflict
for him, since he as the father not bound by any had person or party. He
could therefore have contact readily both to Stasi as well as to members of
the opposition. It was his secret triumph, to lead a double life, no one knew
anything, and that gave him a sense of power over others. He felt the
Observierten superior, and at the same time he believed to be able to cheat
the Stasi by not telling everything he knew. The interpretation of this
double life as a motive for his Stasi activity agrees Mr. Opitz to very
thoughtful and thinks he has continued it even after the turn, as initially
no one knew of its IM function and he carried his studies in one of his
hometown distant city so to speak, two lives led. Double life has always
been meant for him to have a secret life, which not only gave him power, but
also protected him in front of others. Mr. Opitz finally remembered that he
already fled as a child in fantasies, to build their own house (the father
was an architect), to live free from the influence of the family. The Stasi
was a secret place for him, no one knew in his surroundings. That the Stasi
but abused himself, has made him very angry later, for example, when he
learned his file and read what they had everything written about him in the
personnel file. He would never have believed that the Stasi was so much is
known about him. He was therefore not have been as powerful as he had hoped,
the Secret Service was with his greater knowledge even more than he did. His
desire to have power over others, to be dominant, is reflected very clearly
in the Giessen test again. His description of the former self-image is in
stark contrast to the expectations it has adopted the GDR society. While he
should be obedient and docile, he sees himself later rather than dominating.
Today, however, he considers himself to his upscale mood rather than the
requirements accordingly.
After verification, Mr. Opitz, after a period of reflection and
conversations with friends his political mandate down and published the
review decision of the Federal Commissioner for the Stasi documents. He
experienced it first as so shameful as he would stand naked in the
marketplace.
That he thereby professionally ran into trouble, seems to have less
strain on him. It filled him with pride that he, unlike other IM, stood to
his deeds, these made public and, in turn, got credit for his honesty and his
courage. While many members of his party were disappointed with him and have
retired, while others continued to hold to him and acknowledged that he was
willing to admit his actions.

24

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

On the question of whether under surveillance had appealed after the

turn to him or accused him, he reported only the father of the school friend
who has taken over his mother contacted him. He had made him violent
accusations, since he was six and a half years in prison. Mr. Opitz does not
lead the anger of the man but to his treachery back, but that it was then
come to the separation between father and son. He also thinks he can absolve
itself in this case of debt, since the father of classmate had previously
spoken publicly about the escape plan, all in the area knew about it. It was
irresponsible of refugees, while others implicate with. And if he had not
then spoken about the escape plan, he would probably get himself into
trouble. His reports of employees of the city administration would probably
have harmed anyone, since none of it demanded accountability. He was relieved
of guilt by the revelation of his IM activity, it filled him with pride, to
face up to his actions. He made a Spengler doctrine after the mandate
resignation, but was thrown out by the master, when he learned of his IM
activity. After that, he held various agency activities and began in 1994 to
study in Leipzig.
Because he there continued his double life, we get talking again back
to the importance of this secret life. Why did the work for the Stasi denied
in the first survey after the turn, he cannot justify legally. He hoped that
perhaps the files were locked away what had been temporarily planned by the
Federal Republic, or that his documents were not present more. That there but
then came the publication of his collaboration with the Stasi, has left him
mentally, as it seems, not excessively loaded. He wanted to use the time of
his political work to bring about the changes in East Germany. Mr. Opitz
describes his enthusiasm for interesting activities, he was traveling a lot
and had absolutely no time to think. Only after his resignation as he found
the peace, to think about his IM activity. He again emphasized that he wanted
to support not miss the GDR State, but only regionally acted and took revenge
on those from whom he also felt badly treated, or SED people under
surveillance. Here is again clear that he felt connected to anyone, he worked
for the Stasi and betrayed at the same time state-supporting people so that
he hoped thus harming the regime. On the other hand, he benefited from his
work because he could act confidently in the city parliament under the
protection of state security and also had the chance to buy cheap land.
When asked about the reaction of his wife and her family, he reported
that his wife in the GDR had quite felt comfortable and could therefore
understand him well. For them there were no boundaries and limitations, she
felt by the SED regime in any way suppressed. His wifes family supported him
later, while his own father began to rebuke him, and there was renewed
conflict. Many friends have further helped him and the grandmother kept until
her death to him. The grandmother and his wife are the only persons to whom
he could really rely in life.
He stressed at the end on several occasions that it is important for
him that the checks are not set, but that all should be checked, which had
withdrawn in the meantime, in a kind of hibernation in order to do justice.
He is now convinced that it had come to cooperate with the Stasi only because
of the family situation. He felt abandoned by their parents and little
attention. The Stasi gave him, among others feel, feel, that there existed a
group that showed him a different way-as the parent and would not let him
even at the professional looking down. He agrees with the judgment of his
grandmother, who said that the Stasi knew perfectly well that he was
approachable. I am inclined, so to push it a little on my parents, so in an
intact family, it would not have happened. In an intact family who would have
said, after graduation you doing this and that, and we are there for you, and
we fund the study, there were indeed both people who had earned some degree
of money because that would not have happened. The Stasi or the case

25

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

officer offered him much of what he missed with my parents. But his
justification is not so far that he is trying to blame all responsibility for
his actions parents. Although he would like then followed the girlfriend to
West Germany, but out of consideration for his mother and brother, who would
thus have had drawbacks, he renounced this plan. He makes the claim that the
courage he had been wanting to reject the recruitment. Sure, I was afraid to
come in the East German jail two years. Yes, thats the essence, perhaps even
more important than this disinterested argument with the family. So, one
could, with proper tension of conscience really have to come out that its
wrong, and ask me, what are you doing here.
Confronting the Stasi activity is an important prerequisite for a
change in the situation in the new Lnder for him. Mr. Opitz would have
thought it right to publish the names of IM after the turn, so that no
opinion could escape. A useful respected by him worked up would otherwise
have to be, however, as the processing performed after the turn. He thinks
like in our conversation would have to be about, how is it that has become,
as were the structures, what constraints they were exposed to, so that you
can explain everything that one can explain national security system.
While I take his openness and willingness to retrospectively to stand
his guilt, for him, I have the same impression that he maintains a great
distance from me as to all persons. It does not seem to him just about to go
to gain insight into his motives and his fended conflicts, but to get
especially my appreciation for his political activism and his conduct after
the turn. Only at the end of the interview, he is thoughtful and come back to
the question of its responsibility for the collaboration with the Stasi apart
while he initially has a tendency to blame, especially in the other, i.e., To
search for the parents and the Observierten.

Mr. Jahn (2)

Mr. Jahn, a slender, rather small elderly gentleman comes three hours earlier
than planned to talk to Sigmund Freud Institute. He tells me that he stuck
out of fear, in a traffic jam, has traveled a day earlier to Frankfurt and
now wants to go back in the evening to East Germany. For this reason he asks
me the interview, if I am able to bring forward. In a large bag he brought
with him from his published and translated books that he wants to show me
necessarily. I ask him to postpone it until the end of the conversation, and
first to tell me his story.
It is very important for him to be recognized by me as a scientist,
because he feels devalued in recent years after the discovery of his alleged
IM activity. Although he has a doctorate in chemistry, some no longer speak
to him in his tracks. During the conversation, he makes every effort to me to
describe the events very clearly and chronologically, but also expects that I
adapt myself to his needs.
Mr. Jahn begins his report with the grandparents and comes from a
detail to another, so that I have to point out to him several times on our
question. He grew up in the early years with his mother alone, because the
Father was in the war. His childhood was very paternal by the grandfather, a
member of a Christian sect, determines the family dominated and brooked no
opposition. After the war in 1945 the father returned from captivity back,
but did not stay in East Germany, but went to the West. The mother, who did
not want to leave home, stayed with him alone. He felt obliged to care for
them and not to let them even as the Father in the lurch until her mothers
death. As the only son, he was very sheltered from the mother, was not
allowed to participate in the Indians games of other boys and had few
friends. In school, he fell to its excellent performance. Visits to the

26

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

father and his new family were very disappointing as the father his promises
to support him, and did not keep it even refused to allow him to study in the
West. For father Mr. Jahn always had an ambivalent relationship, he admired
him as a writer, however, despised him, as he was his second wife, opposite
could not prevail. The father was unheard vital and talented, he has
produced an enormous amount. Mr. Jahn tried to do the same on his own
scientific field, too much to publish in order to gain the recognition of the
father. At that time I said to myself, if youve ever dealt with the man
again, then you need to have an established professional and want to show him
that youre also become what. His father died to his great regret, however,
before him was able to demonstrate its success as a scientist. Through his
contacts with the West Mr. Jahn had difficulties at school and at the
university place search, but found support from a teacher and friend. My
teacher has to speak out to fight for me. He has pushed through me to the
high school. Without him I would be there not got there. He succeeded Mr.
Jahn, accessible due to its good performance other fathers who supported him.
Today he is trying to do for his children and grandchildren, which he
considers very talented all that the Father has withheld from him and thus
shows again how much he missed his fathers support. Also with me he is
trying to demonstrate its achievements and to show me his knowledge. During
his studies and in his work as a chemist, he was repeatedly hampered because
he refused to join the party and made critical remarks against the State.
It takes a long time comes to speak to Mr. Jahn of detailing the life
story of the contacts with the Stasi. Only on intensive inquiries I get more
information from the meetings with the representatives of the Stasi. 1958,
when he received his diploma, he was approached for the first time on the
university administration, though he could not see at first, that it was
about the Stasi. He was offered after graduating a second degree in the west
and a place on the condition that he would be willing to work
conspiratorially there. Just because of his family ties in the West, he
seemed particularly suitable for this. Since he rejected this undertaking,
ran both offers in Sande. When he also rejected a Anwerbungsversuch the
party, he had initially difficulties in finding a job and always remained,
despite its good performance in the position of a research assistant. A few
years later took the Stasi in 1972 once again made contact with him and tried
to win him a legend to cooperate. He said it had first looked quite harmless,
but then ended up very angry for him. At this point of the conversation Mr.
Jahn is also opposite me suspiciously and said: . I do not suspect, too,
which will now develop in the interview, which may feel the same again be a
big disaster When I on his concern about our conversation addresses the
issue will be clear how much he felt at the time deceived by the Stasi, the
secret led him as IM, but rather treated as a defendant in the talks. Again
he had been called at the second contact for an alleged personnel issue in
the government, where he two men from the Stasi interrogated, as he
experienced it. He was accused, he had contacts with a woman who worked for a
Western intelligence service, and he would be on the list of this
intelligence. His address had been found in the notebook of this woman with
her entry into the GDR. It was suspected that he had been recruited or to be
recruited. He was invited to regular meetings, in which he should prove that
neither he nor co-operated with foreign secret services colleagues and
friends. In order to refute the accusation of being an enemy of the state, he
was ready for the meeting and also signed a confidentiality agreement, which
was later adapted it as a declaration of commitment. Mr. Jahn saw themselves
as threatened by the Stasi and was afraid of being arrested. He made absurd
insinuations, they tried to ask him what his colleagues e.g., had reported to
the Americans. Because he wanted to prove his innocence and that of
colleagues and friends, he did not refuse the talks. He never would have

27

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

thought that you abused him to observe others. Thats why he was stunned when
he in his Stasi file logs read after the turn which had written and signed on
the typewriter with the IM case officer.
During the two years of meeting Mr. Jahn saw itself as the attacked,
who had to defend themselves. He himself has never made a record, they were
created rather by his case officer, as he calls it, from memory or tape
protocols. For him, it is clear today that he had not passed as IM about
other information, but that he had to protect themselves and others. That he
refused the meeting is not in principle the second contact with the Stasi, he
goes back on the advice of his teacher, who said that he should not ignore
the demands in order to free themselves from the suspect. Mr. Jahn stressed
that he might have dared even to say no, but the advice of the teacher, the
one to whom he confided, was in force much for him.
In the interview, we can its willingness to maintain contact with the
Stasi for a long time, among other things, so understand that he wanted to
prove how the father of the Stasi, that he is a successful scientist and an
honest son of anyone disappointed. The suspicion of the Stasi, he experienced
a similar unjustified as earlier criticism of his father and was therefore
ready to supply information to prove that he is innocent. Anyway, I thought
it advisable, any suspicion that I could ever disprove. As I also in the
professional must rule out errors. For me it was clear, here you have to
prove that this is nonsense. And if that is proved, then they leave you alone
anyway. That he was at the same time classified as IM in the files and
explains after reunification guilty for him is therefore incomprehensible. He
interprets it so that his personal file was relabeled by the case officer to
an IM Act. I can well sympathize with his frustration and anger in
conversation, the legend was so cleverly devised that he had not necessarily
suspicious, but tried to protect themselves from sanctions. Whether he would
have been perhaps possible to see through the pretense of Stasi and refuse
connections, can be difficult to decide in retrospect. In addition to the
massive pressure from the Stasi and his desire for his behavior plays a role,
to do everything right and to give no cause for criticism. The fear of being
several years in prison, has also helped that he talks not be refused. It
corresponds to his personality and his professional competence, to go to the
bottom of things and to prove or disprove its validity. He tells me: I have
tried every effort to explain that there is nothing, and then these defensive
efforts are interpreted as employees.
That he was also classified according to the turn by the authority of
the Federal Commissioner for the Records of the State Security Service in the
assessment after the filing location as IM, has outraged him more so, because
he hoped to finally find peace. His work record is no longer true find, but
in his personal file, he was listed as IM. He calls the brief reports of the
Gauck Authority a disabled report, because only here and there a sentence of
the Act was taken up and the whole appears disjointed. It was also stated in
his Stasi file, that he had given any information and refused to collaborate.
But that was not enough considered by the Gauck Authority in its report, so
that a reader could interpret the result of judgment against him. From the
review conference at his workplace actually unusable this opinion was then
used to him, as he says, should be removed from the payroll. There could not
then be taken over all employees, and we took the chance to get rid of the
elderly. Not only the loss of a job, but even more so the character
assassination, he suffered through this report, has him very hurt. His
outrage at the Gauck Authority is almost bigger than the about the Stasi
because he hoped to find in democratic and fair justice.
Mr. Jahn has finally fought and won, so that he could return to work a
process. He was like the other colleagues within the framework of the
integration program for scientists only a temporary job. When the contract

28

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

expired and you could occupy instead of five only three places, he was among
those who received no further employment more. It was in this not continuing
his contract not just about his alleged contacts with the Stasi, but above
all also that there was a massive competition among young scientists who
fought him, than older and made sure that he could not continue working.
Again and again in his life Mr. Jahn has learned that other its activities
unrecognized and withdrew from him. In my interpretation, that his need for
paternal recognition would put him over again to adapt and willing to respond
to the wishes of others, but in order to obtain the missing support yet, he
can agree. If the father would have given him the opportunity to study in
West Germany, he could have made a very different career. That to me is the
really sad that I just lived on the wrong side, was ostracized by prejudice,
and will now also be punished for something I did not do. In addition, he
was very closely linked to the mother was bound and had not dared to leave
her alone in the GDR.
At the end of the five-hour conversation, he shows me all the books he
has written, edited and translated. He is very proud of his work, but feels
left by West German colleagues in the lurch, whose books he has edited and
published.
Mr. Jahn heard as another interviewee in our study to those people who
have taken their conduct towards the Stasi already in the GDR disadvantages,
because the demands of the opposite Stasi behaved unfavorably, but not the
contacts for fear totally rejected and looked at the legend of the truth. The
disappointment after the fall was particularly great, therefore, for these
people, because they were considered on their own after the filing location
and their personal version of events found little attention.

Ms. Ring (3)

The interview takes place in the home of Ms. ring, which she bought together
with a former partner just before the turn and still inhabited with him. He
lives on the ground floor, on the first floor. The gray plastered house is
not yet fully renovated, how many houses in the small town. In the room are
books everywhere, ceramics and objects made of glass, the woman ring sells in
her shop. Woman ring is an apart-looking, dressed all in black women. The
conversation lasts from nine to thirteen clock with a break when she cooks me
tea and want to recover himself short. Initially, Ms. Ring shows me the book
of an English historian, in which they describe an investigation into
unofficial collaborators of the Stasi. It is a thesis that I look at myself
in the meantime briefly when Mrs. Ring repeatedly forced to leave the room
for a call or other interruption. In conversation, she often refers to this
book, and in particular what the historian wrote about it, as they would thus
objectify their own statements and can prove their veracity.
Although Mrs. Ring as they assured me, has tried to keep telephone
calls, by living in the house asked her former life partner and a living at
their refugee from Eastern Europe to accept calls, we are often interrupted
by calls. And the men do not seem to be able to decrease their work, they
must leave the room several times to regulate something. It is doing its very
sorry, and she apologized repeatedly for it. At the end of the interview, I
then feel guilty that I have held for so long, and hindered in her work as a
businesswoman. But it is she who wants to continue the conversation over and
over again, as I have sometimes think of an end. She tells me that she had to
suffer every day under a similar rush. On the night before the interview she
got a migraine attack, which they had not experienced since half a year. She
fears that she would interview but much strain, and it has therefore allows

29

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

for the afternoon to give an appointment with their alternative practitioner

to relax again.
During the conversation I take more and more a therapeutic function for
women ring, making it very difficult to find an end to it and she asks me to
the conclusion whether or not the aim of our study was also therapeutic
measures for by their IM activities traumatized to develop. On the other hand
it compares the conversation with their meetings with the executive officer,
in which also always ran a tape. As my tape recorder in the course of the
conversation suddenly begins to whistle and I cannot immediately find the
cause, she says ironically, I probably would have similar difficulties with
the technology as the guide officers. She laughs about the fact that this
intelligence had not technically very qualified device and also the case
officers were not well trained. I feel in this comparison with the case
officer is not very well understand her criticism as well as cope with their
anxieties, as weak interviewer I am less threatening. Our conversation is for
them also conspiratorially, nobody knows about it, similar to the contacts
with the Stasi.
After 1989, she has only spoken with a few people about their IM
activities and was therefore willing to do the interview with me. On one
hand, she hopes to relief, on the other hand she is afraid to be reminiscent
of many unpleasant experiences.
Her life story is very confusing, especially their diverse
relationships with diverse partners. She married in 1979 for the first time,
because she was pregnant. Just one year after the birth of the son was made
for divorce because her husband because of his professional activity was
rarely at home and felt left in the lurch and canceled it. She was taken to
the son of custody, under which they suffered greatly. After that she had a
relationship with a North African. She hoped to be able to leave with his
help from the GDR, her application was rejected on the grounds that it would
not be a good representative of the GDR State abroad. She went after a new
relationship with a colleague, with whom she has a daughter. With another
colleague, she helped with a feigned attempt to escape, they came into
contact with the Stasi. She was blackmailed for alleged subversive
activities, the facilitation of escape for employees by their threatened to
take away her daughter. After the turn, when she read her file, it turned out
that this flight had been arranged by the fellow in conjunction with the
Stasi, to have a means of pressure against them. I can only say in
retrospect, that it had been tampered with. It was this search forms, and to
me that has a search box fitted (they sought a participant from a church
group). This was initiated by the E. (her colleague) so, and he has thus
bought his freedom. As a member of a religious group, they had to win for
the Stasi of great interest and only by the accusation because of their
wrongdoing.
After this disappointment, it entered into a new relationship, but
broke up a short time later by the partner, the father of another child. With
him she has jointly purchased a home that they still inhabited the first
floor with his two daughters, while her husband lives with the second son in
the ground floor flat. This man was also IM and has them under surveillance,
they later learned of their case officer. However Ms. Ring did not want to
talk about this experience. In 1995 she married an East Europeans to give him
the opportunity to stay in the West. Today she feels but exploited by him,
since he has long been retired from her. She has four children by different
men, all relationships were for them more or less disappointing, but what
they do not preventing them from always looking for a new partner.
The reason for the frequent change of partners is evident by their
longing for security and affection to which she was cheated again and again,
both by the parents as well as the partners.

30

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

The parents, who had to flee as young people from the present-day
Poland, were busy trying to establish their own professional career, which is
also well done to them, but they had little time for the two children.
Although they were worried affectionately about her and my sister, but only
if they were willing to submit to the wishes of the parents. After she became
pregnant in 1979 with 19 years and wanted to get married, the parents had no
sympathy for them and withdrew completely, she has not forgiven them until
today. Through her strict Catholic upbringing, she was at school in an
outsider position, because they did not go to Jugendweihe and has not been in
the FDJ. She could therefore not directly make the student at the school, but
completed a professional education, how it was possible in the GDR. A
according to the teaching of construction workers planned studies failed
because they did not find an immediate Manger Square for their child. She
experienced again disadvantages. The fact that the church condemned them
because of premarital pregnancy and she felt abandoned, has not forgotten and
is still full of anger at the Church as an institution. Since they often felt
excluded, they had a tendency to take an observer position and to choose a
sport that could make it alone. When diving, since it is placed completely
under water on himself. And that was always my dream situation, diving and
being alone. How she thus wards off their desires for a sympathetic care,
they can gradually understand the conversation.
When choosing among the different partners in addition to their needs
also played guilt and rescue requests an important role. So Ms. Ring chose in
recent years, especially men who as refugees in need were like the parents
themselves, e.g., illegal in Germany living east Europeans. Your present
husband has married her for this reason and plays with the idea, to divorce,
to marry another refugee, and the opportunity to offer him also to remain in
Germany and come out of illegality. She has a tendency to make reparation to
the refugees who are for them instead of the parents. My interpretation both
of their guilt towards the parents as well as their disappointment not to
have been well taken care of helps to better understand her why she starts
over again in difficult relationship situations. She can unconsciously do not
allow that she is doing better than the others.
The willingness to cooperate with the Stasi, Mrs. ring also leads back
to the fact that she wanted to protect her then-boyfriend out of jail and her
daughter in front of the home. Fearing punishment she was unable to escape
the blackmail. The Stasi facilitated their collaboration by pretending the
information would help to better understand the attitude of the Church. They
should act as a mediator between church and state. The case officer has so
justified me. There are not very many people who are familiar with other
religions to be there to help and bring in a little clarity in the matter
For example, he said:. We would actually like to get along with the church,
but we know about little about certain parties, and we do not want that
someone surreptitiously freedoms under the guise of religion In addition,
Ms. Ring had to keep hope, church members from persecution, by woke
understanding on both sides. in the Stasi for church groups and at the church
for the public demands. However, a moment of revenge also plays an important
role, as she admits, namely revenge on the Church, which she had dropped.
Mrs. Ring was from 1985 to 1989 worked for the Stasi, it should provide
information about a church group and an anthroposophic community and also
influence their members. However, to decomposition it was not able and not
willing. While she was able to report on the group of the Protestant church
without any major difficulties, they felt members of the anthroposophic group
on friendly and tried to protect them. From their first case officer was very
pressured. Quit your request was met with a new blackmail by her threatened
to reveal their secret activities friends and colleagues. For the second case
officer, however they had a friendly relationship, felt he could speak openly

31

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

with him, and trusted him while also information that they actually did not
want to pass. He also cautioned against her former partner, who also worked
for the Stasi. Your IM activity justified Woman Ring et al as I said so, that
it saw itself as a mediator between church and state and hoped to protect
under surveillance. Material advantages it has, will never get through their
IM activity except for a few in the German Democratic Republic banned books,
which gave her the second case officer. The most important motive for their
willingness to cooperate with the Stasi was their fear for the daughter. She
emphasizes that she wrote myself no reports, but discussions with the case
officer were recorded on tape. They also tried, as far as she could to
protect each by example a bad memory for names pretending. This effort to
harm anyone, spared her guilt because of IM activities. Under guilt she
suffers rather, given the fate of parents, refugees from Eastern Europe and
other In-emergency more advisable. Ms. Ring recognizes as their personal
problem, not being able to say no, if you ask for help. Until recently it has
made their house available to all refugees who had come illegally to Germany
and asked for accommodation. Although their refugee fate still very touched,
so they are now no longer fulfills all your wishes and can no longer be
exploited.
Ms. Ring had until the summer of 1989 contacts with the Stasi, her last
case officer was nearing the end of the GDR itself very critical of the
government, so that they could communicate well about the situation with him.
That it to survey did not specify their IM activities after the turn, she
grounds that they hoped it would go well everything was also the case. There
was no discovery for them. Why shes slipped through the nets, they do not
know, but it was never kept their IM activity, although the file still exists
and is not destroyed, as it the case officer announced at a later chance
encounter. She was after the turn for several years a member of the PDS, felt
there but also not comfortable. Since their activity ended in an authority
after the turn, she had to take care of new employment, and finally founded
his own company. This activity, however, it is not as successful as they
hoped, what they very stressed at the moment.
By the way mentioned Ms. Ring two suicide attempts, one during their IM
activities and another in 1996. The first will take you back to the burden of
the conspiratorial work. So, I felt already schizophrenic in some way. And
this schizophrenia was actually the main reason for the suicide thing. The
reason for the second suicide attempt it considers the disappointments in
their relationships. She succeeded, but again and again to overcome their
despair in that they sought new challenges and new partners active. So it has
successfully completed several professional trainings and exercised various
activities.
At the end of the interview she describes her great disappointment
about their experiences in Germany, reunification has brought for them only
disadvantages. With her company she ran into trouble. That they now even have
to worry about health and pension insurance, they experienced as an
additional burden. The house, which she bought together with the partner is
reclaimed by distant relatives of the previous owner, which makes them very
angry because they cannot recover even the house and the property of the
parents in what is now Poland. This assessment of the social requirements are
also reflected in the test examination. Woman ring has in the description of
the group ideal image today and earlier the impression that todays society
of her more subjugation and taciturnity expected, while she believed in the
GDR, more should take a more compulsive and dominant attitude.
Your life she describes as a chain of disappointments and renewed
search for understanding friends, without her here had success again. These
negative experiences corresponds Giessen test a depressive mood and a
negative social resonance in the present self-image. The high value of

32

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

dominance indicates that it has a tendency to lead rather different and even
to avoid dependency.
One of the few people she portrays is positive, the second case
officer, she felt as a friend, because he is also critical of the Stasi
faced, she supported with books, which they would otherwise never be able to
acquire, and shared their religious interests. Multiple emphasizing how much
the study of Buddhism and other religions, they would have strengthened
internally. They have learned from the fact that you can learn from difficult
situations, of crises and not only should complain. One conclusion from our
conversation is for them, among other things, that they no longer want to
feel guilty for all emergency around and seek to they want, often to say no.
At the end of the conversation we need to adopt quickly because my bus ride
to the station. The separation also hard for me, because we had an intensive
contact and I find it regrettable to have to leave you alone now and not
being able to continue the conversation.

Mr. Gabler (4)

The conversation with Mr. Gabler came about through the mediation of the
Gauck Authority. He was very accommodating and made already clear in the
telephonic conversation agreement that even he himself is keen on such a
conversation. Until our agreed date I receive by mail and via email a number
of works on this subject, which he has written himself, and other materials
on the history of the Stasi. He deliberately wants to support my preparation
for our conversation and improve my level of information.
Mr. Gabler comes to the interview in the Sigmund Freud Institute. Although it
is at an advanced age, he acts in almost youthful way involved and opens up
in our five-hour meeting a wide range of aspects that go far beyond his
personal life story. Mr. Gabler pointed out that there were many white spots
in the DDR-image of the Federal Republic, and this included that the many
names that he call me in West Germany were not very familiar with.
It makes it obvious pleasure in detail and differentiated to describe.
He says: But I also hold a certain conscious ability to psychological
actions and behavior just as important as the ability to cultivate to speak,
so to be able to speak the language. For him, the Political is important,
and it refers at the risk, things primarily a psychological spectacle to
see. He answers directly to my questions reluctantly, but he usually begins
to problematize this, either the question as a whole or term used therein.
Thereby he addresses the related question him often into the universal and
impersonal.
The end of the GDR in 1989 was the end of a country which he saw as my
country, going from its inception hour for him. Mr. Gabler sees itself as
socialist, and therefore are for him with the end of the GDR, the reasons
that made me be a socialist, not repealed. Its been everything. So I
think, of course, the downfall of this socialist experiment not for the end
of history. Critically, he speaks of the professional revolutionaries or
power engineers with a red paint in the GDR.
After the turn of Mr. Gabler was unemployed and bridged the time until
his 65th birthday with a course and unemployment benefits. Along with the
retirement of his wife, he said, now get along well, and described his
situation as comfortable.
He then explained the origins of his political attitude and come to his
childhood in the Nazi era and the post-war period to speak. He was born in
1930 in an East German city and grew up as an only child. The father, an
engineer by profession, should have been a very rational, bone dry,
engineering-minded person and a pedant. His motto was: Only measure, then

33

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

cut it. He was technically immensely talented. At home it was rather

petty-bourgeois and even been a bit stuffy. But with both parents he had a
cordial relationship, but he missed a spiritual life. The parents had no
political influences on him, there was not an intellectual atmosphere.
Since he had helped most of all the literature.
Mr. Gabler reported no details about his childhood, an exception is the
memory of how he had to rise as a child with his father dragon, or that he
had been scolded for his messy room. And its very strange, I do not have
plastic pictures about the family situation, only about external events. He
thinks that it would therefore have remained so little remembered, because it
is always had been without conflict. He was also a good student.
The mother was said to be more inconspicuous than the father. She was a
housewife and took care of the household and to him. Repeatedly stated Mr.
Gabler: My childhood was carefree, actually quite conflict-free. However,
he suffered from asthma from his 9 to 26 years of age.
From this rather bland description of the childhood memories of a
basic political experience takes off: When it was Mr. Gabler about 21 years
old, the father suddenly stood evening mad in the apartment and railed
against the lack of material resources in the GDR, the he made certain
vocational projects impossible. The father had then talked briefly about
going to the West, but then but decided to stay in the East with the
attitude: To those I show it but The father was then activists become.
The attitude of the father has obviously impressed Mr. Gabler. The father,
however, was never a party member.
He describes his home as relatively apolitical. By contrast, had for
him when the war ended formative impressions, as he has been called up yet as
14 years into the Volkssturm and he also critically thinking others met both
convinced Nazis. He describes to me the arrival of Americans in his hometown.
At that time he met groups who wanted to fight to the last, and others who
were willing to surrender. After the war he began an apprenticeship and
describes his former laboratory director as a critical attitude towards the
Nazis set people. Enthusiastic told me Mr. Gabler of his meeting with a
captain of the Soviet military administration, with which he led the hour
long discussions, the incredibly stimulating and hugely impressive were.
From school he reported from classmates with antifascist parents and a
teacher who dared without Heil Hitler to begin the hour.
All these stories are enriched with artistic references from the fields
of music, literature and painting. Mr. Gabler given me so that his extensive
knowledge, but also that he possessed in his biography of a variety of
important encounters that frame his personality and increase their value. The
members of the Soviet military administration he calls a first political
father. Then he tells me a second political father, a co-founder of the
Czechoslovak Communist Party and later secretary of the Cultural Association.
After a brief membership in the LDP, he was member of the SED. He was later already with a young age - politically active in higher education and in this
context also had encounters with well-known foreign politicians.
Due to his commitment to an unpopular become comrades he lost his job,
but remained within the SED and started in the early 60s, in the Department
of Education (HVA) of the Stasi to work, where he primarily took trips to the
Federal Republic for the purpose of espionage. As instructor he campaigned
preferably law students, who should work in important political institutions
later, when employees of the HVA and supervised later their activities or the
information flow from west to east. Mr. Gabler stressed that he regretted
nothing of its activities. When he describes me details about it, he speaks
often of we by which he means either the HVA or the German Democratic
Republic as a whole. The case resonating mood conveys almost something of a
sporting joy with regard to the successful outwitting the West German

34

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

defense: What do you mean, what the constitutional protection would drum
given on how to find me so a guy. And so far it has seen, and of course
something Sportive per se. Mr. Gabler stressed that in relation to the BND
HVA people make a had excellent motivation . He felt proud that our
Vorturner were all seasoned anti-fascists from the underground struggle.
This motivation has let him also disadvantages to accept, such as the
demolition of all his social contacts with the beginning of his HVA activity
in the GDR. Although there was much to criticize him, the DDR is for me
still the most precious thing in German history has not produced. At the DDR
he laments her lack of democratic procedure and detachment from reality.
Even after the fall of Mr. Gabler felt no concerns about its HVA
activity: It is normal, that is class struggle. So do not complain to the
wall, to the Wailing Wall and.
Three months later I have with Mr. Gabler a second interview at his
home in order to further deepen with him points that are left open in the
first week, can.
These included building a begun its 1958 employees at the Stasi while
working in the administration of an East German university. He met then
regularly about once a month with a Stasi members to talk to him about the
human and material situation in the University Hospital. He said in this
context, to have created a better understanding of the situation of
physicians in both the Stasi and the SED and when to have been help to obtain
the release of material defects. He then signed a veritable declaration of
commitment to the Stasi and got a code name. The Stasi had just been a fire
brigade equipment if it had gone to the urgent elimination of material
deficiencies, e.g., he once received from the Stasi much needed Tachyotomie
tubes. In addition, Mr. Gabler points out that he had made against the Stasi
understanding there has become unpopular doctors. He hoped thereby to improve
the situation of doctors in the hospitals.
Thus, Mr. Gabler again this week began working for the State Security
Service as social assistance. An understanding about the fact that all this
was happening behind the backs of those concerned with ratings, one of which
for those affected often much depended only appear on a general policy level,
but not with regard to its own involvement in this form of acting in ambush.

Mrs. Jung (5)

Ms. Jung is a confident, vibrant, younger-looking 46 year old woman who holds
even after the turn, despite some criticism of the GDR socialism in its
Marxist convictions contact with her, we have gained an unofficial
collaborator who as for the Main Intelligence (HVA) had worked. The three and
a half hour long interview will take place at their workplace because their
children will not find out about their work for the Stasi until they are so
old that they have understanding. During the conversation she asked me not to
publish some messages in order to protect her family.
Mrs. Jung begins the interview by saying that she tells her biography,
to give me their motives for cooperation with the Stasi understood. Both
parents were convinced Marxists and party members and attached great
importance to an antifascist education of her four children. Mrs. Jung
describes itself as a real East German child who always went the right way of
the pioneer organization on the FDJ and the study of Marxism to the party
membership. The family atmosphere she describes as a trusting, especially as
she was the youngest father very close. The late 50s the father lost because
of critical remarks to the state its place at an institute and was expelled
from the party. However, this did not lead to rejection of the party, but he
tried again and again to a new recording, which he finally succeeded after

35

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

several years. He took her up on the position: The people who are in the
party who can be fooled, but the party of their ideal, in its approach, is
always right. With this motto, she grew up and holds despite some negative
experience firmly in the real socialism to date it. I mean, really would
have time to ask a lot more, but Im not occurred to me. Thats this piece of
opportunism marriages in their own development, which is however only became
aware after the turn to me.
Their identification with the father is repeatedly subject in the
course of the interview, without, however, reported on their emotional
relationship with him. The mother, however, was in spite of their party
membership more skeptical about the conditions in East Germany and had, as
Mrs. Jung emphasized the realistic look when it e.g., went to the monitoring
of the Father by the Stasi during his party exclusion. With 20 years, after
graduation, she immediately wanted to join the party, but because at that
time preferred working-class children and she was the child of a family of
intellectuals, they had to wait. During her studies in 1975 she received the
invitation, to report to the precinct to clarify a situation. When they
finally realized that the Stasi had summoned her, she was very proud that
their employees to protect the GDR was sought prior to the capitalist enemy.
Since my heart beat up to the neck, I thought, oh, that is now that of which
youve always dreamed of. I want to do something to help my country to do
something against the inhumanity of capitalism. Mrs. Jung should check for
the HVA people in East and West Germany, if they were appropriate for the
collaboration with the Stasi. Their first task was to win a man from West
Germany, which was active in a left-wing organization for employees. She met
him when he came to visit to East Germany, and found the conversations with
him about socialism very interesting. Finally they accompanied two people to
the Stasi friend and tried to recruit him. Without that they had been
informed in advance, it was dekonspiriert before him, so that he disappointed
withdrew from her and not to work for the secret service was ready. Your
guilt of having betrayed a friend and lost it, she could appease the fact
that party and Stasi would always do the right thing.
In subsequent trips to West Germany for the HVA with a false name and a
legend she had no concerns, take with West German contact and to check them
for their suitability for the Stasi. In their reports, they should write down
their opinion as to whether these people would be winnable or not. Ms. Jung
was always happy, safe return of these trips to the GDR, because their fears
of being discovered, despite training were large. They justified their action
by saying that the West was enough reason to consider him as an enemy,
mentioning among other things, Pinochet in Chile. Your enemy also did not
change on their trips to West Germany because they had not dared to talk with
West Germans. Their activity caused her no conflicts because they betrayed no
one, denounced no one, but people wanted to win a good thing. Whether the
aforementioned contact persons were later recruited by the Stasi really is,
she has never experienced. Ms. Jung could not be seduced by the rich world of
commodities in West Germany because they did not see fulfilled their ideal of
a just society there. Their strict moral stance is i.a. clearly, when she
laughs, she would not even have dared to buy a few bananas, which they love
to eat, not to waste the few currencies in the GDR.
At times, she was sent to Hungary and in other Eastern Bloc countries
to address there West German. The occurrence of a legend was difficult for
them, because they often felt insecure. If I have to clean under a legend in
completely foreign circles, then I find it relatively difficult to adjust
myself.
After graduating, she worked at an institution for international
cooperation. As you no longer liked the work because of fears that planned
trips of scientists come about and thus funds could not be wasted, they

36

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

strove for a body other than an employee of the party leadership in an

enterprise. This automatically ended their occupation of the Stasi, which
they very disappointed. She was sad that she could no longer work for the
HVA, and would have preferred to dispense with the new job, but she was also
in this regard draw and followed the instructions of the Stasi and the party.
Her first case officer, whom she idealized as the father promised her though,
that they would later come back to it, but it did not get more.
In operation, she learned the suppression of workers who know
arrogance of power, as she calls it, but despite their criticism of party
members held it as the Father of party loyalty. I would have a life without
being a party member, cannot imagine.
Even after the turn kept woman young at their communist convictions
firmly, it is today POS member and continues to advocate for a just socialist
state. Since she worked at the turn of the party, there was for them no
momentous discovery, and she had no occupational disadvantages, except that
it can never be active in public service, she also does not seek. Since she
could not work as a teacher after the turn, she trained as a social worker
and has been active in youth work.
To their IM activities she is still, as it believes it has inflicted no
harm without them the know, however, sure. After the turn, she participated
in meetings with victims of the Stasi in part, organized a pastor in her
hometown, and was surprised that suffering had been caused by the
denunciation of IM. She believed in GDR times, that it was only a small elite
that was able to work for the Stasi. Although they had to recognize that
reprisals were exercised by the Stasi, she holds firmly to the belief that
the anti-fascist socialist state, the GDR represented the better solution
compared to the capitalist West Germany. That the Father and dissidents have
suffered this state, she knows, but denies the suppression simultaneously.
Of course she had heard of Robert Havemann and others who called for a
different socialism, but not shaken their belief in the correctness of the
Party line.
What it accuses itself after reunification, is a certain opportunism
and cowardice towards some party members who have betrayed the socialist
ideal, but at the party she holds as the Father laid uncritically. As I
address their identification with the father, who was an inviolable authority
for her, she agrees, but stresses that it would have been very tolerant in
the family and always willing to listen to the arguments of the children.
Despite repeated attempts do not succeed in an interview, to learn
about the emotional relationship with parents and siblings or their own
families. Even from her husband, she tells only that he was a Party member
and also knew that she worked for the HVA. The Joint between her and the
husband seems to be mainly the political commitment to communism. Behind this
object, which is the most important thing in their lives for them today,
everything private disappears. That she does not want to show a lot of
yourself, also falls in the test in the self-description, many questions were
not answered. Between the self-image today and earlier, there is no
difference for Mrs. Jung. Then as now, she describes herself as a little more
controlled, socially capable woman. You cannot imagine a life without a party
and without collective even today. Your children will be taken away from her
to party events, they should get there early with their political ideals into
contact, was so excited as they themselves went with the parents for May Day
demonstration.
Although Ms. Jung at the end of the conversation critical reproaches
she had some shortcomings of the GDR against blinders, so I have the
impression that they do not want to admit their disappointment over the
collapse of their ideals in an interview and emotionally little shows
touches. For them, the issue remains unresolved, how do I get the ideal with

37

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

what is happening partly in the GDR, in a series. In working groups, they

attempted after the fall to begin a history workup with others without being
able to find so far for an answer. Even in discussions with victims, she
tried again to reflect and better understand their behavior on the past. That
a secret service was necessary in the system confrontation, it is clear to
them, but what it to overruns or restrictions against dissidents
gave in the GDR, these are things for me where I say today, which is
inexcusable. But thats then this contradiction between ideal and reality.
The fact that she has not seen in GDR times, many restrictions, Ms. Jung
leads back to the fact that they both in the family and in society blushed
educated. Moreover, the capitalist system showed so many disadvantages that
socialism in the GDR, despite its weaknesses and contradictions for them was
the better system.
The motives for their participation in the study were not very clear in
conversation with Mrs. Jung. It seems to have gone to her about store again
an account of their work for the HVA. They justify their behavior and
political orientation, even if they develop some critical thoughts on the
Stasi.

Ms. Urban (6)

Ms. Urban, a small slender 74 year old woman who greets me in her tight,
cluttered with furniture apartment in an apartment block. She has well
prepared for the interview and a folder with various documents and files are
on the table, they want to show me the first best. Finally, on my request, it
is prepared first to report on their life story and the collaboration with
the Stasi, so that I can convince myself based on the filing of the accuracy
of their information later, she is eager. She worries that her story might
seem implausible otherwise. In their indignation over the injustice done to
her she is at times so excited that she speaks very fast and sometimes not
completely understood.
Chronologically she describes her life story, which is marked by many
traumas. Hailing from a small town in Thuringia, they had over 6 years in
1933 to watch as the father arrested for distributing communist leaflets and
was sentenced to three years in prison. I cannot describe it exactly, came
home, all tearful faces because I was told my dad was arrested for the
leaflets. The mother felt during the captivity of his father with the
daughter left alone, they lived in extreme poverty and had little to eat.
Once the mother expressed in the presence of the child that she would prefer
to turn on the gas tap, because it would end up.
Detailed Urban woman tells the story of parents who were both convinced
Communists and therefore had to suffer under the Nazis. The mother protected
her though from having to go to the BDM, but at the same time she had many
disadvantages because of the political attitude of the parents and felt
isolated at school and belittled. So she could not do before 1945 also the
type of training to their infant sister, but worked as a housemaid in
different families. Even today, she is angry about it and would like to ask
for compensation from the Ministry of the Interior, since they could learn a
profession and due to low labor also receives a small pension. In the
extended family there during the war many clashes, since the father was the
only communist, while several other family members in the Nazi Party and the
SS were active. On the father Woman Urban is still very proud, he has always
supported, and it was closer to him than his mother. After 1945 he built in
his hometown of the KPD and SED on with. Later, he worked full-time at the
Stasi and held various party functions. Urban woman after the war became a
kindergarten teacher, married very early and got in 1948 her only son.

38

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

Shortly after the marriage she felt betrayed and left in the lurch. Her
husband often went fishing with friends, let her nights alone at home and
began to drink. Even the son suffered from a difficult family background, as
her husband led no more regular life and had an affair with another woman.
For a long time she has this degrading situation endured until 1961 divorce
filed, as the other woman had a child by her husband. She hoped then to find
peace, but her husband was still been jealous and did not want that she had
other partners. She was only 35 years old and did not want to stay alone. The
other life of Ms. Urban was marked by many disappointments and slights. Until
the suicide of her husband, several years later, there were massive conflicts
with him and his new life partner. Apparently this woman and many neighbors
were enviously at them and their relationships with men and always staged new
intrigue. Here after the impression of Ms. Urban party membership her husband
and his new wife of them was used to them, which was not in the party, to
make bad everywhere to commit slander and incite others against them. They,
too, had occurred in 1945 in the KPD, but her husband had stolen her party
document, because he would not let them come up. Later, she did not want to
enter the SED. After the divorce is imputed to her, she had a lot of men and
give her money on clothes. I was the bitch, and I had a lot of men and not
taken care of my son. The stories seem partly incredible, which is why women
Urban insists repeatedly that I should I watch their victim acts in which I
much confirmed find. There is enumerated very petty, how many male visitor
woman Urban had and how they dressed. It carries out these slurs on back that
the other women on their clothing, their popularity were envious of men and
their repartee and have therefore tried by all means to make them small. Even
her son had been temporarily incited against them.
She herself felt against these attackers, who were allegedly all Party
members, isolated and powerless. Full outrage she describes how he had
managed a relative in 1945, is red colorize, i.e. he was appointed by the
communists and fascists also made in her hometown a party career. He, too,
had schemed against her and her mother finally applied against them, which
made them very sad.
This is followed in its presentation now family conflicts, inheritance
matters and neighborhood disputes. I have the impression that Mrs. Urban in
their isolation is very glad to have found in me an understanding listener,
when they can get rid of all their suffering at last. She has a great need to
relieve yourself of all the allegations and accusations. When she talks about
the party and the Stasi, so it is not about political beliefs and activities,
but to powerful organizations, which are used by the individual to work
through their personal struggles.
As they Stasi invited in November 1967 on the cooperation and offered her to
pay for her monthly 150 marks, she agreed without hesitation, because she
said that she had desperately needed the money after the divorce. They also
hoped that now on their side a powerful institution would stand as her
husband led his fight against them with the aid of the party. It was used in
1968 as a domestic helper in the American headquarters and had about every
three weeks to report her case officer. Officially, she was employed by the
Russian army. Laughing, she says that she had ever experienced as a domestic
helper nothing special, it was doing it only for the money, and she had a bad
conscience. The advantage of working for the Americans was, inter alia, that
she repeatedly was able to take food from the kitchen. Their reports
contained only trivialities, e.g., when and where the Americans went. She
knew about it, as she was preparing food. Secrets we did not know. Just we
were in this respect there for the Stasi there had someone in it. The
collaboration with the Stasi gave her inner strength to fight her husband
because she felt now also protected by a powerful institution. According to
the documents submitted to me I can see later that they indeed for

39

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

politically reliable kept, but accused her she would act confidently,
contribute too much initiative, which was harmful to an IM. After nearly two
years she lost her job in 1969 because the Stasi was no longer interested in
cooperation. They had to find a new job. This one was her indeed help, as is
also apparent from the documents, but she felt abandoned. After discharge she
was assisted by the Stasi an activity as a switchboard operator. At her young
case officer Mrs. Urban had a friendly but distant relationship.
The character assassination, as she calls it, then continued, since
neither her husband nor his wife and the neighbors gave peace. She could not
complain at the party because there were only members legally. Yes, everyone
had as always right. As could a man who was not in the party, not help it. A
crow does not chop the other from the eye. In order to protect themselves
from the alleged attacks, she turned to her old office in the Stasi and took
her maiden name again.
Rest did not find them, even after the turn. Even today, living in the
home especially former party members and functionaries that hold together
well and plotting against them. Now it is no longer about men out and
vanities, but whether she cleans the windows properly and the hallway versa.
And I get the impression that Mrs. Urban in their isolation is very touchy
and perhaps some behaviors of neighbors interpreted as an attack which are
not so intended. They justified the attacks by saying that she is not willing
to drink with the other residents to work in the neighborhood group and the
party did not belong.
She lives for 27 years in the House, cannot afford another apartment at
her small pension. As it spreads, the stories about the neighborhood dispute
and on, I try several times to respond to their political stance before and
after the turn to turn them back to the actual topic of conversation. For she
has changed after 1989 not a lot when it comes to personal persecution.
Although she finds many new freedoms good, but she herself has benefited
little.
After (today Birthler authority) was at the Gauck Authority and has
seen its documents both as IM as well as under surveillance, they think you
have a little more peace found. They try to keep their distance from the
neighbors, but it was not easy for them. After her parents died, there is
hardly anyone to whom she has confidence. Her father, the idealized she still
was, for them the most important person, only from him she felt accepted and
loved. Her son, who had been drawn into the conflict with the husband, has a
distant relationship with her. She looks at him, although regularly and also
has contact with the granddaughter and great-grandchildren to, but missing a
very close emotional relationship. She feels completely isolated, which is
why the call for them is of particular importance.
In the course of the interview is becoming increasingly clear that it
was their lives in search of an authority that should protect and support
them as the Father, but she has this really found neither in the mens
relationships nor the Stasi. The authority shall notify to the evil, the
party, and the good, the parents, the Stasi and the Gauck Authority. Towards
the end of the conversation it becomes increasingly difficult for me to hear
this sometimes very petty neighborhood disputes obtained only by a political
note, that all the attackers were allegedly party members. During the
conversation I have sometimes wondered how the persecution fears of Mrs.
Urban correspond to reality and to what extent they are projections of their
own desires and feelings of envy.
On the questions of personality tests, which were answered only patchy
from her, Ms. Urban describes itself as a docile person with a depressive
mood that feels more criticized and despised by others, and not assertive.
Due to the many excitements it is also physically ill in recent years.

40

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

As I read the files at the end of the interview, it becomes clear that
much of what Mrs. Urban has described, is really true. It can be seen almost
unbelievable to me that personal defamation and pettiness which must be read
in the IM report on the volunteer.
Urban woman had me already announced before the interview that she
spoke with a neighbor about my visit and that you certainly do thoughts about
who would come to her. When I leave the house, there are two older women in
the door and let me pass barely, but block my way, staring at me curiously.
Through this experience, I find the messages of Mrs. Urban over their
neighbors once again confirmed. I, too, experience the views of neighbors as
intimidating. In her loneliness woman Urban does not seem to be able to
distance themselves from the clashes with the neighborhood, because otherwise
they would have perhaps found another apartment. Although it is identified
with the communist ideals of the father and had no objections to the
cooperation with the Stasi, but the personal conflicts, especially with the
husband, as a motive were more important than political conviction.

Ms. Pohl (7)

Contact with Mrs. Pohl gave us a previously interviewed unofficial
collaborator. The nearly five hour long interview takes place in the Sigmund
Freud Institute in Frankfurt. Ms. Pohl is a rather small, energetic
occurring, self-confident woman who speaks without hesitation of their IM
activities. She tries not like many others to justify the cooperation by
pressure exerted on them, but stands for the earlier decision to collaborate
with the State Security Service.
Even before German reunification Mrs. Pohl has been operational for the
Stasi made public because they thought he had nothing to hide. Your political
views than convinced communist had known, and she wanted to stand by their
deeds. She was immediately dismissed without notice after the admission of IM
activities of their university place, as well as other employees. With
indignation she emphasizes that it is precisely those colleagues who would be
in GDR times adapted most, even now trying again to avoid by matching adverse
consequences. They led a lawsuit before the Labor Court and received a
severance, but was not hired again. Colleagues made their then an offer to
temporarily work at another institution. From journalists she felt pilloried
as IM, what they very hurt because they understood their cooperation as part
of their political activity, and this had been made public before the turn.
Im just very upset, because I thought that someone who is as I got out in
1980 from the company and could make it even pleas, was simply treated very
unfairly.
Since completing their academic work woman Pohl held various jobs and
worked most recently as part of ABM-measures. She is still active as a
journalist and has written several books. At the same time they looked after
refugees who have come from Russia in recent years. Although she is very
active and takes little time for their private lives, but would prefer not
start AHM measures more because it feels it is very humiliating to have to
appear at the job and to be treated condescendingly. That you did not count
the positive revelation of their IM activities, they experienced as very
offensive. Even if it succeeds, be compensated by the many activities the
loss of her place, but she feels diminished.
The father, a convinced Communist, it was still managed before his
emigration to earn as an entrepreneur so much money that it was not bad the
family abroad. Ms. Pohl was born in England. You cannot remember photos in
which the father, mother and a lot of friends celebrate and make trips. The
mother followed his father everywhere. Sometime after the end of the war

41

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

returned to the Father as a convinced communist East Germany in the back and
also forced the mother to accompany him. The mother, who had remained in the
West prefer to commit, suicide three years later, what Mrs. Pohl but does not
lose many words. The death of his mother has reportedly does not so painful
loss for them, because they always lived in a group or extended family. In
England, the family felt in the community of emigrants at home, and in East
Berlin, it was again the group of returned exiles who offered her a new home.
Family meant for Mrs. Pohl never very much what was probably because that the
father was often absent through its activities. Ms. Pohl reported that there
are hardly any photos of her family and parents, but only photos of groups.
The stepmother, who married the father shortly after the death of his mother,
she understood not good, there was often armed. She longed, like other
emigrants children be allowed to go into a home or boarding, that the Father
but, well, did not allow even out of guilt. A home was for Mrs. Pohl then
something to aim for, a bit of the kibbutz idea, a life in general. In the
FDJ she felt then also back home. Later, she regretted that they were not
recorded in the party because they did not come from a working class family.
Due to their disputes with the stepmother and her unruly occurrence
Mrs. Pohl left school before graduation. She was supposed to go into
production, but had enough relationships to work in a newspaper can. After
she had made up a high school, she began in 1970 to study sociology and
economics.
After that she worked in addition to their university activities also
repeatedly as journalists and wrote articles and books. Very early she got a
child she temporarily left the mans family. The giving away of the child can
be traced in an interview on her own experience in the family, for she had a
parent-child relationship of no great importance. About her son, she speaks
as well as about her husband very little. In its report are the various
groups in which they lived and worked, in the foreground. The family
relationships on the other hand seem to have given her little maintenance and
security. It describes a similar behavior in the father, who had no time for
her and her mother, only its publisher and his writing as well as the work
for the party devoted. Even her husband she described as a man who completely
absorbed in a job, like alone, leaving her plenty of time. The son is also
involved in various political groups. For Mrs. Pohl there is no separation
between work and family life, everything belongs together, it does not need a
closing time, because their commitment to groups and for the party represents
their lives. In this way she succeeds in also to cope with the fear of
dependence and to avoid disappointment in one relationships. But I think
that this me-embedding and thus my family embedded in these larger families,
I think I probably could stand better than too close.
Confrontations with the Father given many of their behaviors. The
father leaned a convinced communist religion completely from while later
again increasingly turning to religion. He took her too badly, that she wrote
a book about a trip to a Western country, where they do not attack the
imperialist enemy, but raved about it. Ms. Pohl saw his father shortly before
his death again, as he was helpless and confused and the stepmother she asked
for help. Great detail, she describes the frailty and accommodation of the
father in the home. On the one hand identifies with the father, but at the
same time disappointed by him and fought him, by doing things that she knew
they rebelled him.
From the father comes to the emigres to speak, she cared for in a club,
and with whom she often talks about death and funeral. It shall propose
before then where they should seek to bury in the cemetery, and says with a
smile, then we can wait together for the Messiah. On the interpretation to
the fact that they want to preserve the cohesion of the group even beyond
death, she laughs and is also affected. Their commitment to Marxism and the

42

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

communist emigre group in this context is understood as their desire to find

in a collective protection and security, as the individual dual relationships
in which they felt abandoned again and again, so disappointing for them were.
In the emigrant circle in which she grew up and still lives, there were
in the GDR hardly repression. You could read all the foreign newspapers, had
contacts with many foreigners and wanted to know nothing of the pettybourgeois narrowness of the GDR. You kept yourself so an illusion of a
communist country. She herself said that she had lived in a virtual DDR. As
for the conditions in the GDR, she succeeded well, to deny the negative
aspects in order to get their ideals.
Since she was always in different groups active and back were their own
needs behind, Mrs. Pohl reported little of her private life. However, they
said that they enjoyed giving parties and to conduct an extensive social
life. However, most of their time was determined by organizing (a word she
repeats often) and many activities for others. By cared for them, they
resisted requests from at its own supply. The losses, first in England and
later the home of the mother, she has coped well with the help of their
activities.
Since it has not been included in the party, it filled her with
satisfaction and pride, as the Stasi approximately 1961 turned to them. Yes,
I was thrilled. Finally I want one! And so I slipped into it. About their IM
activities, she speaks only in very general terms, it is not quite clear what
information was expected of her. The Stasi way, I always have to say, I
never appeared as a secret, so for me that was really the covert arm of the
party. And everything else what I was talking, I told them also. Just had to
write it because that was the only difference. For Mrs. Pohl it is important
to point out that it has never been under surveillance or someone secretly
crept into any circle. The fact that they spoke as convinced communist,
through acquaintances with the case officer, she did not feel so problematic
as anyone who had contact with her, which would reportedly need to know. They
stressed that it was known in their circles that there were unofficial
collaborator of the State Security and that they would certainly not keep
dissident utterances themselves. They had their reason tells nothing about
what other people would have endangered. Only once they have considered the
early 60s long, whether they should keep secret their knowledge of an escape
plan before the Stasi. She hesitated for weeks and only somewhat informed, as
she was told that the borders are mined and would help a person when you
impart to his escape plan. People are then come about for one year in jail.
After that she had never told anything when she learned that people wanted to
leave the GDR.
Total Woman Pohl are very cautious when it comes to details of their IM
reports. After the invasion of Soviet troops in Prague in 1968 she separated
from the Stasi, because they did not agree with this policy. Four years later
she was approached again, they should generally report on events that they
attended. They saw their task so that it basically the Enlightenment, not
the Defense so much should serve. The contacts with the case officer was the
late 70s increasingly rare because it was allegedly an informant not very
productive. Your last report she wrote about an invitation to the Permanent
Mission of the Federal Republic in East Berlin. From then on she did not hear
from the Stasi, later she read in the final report of the Stasi, that she had
been unruly and enemies of the state had protected. But these critical
statements of the Stasi found in its assessment by the Gauck Authority no
consideration and also played in the decision of their employer not matter
what they revolted. Maybe they could get extenuating circumstances because of
their partially refused cooperation with the Stasi and because she herself
had been under surveillance, but she did not excuse their actions, because
they had only done what was their belief in GDR times. It was far off to

43

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

behave opportunistically, how many after reunification. Today Mrs. Pohl

experienced as a victim of my self-exposure. She had known even in GDR
times to their work for the Stasi, to clarify things before the new term
began. That she would thus trigger their termination at the university, she
had not expected. Even more outraged she is about colleagues who earlier
example Official posts in the union had or enjoyed benefits by West travel
and do today as they had been against the regime. The only ones who have a
problem today, are those who say, yes, I stand by my past as a comrade. And I
mean that with this deal that provoked an injustice that is harmful to
society.
Both earlier and today Ms. Pohl describes the casting test in their
social relationships as a person who exerts a positive effect on their
environment and is estimated, but also stubbornly mired in disputes. She sees
herself as someone who rather open-minded about other occurs and reveals a
lot of himself. These properties agree to the permeability largely consistent
with the behavior of which it thinks that it is now expected of her. Since it
does not meet the expected in their minds after the fall of restraint in
dealing with others and in public appearances, she gets increasingly in
conflict. As a motive for agreeing to the interview, Ms. Pohl calls except
the desire for vindication and recognition of their actions also a need for
therapeutic help and understanding of their insults. You want to not only
always take care of the weaker ones, but finally find themselves once
support.

Mrs. Forster (8)

Mrs. Forster told me already in the telephone conversation of the agreement
that it had never been an unofficial collaborator of the Stasi and that they
had come to the list of Stasi only through a combination of circumstances.
But she agrees to have a conversation that takes place in the Sigmund Freud
Institute. The conversation takes a total of three hours.
It comes too late, as they went on their way. It gives me a cheerful
spontaneous warmth, speaks very willing and open about their situation. At
the beginning, she describes their political commitment by the events of
1989, their membership in one of the major democratic parties and their
participation in an urban parliamentary body, in which she has been elected.
She was a few years politically active in this way, to 1997 information by
the Gauck Authority were known, which showed her contact with the Stasi. She
was surprised to have been performed as an employee, since she had been
informed by the Stasi never about and no commitment etc. had signed. Although
she now informed their party about not distanced one from her, they even
wanted to support in the next election again. There was then but in the daily
newspapers publications, in which it was even mentioned by name, what she
experienced as a public denunciation. This is also because it bears the name
of a publicly known family. For this reason, she has ended her political
activities as a result.
From the Stasi files they gathered that they had been in turn Upper
served for a long time by the Stasi. Ms. Forster was born in 1944 in Berlin
and came only in 1950 in the GDR, when his father relocated the family from
western Germany there to implement career plans. Since she could not go to
high school because of certain circumstances in the GDR, the parents brought
in 1956 to West Germany, so she could finish school there. This was very
surprising for them, even though the father had already somewhat informed on
departure from the GDR. She was in West Germany entirely on their own,
without family support, under very limited financial ratios. She lived in a

44

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

boarding school and occasionally visited their parents in East Germany and
was attended by the parents in West travel.
This story is the beginning of their life histories and narratives
emerged later talking again on. She then recounts her alone-being and the
stresses which meant that early in-themselves made-being. She felt at that
time by her family deported and suffered melancholy moods, withdrew dreamy
and envied other about their families.
After the school she made in West Germany trained as a nurse, moved in
1961 to West Berlin and lived there to build the wall. When she in 1963 to
East Berlin to meet her parents drove, she was held there against their will
by the authorities and was until 1975 the GDR again leave.
This involuntary stay in the GDR was for them also, therefore, very
distressing, because she was pregnant in 1963, her son was born in the GDR:
... it just was a matter that my professional life and my life, somehow also
my very own private, through my Son, my career, so my training, everything
was interrupted by this action and actually steered completely different.
That made me very angry. The pregnancy was rejected by their parents,
particularly the father, who died 1966th The mother traveled from 1975 from
the GDR and then remained in the West. That same year, Ms. Forster received
approved their exit visa and moved to West Berlin in order. They left behind
two younger sisters, who were born in the GDR. The youngest sister had been
instructed by the Stasi, to observe Mrs. Forster, has compared to this but
eventually dekonspiriert. Therefore, Ms. Forster also looks as victims of the
Stasi.
She then lived in West Berlin, fell ill in 1978 at a life-threatening
tumor, underwent surgery and Berufsunfahigkeits-pensioner.
The first contact with the Stasi had in 1976 during a visit to the
sisters in East Berlin: As two gentlemen came and rang and said we are from
Customs if they could speak to me once. Then were down and took the car in
the direction of Alex, and then said, we are not by customs. You may perhaps
think of what company we are. Company is good. And then we are driven to
the hotel to the legendary Berlin, and there had a room there and have
talked to me. She was threatened with the withdrawal of permission to visit
and wanted them under surveillance certain persons in West Berlin or about
they are information, including a well-known smugglers. Due to this blackmail
they spoke about the desire to meet in the following years, about three to
four times per year with the Stasi people in East Berlin. However, it
contends that it has not provided any substantial information in a total of
twelve years and harmed no one: If in talks something came out what they
could use in any form, I say that you have, but also experience in the pub
when they now would have been sitting here.
You will then subsequently again to talk about her childhood and being
very independent to the need, as a small child: For something like I
cannot or so, for me there is not ... Unlike shes got her mother as always
comfortable and going the easiest way - mere risk nothing or just not
accept any responsibility - experienced. The father was very domineering, he
leaned everyone in the family. The relationship among the parents she has
experienced positive and loving. Her childhood was, however, characterized by
frequent place of residence and change of school.
Then comes to their first years of life to speak. She was born during
the war, while her birth bombs fell, and the women had to constantly go up
and down, between delivery room and cellar reciprocating Mr. Ennen. It was
then later with the family as a very small child with on the run: afterwards
fed and I have family. I was always chickened out, so that I cry in the
stroller. The Russians and the Americans, that was so the children have then
always reingepackt what. The mother fled with her then to Bavaria, where
they reunited with his father after the war.

45

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

According to the mother, she should indeed have been his fathers
favorite child, but what they from their experiences here never experienced
this: Or maybe anyway, I do not know, but he was with me most severely. The
father of her son is American, with whom she had a terrible time not married.
Later she learned then again know an American, with whom she was married, but
separated from him again. Today, it sees itself as a very independent woman
is not so much can take the scepter from his hand and which experienced the
German men as much as intolerant foreigners. She now lives alone in West
Berlin.

Ms. Langer (9)

The conversation with Mrs. Langer, who had very courteous agreement has been
given, took place in an eastern city in her apartment. We talked for about
three hours together, and during this time they verkstigte me. It is a
youthful-looking woman who is friendly-face talks and despite their
described, partly very severe living conditions, something Cheerful-mediated
exhilarating. This was the oppressive portrayal of their lives, which they
call life, which is a little gone wrong, concluded, barely noticeable.
She reported the outset of their first impressions when she came to
West Berlin 1988th Predominantly it was a tenor of disappointment: e.g., the
fact that the houses in the west were not as high as they had imagined. The
change came from the fact that she had met a West Berlin in the east, whom
she married. It was for them, as it stated in an interview later, the
consideration in the game to be able to accomplish in this way the right to
leave the GDR. When she was then confronted with his life reality in West
Berlin, she responded also disappointed and initiated a few months
separation. Alienation and withdrawal called her the ladies in mink coat
out of which they felt treated in time, where she worked as a waitress in a
cafe, condescendingly. And horrified she reacted upon arrival at the Bahnhof
Zoo at the sight of a garbage alcoholic - a picture that her very impressing
upon: When I close my eyes today, I can still see this woman!
When it came in the fall of 1989 came to the fall of the Wall and the
political changes, they responded also disappointed because they felt as a
threat to all that this is what they had built up in the meantime.
She told me then first of their professional record what proved to be a
prelude to the description of a very oppressive life story. Since 1995 she
worked as a nurse for the elderly and also made a veritable education in this
profession. In East Germany, she worked as a waitress in an extended period
trattorias and cafes. Here, as in the descriptions of their work as a
geriatric nurse, she made it clear how much her pulse is pronounced to help.
But she has also started to think more about it and takes back a bit now.
Ms. Langer was born out of wedlock, never learned to know her
biological father and lived the first two years with her mother, who was
working but so that it was given in the same week crib. From the second to
fourth year of life she lived with her grandmother until the mother married
since Mrs. Langer was four years old. Her stepfather was a doctor of
education and robotics and a committed member of the SED. Ms. Langer learned
but only with 15 years, that this stepfather was not her biological father.
From her stepfather she was often brutally - I was bleeding from every hole
- beaten at school, she had great difficulty, and with her mother, there was
probably little understanding. From her woman Langer reported as a detached
woman - ... my mother had urged me never great - which have suffered ever
from guilt because of the illegitimacy of the volunteer.
The conditions at home must have been so oppressive for women long that
she was planning a first suicide attempt with eight. With 14 years they

46

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

penetrated successful forward to going to a boarding school. Previously, she

was ten years old already once for three months in a home because the mother
wanted to conceal a birth before her, which she then gave away the child. The
boarding school experience resulted in the world of gastronomy, the forced
sexualization in puberty, for alcohol abuse. At 15, she made a second suicide
attempt.
In East Germany, Mrs. Langer was first married, had a child, which they
did after the separation from her husband gave to him, as they feared that
from the age of four with her child that could happen, what they themselves
experienced fainting in her childhood would have. The description of her
changing relationships with men makes it clear that she always experienced
intimacy and commitment as threatening and immediately initiated the
separation: ... and here I am then took off running.
In 1983 she was urged by the Stasi to cooperate, after she became
delinquent because of pornographic photographs and films. Later turned out
for them the question whether also the filming itself had been staged by the
Stasi, to bring them into a situation where they could be forced to
cooperate. It played for them probably also play a role that they had in the
Commissioner who they recruited, in love. He was exactly her ideal men: He
was tall, he was strong. Another motive was probably in the sense, now
synonymous and to be of interest. The Stasi wanted Jehovah of their mainly
reports on their pubs acquaintances, in one case, but also about the
witnesses. In another case, she says, to have done really guilty when she
denounced a girlfriend at the Stasi, who had fallen in love with a
Vietnamese. Ms. Langer was spontaneous against the relationship because the
Vietnamese did not correspond to her ideal of a big, strong blonde Viking
from Sweden. After she had signed a declaration of commitment, she took as a
pseudonym the name of a former boarding school friend whom she had impressed
by their calm and orderliness.
She led 1983-1988 a kind of double life that she enjoyed partly. Once
they had decided to marry with the West Berlin acquaintances, the Stasi
wanted to win for employees in West Berlin, and she refused. Overall, she
says, to have reported five people, but it had all been more or less
trivialities, except for the case in which she betrayed her friend because of
their Vietnamese friend, so that it shortly afterwards added locally, and
thus the relationship with girlfriend was repealed. Thats why she feels
today guilt.
Because of their alcohol abuse, depressive states and chronic failure
relationship difficulties Ms. Langer was in 1993 in inpatient and outpatient
psychotherapy. Even today she is suffering from great inner tension and
anxiety - pressure without end! - And psychosomatic symptoms, such as
education frequent sweating. This state is also reflected in the test results
psychological: You should think of itself as a rather depressed person with
reserved character traits and rather low social skills.

Mrs. Quindt (10)

In my telephone notification, the 56 year-old Mrs. Quindt showed very caring:
they immediately offered to get me a hotel in the neighboring village,
because there is no hotel in the village. They did so in a way that made me
feel that a rejection of this offer would be the same as a personal
rejection, which is why I entered it. Another offer to pick me up from the
train station, I was able to reject with thanks. I meet then at the appointed
time on an idyllic, pine-covered hillside plot. Overall, our conversation
takes three hours.

47

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

Mrs. Quindt is a little stocky, slightly corpulent woman. Even now in

conversation she is very accommodating, provided me with drinks and although everything is very tidy - deplores the clutter in your living room.
To call it brings several file folders with their Stasi and process
documents. Her husband sitting in the adjacent kitchen, and it leaves the
door open slightly, as if she is afraid to be alone with me in the room. She
brings out a cat out of the room and tells her that she is an abandoned by
other animals, which they have received. You let me also know briefly that
she had played on the day for three clock in the morning newspaper.
In the first half hour they told me then prepared and overlooking their
filing documents of their traumatic history. She seems really to find a
certain support in their files. I notice in this period an increasing impulse
to want me out go out of the situation. I begin to freeze and get cold feet.
While she says she drinks from a porcelain mug, on the one demonstrator is
caricatured with sign that says: I am against everything. After about 45
minutes you can put the file aside and seems to have found more support in
our relationship , She walks very willingly a to all my questions.
Introduction, I ask Mrs. Quindt after their current living conditions,
and they immediately reported of shootings in the town where she lived
before, why they are here moved to the country. For this purpose, she says:
I have all that followed from the balcony so, and I could not go away too. I
was so fascinated, I had to sit and watch because, even though I knew it is
not good for me. At the same time I have the impression that this
fascination even in our conversation at present. I feel surprised me because
it allows me no gradual introduction to the subject under discussion. This
corresponds to their way of speaking in very short, incomplete sentences. You
can obviously take no time to organize the content of their message
intellectually and verbalize, but is under a strong affective pressure which
makes its verbal messages to a kind of evacuation longer instead of
communication.
After this dramatic opener she accesses her lying ready file documents
and reads me the dates of their detention before. She was housed in total
over a period of 16 years more than seven years in prisons and mental
hospitals. You count me on the data of six arrests.
An exception to their disaster reports forms the description of
memories of the early years with her mother: Yes, the most beautiful were
always times as a child ... Since I can remember that on the way so there was
snow. But even so the earth. And that there was really liberated, has been
looking forward properly, no burden here or something there. Or where I liked
to play. With my old stroller and with my dolls there ... that it was not
only bad, it also gave six good years. No matter how it has leaked, but six
good years with Mutti. And I was very closely connected with my mother, have
rumgeklebt only on her apron, nothing else. I also learned that a
grandmother and two siblings in these years were starving after the war. Mrs.
Quindt came with six years in an orphanage after his mother - as she says
because of a syphilis - was hospitalized psychiatrically in perpetuity. It
describes a military education. At this point the interview scratching a cat
at the door. Mrs. Quindt opens the door and says: As someone wants pure. A
Discarded, we recorded But even in this context, they can at least identify
a good object:. The director of the home, which was then made sure that the
children were also given time to eat extra servings from the farmers, or with
them to the Baltic Sea drove to the camp. And it emphasizes the maintenance
in the childrens group, how much they have held together. When she reached
puberty, was also connected with fears for her: I wanted to stay a child. I
did not want to like the adults. They were made up who were mean, who smoked,
so everything. I found terribly grown-up people dismissal from the
childrens home was connected to them with the sexual abuse by the

48

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

stepfather. I have not spoken to anyone, I could not tell which. Because, he
has also said that if I tell this, then he kills me, then he beats me with an
ax dead. Thats what he told me. She no longer be able to speak to him about
it later.
After about one and a half hours we arrive on their first contact with
the Stasi during her first imprisonment to speak. She had answered a West
German leaflet with questions about Russian barracks sites, was therefore
arrested in the GDR and interrogated by the Stasi. She wanted time to flee
also from East Germany, after she had been sexually abused by her stepfather.
Important for their future Stasi collaboration was also her addict urge
for men: I have been a very wild rock n roll, foxtrot dancer. That was my
world. With music, I could abnebeln me by humanity. Since I had my own world.
Also had good contact always. Was very contactless ready for men also. And
there looked tenderness or love, or wanted to be married, to be loved like
everyone else maybe. And that became really like an addiction. I could not be
without a man, it has vexed me really. And I am thus also become conspicuous
for the Department of the Interior and also against the population. It said:
the whore !
The next disaster was the birth of her daughter in 1965. She mentions
no father. The child was forcefully adopted at about four years, which
represents woman as a result of persecution Quindt, fraud and ambush, and she
responded with her first suicide attempt.
Then describes me her second psychiatric briefing early 70s, where they
had to work in the pathology: I had the fetuses from the glasses that have
been delivered since - because it was also a forensic clinic - in ovens
throw. I burned the soul! This, too, were for her traumatic experience:
With so what have me in the work therapy busy ... I had thought it might be
worse not even been in a concentration camp! They also reported illtreatment in psychiatry and then describes me an escape attempt through the
forest in Czechoslovakia. Inbound she describes her neglected state in the
forest, but also in the interview culminates chaos by their speech is always
disconnected.
The second contact with the Stasi then arose during the second
detention, when she agreed to spy on fellow prisoners, and then
dekonspirierte. And I let it all first time about me and pourve said, Im
with, because I wanted to see what are they doing there? I could hardly
believe that ... And who recruited us, I was not the only one. . And we
should only times mutually sound out us Later she dekonspirierte itself:
And I said to myself, you cannot vote, what you should start here? Since one
has now had an appeal every day, where we have been counted. And since Im
just stepped forward and said: I can recite what ... And since I have spoken
of this recruitment of the Lieutenant 0. That has enlisted me there and that
I was not the mitmache. I should spy on you. The result was Bunker detention
and psychiatric involuntary commitment.
After her release from prison she had a social worker, who - as it
turned out for them - was a Stasi employees. Which she told of the advances,
which made her a West Berlin lawyer who was probably also involved in border
crossing services company: And this harassment by the X. I have this
supervisor says that he keeps the me from the neck. And I did not realize
what Ive thrown. Now they have indeed now fallen on the X., though I now
knew what it was because ... So she had involuntarily the Stasi delivered a
first important piece of information. A renewed commitment to cooperation
resulted after a further detention. They then reported by a first order: You
should entice the West Berlin lawyer X., who helped in the escape of East
Germans to the GDR. However, they did the opposite: And as I have in a night
bar, somewhere in Berlin, met someone And since I have given a card, he wants
to be so nice and would like to hand over the X.: he shall not enter into the

49

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

DDR , Nothing more. Do not respond to my letters, my calls, nothing, he

should do so, as if nothing had. Nor let it be in his answers that I had
informed him. The Act of operation there.
An important motive for collaboration with the Stasi must have been
some kind of sexual bondage for women Quindt: It built itself aufzwischen
what the case officer and me. How connectedness. I wanted him to entice sex.
At a meeting I have opened the door naked or just wearing a towel in front of
it. And I let him tempt, and then theyre only come in pairs ... The
attracted me more and more, although also sometimes told me things that have
hurt me a lot. I felt as if I would give myself necessarily always lower in
his power, that he talked about me ... increasingly Ultimately only from me.
That was very funny. This power has perhaps not every man, but who had the
had. I like he thought, whether one now called brainwashing, I do not know.
At the same time she and her child were supplied by the Stasi with a
furnished apartment. Also their maintenance has been paid by the Stasi, as
long as they still had no job in Berlin. Your Stasi working area were the
night bars and hotels Inter: And I had actually given the job of taking care
in the bars when someone asks me if hes a butt or a Busengrabscher. What he
thinks, what he does. But so directly, whether he is an agent or if he wants
to escape or something. This question was not asked that. I told more from my
experiences out ... and I was obliged to allow ... Even though they have
always said I do not need it, if I do not want. But it always came to sexual
intercourse. And only once with my instinct ... with which I do not klarkam.
And that had consciously taken into account. They also wrote that they had to
take into account in order to maintain this Observierung this conspiratorial
activity, they had to leave verwildern me and still help the fact that I
verwildere even more, in-sexual area. But she was also out of this range for
the Stasi worked and made contact with the witness to Jehovah.
In the Gauck Authority be found later in her Stasi file a total of 31
reports. Through descriptions of this kind is clear how much women Quindt
strives to convey to me that their collaboration with the Stasi less
corresponded to their personal conscious will, but that she was a driven, so
to speak, happened all this. Here she seems to see me as potentially
threatening. Someone, before they have to justify himself because he could
condemn them: And the friend alcohol was then of course my constant
companion. Ive only got drunk. Im half-drunk only once gone, because I
afraid to enter a room where people are. And certainly if ... Ive always had
the feeling that Im going to get smaller and go back ever. And so Ive been
drinking. As I have had courage and could do it all, was going all loose ...
Thats what Ive been chattering or written, half-drunk or something, which I
have yet not registered correctly! Moreover, it is important for her to tell
me that she had her work did not understand the purposes of espionage, but
that it also gave to them what jargon in Stasi the legend is, therefore, an
acceptable justification story varied from IM to IM and was always tailored
personally: ... I do not feel as a spy. Im not a spy. I did not catch what
it was actually because ... Because who always said, these are all sex
offenders that they bring me their sights there. I want to help, that no
child or no more young people are raped or that abuse is or so only. I was
always there on it, these are criminals ... Because who always told me these
are sex offenders, these are people who are women ...
The end of their IM activity came with her marriage early 80s: And
then I got married and have written, I would like to be rid of it. Now that I
have a marriage, cannot agree more. And I thought that was the right reason,
that to me because no one can say married, Im protected.
On the turn they then responded with physical and psychological
symptoms such as hypertension, cardiac arrhythmia and a claustrophobia.
Talking to West Germans, caused her great fear, because they feared being

50

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

persecuted in the now. So it was some relief, was found as officially that
they had been treated law unconstitutional in the GDR for them. She also
received financial compensation, from which it purchased the land on which it
now resides.
The real character of their IM activities she thinks to have recognized
only after the fall of the wall: Through the television, I then mitgekriegt
what that was for a job ... And then I ... The guilt was then so hot , And
these attacks on the population. I look today ... as if I want to hurt
yourself, this program of informers. And since I want to kill me ... but this
time with alcohol. Because I wanted to have a real great effect, that you
cannot save me again.
From her current residence, she says: This is my safe jail. Thats my
cell, and if I do not want, I do not open the door ... and Im almost a year
did not go by land, until the Lord K. then forced me out, by the therapy.
At the end of the conversation I ask her if she because today have the
impression that these experiences could slow somewhat back into the past for
them. Not yet: For this she says. That has absorbed me so, I only live in
this tunnel. I do not know why. I want - Im looking, looking, and there is
no end. The body no longer let me go. Its really like an addiction. Why,
why, why, why me?
After our adoption brings me her husband to the station.
In the psychological test results, shows the current self-image of
women Quindt as extremely depressed, socially withdrawn, with the feeling of
social helplessness. The sensation of a negative social resonance has
radically enhanced with her since the turn.

Mr. Pollok (11)

Mr. Pollok has agreed to come to our conversation in the Sigmund Freud
Institute. After he had twice canceled at short notice, it eventually comes
into being, but with two and a half hours late, when he came with his car on
the way here in a traffic jam. Our conversation takes two and a half hours.
Mr. Pollok is a rather thoughtful, kind man who gives willingly and
accommodating to all my questions.
At the beginning he shows himself very interested in our research
project and provides by itself different questions on the idea of the
research project. Then he talks about his current work situation, and I learn
to my surprise that he has been working as part of a job creation scheme in a
counseling center for rehabilitation and restitution of GDR injustice that
also addresses issues of GDR history, namely with a view an enigmatic
relationships in the power mechanism, in particular the branches of the
Ministry of State Security to the other state organs , busy. This is a task
to which I am actually very, adopted very with inner commitment. Having said
that, he enlightens me on the fact that the ABM post had already been leaked
and he now still on the side deals with this subject. In any case arises in
me the impression that my counterpart the Stasi in particular and the GDR
generally facing very critical. Although Mr. Pollok from my studies is a
university of applied engineering, he has sought immediately after graduation
to a change in the subject and started to work with mentally and physically
disabled, initially in a state, then in a church facility. The change he
justified by the fact that he had at that time feared engineering come in the
subject area in a rigid, monotonous workday, which would organize his life
from the beginning to the professional pension under the same scheme.
Therefore, he wanted to enter the disability actions territory in the GDR. On
my subsequent question of the coming in of this professional orientation
expressed male identification, he answers with explanations of the careers,

51

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

without referring to the psychological content of my question. Our

conversation is losing more and more aspects of his change in rich
professional career, so I finally then wonder when within this career to the
Stasi had come into his life. Mr. Pollok begins to explain to me that he had
lived 16 to 20 years of age in a Sturm und Drang period, completely
convinced of the so-called fully convinced just cause of socialism. And I
then said, ok, if one sees the conviction as an intellectual conviction, then
you must indeed take the second step and practical to do something for it,
With about 18 years, he was then approached by someone from his circle of
friends. something for the thing to do on the way an employee of the State
Security Service. He would have spent only once and a half years in the army
and was then raised again while studying the question of whether he could
from the church working group, in which he found himself, reports: Just look
what theyre doing, making but determined not only religious matters. His
fellow student, who asked him this question, had been revealed to him as a
Stasi employees. Through him, then came an official connection to the Stasi.
Every two to three weeks, he took part in these working groups and ecclesial
also reported in the same rhythm a case officer of the Stasi. Mr. Pollok
interrupts at this point the report on its own employees for the Stasi and
explained my state or SED interest in the Protestant church and its working
groups. Critically, he speaks of the desire of the SED, to have all sectors
of society in their hands to control. And the Protestant church has been
therefore considered an enemy of the state because they do not completely was
under the control of the SED.
Through these remarks, Mr. Pollok distanced again of its IM-work, what
with me solidify the impression that he therefore has a huge guilt or shame.
He thinks he has only reported facts and not personal from the church
district: They had, for example, Invited writers, singers had been invited,
this and that. What did they do there? What did they actually look at a
church event? So the aspect. Some of his information, he found himself
quite controversial , such as when he reported on the statements of a bishop
of the national church. What are the consequences, however, that Stasi drew
to his knowledge eluded. He was in the church working group did not go out of
religious conviction but out of curiosity, coupled with a firm belief in the
correctness of socialist ideology. There was for him quite touch points and
similarities: This visionaries, which is really two very strong essence
immanent than commonality. (...) On the one hand, the classless society - on
the other side the kingdom of God .
Early 80s, i.e., after a total of 14 years, ended the collaboration
with the Stasi. He never signed a formal undertaking, but fixed his
cooperation with a handshake.
Once he received a specific order to watch a loved this church group
and to provide information about him. This had already come into conflict
with the party and wrote a book:. A novel that really critical with our GDR
conditions apart sat And I should out get the whole procedure, and content
where that is written and what it there already is, and how far it is, etc.
That was about the mid-70s. He had already established a relationship with
this man and knew his political and literary point of view very well. I have
also been reported in some detail, I then knew his family, we were also a
little bit in sport times together, so a relatively friendly contact it has
evolved, where mutual trust has been created. As a result of his information
there was with this friend a house search and then two years later came the
imprisonment. The person concerned was in custody and was later sentenced.
For detention had occurred because the book should be made to the
other side as a manuscript, where the publication was prepared with a
specific publisher. Mr. Pollok was summoned as a witness for questioning:
The question, as I said, yes, of course, had the direction as to fasten this

52

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

activity the book writing, and that this book was addressed to the State to
commit by my statement and commit that this man was anyway set of his state
of consciousness against the State. Mr. Pollok has all this essentially
confirmed with a few drawbacks . He describes to me that he had gone at the
trial to the Observierten and normally greeted him with a handshake. The
response was that both the judge and the prosecutor have very vicious
responds, almost to a reference. In this trial, he had weakened his earlier
statement: Since what has been done, what is dealing critically with our
presence, and how should that be to the detriment and to the detriment of our
society and the state system? I think only one critical cooperation can move
forward, you can simply return it to solve problems and build certain way.
The under surveillance has been sentenced to four years in prison and
had to settle for half of them. Even after sentencing Mr. Pollok had contact
with the wife of Observierten and also reported to the Stasi on these
contacts.
He told me also of a reward in the amount of 100 Westmark, he
immediately returned have. After some arguing he got the money yet assumed
his case officer something bought it and keep the rest for themselves.
Another order for keeping an eye to a special person, he refused,
categorically. And there came a point where I said clearly that I will not
do! This negative attitude explains Mr. Pollok first intellectual: He had
come through critical reading to a different assessment of the Stasi and the
GDR. Only after my inquires as he confirmed to have had feelings of guilt:
Thats really a massive, concrete harm to a person come through my share.
By changing his employer he finally brought about a cessation of work as IM.
Mr. Pollok was relieved at the end of this cooperation, but has spoken to
turn to anyone about it: That was like a dark chamber, and held the door
closed, and when it comes, nor throw away the key. During this time he was
very involved in church circles, also made street theater work and dealt
with alternative lifestyles. And we were a group, we have not just played,
we have actually lived like that.
At the time of reunification, he was engaged in a citizens committee
and outed for the first time in a small circle of friends. Finally, he
revealed himself to the board of the Citizens Committee. He got the support
to get the documents on the file, contact the betrayed by him friend and
introduce this throughout the meeting. Thus then did for him, the process of
working up began. When he read his IM Act, he noted that huge differences
between his memories and what was there was. I knew my cover name no longer,
I also did not know how was the time take place? In a written declaration,
signed or not, everything just read in the file. (...) And that was really
the time a huge shock. Mr. Pollok found what he read in the Act itself, on
the whole, adequately.
In addition, Mr. Pollok met with his victims, which brought him
Observierten and imprisoned friend in West Germany. I wanted him (...)
really can say that in person, what I feel, as I see it now, what I did back
then, and just ask him to apologize. In retrospect, he is ashamed
particularly about a lot of information to have given, from the personal
environment which normally do not belong . Today he explains the detail of
its information by saying that he was simply obedient. The other asked, and
I answered.
He feels now through this part of his life story very stressed: I
think that will remain so. (...) And in my life that is really also the most
serious mistake Ive ever made, the real reason for his behavior, he does
not understand to this day:.. There is a huge dark chapter
When asked me Mr. Pollok finally told a few words about his origins. He
grew up as an only child, said he experienced his father as rather absently:
The father had always to do any other things. In his adolescence, the

53

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

parents divorced. He was very often with their grandparents, who lived
nearby. His father was a member of the SED, committed member, right 200
percent full drinne. As a result he was professionally and very tied into
the party work and away from the family. The mother took great care in their
upbringing on externals and have no access to the had, what moved him inside.
He felt her no interest per se, and thus there had been little conversation.
He can remember having cuddled or played with her as a child barely. In
contrast to the family, he experienced the political organization of the GDR
as an area where I said to myself, this is something where you can purely be
his strength, can reintun his emotional range (...). When he later became
involved in the student community, which had become emotional range even
more. And this feeling that there really even radiation of heat was there, I
had a lot more than in the previous circle.
I tell Mr. Pollok at this point that my impression to work after he on
the advertising of a friend, for the Stasi, have therefore responded so
positively, because it there was a special appreciation, which had been
lacking in the years before in the family That you times someone has said
that you are really quite important. He then said emphatically: The
Totally, exactly, and also the feeling of a very long retrospective view, is
exactly right, also applies fully to the core! Thats what I think was one of
my main motivations.
Mr. Pollok reserves until the end of the conversation its very
orderly, thoughtful attitude with, and so the conversation goes well now very
quiet and friendly to the end.
The impression that Mr. Pollok mediated talks, confirmed also in the
psychological test results: He was there trying to be no so-called extreme
answers, i.e. Statements must be crossed, which would be at the edge of the
normal field. Instead, he is more of an above-average number of so-called
middle answers. Has at its self-image after the turn changed nothing: he sees
himself more than a man who evokes not so many positive reactions in others.

Ms. Vogel (12)

Ms. Vogel, a small, elegant, but still energetic acting 66 year old woman
had, on the phone asked when contacting it, conduct the interview in her home
in an eastern city, as they have a larger journey no longer risked. You
already waiting for me at the front door as the bell often not working. Ms.
Vogel lives on the sixth floor of a small, cluttered with furniture social
housing and hosting me during the three-hour conversation with friendly
coffee.
First, it describes, which way she came into contact with the Stasi.
She was 19 years old when she heard on the radio that the station RIAS, the
Hetzsender, as she calls him, Specialist Books for engineering gave away,
which did not exist in the GDR. Since her four-years younger brother wanted
to be an engineer, she hoped to get there for him West German books, and got
in touch. They consoled first, apologized that the books were not there, and
held it out long. When it was learned where she worked, was finally promised
her that she would get the books, when they provided information from the
Ministry, where she worked as a secretary. She had to promise to inform the
sender about certain matters at the Ministry. In a visit to the station RIAS
One day a representative of the Gehlen Organization, the forerunner of the
Federal Intelligence Service (BND), up to them and asked them to cooperate.
Ms. Vogel stressed to have been rather naive because of their youth and to
have felt no fear because she believed that they would never catch it. They
met regularly with the agent in cafes or civilian apartments. With a certain
satisfaction, she describes that she had even taken files with the RIAS and

54

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

copied
out of
again,
wanted
to the

there. At that time I was very courageous, have just the things taken
the safe, and then off. And then who copied that, then Ive tricked it
although since was the State Security. When she finally no longer
to join, print resources were used. She was threatened to betray them
Stasi.
The fact that they agreed to work for the BND, we can understand the
basis of her biography in an interview. As a motive for this can work out
that in the West and the stresses to which it had been previously exposed,
resentment she had on the state due to the escape of her father 1951st His
father had worked for the Reich Railway and should be repeatedly shot by the
Russians because he refused to cooperate. There was constantly the theater
because the locomotives could not provide. Since he has just taken a
locomotive and ran away with it. Since the relationship between the parents
was not so good, he does not attempt to be joined by the family. Ms. Vogel
was at that time very sad, but is then himself soon drawn away from the
family in the big city in a dormitory for trainees. The father she has never
seen. The family was after the escape of the Father surveys exposed by the
Stasi, which Mrs. Vogels anger intensified in the state. Hatred Ive always
had the club (the GDR), through my father, because we were indeed heard. We
did not want to believe that we do not know where he is, and that hes just
cut down.
To her biography she continues, that it never had a real family, in
which they felt provided. The father was often absent as locomotive engineer
and the mother whose mother herself was in turn died early, showed no
maternal feelings neither you nor the brother against. The saying that a big
dog would have preferred as a child, Ms. Vogel has never forgotten. She
pulled out so early and was independent of the family. The contacts with the
representatives of the BND she felt taken seriously and acknowledged. She had
the impression to be important for the secret service.
Your work for the BND in 1956 thereby terminating that a spy from the
West defected to East Germany and revealed the names of many BND informants
at the Stasi. She came immediately into custody and spent four months in
solitary confinement. The terrible conditions of the East German prison they
would have completely demoralized. This must be just endure. One has also
not seen in the free hour either. The hallways were so basically empty when a
prisoner went through the house, they were all under lock and key. Hands
behind his back, the step out face to the wall. In the process, then you
offered her to shorten the sentence of ten or fifteen years to five years, if
they agreed, then to work for the Stasi. Although they did not believe it,
but the thought of being in the GDR prison fifteen years was so frightening
that they agreed to work together for her as a young woman. She gave her
fight but as soon not. Even in prison they are often resisted by example
repeatedly went on a hunger strike and insisted on being taken to the doctor.
She was not intimidated by the drastic punitive measures while in custody.
That both the BND and her family left in the lurch, she has very
disappointed. She was never visit during the five-year imprisonment. After
her release from prison her family did not care about them. The father had
died shortly after her release, she lost contact with the brother and the
mother, what she did not regret.
When Ms. Vogel was founded in 1961 after five years returned from
prison back into the detention center, her then interrogator was shocked by
her condition. Until they could be laid off permanently, she was nursed for
several weeks. Ms. Vogel can only tedious talk about these experiences and
struggles here against her tears. They had to sign a declaration of
commitment and collecting information, for the Stasi. After being released,
she found a job because they had denied her the civil rights for many years.
The Stasi helped her though, to find an apartment, but they did not support

55

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

in finding a job. Finally, she could find a freelancer working for a film
company, first as small Actress, later as a secretary in the production.
Your job when Stasi was to describe the processes at work, and to
report in restaurants and hotels on those present and the contents of the
talks. The people were unknown to her, and she wondered what value these had
their banal appearing information for the Stasi. They, too, was once sent to
Czechoslovakia to observe there in a hotel an unknown to her. The contacts
with the frequently changing enforcement officers she describes as very
superficial, they found irregularly and at greater distances instead.
A married six months after her release Ms. Vogel in the hope of finding
a new family, and was again disappointed when the man was an alcoholic and
the marriage she actually brought only misfortune, so that they do, but only
after 21 years , divorced. The only confidants were and still are to this day
her two children, especially the son, the daughter less. After his release
from prison, she suffered from severe anxiety, she was under observation,
fearing always that the children would be involved, what happened a few
times. The son was repeatedly invited to work for the Stasi, the chair should
be locked up in prison and sound out there as Zelleninformator inmates. They
have done their utmost to prevent it. He was incited by his father against
the state, refused to do military service and got a lot of difficulties. When
the son applied to leave, it was in turn borrowed danger for the family. They
were edited by the Stasi until he withdrew the request. Ms. Vogel feared
repeatedly that they could go to prison again. Already at GDR times, she was
under psychiatric care because they suffered from the consequences of trauma
such as sleep disorders, anxiety and depression. In order to protect
themselves from the authority in her home town, she submitted an application
to be able to relocate to Berlin, what was her finally approved. The daughter
had left already with 18 years the parental home, the son went with her to
Berlin, eventually found a place with the help of the Stasi in a department
store in which mainly women of Stasi officers worked. From her it was
expected that she told her case officer, which reported the son at home from
his workplace, for example, if goods have been moved. She repeatedly
emphasized that they were all irrelevancies and she wondered why the Stasi
such reports collected at all.
Due to the psychological stress it Ms. Vogel finally succeeded with 50
years after several approaches to obtain a disability pension. She hoped to
finally find peace. The Stasi but does not yet let go. Once every four weeks,
she met her case officer at home or at a cafe and had about the experiences
of her son reported in the department store. Her son was not even IM. Only
once she received yet an official order, they should go to an event of
Jehovahs Witnesses to West Berlin, and report on the presentations and the
persons present. Ms. Vogel told that they did not understand from the
nonsense a lot and was able to report anything special. They took the
opportunity to go to West Berlin, but also for themselves. At the border
crossing Checkpoint Charlie they chatted with a duty officer, who referred
her to a man in the Berlin Senate. This in turn gave her an additional
opportunity to work and supported them in the search for medical help for her
son.
Her son suffers from a serious rheumatic disease that was initially not
diagnosed in the GDR properly. With their battle for the son Mrs. Vogel
demonstrated again that it can never be beaten. But since Im not a peaceful
man, and luckily could ruherfahren already, I went to the League Against
Rheumatism, and who enlightened me first. And then I have the necessary crash
because organized through State inputs, up only once such a test has been
made. As I have constantly invested me with the professor because any
nonsense told, but I knew now exactly know. She forced in this way, the
doctors in East Berlin to investigate and treat according to the son. Always

56

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

surprised again Mrs. Vogel me with the fact that despite all their suffering
never gave up and fought courageously for herself and her son.
Your burden is not heard with the turn of 1989, however, as she had
hoped. She moved to the western part of the city, expecting more support. But
there were new frustrations towards them. Although her son a job has been
found with an authority after a long search finally, but they still do not
know whether you will hire him permanently. While talking about his son and
also about their disappointment by their own parents Mrs. Vogel repeatedly
occur tears in her eyes, she can no longer maintain their control and the
predetermined thickness. Behind the anger and the hatred of their
hopelessness and exhaustion are perceptible. Ms. Bird says, she would have
her despair can never indulge, because then they would have perished. Your
struggles she understands as a diversion, by which they could handle all the
loads.
A big disappointment for them was that the process they made it after
the reunification of the Western side of espionage. Since she retired as once
had to carry out an order of the Stasi in East Berlin, the observation of the
witnesses described above Jehovah, it could be assumed her West espionage.
She was sentenced to a fine and had a long time to pay 20 DM a month.
Furious, she makes sure she gets only a very small pension, since the time
they worked for the BND, and the detention time in the GDR will not be
counted. With the help of a lawyer bird woman is fighting for a higher
pension, but do not know if they will succeed. Since they cannot live on 650
DM pension, she receives a housing allowance from the Social Welfare Office.
Despite their trauma woman bird fighting continues and has not given up. They
stressed that they would prefer to work more in order not always to sit at
home alone. Although she has good contacts with their children, but most of
the time she is alone, watching television or crosswords. In the evening she
does not dare to go out, because it was very dangerous in their area.
As ringing during the interview a neighbor three times, the prearranged
signal, said Ms. Vogel, she did not want to be disturbed and will not open
now. We understand their behavior so that they are hidden with me, as it has
previously done it with the enforcement officers. After all her experiences
she has become very suspicious and do not want the neighbor learns of the
visit. The sole confidant with whom they can talk about their IM activities
except the psychiatrist and the lawyer, is her son. Although she has the
children, when they were more informed about their past and the IM activity,
but the daughter is not interested, while the son of applying a lot of
understanding, because he was subjected to persecution because of his
departure even the application.
Ms. Vogel feels abused by all and unfairly treated, both by the family
and the Stasi, the BND, and after 1989, the West German justice system, which
took no account of her difficult fate. It did not ask why she had become IM,
took no account of their long imprisonment in the GDR and the extortion of IM
activities. Their hope to be possibly as other prisoners ransomed in the GDR,
had been disappointed by the BND has heard only once on their request,
something. It was a representative of the BND to her, gave her money directly
into their own hands, because you keep it secret and did not want to be
transferred to their account, and disappeared again. Although they promised
to return, but that never happened, and her letters to the BND Pullach were
not answered. Attempts to make about the CIA, the American intelligence
looking her file, and then possibly get support, not lead to the goal. Ms.
Vogel was punished on the GDR in many ways for their youthful naivety and
their hatred. Although she has repeatedly been combative, is in the interview
very clearly how helpless and desperate she is and that she has the trauma of
the imprisonment never processed. The Giessen Test is also evidence of a

57

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

depressive personality, which describes itself as a socially little gifted,

more closed and suspicious.
Ms. Vogel has agreed to the interview because it seeks understanding
and recognition for their suffering. After switching off the microphone and
ending the official part of the interview she tells farther and can let me go
difficult. Then reported again in detail about their difficult family
circumstances, the beatings and the lack of understanding of the mother who
forced her to be a very early age independently and to go out of the house.
From my father, she was disappointed that he has not taken them with the West
or later not caught up, although that would have been possible before the
1961st Its present mistrust and fear leads them back to both these early
experiences in the family and to the jail time.

Mr. Erler (13)

Mr. Erler had invited me to the interview in his home in an eastern city. At
the three-hour conversation takes at his request his wife part. He justified
this by saying that they have no secrets from each other. Even when Stasi Mr.
Erler had insisted, contrary to local regulations to inform his wife about
the conspiratorial activities. Mr. Erler is a confident occurring charming
older gentleman who is only occasionally a little unsure when his wife
corrected his statements. The presence of the wife and I experience myself
temporarily restricted because it controls the conversation and her husband
interrupts repeatedly. One gets the impression that Mr. Erler alone would
spontaneously react and his conflict would become more clear. The control of
the wife is understandable, as she says in the course of the interview, that
they come from an anti-fascist family. In the criticism of the repression in
the GDR she sees mainly a prejudice West German. Ms. Erler emphasized that
she had traveled a lot in her life, she knew all of Eastern Europe, for the
West, they would have had no more time. Only once she criticizes the GDR when
it comes to that child of academics because of their origin were often not
allowed to study immediately.
Mr. Erler reported extensively from his family of origin. He comes from
a middle-class family home, the father was a simple clerk who does not, as he
would have liked because of its origin, could be a teacher. He had to visit
the high school cannot afford even the Son. A relative who was made
financially better supported him. The mother tells Mr. Erler as a more
emotive and often unpredictable woman who was the good-natured, precise,
conscientious and helpful father the opposite. The description of the mother
remains pale while he finds many appreciative words for the father, since
this is autodidactically formed despite his limited training opportunities
and it always supported. The father has tried to give his children some
humanistic principles. Honesty, kindness and helpfulness
Mr. Erler was drafted at age 16 as an Air Force Helper and shortly
before the war even as a soldier. In captivity, he received the key for his
future political life thought. The Allies showed the captured soldier
Pictures of the liberation of the camps, making him very shaken and caused
them to fight against all forms of oppression against any war. After high
school he studied life sciences and graduated in different cities further
qualifications. Since he had studied in East Germany, he felt obliged to also
work there, although his family continued to live in the West. He became
politically active, was from 1946 to 1948 member of the SPD, and in 1957 a
member of the SED, because he was convinced by the experience in the Nazism
of the objectives of Marxism and the anti-fascist attitude of the GDR.
Although he admits some of repression and lack of freedom in East Germany, he
is still convinced Marxist remained and become a member of the PDS after the

58

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

turn. In 1956 he was approached by the husband of a colleague who worked

full-time at the Stasi and was ready to report on the abuses at the Institute
and colleagues, as he hoped in this way to improve society. Well, who wanted
information about the circumstances affecting the stability of the GDR, gaps
in coverage, and there was in every area, in our institutions and in
hospitals. He saw his main task, abuses in the hospital care to Fix or
report bribes and enrichments. Concerns or guilt he did not feel in the
dissemination of information about colleagues, because he is convinced that
we have no one harms. I have no reservations, doubts or whatever always had,
information that I have received anyway, have gathered, have also collected
specifically to pass on to the institutions who were interested in it. That
was just to be part of my understanding, citizens of the GDR, a state that I
have chosen. The only advantage which he pulled out of this collaboration
was that he received a passport from 1975 to 1980 in order to a Western
institution to request certain information. With the legend, close relatives
to visit, he traveled intermittently every two months in the other
institution. In my area no one knew that I had the passport, then I have
just taken leave. When he was allowed to travel cadre also run more
frequently to meetings to the West and had to write the then usual reports on
the trips. This trip reports for delegating service were made with five
punches. Because you knew, of course, if you could think of, one or two are
for the Stasi. He was a very valued person skilled in working in his field
of work and in the editorial board of a bioscience journal. About his work
Mr. Erler reports in detail. It was known at his workplace while he is member
of the SED, but knew nothing of its IM activity. The advantages he had as a
travel cadre that he, for example, was invited to the United States to give
lectures, he returns to his qualifications and has it away from him, that he
this could have been possible due to its IM activity. He always regretted
that young colleagues were not allowed to go to meetings to the West, and
have endeavored to call for them in their professional development.
After the Wall came down and the elections in East Germany his
colleagues were questioned in his absence by a representative of the city
administration, whether he should remain head of the institute. You did not
know anything more about his collaboration with the Stasi. For him,
inexplicable, a majority of his employees for his dismissal. Only one
abstained, and some were absent. This rejection has very upset him because he
the decision of my colleagues could not explain. He had all called for his
doctorate and his habilitation them, and witnessed their attitude as
ingratitude. When asked if he could understand the motives of the employees,
he says, the whole thing was caused by the great confusion after the Wall
fell. Mr. Erler does not see the reason for its decision in its behavior. One
explanation for him is that the colleagues who voted for his dismissal, the
reunification wanted while he was of the opinion that a better GDR is better
than the connection to the FRG. However, he also acknowledges that the envy
may have contributed to its privileged position in the GDR it.
After his release Mr. Erler led a labor court process, which ended with
a settlement and allowed him still to work until age 65 in another institute.
His disappointment and anger about the colleagues that he had very demanded,
and his fight against the injustice done to him helped him not to become
depressed. He sees the reason for his dismissal only in the party membership.
Nobody knew eventually of its IM activity. Since he was no longer involved in
public service, he was not subjected to review and needed to make no
announcement on its activities for the Stasi. Only through a publication
about the member for whom he in the GDR art its IM activity became public a
year later. The author had knowledge of the Gauck files collected and
written about it, without consulting him, what made him indignant. Although
his activity had no financial or career advantages for the Stasi for him, so

59

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

the family led, inter alia, thereby a contented life in the GDR with a
certain level of prosperity and the possibility of occasional trips to the
West. Although Mr. Erler acknowledges that there other much worse off in the
GDR that people also unjustified sat in prison, but that does not stop him
from seeing particularly positive in the East German society and a lot of
negative in todays Germany, especially in the social sphere. He stressed
that he could also be manifested in the times of the GDR critical of abuses,
without fear of sanctions. It had gone to him in collaboration with the Stasi
to the betterment of society and not personal gain. Today he is a member of
the Association for Civil Rights and Human Dignity and fights against the
prohibitions of previously politically active citizens of the GDR.
At the end he refers to his numerous publications and highlight its
professional qualification.
The test showed that Mr. Erler describes for before and after the turn
as a socially oriented personality with a more positive mood. Subsequently he
sees himself more overly controlled and obsessively at the time of the GDR.
Today he believes that society expected of him more dominance and greater
restraint and seclusion. In the GDR, he felt more in line with the
expectations of society. After the official part of the interview it still
happens to talk about the situation in the GDR and the experiences of Mr. and
Mrs. Erler and after the turn. In this case, both strive to give me reasons
for their criticism of the actually existing capitalism and to gain
recognition for achievements of socialism.

Mr. Voss (14)

Mr. Voss brings me as arranged at a small town railway station and travels
with me to his place of work in a counseling center. His office is cluttered
with files and books, so that we find very little space. He is committed to
making its history very clear to tell chronologically. It will base its
temporarily on notes. Also filling out the questionnaire at the end of almost
three hour long interview, he puts on a correct answer to the questions great
value and therefore takes time.
Mr. Voss begins the conversation by reports from his school days.
Already with twelve years he went away from home in a sports boarding school
in an eastern city. He had been selected because of its exceptional sporting
achievements for the sports school. The early leaving home gave him no
trouble, he felt homesick as other students, because for him counted only the
fulfillment of the right to benefits. In the boarding school Mr. Voss had to
complete another 25 hours of training a week in addition to the normal school
lessons. Despite this hard training and multiple participation in the Olympic
Games he failed to win an Olympic medal. As later in his scientific career he
rendered Although great achievements, but did not reach the desired goal, as
if he would have to deny the success. His ambition determined his career,
both in sports and in the study. After teacher training and a brief spell at
the school he got a job at a teacher training college, which was directly
attributable to the Ministry of National Education, Margot Honecker assumed.
He should make the B promotion to habilitation, and continue to be active
simultaneously. The reasons for his ambition to be clear when he describes
his relationship with the parents, especially the father. The mother was a
woman who knew nothing but work in life. The father had come back as war
disabled, had lost his right arm and was always trying to be successful at
work anyway. The disability he tried as best he could to deny. Mr. Voss tried
the youngest of two children to become the father aside, tied his shoes and
exercised functions necessary for him from which he could not do alone with
your left hand. That he was the right arm of the Father, filled him with

60

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

pride. On the other hand, he suffered from the rage of the father, if this
something did not succeed due to the disability. But he was not only the
right arm of the Father, but also identified himself with him, he denied this
as any weakness. He was allowed to so cannot defend like a friend to the
excessive demand in the sports academy or feel homesick. It was not until the
end of his studies one of his sons on grounds of disability seriously ill and
died, he fought for the first time against the ruthless demands to leave the
child alone and to attend a training event. Mr. Voss used the little son for
a year and refused to participate in a training camp. He was then made ready
before the assembled students team, making him very depressed. Until then, he
had all the requirements subject to protest and completed his studies as a
Best of 60 students.
In the Academy, where he was a doctorate, were more than 90 percent
Party members, you put him under pressure, also join the party. A long time
he hesitated, then finally said to himself: That was one thing that went
against the grain, but I had developed a philosophy for me, I said, well,
stand outside and complain that everyone can, youll times Member, then you
have a bit of rest, and youre more involved, and perhaps changes in this
country are indeed possible. In 1983, he decided to make the request for
inclusion. During his candidacy as a so-called SED member, he was appointed
to the party leadership, at the interview not only the party secretary was
present, but an employee of the Stasi got in touch with him. He was, as he
later learned, in 1971, when he received a package from West relatives, have
been noticed and under surveillance. Along with admission to the party is
recruited him about 1984 to the Stasi. His first assignment was at the
academy to read research and to check which one had to keep secret the fact
that on several research had been published earlier in West Germany than in
East Germany. The idea was to prevent scientific espionage. He experienced it
as an honor that he was allowed to read him many otherwise inaccessible
works, and also considered it important that these research results did not
reach to the West in the field of social science borrowed and educational
research. That he time faster than others got a telephone connection, he was
surprised, but later he realized that served to monitor him. That who
monitored me by phone, the idea would never have occurred. I was really quite
naive. In retrospect, I realized, there was of course a certain amount of
lead time, which have monitored me by phone if I have contacts with the
West.
He got a very friendly young case officer, in which he was allowed to
practice and criticism of the party, and reported that about every four weeks
on the read work. After the case officer had first visited him twice in his
apartment, the meetings were held in safe houses. Mr. Voss describes that he
was proud of the one hand, to have been chosen for a special mission, on the
other hand, had a queasy feeling because it was nothing official.
After one year, this work should stop, but it turned out that it was
only a test phase actually, some kind of testing before actually provided for
him task. They wanted him to make so docile and examine his motivation. The
next job was much harder, and he got another, placed higher, stricter
enforcement officer. They offered him a study on young people perform in a
Berlin factory that made him very interested and also fell in his research
area. Although he did not believe that he would be selected for such work,
but the case officer assured him that if the Stasi need him, Mrs. Honecker
would agree. And so he got the research contract and began his investigation
into the operation. Linked to this, however, was that he was a young officer
working there, a social scientist observe, who allegedly had contacts with
peace and environmental groups. About this man he should deliver information
to prove his subversive attitude. The mission stressed Mr. Voss much because
he did not want to talk about people. On the other hand he did not say also

61

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

no, because the research mandate very irritated him. In addition to his
ambition played a certain fear involved because relatives had fled to the
West and we therefore put him indirectly under pressure. He tried to resolve
the conflict through withdrawal, reported little and gave only such
information, in his opinion, did not harm the Observierten. Over time, he
managed to establish a friendly relationship with the colleagues, but did his
job all the more difficult. When I met the man more, quite a mess has arisen
in me, in my emotional life. So until then, it was somehow quite acceptable
for me, this lucrative business with the research mission, and from then on
was my very uncomfortable. Mr. Voss avoided, inter alia, that the families
first met and met with the colleagues alone.
As he tells it, is clearly the conflict to feel, under which he was
suffering at the time. He reluctantly reported that he repeatedly thought of
to reveal himself to his friend and tell him of his IM activity, but the
shame held him back. I had so much fear and so much shame, that I said, what
I can do to protect him, I do, but I did not manifest. The Stasi tried to
put pressure on him by one claiming to compare its reports with those of
other IM from this area. This colleague still received even in GDR times a
job as an editor in a publishing house, which was the evidence of Mr. Voss
that he had not really hurt him.
He even came in ever greater internal conflict, since the work in the
peace groups also convinced him that he on the other hand but also it held
that the socialist state had to be protected. The acquaintance him new worlds
were opened up, he had never known what it but also mentally stressed. To
cope with this conflict and family difficulties, he began to drink regularly,
and finally had to realize that he had become an alcoholic, although he very
controlled, only in the evening drinking and no one noticed. It came to the
alienation and separation from his wife, and he was increasingly in a
depression with suicidal ideation. This corresponds to the test in an
otherwise unchanged self-image today and earlier a larger depression in GDR
times. The fathers role was the only thing that kept him alive. He worked to
exhaustion, then gave in the summer of 1989 returned his party membership and
also declined the Habilitation. In an academy meeting he was criticized and
exposed by all. The humiliation he felt was very hurtful, it disappointed him
that no colleague was ready to assist him. Together with two colleagues, he
was dismissed from the institute. After the Stasi had only occasionally
generally questioned him after the departure of observierten friend from the
operation of meetings of the peace circle, the contacts ceased in the summer
of 1989 on gradually.
In the crisis situation in the autumn of 1989, Mr. Voss founded with
two colleagues outside the academy a club for youth work, he assisted various
bodies continued to expand even after the turn. It then succeeded around 1991
after he had been temporarily unemployed after completion of the Academy, to
get a job in the administration of a city. On the personal information sheet,
he had the question of cooperation with the Stasi in the negative, because he
believed not to be able to cope in this time without work his situation. He
felt mentally very burdened, had just overcome his drinking problem, hoping
to finally be able to make a fresh start in a new marriage. I knew that I
have to cheat in this situation. That was as clear as the Amen in the church
for me. I felt abandoned by all alone in the situation in August 91. Since I
have no written purely in the personal file and have the full consciousness
of doing what will eventually happen to anyone after checking. Mr. Voss had
not hoped that his file had disappeared, but he wanted to take the
opportunity to a meaningful to do for him life-saving work, until it revealed
its IM activity. The burden of conscience has naturally been gnawing at my
health, i.e. in the years 91 to 93 I have again overloaded me really. I am
nervous been quite at the end. The discovery in 1993 and the loss of his

62

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

office he experienced as very stressful, because you mainly reproached him to

have cooperation with the Stasi is not specified in the personal
questionnaire. He could not make it clear that it was time for him so
important to be able to work and that it was less a matter of him to deny the
fact of IM activities of the inspection committee. Had he told the truth when
hiring, he would then have remained unemployed, which he did not believe to
survive.
Due to a very good testimony of his superiors, he quickly found a new
job in a counseling center in a smaller town, where he works to this day.
That he deferred his habilitation and his scientific ambition, he feels at
the time as a great relief. He no longer feels obligated to have to prove the
father or the head of an institution, how powerful he is. His current
activities and the departure from the city in which he had lived for over 20
years, he does not as a descent. He speaks very openly about the
denunciation, its severity but was mitigated by the fact that he did not harm
the Observierten how he thinks he knows. After the turn, he tried several
times to establish contact with this man, but he did not reply to his
letters. While Mr. Voss is trying to relieve themselves in this way by guilt,
he brings his feelings of shame clearly expressed. As a motive for
collaboration with the Stasi results especially his desire to emulate the
model of his father, both in sport and in science to be successful, but this
is it never quite succeeded. He feels my interpretation that an unconscious
sense of guilt in relation to the disabled father him, among other things has
prevented to be truly successful, as a relief. With the establishment of the
association for youth work he has succeeded in 1989, from the obligation to
be the father and later for the Stasi, the right arm, and to solve their own
way to go. He stressed at the end of the conversation, that he wants will
never member of a party in his life and does not seek more research. Although
was also asked at his new job in the counseling office again after his Stasi
activities, but he was no longer at risk because the review had already taken
place. To his surprise, found in his file only references to the initial
collaboration with the Stasi, but no reports on the observation of
colleagues, which he cannot explain.
Mr. Voss experienced the interview as an opportunity to confront again
with the past in order to be able then better leave behind. His initial fear
of being burdened by the conversation mentally too, turns out to be
unfounded. Thankfully, he says at the end of the interview that he so far
with anyone in this form through its IM activity have been able to speak; the
first time he has the impression that they do not have to be strong, but also
its weaknesses, such as the former alcohol addiction, his depression and the
seduction by the Stasi to be able to show.

Mr. Stahl (15)

Mr. Stahl received me at his home in an eastern city. In his report hes
going chronologically, starting with his birth in 1953 and ends with the
current situation. As a history teacher, he is interested in dealing with the
past and would like to someday write a book about his fathers story. He is
not so much about winning by talking more clarity about his life story or to
find help with the processing of his conspiratorial activities, but he seems
to be more interested in talking than historians with me about the past.
His father, a member of the SED, was working in a government agency and
was a colleague who had gone to the West, in contact with the CIA. Based on
knowledge from his professional activities, he was of interest to the Western
intelligence and worked for several years with him. Since the father was
little present for professional reasons, Mr. Stahl was suffering, hard to

63

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

find contact with him. The mother who was a housewife always there for him,
he kissed and held him very closely linked to itself as a mamas boy. When he
was given approximately three years because of illness of the mother
temporarily in a nursery, he was so desperate that he became ill also and you
had to take it out quickly. Mr. Stahl describes his childhood as very happy.
When he was 15 years old, the parents were suddenly picked up by state
security, without that he and the two and a half years older brother knew the
reason for the arrest. Gradually they learned that the father was accused of
espionage and the mother because of their complicity. The father was
sentenced in 1969 to life imprisonment for Military Intelligence, the mother
to eight years. Nobody at that time was worried about the children, so that
the two themselves were left. Because they wanted to avoid being housed as
minors in a home, they asked anyone for help. They lived at first only from
apprentice money of his brother, after the conviction, the parents had to
work in prison, and sent them some money regularly. Even a teacher supported
him by saw to it that he could freely eat at school. After some time, also
took care of a neighbor to him and his brother, it was used by the Stasi to
do so; as it turned out later. The FDJ was eventually for him a surrogate
family, he spent a lot of time at a club and won a lot of friends. Mr. Stahl
described the separation from parents without major emotions, so that I have
to ask about his feelings again and again to see how much burdened him this
situation. Before his classmates he concealed the reason for the absence of
parents and told them they were in Cuba. He was allowed to visit their
parents in prison regularly every six months. It was very painful for him to
see his mother in such a bad state. With the mother he had great compassion,
as they grew thin in captivity and became ill. On the other hand, Father,
which it fared better in the prison, and the CIA, he was very angry, but not
to the Stasi, which was in his opinion the right to condemn a spy. I have my
father very accused, he has very strong at that time the family risked. He
has embarked on one thing that was extremely dangerous for himself, but also
for the family. Because of its socialist education, to which the CIA had
advised the father to camouflage, Mr. Stahl was identified with the East
German state. And the (CIA) of course told him logically, educate him for
the purposes of a young socialists to be as inconspicuous as possible. And he
ended up doing exactly that. That I so now was a Red, which lies on the CIA.
His later willingness to work for the Stasi, therefore, among other things
happened out of political conviction. Another motive was the fear of possible
harm to the mother by a refusal, but also the revenge on the father and the
restitution to the State betrayed by her father. At 17 he was appointed to
the FDJ leadership, which asked him to help as a good comrade, to observe two
alleged enemies of the state. He had won over the FDJ contacts with the son
of an East German dissident and his wife. His mission was to report on these
and other friends in the FDJ and to influence them to turn them again to
socialism. He did not have the impression to say something negative and
harming the friends so because he only reported positive and helped them to
be subsequently included in the SED and allowed to study. Its IM activity had
by his knowledge of the Friends positive consequences. That he reported
secretly about it, was not a problem for him. The regular contacts with his
case officer, where he found a father substitute, were very supportive. Mr.
Stahl said that he had with him can lead interesting conversations as with
others in the FDJ. As a teenager, he witnessed the secret contacts as well as
an exciting adventure, it was for him like in a detective movie. After one
and a half years ago when he came to the NVA in 1972, the Stasi was no longer
interested in him because he probably had not supplied enough information. In
the army, there was just one more time to a contact with the liaison officer
to the Stasi, in which he complained about an exercise.

64

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

My interpretation, that he as the father of a secret service worked and

thus identified with him, he would not like to admit. His secret admiration
for the Father is clear, however, when he reported that he had with him after
the fall of long conversations, which he recorded on tape to write a book
about the history of the father. The focus, however, especially the
disadvantages that he had by the father and his ruthlessness for Mr. Stahl.
Because of the espionage activities of the father was allowed Mr. steel after
high school, which he had made on the night school, not studying immediately,
but still had a long time to work in his profession as a toolmaker until they
finally allowed him to study. He studied history and became a teacher at a
POS, shortly before the turn to put him there as a school principal.
After the dismissal of the parents, three or four years after the
arrest, he had little contact with them; their commitment to reparation he
experienced only as patronizing. He was forced by the sudden loss of their
parents early for independence, so that he no longer wanted to educate
yourself. On the other hand, he emphasized that these early separation was
for him very important to be independent, because otherwise he would have
remained an anxious mothers boy. His recruitment by the Stasi, he had
discussed with his brother, who advised him to participate under certain
conditions. Ever the brother was a father figure who helped him, the
difficult time to survive. He then took over in the identification with the
mother, the role of the housewife, the brother was the breadwinner.
Mr. Stahl, who had temporarily found in the FDJ a surrogate family
married early to start their own family. Based on the experience of
separation, the close contacts with friends and a harmonious family life for
him were very important. His wife he had soon informed after the marriage of
his Stasi contacts, she is the sister of the observed by him young woman, so
his sister today. Even with the Observierten he spoke about his Stasi
activities and now maintains a friendly relationship with them. Guilt or
shame cannot perceive why Mr. Stahl about his Stasi activities because he
thinks he has not harmed anyone. Only through a conversation with an employee
of the Gauck Authority, he was reminded that even harmless messages,
supplemented by information from other IM, someone could be to the detriment.
He repeatedly emphasized that this notice had first made him thoughtful.
After the turn he had after consultation with his fathers IM activity
is not specified in the questionnaire for Stasi activities because the CIA
had warned the father not to let go of the secret service activities to the
public. Mr. Stahl was annoying to be constantly harassed with these youth
story. Since I had another one of the many problems with the story, the slow
puked me then also. I always say that my life is coming back this crap. It
was then already 20 years ago. In 1994 it was revealed its IM action
contained in the files and he dismissed against the wishes of the staff
council and his colleagues from an employee of the school board of the
teaching profession. After his idea was this man, to whom he is still very
angry, even an East German who in working on their own guilt in this way. Mr.
Stahl was year and a half of work. This time was for him in addition to the
charges for the first time in his life, a period of calm, which he used to
ask his parents what they remember from the last time.
After a case brought by him court process he was admitted and a half
years later in the teaching profession, as one the difficult conditions under
which he had been recruited as minors, considered and could blame him because
of his who Observierten non-injurious reports nothing. His portrayal by him
neither the IM activity yet its impact has been very burdened on his
professional life. It succeeds Mr. Stahl to turn all his negative experiences
into something positive: the separation of the parents led to independence,
the IM activity earned him support from the case officer, and the temporary
loss of a job allowed him to reflect and long conversations with the to lead

65

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

father. Even his transfer to another school after the end of the process won
brought him allegedly only benefits.
Mr. Stahl is still largely identified with the East German school system,
sees many positive aspects and tends to trivialize the earlier problems. The
restrictions imposed by strict controls and policy requirements in the GDR
school system have not charged him. Although he would not want again to join
a party, but the injustices of todays society and the great social
differences he finds unacceptable. At the end of the interview he gives me
the impression that he is very concerned to protect themselves from emotional
shocks and to distance themselves from stressful experiences by describing as
a historian.
This image can also be found in the test results again. Mr. Stahl
describes in the self-image both earlier and today as a socially capable,
tend manic personality. He feels recognized and respected in its environment.
In contrast to the communist era, he believes less controlled by the turn,
i.e. less neat to have to be on time and compulsively. On the other hand, he
thinks that todays society expected of him more reticence as regards the
expression of feelings and needs.

Mr. Mahler (16)

The interview with Mr. Mahler takes place in his home. Even with the
agreement of the conversation he had shown very friendly and accommodating,
which now repeats itself. He spontaneously offers me at the welcome to visit
the apartment. Later in an interview, there is another offer to show me his
homemade furniture.
Asked about the changes after the turn he speaks very positively on the
larger freedoms that. More of personal responsibility and the exciting
processes in democracy He expressed his satisfaction with his beautiful
apartment and the increased consumption. Almost incidentally, he mentions
that he is now doing a job that would not his or her abilities. Because he no
longer works as a teacher, but cared for the unemployed. Mr. Mahler speaks of
itself as a full-blooded teacher who lost his job due to his Stasi
employees and then over a five-year process to its place - unsuccessfully fought. While he described this to me, he emphasizes the positive aspects of
this development: The family connection was strengthened by and the friends.
In the same context, it refers to its large children whose development makes
him a lot of joy. He emphasized the many new opportunities that are given,
and how exciting it finds the diversity of society.
This gives me the impression that here a painful for Mr. Mahler subject
is touched, in contrast, he prefers to look at the positive aspects. He
complained that there had been in recent years on the part of the employment
office anyone who had clearly shown him the way and taken a position on his
professional situation. Again he makes it clear that his current work is not
him. But he consoled himself a little by saying that he would possibly have
today as a teacher also very difficult working conditions. Occasionally, he
now helps his wife in the correction of work and is delighted that the
pedagogical ... very strongly represented in the family is.
When asked do I know then that his mother was personnel manager at the
German Reich Railway and he grew up without a father because of this had gone
to the West. He has seen his father only early 90s once for a few hours. For
this purpose, says Mr. Mahler: And that is personally a very exciting thing
... He goes on to relate that his father was a stranger to him and that he
will meet soon with one of his half-sisters from the fathers family. Again,
he commented: So life is really colorful after the turn. The options that

66

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

have been so ... with me again gets the impression that Mr. Mahler painful
topics positivized .
Repeatedly I ask about the circumstances of his upbringing. Although he
received very friendly to each of my questions, but is also apparent that Mr.
Mahler reluctantly talks about this issue. It was not easy for his mother to
raise him in a small town alone. The mother would be accused today that it
had not then informed him in time on the methods of the Stasi. Because she
had of her professional position her experience with the Stasi. He had his
mother very revered and said, very, very cordial relationship to have her
one. He looks after her and that they strictly dealt as a child from her
concern out with him and allowed him less, was allowed as other children. She
was a good-hearted woman, the very care by the cohesion of the family.
In a further demand toward I learn that he was a child much alone: Even
as a toddler he was a week crib where the children were executed on Monday
introduced and collected on Friday. Later in kindergarten, he was separated
7-18 clock from the mother, ... then they picked me up. It was sometimes a
bit bitter because I was always the last one. Something ausfhrlieber
reported Mr. Mahler from Christmas that also had always been a little bit
bitter for him because his mother always visit as head of personnel on
December 24 company employees went and he remained alone. I wonder at this
point whether Mr. Mahler possibly with the Christmas experience of loneliness
responsive, rooted in the early experiences of the week crib or massive
separation from the mother. He thinks, however, not to have suffered greatly
from being alone: So I have not really felt in the sense a lack ... My
childhood was actually quite carefree, if one so wishes. It was obvious to
him also very good experiences and alternatives, such as to provide the farm
holidays with relatives, sports at school and his ability at school and good.
Later he made his baccalaureate with honors.
As a student, he worked at the Young Pioneers, and then in the FDJ.
Although he was greatly distressed later to join the SED, he did not.
Bothered him particularly the duplicity of SED functionaries, on the one hand
in thick Volvos rumfuhren, and on the other side had to run around here
for a piece of wood. He also took exception to try to influence his teaching
politically.
For the profession as a teacher, he had chosen through the role model
of our teachers. Of particular importance was his class teacher who was one
heart and soul. Enthusiastically told me Mr. Mahler, as he has now in turn
accepted as a teacher and his students called it, so that to thank them
partially for several years after completing school with him. I tell Mr.
Mahler at this point that he probably could therefore engage as well as a
teacher, because he caught up something he had missed in his childhood: a
fathers position. Mr. Mahler confirms its addition Going far beyond the
Professional Commitment and said that he was a teacher never been that
withdrew only teaching and by one standing on the tennis court. Mr. Mahler
reported then continued on his dedication to his students, which he describes
in detail specific examples repeatedly.
I interrupt this conversation transition by asking him about the
beginning of his collaboration with the State Security Service. Mr. Mahler
answers this question directly, but explains how inexperienced he was 19
years as a high school graduate. He had, for example, had no experience with
girls, and it had been there a couple of development deficits, also due to
the upbringing of his mother. These rudimentary critique of his mother
allowed Mr. Mahler but fall by defending his mother and running, how
difficult it had been there with his birth, in view of the ugly behavior my
mother my father against. My father, my mother also exploited more or less.
Pep Talk A demand Mr. Mahler versa then again to the circumstances of his
first contact Stasi back. He had been called after graduation for military

67

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

and came into a barracks, which lay on the Baltic Sea and at that time was
Twelve hours drive away from home. He was in his company, the only high
school graduate and had little experience with the use of alcohol and such
stories. Therefore, he did not belong to the other felt and was also
excluded. And it was also partly massively insulting ... Mr. Mahler
describes me how much he felt at the time as an outsider, until he once
three boxes full of brandy brought. That gave him recognition. Since he was
the only one with high school, he was brought into the bar after a certain
time by a Major, to manage social documents of the soldiers and the NCOs.
There he was asked about a possible collaboration with the Stasi. They told
him how important he was, and that one would be vigilant against foreign
agents always. Mr. Mahler agreed and signed a statement of commitment.
Subsequently he thinks that his boss has a little taken advantage of the
fathers role, this deficiency. He was then 20 years old. His first
assignment at the time of the World Festival in the GDR was to write a
progress report on his group. He wrote only two reports, which he mentioned
in one that comrades showed the Hitler salute. There are seven meeting
reports, which has drawn up the Stasi officer. These reports originated a
statement to which Mr. Mahler said to have no memory: A member of the company
said then shortly after the death of Ulbricht: Pity the Buchenwald have
closed down because they could indeed burn Ulbricht. Due to its disclosure of
this sentence to the Stasi Mr. Mahler later before the Federal Labor Court
lost his case for reinstatement, as he had played with this statement a
personal statement that could have hurt very much to the person concerned.
When his case officer offered him money for his reports, he had refused to do
so and ended cooperation. He later became a teacher again approached and
asked to provide information about a student of the Stasi. This he refused.
About two years after reunification, now Mr. Mahler was assistant
principal, the principal of the school was suspended because of Stasi
collaboration, and 14 days later, Mr. Mahler himself came to the series.
Within two hours, he had to pack his things and was not allowed to enter the
school. Until then, he had hoped that his earlier collaboration with the
Stasi during the army time remain undiscovered or would no longer be able to
find in the Stasi files. Afraid I was actually not otherwise have the also
reported again and would have said, come on, go ahead. And from my memory
that was finished there. He had the feeling that in a frenzied hole to
fall. Throughout the District, his case was known, and even his wife was no
longer greeted at their own school. You are a giant temple IM ... bum and theyve got no chance ... This notion is indeed haunted ... Today, there
are indeed manslaughter arguments. You can even do anything about it, for
now. He found the whole process totally unjust and tried with all legal
means to defend themselves against it. The Staff of the school had opposed
his dismissal, but the school board has not agreed to the decision of the
staff council. Then, the central staff of the city has also voted against the
dismissal. Only the arbitration committee, where employer and employee
representatives come together, chose it for the cancellation. He filed an
action for dismissal protection, went up before the Regional Labor Court,
which summoned the denunciation as lawful. The case went to the Federal Labor
Court on the revision there also summoned to the dismissal as lawful because
its Notification of Buchenwald-utterance would have been to the detriment of
the person concerned. Another appeal to the Federal Constitutional Court has
not been accepted. Mr. Mahler thought: At a comrade betrayal is the worst
thing there is, I guess. That was certainly a view of the judges.
Mr. Mahler then told me details of his current work situation. He has
worked in very different areas, made different professional approaches, e.g.,
at a Waldorf school, but there have to date found no prospects for him, which
would have brought him a secure job. Finally, we come back to the loss of his

68

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

teaching job to speak, and Mr. Mahler stressed again that he sees not the
proportionality at all, understanding of the criticism of Stasi employees in
his case. He has the feeling that made an example of him, which is not
personally meet him.
The opinions undertook Mr. Mahler initially with respect to the changes
in society before and after the turn, are also reflected in the test
psychological results. In the GDR, therefore more docility and self-control
were of the people has been requested, while the present-day society
considered more dominant appearance as desirable. Mr. Mahler overestimated
himself as a GDR times dominant and tends to be less controlled than desired.

Ms. Onken (17)

Our conversation Ms. Onken takes a 20-minute early. It behaves very friendly
and humble, sitting me throughout the entire conversation with her briefcase
on her lap quietly opposite. For them it is the first time that it about
talking. It seems even easier to be able to talk again about all these
things. They seemed very well maintained, is talking directly an atmosphere
of trust and allows her to me all in all a clear picture of your CV or your
IM activity.
Ms. Onken said that after the turn has primarily changed their
professional development to the positive, the private is not so much. The
latter she explains by saying that she has separated from her husband three
years ago. Professionally, she is now on a secure job with a public
authority, where she has worked in recent years in the hierarchy. It makes
part time nor additional training and is active even as honorary judge at the
Social Court. They repeatedly emphasized that they did not wait in the past
until she might dismiss and wants to prevent this in the future. Looking
back, she says on the social situation in the GDR . It did not need to worry
so The situation today, however, they experienced many social issues more
difficult. Teachers in GDR times, she experienced dedicated much like todays
teacher at the Waldorf school her son. So in the social issues its bad,
thats negative. But otherwise its very positive.
You think you have got taught in the GDR school a more extensive
general education, than now is the case with their children.
Ms. Onken was born in the mid-60s and spent her childhood with her
grandparents. When she was in second grade, her parents divorced. She then
lived again some time with her grandparents, with the new man her mother she
did not understand and felt very patronized by him. They resorted to the
sport, has been very active and there had also their friends. But a
consequence of the sporting burden she retired in damage to the knee, which
had to be corrected surgically. Your commitment to sport she could no longer
continue thereafter. With her mother she had previously violent conflicts:
She was against the sport and wanted the daughter focuses more on school. At
the time of her birth mother lived not with her father. Since the mother
lived in a very small and ill-equipped apartment, the grandmother took the
child to him. Up to the age of five she was with her grandparents, but had
regular contact with her mother. The grandmother was for them much more a
mother: . So, I loved my grandmother about everything ... To her I also had
a lot more confidence as to my real mother After her parents divorced she
had for many years no Contact more about her biological father, until 16
years ago turned the back. Today her father is a long-term care has become,
after several heart attacks, stroke, too, and we are fighting for the
recognition of a level of care. The relationship with her mother she sees
today burdened that his mother tried to influence their children: the

69

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

divorce, the woman Onken has made is not good for the children, etc. The
mother had her son very much.
When asked me explained Ms. Onken why the relationship with her
stepfather was so difficult: The time was when she was ten years old,
collected from one day to the other, without having been informed at home.
She must then heat the oven in her room itself, and it could happen before,
that her stepfather the garbage dumped into the room when she had forgotten
to carry the garbage can. At 17, she eventually moved from home. I had then
met the D., which had been the biggest mistake of my life. Ms. Onken was
drawn to him and came over with a group of young people, with whom the whole
mess began. I guess I just wanted to be loved. She came into financial
difficulties, and since then I began to overdraw the account or issue
checks, which were not covered. She had covered her account to several
thousand dollars, and was then sentenced to one year and eight months
imprisonment without parole. They came up with 18 years in prison and had to
spend in prison for one year and three months. She felt the prison as a just
punishment. The time was tough, she was with 18 other prisoners in a room
with three-story beds. Because of their education, she headed in the prison
time a course for illiterate. And that has really fun for me ... As was also
shadowed me how I do it. After the detention, she was released on parole and
spent two years working hard to pay off their debts. The debt she also wanted
to therefore execute quickly, because they had become pregnant and had set
itself the goal to be debt free before the childs birth. I really wanted to
have a child at that time, but Ive lived. Although I did not want a man, but
I wanted to have a child.
The contact with the Stasi had emerged within the penitentiary system
at the outset. Ms. Onken reported that their phantom sketches submitted by
other people and they are asked if they know the person or not. It was only
later she found out that this was a survey by the Stasi. During her work in
the laundry she had to control the work performance of other prisoner and
inform the timekeeping of the Stasi. She signed a declaration of commitment
and received a code name. I thought that was kind of strange, but I did not
then also made me so worry about. Of course I wanted to do everything
possible to be dismissed early on, and then actually found anything bad here.
That would anyway come to light. The performance I have always settled, and
it was then also counted. In this respect, it was now not something wrong or
something. She was also asked about wanting to leave in its layer, but said
to have given to any information. In its relations with the other prisoners,
they remained in a friendly distance, Im very good terms with all, and that
was actually been my goal. I was there with no closer friends or the like,
which I did not want to.
Case officer was responsible for the film Woman lieutenant, to which
it at different distances for them - was quoted - about three to four weeks.
She then consented to this cooperation without hesitation because she
felt guilty, some wanted to make amends, and also had the impression that a
no will turn her then interpreted negatively ... along the lines of, you
do not learn from it from their offense. Yes, this fear I had. She had the
Hotlhung to be released on parole earlier. And I should have as positive as
possible enter, that I will perhaps earlier dismissed ... Thats why I have
hardly time dared to somehow say no, but I do not want that, or I will not be
here down. This question was not for me.
Remorse she has not made because of their messages because they think
the negative work habits of inmates would rather backdated to the other.
The Stasi wanted from her as well as further information about other
prisoners, who had asked for an exit visa. I should then downright sound
out, etc. And I was at that time not afraid to say I do not do that. But I
could anyway not say anything that I would not have said, even if I had known

70

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

it somehow or something. In another case, she showed by itself another

convicts to that stolen from the closets of inmates repeatedly Objects would
have. This woman was six months pregnant, then the child was released to the
birth. Ms. Onken it showed just before his release and made sure that she was
checked in detail, with all the stolen items came to light. But such things,
I then of course given because that was unfair. And since I had had a bad
conscience doing. Ms. Onken was obviously not the only one for the / Stasi
had worked woman lieutenant. So she herself was sentenced to 14 days
Karzerverwahrung even after it became known that a prisoner from their
custody has in another repository can include and vice versa.
After her release, she got out of the Stasi officer assigned to a new
leadership. Immediately after the release I had to in the report ... And who
was then also been very nice. Unlike in the penal system. And that made me
gifts, when my son was born. He bought him a sweater, etc. So I felt already
as cute. Ms. Onken was working part time in a kiosk and was then questioned
by their case officer, if there was just goods are moved from the West and
so . Because she felt unfairly treated by the employer - for example, let he
machen-- the hardest work without help, she gave her case officer also on
record that somehow not only food sold there, but also any technical
equipment. The collaboration with the Stasi listened to, because my son was
about a year old. Because Ive probably not yielded the desired
information, as they have perhaps had hoped ... I was maybe not so good for
them, not as exhaustive. Thats why this is then fallen asleep silently
somehow. And the cooperation was not continued, so to speak.
Since she was already working in the public sector after the turn, it
was reviewed, and that was really in the form of an interrogation, I can say
today. That was very hard, and I was behind something of nervous and messed
up mentally. I thought, now its all over, I lose my job, I lose everything,
its all over. She has, however, also indicated that they have at that time
did not know that she worked for the State Security. I did not think that I
work for the State Security. I was always so assumed that Im working for a
Commissioner of the Judicial Police, because everything was all about scams.
And thats why I had at that time never seen. With time says Ms. Onken
their probation period in the prison itself it was already clear that she
worked for the Stasi. Despite Allern she never considered real employee of
the Stasi. ... Because I have not seen as cooperation with the State
Security. I was never. Ive never seen myself as something. Not that I was
then subsequently designed so that it then also so was actually, that was me
at that time unaware. Thats what Ive noticed in practice only in the course
of this whole investigation, I was also performed under. Im slipped into
quite naive in this whole thing. From todays perspective, I could already
say that perhaps, with the knowledge of today, I could have refused already,
I guess, without fear of reprisals great.
At the end of our conversation, stated Ms. Onken, that it might be for
me also is quite good to talk about it, now in retrospect that I now can
really conclude for me by.

Mr. Lenz (18)

The interview with Mr. Lenz was held at his workplace in a university where
he worked as a scientist. We sat in his study, surrounded by many examination
devices. Already during the telephone agreement a great reticence was
noticeable, and this was also reflected in an interview. Here Mr. Lenz seemed
quite sympathetic, warm, thoughtful and serious. Willingly, he spoke about
all my questions. But his immense difficulties to talk about their own
feelings and thoughts, gave his releases something Distanced. This enabled us

71

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

to not further deepen the extent psychodynamic contexts. Mr. Lenz gave
preference of external reality attention, but not the inner. The entire
conversation lasted two and a quarter hours and gave an overview of the
circumstances of his IM activity and his biography.
Mr. Lenz, at the time of the interview 47 years old, first told me
about his several unsuccessful attempts to get the offer of a professorship.
This was due to the information that was known about his former Stasi
employees. Its IM activity he represented as a kind of youthful
indiscretion or late adolescent behavior: That was a Stupid Boy prank.
With approximately 17 years he was in a drunken state back with friends from
visiting discotheques. It was late at night, and on the street were due to
the upcoming National Day of the GDR flags and pennants excited. The boys
made a game of it, practicing High Jump and tear down these pennants. The
result was that a few days later the police showed up at school and those
responsible interrogated. In the GDR was at that time with this incident, the
criminal offense of an attack on state symbols met, and for a time threatened
a school reference. But this could be just averted. A few months later the
Stasi got in touch with Mr. Lenz on, referring to the illegality of this act
and appealed to it that he would make up for something. Mr. Lenz agreed to
act as IM, and was from then on for a period of approximately two years
regularly Observation orders. It should, for example, Watch street scenes, if
there were public events and festivals, e.g., on May 1 and October 7
(National Day of the GDR), and from the school, he should talk about his
classmates. So he wrote reports on his classmates and met regularly every one
to two months with his case officer. He was there every effort to not provide
information that could harm someone. For example, he did not report him
become known emigration applications or plans. He himself says that he was
not only blackmailed to this activity, but also that a piece of voluntariness
was there that his former left revolutionism and his socialist ideals
arose: Yeah, well, and then just as the question was asked because I have to
make up what. And the whole thing was just from todays perspective a little
crazy, but I can just recap so parallel that speak my left Revoluzzerturn was
in full bloom and development. From 16 to 18 years, he worked as an informal
employee for the Stasi, later he was then approached again, but there
appeared to be no more cooperation.
Before me but Mr. Lenz talked about his Stasi activities, he described
to me his parents house, where he apparently learned little empathy and
affection. The parents had, until he was about nine years old, a nursery,
where they were both working. Mr. Lenz describes in great detail how
comfortable he felt to play there as a child. The mother was constantly busy
with work. It occurred to me that Mr. Lenz neither the mother nor with the
father describes some playful or otherwise communicative scene. The father
had once been a member of the NSDAP, in the opinion of Mr. Lenz, such a
little fellow. He came after the Seven Years War in captivity and turned
inwardly by the Nazis from. With the prisoner of war Mr. Lenz, it brought in
connection, that the father was often sick later. He had several heart
attacks and spinal damage. His capacity for work was very limited, and the
family went badly financially. This met Mr. Lenz more so than the father for
him a high priority had. By contrast, he said to his mother a still very
contemporary duty ratio to have. When he was 16 years old, the nursery was
converted into a cooperative, and the mother began to work as a factory
worker. The father could only accept the auxiliary jobs, and there began a
difficult time for the family.
The attachment to her father led Mr. Lenz back that this stimulated
thought processes and its example with it Computing practiced. He was a very
good student, made the best student of the school, although the parents were
Eigent borrowed set against a high school. He had to really fight to be

72

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

allowed to do it. At age 16 he moved from home to an aunt, because the

parents lacked a room for him. At school he was a member of the FDJ, and at
age 18 he became a member of the SED. He was then asked if he wanted to be a
member of the SED and felt it as an accolade. He remained a party member
until the end of the GDR and was always in a somewhat ambiguous position,
since he was the one convinced of the ideas of socialism, but not always
impressed by its realization in the GDR. He also felt gratitude to the DDR
system against because he was able to study as a child laborer and bring it
so far and was convinced that he would not have had these opportunities to
the west. Today, Mr. Lenz is remarried and has both first and second marriage
children.
In this interview he emphasized that he still experienced feelings of
shame with respect to its Stasi activities, and agreed to his wife, who
accused him that he had not said no time to the required cooperation.
Important for cooperation with the Stasi were probably also the case
officers, which he perceived as a human, and formed and where he developed a
very friendly relationship. Because of his sense of shame he would never tell
his children anything about it.
1992 when he was 38 years old, it came as part of a review of
university members to uncover his former IM activity. He has experienced this
as very dramatic and spoke of days and weeks where it really was the
existence at stake due to this narrow thing, and of course there was no other
topic ... However, he retained his position at the university staff but had
to experience in the years that followed, that he failed in his applications
for a professorship, even when he had once obtained the first place as part
of a list of appellate proceedings. He leads this refusal in part to the
known-Become his earlier IM activity, on the other, it returned that he had
the Review Commission against not entirely renounced the GDR. He experienced
this as a kind of victors justice.
The objective, rather emotionally controlled attitude of Mr. Lenz is
also reflected in the test results psychological: be there emitted self-image
was unremarkable. However, he gave the test to the expression of feeling that
he would have to occur nowadays actually dominant than he is-a finding that
may expresses how much Mr. Lenz feels deprived of the chief position of a
professor.

Mr. Hartel (19)

The contact Mr. Hartel proved to be very difficult because I phone
temporarily could not reach him. He had not confirmed to me, so I was not
sure before the trip to Berlin to interview if I would find him to be made
several weeks before the appointment.
He apologizes to the welcome that he had often not been home and had
his answering machine is not turned on in the past few days. As I enter the
small but well-renovated apartment in a gray, not yet renovated house, two
cats come running toward me. They play in the life of Mr. Hartel an important
role everywhere standing around food bowls, there are towels on the bed, so
that the cats can make yourself comfortable. Mr. Hartel is a powerful man,
dressed casually, so that the undershirt poking out repeatedly in jeans and a
plaid shirt, the front does not close. He first describes his situation in
the GDR at the time of recruitment by the Stasi. He had logged on to the
officer of Applied Sciences, but was retired for health reasons. He then
decided to be time soldier. After completion of military service, he began
studying at the Academy of Law and Political Science, to which one could not
apply, but has been delegated, which filled him with pride. There he met his
future wife, which is what he initially did not know, for the Main

73

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

Intelligence (HVA) worked. As the friend had dekonspiriert to his questions

in front of him, he was recruited by the HVA, because only then it was
possible that they could continue their work for the secret service. Mr.
Hartel had, in the foreign espionage to be not mind working as he had
rejected a surveillance of persons within the GDR, because he wanted to be a
spy.
In his childhood there were many stressful separations, about which he
speaks relatively without affect. Both parents have held high party posts,
according to one party process in 1953 they lost their positions and were
forced to settle for low-skilled activities. Sometime later, they separated
parents, the father went temporarily to West Berlin. In 1961 he was arrested
for spying for Western intelligence and sentenced to 15 years in prison. Mr.
Hartel, who was then about ten years old, has the critical attitude of the
father to the GDR still remember. Since the father was rarely at home even
before the arrest, Mr. Hartel has reportedly not suffered from the loss.
Despite the burdens resulting from the degradation of the parents and the
separation from the Father, he describes his experiences in the home as very
positive. There were many books that parents encouraged the children to read
and to ask questions, she asked them not to put up with injustice. They (the
parents) have quite awake educated us. I think so, the great advantage of
this education was that we mad justice has been drummed into that we need to
know and do not have to believe. If we have the opportunity to read, then we
should read, and we make a mouth to ask.
There were problems for him supposedly only when the mother remarried
after divorce from the father. He felt devalued by the stepfather, who called
him a political embryo when he wanted to discuss politics with him.
Mr. Hartel graduated from the typical East German childhood: He was a
pioneer functionary engaged in FDJ and operating an intensive sports
training. In the FDJ leadership, he worked for agitation and propaganda, but
retained - as he says - still a critical attitude towards the party. Finally,
for alleged anti-state statements he lost his function in the FDJ leadership.
He describes himself as someone who often aneckte and got into trouble, not
only as a youth, but also later, when he was working for the HVA. Ive never
taken a mince words, I was sure to be a very Uncomfortable.
The activity as an unofficial collaborator of HVA lasted from 1975 to
1985. After his recruitment in 1976, he had to undergo three years of
training until he was sent for the first time to West Germany. About the kind
of reports that he wrote during his training activities about different
people in the GDR, little of it is to learn. However, he attaches great
importance to emphasize that it was not to spy reports. In 1979, after
completing his studies, he went for the first time as a full-time employee of
the Unofficial HVA in the FRG. That he was selected by the HVA, filled him
with pride. It belonged to a secret suddenly to a special place a secret,
which continues to be unmatched in the world. There is no other secret
service who had such success, who want to have you, and youll speak deemed
intelligent. For reasons of secrecy, and he often was perationsgebiet
worked, Mr. Hartel got an imaginary workplace outside his hometown, he had
to give to friends and acquaintances, where he rarely resided. It was not
difficult for him to pose as a research assistant in a large combine and to
pretend that he was going there regularly for his work. No one but his wife
knew of his travels to the West. In the FRG he traveled under different
identities, partly with a West German passport, partly with an East German
passport under a false name. Mr. Hartels task was to recruit or cooperate
with you people for the Stasi. What he felt was the biggest problem was the
prompt to be advertising in the West to tell people how great would be
socialism. The lies, which he was forced against the GDR to friends loaded
him less. Although it was at times difficult to maintain the legends, so he

74

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

has experienced it as an adventure, to travel with a false passport in the

West. The first job he was sent over Denmark to Germany. He describes how he
had enjoyed the week and in the requested gapless daily report everything
invented possible, as he could the HVA not notified that he is, instead of
working, had spent several hours in the museum and in bookstores. The aim of
those he should appeal to the West, they had mostly chosen for him. His task
was to decide whether the person was productive or not. He also supported the
potential IM, the perspective-IN, occasionally find a job where he could
gain important information for the HVA. Mr. Hartel refuses in conversation,
detailed report on because he does not want to betray the people recruited by
him even now, ten years after German reunification. He told only that he
worked in the cultural sector, at universities and in the media. What was
difficult for him, was the self-control in the GDR. He had to work very hard,
friends not thoughtlessly to tell about experiences in Germany, which would
have betrayed him. Whether its recruitment of West German citizens has been
successful, he cannot judge, because the Stasi then separated him from the
recruits. About the West Germans with whom he met, he mocks, partly because
they had illusions about the GDR and its freedoms in the FRG little used, for
example, not all the books knew that he had read only under difficult
conditions in the GDR. Repeatedly stressed Mr. Hartel that he would never
have won its targets with pressure or blackmail, for him it was important
to enter into a friendly relationship, establish common ground and to
convince the others. Fear of being unmasked in the West as an East German
spy, he had not allegedly. It was precisely regulated, whom to inform and
what to do if he would get into trouble. When he appeared with a Westpass
than doubles a West German, he knew about his life exactly know. If you went
with a Westpass because you knew the guy who knew his apartment, knowing what
he looks like, where he works, what kind of car he drives. They knew also
related, that was really a totally crazy doppelganger system. He also
received a code name and code sets, which he can use in moments of danger,
with a possible arrest or an accident, would have to notify his wife or the
HVA. In 1982, he began his aufmucken even when the HVA. He wrote critical
reports on socialism and democracy and complained about the treatment in the
re-entry into the GDR. As a result, he was sidelined for six months, i.e. he
received no orders. From late 1982 to 1984, he was allowed to travel then
again. As he continued his criticism of the GDR and clashed with border
guards in dispute, in 1985 he was officially adopted. That was when entering
with a GDR passport on Friedrichstrasse, because I have been treated by
Customs as a felon, I was, on DDR mission. Since I treated a poor publican as
a felon. Whom I spoke my mind, who arrested me and provisionally handed me to
the border troops. After that he got no more orders.
In 1986 he received a party proceedings against anti-communism and
anti-Sovietism. He had an old comrade of the Book Animal Farm by G. Orwell
and two articles of the Soviet weekly New time to read, which were banned
in East Germany. This situation he describes with a certain pleasure, as it
was to him always important to maintain a critical attitude and to defend
themselves against all authority. He thinks he has time only realized that he
had lived through the HVA as a land of plenty, a dream world. Not until the
time of its adoption, he began to perceive correctly the GDR. Much like the
parents, he received a method for state hostility and was expelled from the
party. Added to this was the divorce from his wife, who received an offer to
go to Moscow. Through his behavior he built her this chance, so you
disappointed parted from him. Whether there were other reasons for divorce,
he does not share with. All these loads meant that he first fell ill with
high blood pressure and psychotherapy began. After the end of his work for
the HVA Mr. Bartel held various jobs in the cultural sector. He thinks to be
coped only with the help of his friends with the disappointment. Later he

75

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

worked, inter alia, as press officer and the Writers Union. In January 1989,
he was doing so badly that he made a suicide attempt. After the turn, he was
involved in the PDS, participated in the election campaign and was friends
with many POS functionaries. But his criticism of the PDS, he could not hold
back. When he noticed that although the leadership wanted to change, but the
old cadres again had the final say in the lower ranks, he also expressed his
doubts there in the new form of socialism and withdrew. Most recently, he was
looking especially contacts with the FDP because he expects from a smaller
party more opportunities.
Mr. Hartel portrays his story quite calmly, often laughing and proud of
his actions, without talking about disappointment or sadness. I have the
impression that it wards off depression with its activity and apparent selfassurance. Even guilt he has of himself, even when he told me that he, aware
of their illusions made the mother, who was a devout communist after the turn
and she was so driven almost to suicide. Despite all the negative experiences
he is sticking to his ideals of a democratic socialism and has strongly
criticized the civil rights movement and the FRG. Although he stresses how
important it is to him to show spontaneity and not to subdue, he expresses
himself very reticent about his private relations. Just to its approximately
18 year-old daughter he has a close contact. Even his relationship with his
second case officer has meant a lot to him because it was a sensitive man
with whom he could talk openly about everything, but he was dismissed from
the HVA. He has a father substitute found in him. From the biological father
he felt calm and massively devalued by stepfather in the lurch. This kept him
politically incompetent, Mr. Hartel would like proved it with his HVA
activity, how much he was mistaken in him. Unlike other IM he was after 1990
willing to take responsibility for its IM activity in the sense that he
offered to stand as a candidate for the PDS, refused because he said to
himself, to have as a former IM no right, and the party did not want to
damage. It was for me a number of reasons, not to do, firstly, I saw myself
as an employee of the Ministry of State Security. And there is a sense of
shame for me. I say, I did not indeed represented, what they did, I was
determined also been different than what commonly people imagine under Stasi,
but I was just been in there. Therefore, it is a high moral claim for me.
After 1991, he made another training and has held various positions,
among other things, led with a partner a petrol station, but failed for
various reasons. Since then, he is also due to a disease of the spine,
unemployed.
At the end of the conversation I had very mixed feelings. On the one
hand Mr. Hartel had told me in the interview of nearly five hours of
continuous very much, on the other hand I had the impression that they have
not experienced important things yet. So I know for example, almost nothing
about his marriage, his relationship with his father and other personal ties.
His work in the area of operations BRD remains largely in the dark, but what
he thus reasoned, trying to tell anyone afterwards. Until the end he tried to
fend off all the disappointments and burdens, by emphasizing that life is but
funny and he really enjoyed it. For him, his physical illnesses in the
foreground, he wants my medical advice when he learns that Im a doctor. In
the test with the answers to his current self-image the defense of a
depressive mood is very clear. Before the turn he describes himself as less
depressed, more dominant and socially accepted, respected and assertive.
Except for the depressive mood and a great openness to Mr. Hartel sees
himself in his self-image today in accordance with the expectations of
society. Before the turn, he says, to be the expectations of the social
environment have been adapted over less.

76

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

Mr. Dahm (20)

Already during the telephone contact with Mr. Dahm informs that he was not an
IM, but has been classified by the Federal Commissioner for Stasi files as IM
based on the files location. At his request, the meeting in Frankfurt will
take place, because he would like to take the opportunity to visit the
exhibition at the Museum here. At the interview, he has all his papers to
show me that the authority of the BStU is wrong with their assessment. To be
judged His concern, possibly also in an interview wrong, is so great that he
would like to be the first to demonstrate the file extracts to prove to me
that he did not commit treason. It is not easy to get him to start with the
narration of his story and later zoom pull the files. His criticism of the
Gauck Authority is repeatedly put forward in an interview from him because he
is more wronged by the authorities as by the Stasi. Although he understood
that he may be regarded as IM after the Stasi Records Act, but he himself has
never felt this way because he had not signed any undertaking. He emphasized
that the subtle distinction between IM within the meaning of the Stasi
Records Act and actual IM in real life anyone interested, so he still had
to endure many disadvantages even after the 1989th From his acts, I
understand at the end of the four-hour-long conversation, he repeatedly
refused to signed any undertaking and has not given the desired information
from the Stasi. However, there were many years contacts with employees of the
Stasi, which were described in the files as IM activity.
At the beginning of the interview, Mr. Dahm describes a confusing story
about a robbery in an art museum in Saxony, where he worked as a clerk.
Several museum members and he also received anonymous calls in 1968. Having
therefore filed a complaint with the police, two alleged members of the
Ministry of the Interior came to him to the museum and told him to go with
them. They rode with him in the car to a gazebo and praised his vigilance and
patriotic attitude. He should report the incidents in the museum and help to
reveal the art theft. The invitation to sign with a pseudonym or pseudonyms,
he came very reluctantly. Finally, at the urging of the Stasi employees, he
agreed to it, but refused after consultation with its museum director at the
following meeting on the signature with aliases. He also refused to sign a
declaration of commitment. In his file, which he read after the turn, was
noted to do so by the case officer: He did not want to bind itself, which is
why we are committed to him in a dignified oral form. Today Mr. Dahm
believes that already the anonymous calls of the strategy Stasi were to win
it, because you absolutely needed a person in the museum and in artistic
circles as informants. At the meeting with the case officer he had talked
about relevant Lot. They have asked me how they are doing, what the
colleagues how they have settled in? So I realized gradually that really want
to know what else. The art theft was only a linkage possibility, a legend.
Mr. Dahm refused to tell a lot about the colleagues. He tried to warn some
even indirectly, by example a colleague said, Look, now I have the Stasi at
the neck. Tell me anything that may not know. On the other hand Mr. Dahm was
of the opinion that one must go to the limits . He had the illusion to give
the Stasi a food for thought to develop socialism with more humanity. The
seemingly open-minded attitude of the case officer had raised hopes in him,
maybe like an ant, a grain of sand for sand grain to change something.
Even after the discovery of the theft he did not dare to refuse the
meeting because he was afraid of losing the very high estimated he has done
in the museum. At the same time he was trying to give as little as possible
to information. From his papers it is clear that the Stasi was unhappy with
him and his reports.
He was eventually allowed to stand for some time in peace until you
asked him again in 1973. We asked him to talk about people who visited a

77

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

local artist and belonged to dissident groups. They also came up pressure
means an allusion to his homosexuality. Mr. Dahm should make a list of the
books of an acquaintance, who had asked for an exit visa. By he warned his
friend to leave all prohibited in the GDR books disappear, he managed to
protect these. I said, Look here, one is interested in your books, you want
to know from me what you read. Even without the Stasi by name to call,
knowing the friend what was going on. Under the pretext of wanting to learn
more about art, an employee of the Stasi sought him on again and again. Mr.
Dahm told them openly that he could talk about art, but would not be willing
to spy on people. From 1975 he refused the contacts from final. The refusal
meant that he had professional disadvantages, was given a disciplinary
hearing for allegedly poor working and were threatened him to send him for
hostile-negative stance into production. From then on I had hell in the
museum. He received no salary increase, was shunned by colleagues and had
only finally inventory. Also exhibitions, which he had performed with great
success, he could no longer do. Mr. Dahm felt compromised siding, but did not
quite know what he should look for new activities. Finally, he announced
after five years its place in the museum. That he had persevered in spite of
all the repression so long, can be traced back to the fact that he lived very
isolated and the profession was his only purpose in life. After many
conflicts with supervisors and court hearings because of a negative
evaluation of its activities in 1981, he left the museum. With great regret,
he notes that he had at that time no idea that his life was destroyed. Ive
never been able to gain a foothold in the cultural field again.
Longer time he found no employment, lived by his parents, with whom he
had reconciled himself even before their death heritage, and held various
auxiliary works out. All these loads meant that he became depressed and
dyspeptic. The friendship with some Vietnamese who supported him, was the
only thing that saved him in front, to go to the dogs. In addition to
various, not satisfying him pursuits Mr. Dahm was trying to do a doctorate.
Due to the many burdens he could not perform at the desired intensity his art
historical research, however, so that it has not yet brought its promotion to
a conclusion. He also engaged in self-help groups for gays and contacted
sexologists on. Mr. Dahm was under surveillance because of the refusal of
further cooperation and his commitment to the rights of homosexuals in the
GDR as hostile-negative person of the Stasi, which is retained in its
sacrificial acts with the authority. Sexual Scientific lectures and his
contacts with West German scientists gave him courage. When the Stasi
approached him again and wanted to supposedly win him as a consultant on
issues of homosexuality, he refused.
After the turn he got no job as a teacher, as he had hoped, but was
unemployed for some time, until he finally found a place ABM in heritage
conservation. It was an interesting task for him as the subject of his
dissertation was in this area. But again, he did not succeed, because after
the ABM measure he did not get, as expected, a steady job, but has been
supplanted by a West German. In addition, it gave him difficulties that he
had written in the rule check while working in the authority on the question
of cooperation with the Stasi, that although there had been several
Anwerbungsversuche, he would have rejected every time. The detailed
description, which he gave to did not want to read it. Later, it came in
victim-offender meetings, at which he participated to a very stressful
situation for him, as an employee of the authority of the Federal Supervisor
referred to him as IM. Although defended him the present friend, whom he had
warned earlier, but for him it was frightening that it had led him on record
as IM, while he experienced the talks with the Stasi rather than questioning
and never seen herself as an unofficial collaborator would have. Even the
staff of the state authority of BStU had confirmed to him after reading his

78

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

files that he had nothing to reproach. Nevertheless, he was classified as

unofficial collaborator after the filing location.
Time and again in conversation expresses Mr. Dahm strongly criticized
the Gauck Authority. He accuses the employees, not differentiated enough to
study the documents and formulate their judgment to the detriment of those
concerned. They held only to the Stasi reports, would give less credence to
the statements of the alleged IM. For him, it is incomprehensible that no
differentiation is made between those who were led by the Stasi as IM, but no
spying activities contributed, and to those who were really active as IM. Mr.
Dahm demonstrated to me the difference with an example. When asked about his
Stasi contacts he had replied in the process to the judge: I say yes, but
of employee is here no question, its something else. If the postman in the
morning what to write with them, they have contacts with the Post, but are
not an employee of the post office.
Mr. Dahm led two processes in order to take action against the
classification as IM. Though he lost both, but he felt morally supported
because the judge auffhrte in the judgment and the stubborn refusal of
attempts by Mr. Dahm to its discharge.
His biography proves to be an accumulation of humiliations and
reductions The parents had after the war as refugees, Catholics and anticommunists in a difficult position in the GDR. As a small child he lived for
a long time with his grandparents and was returned to his parents, little
love and appreciation. He missed a tender mother-child relationship. The
disappointment of the parents went so far that he as 15-year-old once was
planning a suicide attempt. Despite his latent oppositional stance in the GDR
he tried to double track to drive, joined the FDJ one to find out not too
many disadvantages. The dictatorship cannot tell you the truth, because you
also harm others. One who demands lies, which one may otherwise offer than
that, more so this apparent honesty. Already at school Mr. Dahm felt
threatened by the Stasi when he assisted a friend who should be expelled from
school because of subversive behavior , Only due to the support provided by
the class teacher he could finish school. After school, Mr. Dahm graduated as
an art teacher and worked briefly as a teacher. Several times he was planning
to flee to the West, where the older brother lived, but dared not then, as
parents would otherwise be alone remained behind. Due to various
difficulties, he was considered too liberal, he left the teaching
profession and began to work in the museum. His homosexuality he kept secret
from the parents because they could not bear it. They were disappointed in
him because he did not remain as a teacher in the village with my parents,
not married and had no children. The father had hoped for by the position of
the Son of a revaluation. From his father and brother, Mr. Dahm felt devalued
as a failure, so that it was particularly important for him to succeed in his
artistic activity. This was a reason why he initially not entirely rejected
the Stasi contacts. He was afraid of losing his job otherwise. His
willingness to talks has him but ultimately only hurt both before and after
the turn because he has finally lost even in GDR times his job, and since
1989 he has been hampered as alleged IM re in his professional career. Had he
decided fully to cooperate with the Stasi, it would be him, as he sees it
today, at least at that time, and perhaps even today fared better.
When asked about his motivation for participating in the investigation,
said Mr. Dahm, that he was very glad that finally someone is interested in
their problems. He even seemed to be relieved because he had hitherto never
found attention to his complaints and his reproaches after the call. On the
other hand remained some disappointment, since I did not, as he wished, was
willing to pay in full agreement with him the authority of BStU. Consider to
what extent his childhood experiences made it difficult for him to clear to
resist the Stasianwerbung, he rejects as incomprehension. Although I can

79

2 Summaries of 20 interviews

understand his disappointment and anger well, its hard for me to share his
hatred of the Gauck Authority without restriction. For Mr. Dahm is in the
foreground of his problems, he was always misjudged, as a child in the home,
from the Stasi, in his work in the school and in the museum and again after
1989 by the Authority.
The difficulties in his psychosocial relations are very clear also in
the Giessen test. In self-image, Mr. Dahm describes as too trusting, but also
respected as a little, and not recognized in his work, he lacks social
acknowledgment. At the same time, he thinks hes too dominant and often
embroiled in conflicts, which he sees as opposed to todays societal
expectations. In GDR times, he seemed to be better human eye adapts, was more
like the expectations placed on him.

80

3 Overall Assessment

3 Overall Assessment
Below we have summarized the judgments of all 20 interviews after eight
viewpoints.

3.1 Motives for participation in the project and relationship

with the interviewer
Most of our volunteers, we gained through the mediation of BStU. From there,
a larger number of former IM has been requested. However, not all declared
themselves to talk with us ready. In the interviews it became clear that
there were special reasons for the readiness to talk. Here we were interested
in the more unconscious motives, those beyond the manifest declaration. The
motives could be according to the following priorities are grouped:

3.1.1 Attempts to deal with feelings of shame and guilt because of IM

activities
As expected, shame and guilt were significant for most former IM. This
circumstance was also in that pre-structured, as here, a West German
interviewer asked an East German IM. In twelve of the IM shame and guilt
played a significant role with regard to the previous IM activity. However,
the attitude towards it was very different. One group tried to use the
conversation rather to ward off feelings of shame and guilt, by itself
justify or things reported, with which they hoped to be accepted until
admired by the interviewer. In this manner, the corrupted through guilt selfesteem should be stabilized.
In contrast to this group other searched the interviewer rather an
understanding partner with whom they could talk about what was the reason for
shame and guilt. They tried to get relief in that they wanted to create with
the help of the conversation a further understanding of her biography.

3.1.2 Searching for narcissistic gratification

In another group had no shame and guilt in the foreground, either because
their IM activities in their opinion on Bagatelles moved or because they
themselves as in the rather forced and thus did not feel responsible. For
them, the conversation was an opportunity to put yourself in relationship
with someone in which they sought recognition and praise, sometimes because
the interviewer was experienced unconsciously as a parent or as a judgmental,
judging instance.

3.1.3 Search-sufficient / therapeutic object relationship

A third group was more or less open with desires for therapeutic help to talk
because she was charged in the broadest sense with unresolved life issues.
These included feelings of loneliness, but also undigested, partly
traumatic experiences in the past.

81

3 Overall Assessment

3.1.4 Desire to aggressively advocate for the Stasi, to justify it,

the West against right to represent
A final group used the call to offensive to justify the Stasi opposite the
interviewer, also from the assumption out that the interviewer is just not
informed as a Westerner right or only ideologically dominated over the
Stasi.

3.1.5 The relationship with the interviewer

The relationship that developed in the course of the interview, we have
detected in our evaluation questionnaire in five aspects: As the interviewer
was experienced? How behaved the IM interview? How does the interviewer
behaved in an interview? How experienced the IM the interview? Could both
deepen the conversation, or they remained on the surface?
17 of 20 IM experienced the interviewer as a sympathetic interlocutor.
In three cases, the interviewer was seen rather as a prosecutor, after all,
in seven cases as a West German who understands little of the Stasi and the
GDR.
This result has given us so far met when we were initially unsure
whether the constellation could not West German-East German interviewer IM
priori lead to a paranoid distortion of the conversation situation. Although
the psychoanalytic method possibilities of detection and treatment offers
such fears, we were in doubt whether this would also be concretely possible
in the interviews. We believe that doing here the above motives, take part in
the conversation with us, noticeable: the burden of guilt or biographically
unprocessed experiences. Probably those who IM, either oversized or no shame
and guilt feeling, refused to participate. However, this must remain
speculation.
According to this perception of the interviewer also most IM opened
confidently. In three of those interviewed dominated a suspicious-retracted
attitude superficial friendliness.
Although the vast majority showed so confidently, Verleugnungs- and
justification tendencies were also in twelve interviews with brakes - a state
of affairs which is due to the subliminally always effective guilt and shame
issues. In six interviews, the experts found that IM also reluctant at three
the behavior of subservience was marked.
The two interviewers, of their training her psychoanalyst, went with
these discussions in an unfamiliar them social field. In contrast to the
usual situation with therapeutic help-seeking patients, they were even now in
a dependent position: They asked for the cooperation of the former IM, they
wanted information from them in conversation. This was also clear in the
judgment used in the interview the interviewer behavior down. In nine of the
2 0 interviews was the willingness to accept a latent from the IM their
intended role, clearly visible: for example, understanding the role of the
student, which can be taught, the role of a political opponent Parts, an all
and any aggression avoidant mother or a supportive father. Through this role
takeovers, each served the psychological defense of certain content to
distortions revealed in terms of an analytical attitude, which is primarily
geared to detecting, understanding and communicating unconscious contents.
Only in two interviews it was the interviewers failed to adopt an analytical
attitude. Conversely, this means that despite interactional distortions in
almost half of the calls back found the interviewer for their analytical
attitude and were able to realize the structure and purpose of the meeting
professionally appropriate. 15 of the interviewed IM felt relieved visibly

82

3 Overall Assessment

through the conversation, so far as it produced verifiable biographical

contexts and thus an enhanced self-image for her. In nine cases, the
discussion also led but a burden of the interviewees because psychologically
painful issues were discussed. Accordingly, most of the discussions had led
to a real deepening the understanding, only three interviewees in the
defensive attitude was very pronounced. Here was the conversation at the
surface and ended unsatisfactorily for the interviewer.

3.2 Recruitment
The recruitment of the examined by us to unofficial collaborators took place
in very different ways, depending on from which political milieu they came
from and for what purpose they should be used. Between the recruitment
methods and described by the interviewees experience described by the Stasi
in the files there were occasional differences, since the issues raised
initially partially did not know who they were dealing with and were
convinced by the legends. Even if one suspected spies everywhere in the GDR,
yet many believed, including the Stasi made contact, not that they were now
on this system. Except those who were proud to be able to serve their
country, often consisted in the person addressed the idea that they would
tell no important information and for the Stasi would not be interesting
enough.
In our study, our objective was to present the recruitment of the
interviewed in the inspection. We asked our respondents how they had
experienced the so well-prepared by the Stasi recruitment and what reactions
they provoked in them?

3.2.1 The bribed

Three of the interviewed us reported that promises to them in terms of
professional or financial support made the case officers in the recruitment.
Mr. Opitz, who was first approached during his time in the army, I was
offered a job with a public authority for the period after the military
service. He took to the workplace after some hesitation, because he did not
know after the dismissal from the NPA, what he should do. I had something
like minute panic So I stood by the army without a job there, which would
have been catastrophic in the GDR. Because he felt abandoned by his
estranged from the father down, he saw the case officer as a him worried
father, who supported him in choosing a career. When he from the Stasi even
got the offer of a study place a few years later, he leaned from this,
however. At this point I said to myself that you do not want these Stasi
study place, so to speak. I would have then been active there in the period
of study for the Stasi. So I did not make myself dependent. The contact
broke off at that time, but he was sometime later sought out and asked to
obtain information from two masters of the state security in his office.
Mr. Voss won the Stasi first with the offer to read scientific papers
in order to prevent in this way a scientific espionage. He saw in this
activity nothing dishonorable, but was very keen to be able to read works
that were otherwise denied him. Later, the Stasi offered him a research
project, the very tempted him. But when he had to recognize that its
performed in an operating investigation the surveillance of an anti-state
with colleagues included, he fell into major conflicts. For him as ambitious
scientists the Stasi had picked the right offer, which he rejected not only
because of his great interest in the topic.

83

3 Overall Assessment

In addition to the professional advantages there were also financial

support as Mrs. Urban, in an emergency situation after the divorce a job as a
kitchen assistant in the American commandant gave the Stasi and her for a
month paid 150 DM. All three people who corresponded offers so much to the
needs of that IM candidate, that she could not resist.

3.2.2 The extorted

That there were among the people interviewed who had been produced under the
threat of sanctions or through blackmail for the Stasi, is not surprising,
because the coercion or
Extortion certainly belonged to the repertoire of the Stasi. This IM
felt consequently more or less as victims of the Stasi and anticipated in the
discussions with the interviewers understanding and help for their own
suffering. According to the current situation in life, the Stasi found each
matching frightening threat for each candidate. Mrs. Forster, the German
Democratic Republic had left and returned again and again to visit her
sisters, was visited by two employees of the Stasi at the home of Sister and
taken to a hotel room where she was asked to Observation of escape aid
organization. When she refused, she was put under pressure, they would never
let them enter into the DDR. Since her family mainly lived in East Germany,
they went after some hesitation and after consultation with the relatives to
the demands an order to continue to see her sisters can.
Mrs. Quindt who was housed after many traumatic childhood experiences
in a youth factory farm, was first put under pressure after they had
responded to a flyer from West Germany. Your letter was intercepted and its
designed as a hostile attitude towards the GDR. Later, she was put under
pressure again for alleged attempted republic escape. In her helplessness she
did not dare to oppose the Stasi. Even compared to youths were threats a
popular means of recruitment. Mr. Stahl was while his parents were on charges
of espionage in detention, kept by the Stasi that he had contact with enemies
of the state. Out of concern to be sent as a minor in a home or to harm their
parents in prison, he went in to the demands. He had also, as he pointed out,
no fear of contact with the Stasi.
More serious than this, however, was massive extortion threats from the
Stasi, in particular for people in custody as Mrs. Bird and Ms. Langer. Ms.
Vogel was threatened in detention, that they would be sentenced to between
ten and 25 years in prison, that their punishment might be but reduced to
five years if they would be willing to work after having served detention for
the Stasi. Although she did not believe she could be a fact, because they
than 20 years the idea was not being able to endure so many years in an East
German prison. 15 Years of had threatened me, and if I opt for the Stasi,
they told me clearly -. The rulings would anyway gefallt-- by the Stasi, then
I came with five years of home Under these conditions hesitated Ms. Vogel
not to pledge their willingness to cooperate.
Another form of extortion succumbed woman ring which is imputed help
GDR deserters a colleague. Only after the turn she learned that this alleged
escape an agreement between the colleagues and the Stasi was because you
wanted to win as a member of a religious group. She was arrested and faced
during interrogation in jail so that her daughter, who was cared for in their
absence by a family who picked up and had been brought into the home. She was
finally promised to release her to return her daughter and also to dismiss
the alleged seated in custody colleagues if they would be willing to talk
about the church group. About people, about religion, about the
relationships in the churches, and because at the moment is actually
absolutely nothing bad seemed to me there. That which I have answered, anyone

84

3 Overall Assessment

could have read in any book. Since you apparently wanted nothing more
important from her and she had very great anxiety about the daughter, she
finally agreed to inform the Stasi.

3.2.3 Convinced Socialists

In this group of candidate recruitment was through the case officers not a
problem as a great willingness to cooperate existed. They experienced it as a
special appreciation that the Stasi was interested in them. Several of these
interviewees, therefore, we also learned any details about the recruitment,
since it was more or less for them a matter of course to make the state their
services available. Ms. Jung was proud when the Stasi addressed them because
they had not been included in the party because of their origin from an
academic family. When she was appointed to clarify a situation in a public
authority, they secretly hoped beforehand that it could be the Stasi. Other
features of the Stasi employee, she said, ... because my heart beat up to my
neck, I thought, oh, thats it now, what youve always dreamed. That was
something I had never really dared to hope that someday I so completely at
the forefront perhaps something could join in the GDR.
Even Mrs. Pohl, filled with pride, as a representative of the Stasi
came to her home and her making an offer to cooperate. Yes, I was thrilled
to finally wants me one, so I slipped into it.
Mr. Pollok who believed likewise due to school and home to the
objectives of socialism, it experienced as a kind of recognition, as the
State Security Service came up to him and asked him to look but once in a
Protestant student community.
Like other IM, who were convinced of the importance of their task for
the Stasi, wanted Mr. Erler, who was member of the SED already, when he was
approached by the Stasi, fulfill a useful purpose for his country. It was
natural for him, information about circumstances which affect the stability
in the GDR, and to report on gaps in supply.
Two of the IM, who had been recruited by the HVA to work in West
Germany, gave the touch little attention, since it was not of great
importance for their use. Mr. Hartel was raised after his wife, who also
worked for the HVA, had dekonspiriert before him. It also required him to
allow his wife another secret service activity. He was proud that he was
considered suitable. It belonged to a sudden intelligence, unparalleled in
the world after all. There is no other secret, which has such success. They
want to have you, and youll speak deemed intelligent. This recognition was
particularly important for him, because he is as politically naive, as the
stepfather felt political embryo reduced. That the HVA wanted to win him as
an employee, meant for him not to be so stupid as the stepfather alleged.

3.2.4 The deluded

Mr. Jahn and Mr. Dahm are two interviewees who do not consider their contacts
with employees of the Stasi until today as IM activities since they were
approached by legends and the talks had experienced as interrogations. When
Mr. Jahn, the legend was that he was suspected to be recruited for a Western
intelligence or to work. He should prove in the talks, that neither he nor,
who were also accused, who worked as spies. To prove his innocence, Mr. Jahn
had agreed to the talks. As scientists had located him to uncover the truth.
When Mr. Dahm the legend was that he was asked to cooperate in the
detection of an art theft. They have invented a legend and wanted to test
how I react then. I have always said, its all about this art thefts, nothing

85

3 Overall Assessment

more. Not that I should spy on anyone. They asked, how are you, and what do
the fellow.
The described recruitment measures make very good clear that the Stasi
knew assess the current situation, the personality and needs and fears in
order to gain the targeted candidates with pressure, the supply of assistance
or a special appreciation. The motives were the former unofficial
collaborators in the recruitment partly unaware they could be uncovered in
common only in the interviews.

3.2.5 Date and place of contact with the Stasi

Regarding the place and date of recruitment, so are not supported by all
interviewees statements before it. Particularly, some who were working out of
conviction for the Stasi, are lacking any detail. Since multiple IM after an
initial collaboration denied the contacts or were left behind by the Stasi
temporarily at rest, it came in some instances to multiple contact
recordings. In some examples, the method of contacting is described in more
detail.
Direct personal response at work, on the way to work and in the home
Four former IM were approached at their workplace, three visited in their own
homes and taken on the way home from work in the car.
Mr. Dahm began after finishing work on two masters and asked him to get
into their car. He thought, if they were police officers who wanted to
question him about his ad, but they went not as expected to the police
station. And then it went in as a bungalow. We called it a gazebo, a garden
plot outside. They were driven in a zigzag manner, I did not know where I
was. And then they were very courteous, very polite, praised my vigilance and
my patriotic attitude.
Mr. Jahn went in anticipation to the conversation in personnel
administration that it would be a question for a business trip. The old
friendly lady in the administration asked him to wait in her room because a
couple next door were still who wanted to talk to me. Since I was a little
strange that there were a few gentlemen. The then showed their service cards,
and we went into a separate room. Since a call was instigated in which I was
accused of, so to speak. They would now have to observe two years myself,
this would be something you pushed that do not fit into their picture. It
would have come out, that I would be on the list of Western intelligence, I
was either already enlisted, or if I were on the verge.
Quite different ran the recruitment Ms. Jung. It is true that it was
for the purpose of clarification of the facts at the University appointed to
manage where their imagined an employee of the Stasi. The recruitment was
carried out as they had hoped. And of course I said yes with flying colors.
So for me that was the what Ive always dreamed of. I want to do something to
help my country to protect the GDR, do something about the inhumanity of
capitalism, against the war-mongering.
In a difficult situation professionally Mrs. Pohl received on a Sunday
margins visit Stasi employees in her apartment. They paid tribute to her as a
Communist recognition and asked them to do more for the state. Well, who
always wanted to know who did what to whom why says. The Stasi never seemed
like a secret, so for me that was really the covert arm of the party. The
party does not want me, then Ill go to another part of the party. And all
what I was talking else, it was not like that I somewhere which is not told,
I told them now as well.

86

3 Overall Assessment

For Ms. Forsters visit two alleged employees of the duty at the home
of the sisters was less enjoyable. They took her to a hotel room and made her
an offer. If I as still there think I see it still in front of me. We sit
there and tell me that they just need patriots. As I told them, I must tell
you quite honestly, I think Im the wrong person. Do they really think that I
would be willing to cooperate with you? When she refused, they exerted
pressure on them. ... And then they began, yes, then, we can of course then
also do so when they now face stubborn, then they may not enter. This threat
brought Ms. Forster to be with reservations for cooperation ready to explain.
I wanted to do not specify, but annoy really I did not want them too.
Written summons or order by telephone to state institutions
Two of us interviewees received the invitation to register with the FDJ or
party line. During his FDJ membership Mr. Stahl was approached. Later, I was
quoted in the FDJ leadership. Since there are any demands, come time high.
And of course, there were two comrades of the State Security. The first I
knew well not quite. I do not know how the imagined, who do not always say
so, where they come from. I would have contact with the and the, and are
enemies of the state. Well, youre a good fellow, so to speak, mutatis
mutandis, because you were willing to meet you once with us?
As a candidate for the SED membership Mr. Voss was asked for a contract
party to the central party leadership. There he met a representative of the
Stasi, the recruited him a legend.
Contact in custody and during interrogation by the Stasi or police
Six interviewees were approached while in custody or when they had to appear
for questioning for alleged offenses to the police by the Stasi.
Mr. Lenz was appointed as a student a few months after a procedure had
been depressed because of his down-tearing a small East German flag in a
police building. There they threatened him to a prison sentence, if he were
not willing to cooperate. He was invited to the restitution of its
subversive act.
Ms. Langer, who later read in her file that she had been out as
Rechtsbrecherin was interrogated by a house search by the police. They had
made photos and movies with nude photos of himself, which was forbidden in
the GDR. The Stasi offered her generous, rather than a prison sentence to
giving her the opportunity to convert to hear in pubs and the Stasi to
provide information.
When Ms. Vogel recruitment took place during her trial for espionage.
The terrible burdens in pre-trial detention had let collapse their opposition
to the Stasi. When judgment has already told me that the interrogators. If I
would be willing to work after having served detention for the Stasi, they
wanted to reduce the sentence to five years.
The multiple enlistments of Mrs. Quindt happened each time with massive
pressure. She has been accused of subversive acts and sexual misconduct.
During a prison sentence for attempted flight from the republic should be
forced to Observation of inmates, but what prevented by their Dekonspiration.
Mrs. Ring was able to avoid a prison sentence, by their willingness to
cooperate with the Stasi stated during interrogation for alleged assistance
in illegal emigration of a colleague. At seven clock in the morning, after
they had just returned from her night shift, it rang at her door. A man who
introduced himself as a representative of the Ministry of the Interior,
urging them to come along. At the elevator waited two more Lord that they sat

87

3 Overall Assessment

in a car and drove with her in the state prison. There they offered her in
the interrogation of, they should leave the country, but without her
daughter. When she refused, they said: Your daughter is no longer there, it
has been brought into a home. After hours of interrogation by different
interrogators they made her an offer. If they would be willing to talk about
religion and religious group to which they belonged, they wanted to play her
daughter and leave it blank. Communicate in their fear and with the
determination not fault people ring woman consented.
During military service recruits
For two interviewees took the Stasi during the army time to contact us. A
supervisor with the NVA, who had taken a paternal role towards Mr. Mahler,
ordered him into his office and asked him to be especially vigilant against
foreign agents. I had a glimpse of military secrets. And it would be
really important that you do something for the state.
Mr. Opitz was subject during his military service first even of
observation. After they had found him suitable, he should come to the Police
District clarification of facts to. There, the Stasi employees identified
themselves and told him: . We need that, in soldierly life must be taken

3.2.6 Reactions of candidates on recruitment

All seven IM, who declared themselves convinced socialists responded with
pride and satisfaction on the recruitment, because they saw this as an
appreciation by the Stasi.
Several IM reported their ambivalent attitude towards them attractive
employees of the Stasi, they tried their commitment to conspiratorial
activity delay. A great deal of uncertainty and an initial rejection we found
in three interviewees. Eleven expressed afraid of everything, when they
realized that they were employees of the Stasi in the interlocutors. They
were afraid of losing their jobs to be possibly arrested or bring the family
into trouble. The hoped addressed in prison or during interrogations the
police to escape long prison sentences or the imprisonment. The hope for
support and assistance in family and professional problems specific behavior
of three other respondents. With curiosity and a sense of adventure responded
two younger IM candidates to the recruitment by the HVA, since they, inter
alia, exciting found to be active with a false passport in West Germany.

3.3 Duration and type of informal cooperation

Only two of the IM were working according to their information less than one
year for the Stasi. In three further the Stasi kept the contacts maintained
up to three years. The remaining 15 were employed for more than three years
in the service of the Stasi. The longest time the cooperation had an
interviewee who was employed by the HVA in the FRG. About 30 years he worked
part time basis for foreign espionage. If there are several people working
with the Stasi was temporarily interrupted, as they provide information or
refused seemed fruitless for the Stasi. They were approached again after some
time and entrusted with another task.
In the type of activity or the application, we distinguish in that
should be reported which individuals or which enlisted. Was important for the
willingness to report whether the Observierten were known to the IM or
whether it is traded him foreign individuals or groups. In many cases, the IM
had to observe a plurality of different persons.

88

3 Overall Assessment

Should be reported on family members and friends, hugging everyone in

up to Mrs. Langer, that they had tried to protect them by gave positive
reports or secretly held information. However, Ms. Langer was so outraged
that she did not trouble to tell him about everything from the Stasi
Desirable about her stepfather. Goods demanded information about work
colleagues, the willingness of the IM-cooperation depended on whether they
were a more friendly or a rival relationship. Mr. Opitz, who had angered his
superiors in the city administration, exercised in this manner revenge. If
that comes to me as stupid (patronized him at work), then try it nevertheless
times with the state security, whether because what happens.
If ecclesiastical or civil rights groups should be observed, it was
crucial for the informant, whether they belonged to the group itself or had
their goals approximated in the course of contacts or whether they faced the
people indifferent. Four IM had the task of observing in restaurants and
hotels, who was staying there and what was said. You was unknown what benefit
the Stasi could draw from this information, so it gave them no problem to
tell anything. That their communications were directed against the wellunderstood interest of the observed, was hidden from them. Mrs. Quindt who
should observe inmates, dekonspirierte by stepped forward at roll call and
the other prisoners told that you would have hired them: I should spy on
you. They came for four days in the so-called bunker.
No internal conflicts had the IM that should select in West Germany or
in other European countries, and people recruited by the Stasi. Because it
was not about spying and the advertiser should be the GDR against positiveminded people were, it was sometimes even to friendly relations.
Whether the unofficial collaborators experienced conflicts in the
conspiratorial activity, or thought she was a responsible activity, was,
inter alia, depending on its political views. Among those interviewed by us
there were eight people who had been taking a critical attitude towards the
GDR. Two had abandoned their initial enthusiasm for socialism and later
criticized the conditions in the GDR. Six of the investigated IM were SED
members and three convinced Communists without party membership. A party
member later took a critical attitude towards the GDR, but without leaving
the party. For two, the policy did not matter, they behaved indifferently
towards the state.

3.4 Unconscious and conscious motives for cooperation with the

Stasi
Besides the set up by the Stasi in the recruitment measures for the recovery
of the IM, as the promise of professional advantage, to appeal to the
socialist sentiments, blackmail or deception with legends play, more or less
unconscious motives of the individuals recruited an important role for the
willingness to cooperate ( see. Mller-Enbergs, 2003). These motifs were the
victims, when they began their IM activity, often not clear and were
recognizable only after the disclosure or in the interview, especially if
they were psychological conflicts and traumas. The conspiratorial activity
offered some IM the ability to envy, hatred, revenge desires and rivalries in
the collaboration with the Stasi live out, without that they had to feel
guilt because of the betrayal, the damage to the Observierten done in the
name of the state. Even with those who carried out of political conviction of
recruitment, experiences in his parents family and the identification with
political models were often decisive. In order to capture the various
combinations of motifs better, we arranged them in five categories, on each
IM often more true.

89

3 Overall Assessment

3.4.1 Search love and care by an understanding partner

Twelve of us were interviewed early separation experiences, lack of care and
the resulting strong need for security and maintenance granted relations for
the willingness to cooperate with the Stasi decisive. In several cases it was
broken families. The fathers, who had fled with some of those interviewed by
West Germany or because of subversive actions in detention had that families
abandoned and no longer cared for the children. The subsequent IM missing
parental care and support, felt partially rejected and left alone. A woman
had grown up as an unwanted child in homes and tended to addict looking for
sexual objects. The relationship with the enforcement officers offered these
people temporary safety and care. In particular, the IM, who had missed as
children love, being addressed by the Stasi was the feeling that they are
needed and appreciated. Several IM expressed this by saying of, finally
someone needs me. In these cases, it was easy for the enforcement officers
to act as better parents, who helped the young people choosing a career and
the career promoted. In particular, younger men were prone to this kind of
promises. In place of the fugitive, arrested or rejecting father entered a
seemingly empathetic in the person of leadership officer, more helpful, more
detail on the needs of surrogate father.

3.4.2 Compensatory narcissistic deficits

Apart from the search for affection and support eight of us were interviewed
by recruiting to improve in this way their low self-esteem. They felt taken
seriously by the employees in the Stasi. It was estimated their abilities and
trusted them to a highly important tasks. When Mr. Gabler showed this i.a.
the fact that he repeatedly stressed in an interview how close he political
and culturally significant people stood in the GDR and what he had for
international encounters. In the family home, there were, apart from what I
have said about the dry, engineer-like thinking of my father, no intellectual
atmosphere. Mr. Gabler had since his youth in search of intellectual models
and found this especially among Communists, with whom he came in contact
after the war and later at work for the HVA. The search for professional
recognition played mainly in men an important role and was often coupled with
a willingness to commit to the protection of the state and the development of
socialism. In this group, there are many party members and convinced
socialists.

3.4.3 Restitution own or parental failings

Conscious and unconscious guilt prevented six of our examinees in rejecting
the recruitment. In some cases, the Stasi took minor offenses or staged
antigovernment actions to extract the potential IM so. The guilt of the
recruits were related to its own failings in the family or to the State, but
also to subversive activities of the parents, they wanted to make up for the
IM activities. Mr. Stahl, whose parents were in prison for espionage,
believed by his collaboration with the Stasi, to protect the mother, I had
actually always this feeling, I have to be especially good. And in
particular, because I have always seen my mother, every six months, and was
getting thinner. The so had a stomach ailment that led then to gastric
perforation. Since it would also almost died off because they still weighed 4

90

3 Overall Assessment

kilos 0 ... When she went to jail, and is then practically within a few
years, two or three years, become ever thinner.
Inter alia existed guilt is to have a colleague helped escape from the
GDR or worked for Western intelligence. The fathers of three interviewees had
been convicted of spying for a Western intelligence service, and the children
felt obliged to repair the damage. However, membership of a father in the
Nazi party was the occasion for the son to provide a special commitment to
the socialist state. In another based on the guilt of the youthful
indiscretion of having denigrated the state flag of the GDR. There were more
unconscious guilt, which were attributable to childish hatred of parents and
siblings. From this guilt they tried to free himself by trying behaved
correctly in later years, including the GDR state opposite.

3.4.4 Satisfaction of hatred and revenge

Seven IM also offered employees the opportunity to live in this way, their
rivalry and envy towards colleagues and neighbors and to take revenge on
spouses, parents or acquaintances. Mr. Opitz was his rebellion against the
father in protest against his superior, the mayor, who was talking to him in
his work purely live. So who am not very enthusiastic as mayor, but actually
Ive seen more rational and say, so I want to make the concerts here, and if
now I speak is stupid, then try it nevertheless times with the State
Security, whether as what happens. Of course nothing happened. Main Topics
of IM were the envy of the husband and his mistress, and the hope of being
able to take with the help of the Stasi revenge. Others took the opportunity
without fear of punishment, to take revenge on disappointing parents and
siblings. It took the place of the family members often other authorities or
colleagues. Protected by the Stasi saw the IM the chance to secretly take
revenge with the strong organization in the background on these people they
disappointing. Most interviewees were these motifs not aware so that they had
to feel no guilt. The satisfaction of secret aggressive requests in the IM
activity could be worked out only in conversation.

3.4.5 Participation in the power and pleasure of a double life

Some IM the desire for adventure played a significant role for their
willingness to cooperate with the Stasi. A working for the HVA younger man
enjoyed it, traveling under an assumed name to West Germany and to make here
with a false identity potential IM locate. By the secret knowledge he felt as
well as some other of the examinees think their fellow citizens. They enjoyed
the power they had by their function. Two of the IM saw it at the time of
their recruitment by the Fathers not recognized and validated and were able
to secretly gain power over them. The feeling of being something special, was
further supported by the promotion of career aspirations by the Stasi.

3.4.6 Fear of punitive measures

The fear of punishment played an important role in many examinees. The fear
of suffering occupational disadvantages of losing their jobs to be sent to a
home or to come even in jail, they allowed the recruitment, albeit with
reservations, agree. The Assistant of the Stasi failings corresponded
partially own suppressed desires of the candidates. Thus, for example, an IM,
which would even have liked to go to the West, Escape Help accused. The under

91

3 Overall Assessment

its authority by the Stasi crime corresponded to their own secret desires to
act against government prohibitions. They threatened as Ms. Ring that was
interrogated for alleged escape assistance for the Stasi, so to take away her
daughter. Yes, and so it went throughout the day always why, why, why, why
that is so into being, you want to leave the country should they? I say, yes,
I always wanted to leave, and I say, I would leave the country, and, yes, you
can leave the country, but without her daughter. I say no, without my
daughter in any case. I do not travel without my daughter. Well, your
daughter is no longer where you think. Then they let so call me there, and
since then he said just the woman, where we always sat introduced the child
... they were allegedly colleague of mine, and the child should be brought to
the kindergarten. So Sarah has been plugged into the home on the day. To be
not such a bad mother, as she had partially witnessed it from your own, Ms.
Ring agreed cooperation.
The fear of punishment for the offenses prescribed by the Stasi could
be partially attributed to unconscious guilt of IM. In three of those
interviewed, however, threatened sanctions because of actual anti-state
actions. There were women who were raised in the detention period and which
one-in promised cooperation with the Stasi shortening the detention period.

3.4.7 Expectation of reward for cooperation

The promise of a study place was for an IM, which in the GDR because of his
background would not otherwise be able to study, an important opportunity to
consent to cooperate. Another IM candidate has promised to lead a research
project. An unemployed woman received by the Stasi a job with a sufficiently
good pay; since it was in a financial emergency, this seemed to offer for
them to be an advantageous solution, especially since the power had to
provide for the Stasi, gave her no trouble. But overall play financial or
professional incentives not matter much for the cooperation with the State
Security.
The motives of the former unofficial collaborators for conspiratorial
activity proved to be very heterogeneous. In almost all cases, it was a mix
of external, the Stasi employed measures, conscious motives and underlying,
rather unconscious neurotic conflicts and traumas. The current situation of
many of the examined by us former IM as job insecurity, divorce, separation
from family, arrest of the parents and their own custody, the candidates made
vulnerable to recruitment.

3.5 Relationship to the case officer and commitment to the IM

activities
3.5.1 Cooperation with the case officer
Working with a case officer was essentially determined by the subjective
perception of the IM. As we now know, this perception has been the part of
case officers planned or manipulated deliberately. The enforcement officers,
such as training in all intelligence services in operational psychology
(see. Behnke u. Fuchs, 1995), put on psychological profiles of their IM and
tried accordingly specifically to the preparation of the objectives pursued
beneficial relationship. Not only through the use of so-called legends (see
above), but one in which to generate IM also through active relationship
formation tried optimal motivation. The IM should not only comply in formal

92

3 Overall Assessment

cooperation, but he was especially won personally be psychologically

roughly comparable today sought by large companies customer loyalty. The
rail especially the evocation of a person-friendly atmosphere to be
conducive: the case officer as a friend and helper. This was also reflected
in the interviewed by us in determining. From a psychodynamic perspective,
the concept of the transfer comes into play. This term, which comes from the
field of psychoanalytic therapy, says here that impulses, attitudes, desires
and fears, which originate from the relationship with the parents,
transferred to the person the case officer will, once again, a more or less
family-like parent-child relationship is established. In our study it was
found that only five of the IM no statement could be made regarding a
possible transfer relationship with her case officer. Either they did in the
interview to no or very poor-looking statements, which did not allow further
conclusions. But for 15 of the examined by us in relation to their case
officer of transmission elements was marked. These must first be said that
this is not an unusual process: As a rule, all our relations with superiors
and authorities on such transfer elements. It would be rather surprising if
we would have not found in the relation of unofficial collaborators to their
enforcement officers, especially since this was actively encouraged by the
enforcement officers. Therefore here is not the fact of the transfer, but
their textual content of particular interest.
Initially dominated clearly a paternal relationship dimension in the
identified transmission relationships. Then the case officer was unconscious
as a self-esteem perceived more as a protective and helpful father, by
recognizing invigorating father, as an identification model, a better father
substitute, as the seductive father or as a strict, dismissive father. Only
in one case saw the evaluating experts dominate the image of a mother serving
in the transmission.
Mr. Pollok described as his case officer as follows: We were halfway
the same age, he was so young and had time to study begun at the MfS College
Babelsberg, for obtaining a legal diploma. The State Security has indeed
since had its own faculty. Yes, oh so pretty cooperative from dealing with
one another, which had of course but even distances in these subsequent
years. Heath had geduzt from the outset: So, it was pretty much trusting
actually. Yes, it has been indeed produced quite consciously so, this
relationship between you and the case officer. It has always tried to come up
with a fairly close relationship of trust, in order also to strengthen the
dependence thus Here you not only spoke about the orders, but also about
private matters. Yes, that went by the way, of course you first tried once a
little round, before we came to the actual object, as always so the path is
flat, and that definitely includes the personal environment, the change and,
and, and. For me there was the marriage, then there was a divorce, then there
was the career, the situation until just well to this situation where there
is indeed therefore went, I would sometimes find myself other ways and
therefore also here a means to take on the management level. And then, when
that did not work, the inquiry as to whether it would not be as possible with
the help of the Stasi to find a job in a different field, because I had just
been very interested in it .... I did so directly also be formulated as a
question there, but without a positive result.
Mr. Mahler, who grew up without a father, was advertised in the
National Peoples Army. From his case officer he says today: Well, and then
there was this conversation where he told me, you are important! And I think
for me, that it lack ... that therefore the Father but lacking somewhere that
he has utilized and has just said, well, in this trusting nature, he had
then, well, we know already know what yours is there in the company going,
and what people you are surrounded there, just so a little crept into my
confidence. Yeah, right, because it just so the lack ... that you just ...

93

3 Overall Assessment

well, I had there not, with whom one could talk. Well, I had a classmate, but
he was in another unit, i.e. a few doors down, you then have from time to
time and met in the library itself. But de facto per se, these daily
hardships, which I have already that had to carry alone. And this was a man
who perhaps knew ... aha ... and then have a bit exploited the father role, I
guess, this deficiency. So I see it now from a distance for me. And I should
think about it, if I now want to.
Ms. Vogel, who often saw her father as absent and is overall very
disappointed with their family of origin, held several executive officers and
said: Yes, there was at least one case, the so by thinking ago was human and
a pleasant person. The occurred after this basic requirement, did you make up
for what, actually always all very, very friendly on. There are not as types
have been, as one would now might imagine, hulking, ugly people who always
wanted to rummage only in evil. But who had partially taken much time to talk
to me about politics and life and about the study, and as I imagine my life
and stuff. There were quite well for me opportunities to have interesting
conversations.
Mrs. Quindt, sexually abused as a child by her stepfather, designed a
erotisiertes ratio: It is built on what between the case officer and me. How
connectedness. I wanted him to entice sex. At a meeting I have opened the
door naked or just wearing a towel in front of it. And I let him tempt, and
then theyre only come in pairs. ... Ah, absolutely my type! ... Yes. And but
also the right type - who knew already what my type is-on set where I would
absolutely leave .
It seems remarkable to us here is that in the great majority a familial
tinted, characterized by feelings of sympathy and gratitude relationship
created by these transfers, which should have all located within the meaning
of the results sought by the enforcement officers ratio. This was probably
also crucial to ensuring that the IM their jobs with little or no guilt or
shame completed, because it has an estimated parent figure was so, by the
support they learned.

3.5.2 Commitment to the IM activities

Despite the generally positive relations with the enforcement officers but
the commitment subjectively shown the examined by us in was very different.
For most this activity lasted for more than three years, in some cases even
up to 33 years. They were different active during this period, e.g., reported
seven IM to have been sporadically active. Here mostly the fulfillment of a
contract and not the satisfaction of their own dominated, hostile impulses
towards the observierten people. Only in five cases hostile impulses were iS
a revenge motif mentioned. For the evaluation of taking effect in the IM
activity Engagements the motifs appear to us to be significant. In eight
cases, the IM were working out of conviction and out in three cases of career
plans, at the same time we found in 15 cases, personal deficits compensated
by the IM activities.
For example, Mr. Gabler expressed very confident: So, my approach was,
we must bring about social cognition and must advertise it, and Ive also
done some really, and not without success, in the narrow sense. When at all
the criticism and extreme sharpness of criticism both system regulations and
personal things and personal responsibilities, the GDR is still the most
precious for me what German history has been spawned. They failed. But the
Federal Republic with this murderous capitalism, with the elbow, with the
lack of solidarity, with the day by day increasing superficiality, with a
proliferating at the moment societal constitution that wants to have fun
society like that is not an option. And the Federal Republic, which has

94

3 Overall Assessment

against international law and with a campaign of lies beyond compare, as the
Lord Scharping they made a war of aggression operates ... In existence of the
GDR would have to not exist.
In order for human rights to do it, if at all, only in third place. In
the background, which is very different in the background of the story is the
Black and the Caspian Sea and the oil. And that was the example where you
with plausible reasons, appears plausible reasons, could create scope for
global interest policy by military means. Here the people have still
swallowed. The Federal Republic would be no alternative, Mrs. Young said
something similar:. And I would say, Ive been a real East German child,
Pioneer Organization, FDJ, study, party. Ive actually what my parents taught
me what I knew from this education out, I say today, of course, seen very
one-sided, out of this socialist-communist education out, have inhaled it,
have taken this very seriously, which have also taken personally for me very
seriously. I have ideals wanted out of this range, so I would say, Olga
Benario, Richard Sorge, so what were my ideals, Che Guevara, that was all as
the image, with which I have lived. And where I always had the ideal, somehow
you want to also be, you want to do for the thing that you recognize as a
humanist thing that you accept where you people, at least from the literature
or history know now something, before where you have respect, the Communists
are. Communist is always not been for me, what it is made frequently today,
but a communist was actually for me the incarnation of humanism. So, the one
who committed to with all our strength for humanity, committed to
straightforwardness, honesty, yes, also sacrifices for others, it was like
the ideal with which I grew up, and from which is then my has also affected
development.
Mr. Opitz hoped that the cooperation with the Stasi practical
advantages: ... and then have spoken to me and said, well, its probably
still interested, and I had something like minute panic So I stood by the
army time without a job since what would have been catastrophic in the GDR,
because there was nothing else, and no possible place of study. The abovementioned motif combination recalls that apparently hid the respective IM in
the majority of cases it remained unconscious motives for their commitment to
the Secret Service gave. This is indicated in our study, the findings of the
psychodynamic causes. Only in six cases, the IM felt blackmailed to spy, so
were not personally engaged or rather reluctantly worked.
A guilty conscience in the IM activity, we found only three cases. For
example, Mr. Voss: Over the months an attitude so the man is in me so arose,
I thought to myself, scared you now have in both directions, towards you have
a very bad conscience, because that is not good, what are you doing, and in
the other direction youre scared. It was this strange feeling mix.
About half we made a positive conviction or commitment period for their
jobs, the other half we classified as a unengagiert. Seven IN a certain
opposition in the manner of their activities has been integrated, for
example, trivialized your findings or concealed them completely or partly.
In summary, these partial results solidify the image that despite all
the differences but the majority of the pursued we studied their activity
with personal commitment.

3.6 Personality structure and conflict

When psychodynamic assessment of the interviews, we also tried to assess the
Infantilgenese IM: whether this was important for understanding the
subsequent IM activity or not. In particular, the nature of the childs
experience of the first decade of life was taken into account. The analysis
of the interviews showed in all cases that the personality structure and the

95

3 Overall Assessment

unconscious conflicts of IM meant a substantial disposition that made them

vulnerable to the recruitment and employment as IM.
The psychological level at which received the examined by us in
relationships with their fellow human beings and talking to the interviewer,
was in only four cases judged to be more mature or adult. Thus, in a
psychoanalytic perspective no simple health classification meant, but rather
a gradual predominance of non-pathological personality shares. Here are
living relationships with others in the foreground, which are characterized
by a mutual exchange and will not be used to discharge personal problems
especially in the field of interpersonal relationships. These people are not
free from repression and unconscious conflicts, however, to carry out their
internal processes and are able to experience in a more differentiated way.
In contrast, we found in one third of examinees established so-called
narcissistic relationship structures. In such relationships is an unstable
self-esteem in the foreground, which is often compensated by the fact that
rejected parts of the self are projected onto people around. In particular,
depressive self-interests are projective shifted outwards. This we found also
at about a third of respondents. As a result, the person feels Although
relieved at the same time experienced but also latent persecuted by the
outsourced self-interests. There is a total before a greater reliance on
other people, which are required for the stabilization of unstable selfesteem. Therefore, people with just such a relationship structures have been
particularly vulnerable to the Stasi Anwerbungsversuche mentally that it, to
let them get oriented towards special appreciation and attention.
For example, there were in the life of Mrs. Ring frequent change of
partners due to their longing for security and affection in order that they
felt cheated repeatedly, both parents as well as the partners. Your life she
describes as a chain of disappointments and renewed search for understanding
friends, without her here had success again. Since they are often excluded
experienced in interpersonal relationships, she had a tendency to take an
observer position and to choose a sport that could make it alone. In
concrete as figurative, sense they enjoyed it dive: When diving, since it
is placed completely under water on himself. And that was always my dream
situation, Diving and solitude. So Ms. Ring chose in recent years mainly
submerged men who were themselves in need, such as refugees, parents, for
example, illegal in Germany living east Europeans. Until recently, she had to
put her house available to all refugees who had come illegally to Germany and
asked for accommodation. It remarked a tendency to make amends to needy
refugees who were for them instead of the parents. Unconsciously she could
not afford that shes better than others. Your willingness to cooperate with
the Stasi, Mrs. ring led also to the fact that she wanted to protect her
then-boyfriend out of jail and her daughter in front of the home.
Particularly impressive is the finding with regard to life history
experienced psychological trauma, which we found in half of the subjects. In
three further resulted in the diagnosis of suspected trauma, i.e., here
lacked further information in order to collect reliable findings can. Under a
psychological trauma, we understand sustainable functional impairment of
mental processes caused by not psychological conflicts, but by overtaxing of
mental processing capabilities, which can then lead to further psychological
conflicts. This is accompanied by feelings of helplessness and defenseless
surrender and caused a permanent vibration of ourselves and the world
(Fischer u. Riedesser, 1998, p 351). The ability to confidently and
critically reflecting the opposite outside world to be able to act, is then
very limited in most cases, since an increased dependence on others is a
result of trauma. This psychological plight of people could turn to exploit
for their own purposes, the Stasi. So, for example, had Ms. Forster in her
childhood a series psychologically traumatizing experiences made: the birth

96

3 Overall Assessment

during a bombing raid in the war, escape the family when the war ended, with
13 years the sudden on-be-alone-asked-being in West Germany in a boarding
school, with no family support, under very limited financial ratios. She felt
at that time by her family deported and suffered melancholy moods, withdrew
dreamy and envied other about their families. Your future willingness to work
for the Stasi, was, inter alia, due to the fact that she was afraid that her
sisters no longer be able to see. The pressure medium of the Stasi were able
to successfully build on their early experienced trauma instability and fear
of loss.
Even the interview with Mrs. Quindt demonstrates the utilization of
traumatized persons by the Stasi impressively. In the identified trauma is
experienced in childhood sexual abuse, maltreatment, not manageable
separation experiences through outdated cribs stays, early losses experienced
one or both parents, home visits, lack of care. But even with the nontraumatized IM we found in more than half disturbances in the ability to make
mature relationships with other people. An IM was characterized by a very
advanced of commitment, six by a generally very distant relationship
behavior, a by-seeking relationships, one by homosexual relationships and two
by significant alcohol dependence.
In four cases of psychosexual identity was diagnosed explicitly a
disorder with consequences for self-esteem. These four men are more or less
prolonged absence of fathers had affected the male identification and the
development of an adequate self-esteem. They remained dependent on the
recognition by replacing fathers who found it in teachers, supervisors, and
also in the enforcement officers. Mr. Opitz was grateful that the case
officer supported him in career search. The father to prove that he is a
successful son, and also to demonstrate to the Stasi that he had not betrayed
the state, prompted Mr. Jahn to maintain contacts with the Stasi for a long
time. The close ties with the mother in the absence of father led Mr. Mahler
to development deficits. He felt in the army other soldiers in their
reckless behavior inferior and was glad when he was chosen by the Stasi, and
entrusted with a special task. Even Lord steel desire to write after
reunification the biography of his spying several years imprisoned father,
demonstrates how important it is the confrontation with the father today. The
separation of the fathers also led two female IM to a greater need,
especially if they are poorly supplied by the mothers felt as Mrs. Bird and
Mrs. Quindt.
According to these findings, which point to a relatively frequently
present psychological problems, we also found when assessing the motivational
basis of IM activity that here compensations of their own derangement were
sought. Here, the desire to increase self-esteem showed up most often by
receiving attention and recognition by the case officer. It also the
satisfaction of unconscious revenge motives, the unconscious acting out of
conflicts with his own father, or the function of leadership as an auxiliary
officer I have found should compensate for the loss-ego functions.
From a psychoanalytic perspective, these results are not surprising
inasmuch as a certain degree of mental derangement is the norm rather than
the exception. For the mentally healthy person with mature relationship
behavior is rather a fictional dimension than reality. Nevertheless, our
findings so that should not be trivialized, for it to show up in the group we
studied, but - in relation to the normal statistics - significantly greater
proportions of mental disorder and their clever use by the agents of the
Stasi.

97

3 Overall Assessment

3.7 Mental processing of conspiracy

Whether it came to mental stress of working with the Stasi and what were
these proved to be dependent on the assigned tasks, the relationship with the
observierten people, the knowledge of the consequences and the extent of the
moral conflict that caused the secret activity.
No or only minor concerns about the legality of their activities had
the unofficial eight employees who interpreted their work as a contribution
to the development of socialism and to protect the GDR. They were trying to
successfully carry out the tasks and found sufficient justifications for the
fact that they do not officially, but obscured did this. For some of these IM
the Stasi was an important partner, which they zusprachen more power than the
party and by which they wanted to resolve grievances in the state. So as
hoped an IM through the dissemination of information about conditions in a
clinic to improve conditions and to prevent the departure efforts of doctors.
Others wanted to protect the research of the GDR before science spy from the
West or hinder Republic Volatile carrying out their plan.
Even with three unofficial collaborators who were working for the HVA,
there is no conflict of conscience returned because their activities did not
include denunciation, but the recruitment and management of employees in West
Germany served. Stresses existed for them no more than the fact to reside
with a false passport in Germany to cope with the fear of being discovered
and to be able to talk to anyone except the case officer on the experience in
the West. Since they often resided in Germany, they had to feign a second
life in front of their acquaintances. Mr. Hartel describes his problems as
follows: . But I had to create an imaginary profession, which I compared to
friends and acquaintances so had to pose as if I every day really went there
that it might be a temptation to stay in Germany, appeared for no IM
important. As a difficulty these people was described by two, that they had
to learn to deal with their modified by the new experiences in the FRG
picture of capitalism and socialism. It was the biggest schizophrenia in the
whole time, so I had a huge problem for me. I would think people tell the
West how great socialism is what I could not absolutely. When Mr. Hartel a
report on Socialism and Democracy wrote after he had suffered on the way back
to the GDR under the border control, he did not get Orders more. Another for
the HVA active IM, which is proud of its work to date, called the social
isolation as a decisive impact: What I liked the most difficult, that is,
that I all with the beginning of my work for the HVA for reasons of
conspiracy had to cancel my social contacts.
Was it when the persons under observation by competitors or unpleasant
superiors, the IM felt at the betrayal partly a secret triumph. In an
interview, however, they found it difficult to admit this motif. Mr. Opitz,
who felt abandoned by his father in the lurch, retaliated on behalf of a
supervisor who tried meddling him at work.
Under very stressful conflicts of conscience suffered those IM, which
should give information about friends, colleagues or church groups to whom
they belonged. They tried to warn the persons under observation indirectly
avoided to report incriminating evidence, and feigned a bad memory before.
They were the only interviewees who were suffering from feelings of guilt and
cooperation regretted. More than other IM they felt socially isolated and
lost its impartiality with respect to the environment. Mr. Voss was always
torn as to whether he should be the observierten colleagues, whom he greatly
appreciated disclose or not. I came in part on the idea to reveal myself to
the G. because my relationship with him was really quite good. But then I
have had so much fear and so much shame, that I said, what I can do to
protect him, Ill do it, but I did not manifest ... Over the months in me as
a emerged attitude, I thought, scared you in both directions, i.e. to the man

98

3 Overall Assessment

you have a guilty conscience, because that is not good, what are you doing,
and in the other direction youre scared.
For the extorted was the hope of escaping through the collaboration
with the Stasi a penalty, decisive for their consent to the conspiratorial
work. Some of them were trying to protect the persons under observation by
making indirect evidence for its IM function. So warned an IM his friend,
about whose political attitude and reading he should report, in that he told
him. We want to know your books, you want to know from me what you read.
For a woman who was used in prison to monitor inmates, the burden was so
unbearable that she revealed in front of the other prisoners and thus not was
more suitable for the spy service. Others tried to give any relevant
information.
Little distressing was the secret activity for those who took the party
and its policies towards an indifferent attitude and could not appreciate the
importance of their information. Often it was inconsequential reports of
incidents in the workplace or through other persons who visited certain
restaurants. For IM, the information had no discernible value, you wondered
why the Stasi wanted to bring these trivialities in experience. If demanded
by the IM such seemingly meaningless information, this was the reporting
indifferent, they complained about more than the obligation to have to
undergo this task.
The IM, which did not comply because of their belief in the legend of
unofficial collaborators were especially afraid of being punished for them
uncharged misconduct. They felt at the talks with the case officer in such an
interrogation and therefore experienced no guilt (cf. Kerz-Rhling, 2002).
While the unofficial collaborators who worked out of conviction with
the Stasi, great dedication in gathering information or recruiting
perspective-IM in the West showed were the other, rather less involved,
except for two who denounced from revenge. They tried, among others the
meeting turn to the enforcement officers to leave by vorschtzten to be
indispensable in the workplace. Some of the protest against the order of the
Stasi went so far that they possessed a secret oppositional attitude. This
could be that they downplayed or concealed facts certain information. One
example is remembered no longer the name of the people, or they gave the
indirect under observation notes on their IM feature. An unofficial
collaborator described their refusal as follows: . For inquiries about
people I have always pretended to have a terribly bad memory for names For
two IM the surveillance of opposition groups led to that they were convinced
of the work of the church and peace groups and in a serious conflict came
because they did not dare yet to break off contacts with the case officer.
Seven of the interviewees tried to escape to them by the enforcement
officers tasks by a certain opposition to the contracting authority. This
resistance was, inter alia, to mild guilt because of the willingness to
conspiratorial work. Remains an open question to what extent this opposition
was already relevant during the IM-time or whether the former IM
reinterpreted his past in order to make the blame on cooperation in
retrospect more bearable for themselves.
The psychological burden that had to endure an IM, which also depended
on whether he was aware of the consequences of his conspiratorial activities.
For those who worked out of conviction for socialism or worked for the HVA
Stasi in the FRG, this question did not matter. For them, it was especially
important to recognize how successful they e.g., had been at the
Allwerbungen. Often, however, they were not told whether the advertiser
really should be worked later for the HVA.
For those who should report on friends and colleagues, it was
reassuring when they realized that they had not to damage. Even though most
knew or suspected that their activities had the function to uncover

99

3 Overall Assessment

subversive activities, as several did not know what impact drew their
information for Observierten by itself. About half of the twenty examinees
did not know the consequences of the information and did not try to attract
our attention.
To what extent the conspiratorial activity meant a psychological burden
for IM, indicated by the fact, whether it is after the end of cooperation
continued to make thoughts about the possible consequences. The majority of
the interviewees, it was rather indifferent, they tried to forget about the
contacts with the Stasi as soon as possible. It was so frightening,
therefore, for them to be confronted again after reunification with their
secret activities. Seven of those interviewed, the IM activities continue to
be employed for different reasons, even after the termination. It is
especially to those who were afraid to have a dissident group or a friend
might hurt. The guilt she could not come to rest as quickly. The
contradiction between the demands of their conscience and the call of the
Stasi to denounce trying to solve by means of various defense mechanisms. By
splitting mechanisms they created a kind of dual identity (cf. Kerz-Rhling
u. Plnkers, 2000). In this form of unconscious defense two different
postures are adopted towards reality. The doubling means a division of the
self into two independently functioning wholes (Lifton, 1986, p 491) that
do not conflict with each other. Because of splitting and denial can in this
way two views of reality coexist without affecting each other (Freud, 1940a).
Two signposted this split this way: If they were under observation church or
in the peace group, they felt to belong and forgot the Stasi. At the meeting
with the case officer they identified the other hand with its interests. It
was only when they could no longer keep separate the different perspectives,
they were aware of the conflict of conscience conscious, tried to refuse to
cooperate, or were mentally ill. Ms. Ring believed temporarily, this conflict
no longer be able to handle, and made a suicide attempt. I felt
schizophrenic in some way. And this schizophrenia was the main reason for
this suicide thing. Also Mr. Voss, who should report on a colleague, who was
a Peace Circle, increasingly took over its DDR-critical position. For me,
have opened up by the colleagues new worlds that I have never known before,
and, well purely fit for me in my own political thinking in terms of this
system. Arising from the conflict between belief and fear of the Stasi
resulting burdens tried to cope by increased alcohol consumption Mr. Voss.
As the former unofficial staff felt isolated at the time of the
interview guide in society and condemned, they were interested in presenting
their own risk and the resulting guilt as not too big or to relieve
themselves subsequently by an indirect oppositional attitude towards the
Stasi. To what extent this opposition was sufficient to impair the work of
the Stasi, cannot be resolved on the basis of interviews. To answer this
question, an analysis of the files is necessary, from which, however, is not
to know the historical truth, but the views of the respective management
officer. This problem arises especially when there is no custom built by the
Reports or tape protocols and in the files of only the memory logs of
enforcement officers are present.

100

3 Overall Assessment

3.8 detection and contemporary view of IM activities

The uncovering of secret collaboration with the Stasi was found either in
that 1. the action was taken by the former public IM itself, 2. that it was
uncovered when reviewing workplace or 3. that journalists under surveillance
or that their in File informants despite aliases detected, brought the name
to the public. For some, there was no disclosure because they have not been
reviewed or the files could not be found.
Four of IM have made themselves known their activities. Ms. Pohl,
convinced communist stand, even before reunification publicly for their
collaboration with the Stasi, which they, however, did not protect against
conviction and termination without notice, as she had hoped.
Three others who were active later in the PDS and had no concerns about
their espionage activities for the HVA in West Germany, known to its
intelligence activities, because they saw it for the right of every state to
protect themselves in this way. They believed they had to hide anything.
Nevertheless, they had partly to suffer the consequences, by they had to do
without a political office or to retire early.
At twelve interviewed the former activity has been known for the Stasi
when reviewing the workplace or in the adoption of a political mandate. In
each of these cases had the uncovering negative consequences for those
affected. The revised lost their jobs in the public sector or could not
compete or continue the political mandate. Some felt publicly pilloried. It
was like standing naked in the town square. They experienced the moment of
discovery as traumatic. One interviewee said, for example, it hit me like a
hammer, although he had expected a review. A teacher had to leave within two
hours to school without being able to say goodbye to the students after his
unmasking. Particularly serious thought those uncovering who are convinced to
this day, to have been no IM, because they had not signed any declaration of
commitments and talks with the Stasi as experienced as if they were subjected
to an interrogation. That their former attempts from suspicions that they had
become involved with anti-state people, relieve, were held in the files of
the Stasi as IM activity, they had no idea. Her outrage was also directed
against an employee of the Federal Commissioner for Stasi files, which had
based its judgment only on the documents before the Court and the statements
of alleged IM unrecognized. You feel maligned and continue their fight
against the unjust treatment felt to this day. Also Extorted that had been
used during detention as IM, experience it again as a traumatic situation, to
be punished after the turn again. Outraged was also a former IM, his
espionage activities became known as the book by a journalist, without the
author had spoken with him before publication, so that it was based on his
statements solely on the files.
For three of the interviewees there was no discovery, they were no
longer faced after 1989 with their IM activities. An older retired the
disclosure would have had no more episodes, although two others no longer
calculated at the time of the interview with a discovery, but feared that
this, if it would happen, would bring for them disadvantages.
Total signposted fifteen of the interviewees, the subsequent impact of
the collaboration with the Stasi as negative for their careers and for their
private lives. It is highly probable that especially those former unofficial
collaborators declared their willingness to participate in our study, for
which the unmasking after the turn had a serious impact and therefore feel
themselves as victims. As a representative study of unofficial collaborators
of the Stasi due to many difficulties, such as refusal to participate in a
survey or missing detection for destruction of Stasi files is not feasible,
we must limit ourselves to a subpopulation, concerning inter alia is
characterized in that it feels punished after the turn and partially fighting

101

3 Overall Assessment

for an equitable assessment, as well as on those that are still standing to

their secret loan activity since they are convinced of the legality of the
activities of the Stasi. Members of this group were interested in the project
because they wanted to convince the interviewer of the positive developments
in the GDR and the necessity of secret loan activity. Of those who felt
wronged by the turn, was repeatedly noted critically that politicians and
religious leaders could escape the consequences of their conspiratorial
activities sent. Compared to many of them have come incognito former IM, the
examinee will experience for the most part as a disadvantage. This is one
reason that the discovery resulted in only a few cases to reflect on ones
own responsibility. In particular, the Stasi pressurized and blackmailed
people cannot understand today why this issue was not considered in the
evaluation by the authority of the Stasi and the review committees in the
workplace. The disappointment in an interviewee who had professional
disadvantages due to temporary refusal, went so far that he meant those who
had opted without hesitation for the collaboration with the Stasi had, at the
time of the GDR enjoyed advantages and stood after the turn also not worse
off.
For those who were willing to meet with the case officer under
pressure, the detection and conviction by the environment meant a great
offense. You feel stigmatized, since no question of the conditions of their
cooperation. Some complained that they were shunned and abandoned by friends
and colleagues and no one was willing to listen to their observations and to
take account of the former emergency.
Approximately half of the former AT information dissemination proved
even after the turn as a psychological burden. There is still an inner
conflict and the question of why they have not then behave differently For
seven interviewees. They still suffer from feelings of shame about the fact
that they did not dare to say no. An IM, who knows that he has harmed anyone,
throws himself today to have downplayed the matter at that time: Actually,
Id expect each from todays perspective that you just my says. Why should
I do that actually Another is suing his cowardice because of: Thats the
accusation that I am that I have been pinching the tail, so to speak too
fast, A woman is ashamed because of their way of life. her former dissolute
life, which was the reason for the blackmail by the Stasi. Guilt, however
can be found only in individual cases, have taken if other serious harm by
the betrayal, for example, were detained for scheduled flight from the
republic. Two tried to make contact with them betrayed people contact, to
apologize and to relieve, but failed at one because of the under surveillance
are not reported on the letter. That was a bit of a shame. I would like to
have made contact with him in order to talk with him again a few things. So I
wrote him everything in detail.
Others who are convinced that they have only communicated Minimalist,
report without inner involvement about their meeting with the Stasi, they
have forgotten much and wondering today what had reports of a value for the
Stasi. Those in which external circumstances have stood in the recruitment in
the foreground are a lot more with this personal stresses such as
imprisonment or extortion employed as with their secret activities Even those
who worked as SED members or the Party Affiliated with the Stasi, suffer more
under the collapse of the GDR and the loss of their former positions, as they
deal with the monitoring and prosecution of alleged enemies of the state and
their contribution. Another form of defense of guilt is as something strange
to consider the IM activity than from the other personality split off, with
which they had nothing to do. For many IM contact with the Stasi appeared
subsequently unreal in this way, so they could distance themselves from their
actions. Most have found for themselves acceptable rational reasons that will
help them not to let shame and guilt arise. The moral failure is sure to be

102

3 Overall Assessment

evaluated differently in the various IM groups. Confident socialists than in

the non-violated by them accepted moral standards and rightly believe to be
able to have a good conscience. After Fritze (1998) is to speak only of guilt
if the offender against his own morality has failed or cognitive deficits,
for which he himself is responsible. Many IM exonerate himself by pointing
out that they could see through and the political situation do not know if
and what the consequences would have their actions. We would like to
critically noted that subjectively valid content and scope of morality are
always the product of a psychodynamic process. Fenichel (1946) spoke of the
corruption of the superego, which all too often is that content gets rid of,
can cause feelings of guilt. The question of guilt is therefore not only
subjective, but embedded in a social communication process.
The charges that brought the discovery to be revealed not only in the
description of external consequences, but also the onset of depression and
psychosomatic symptoms in half of those examined.
In assessing the work of the Stasi and the own conspiratorial activities from
todays perspective is also found in the examined by us very different
behaviors. They range from defending the tasks of the Stasi about political
indifference to criticism of the surveillance, intimidation and persecution
of the population. With the help of different strategies to try to justify
the interviewees to make their former actions understandable for themselves
and others. Its not just about the defense of guilt, but also a matter of
preserving the self-esteem in the face of conspiratorial activity and stigma
through public condemnation. In the attempts to explain the memories and
personal beliefs with subsequent legends are mixed, which should allow the
former behavior seem acceptable.
For former SED members or the party related parties, even today there
is little doubt that they exercised with their work for the Stasi an
important function to protect the GDR against external and internal enemies
and have contributed to the building of a socialist society. That they
exercised for contributing to the Stasi secret and not only dedicated itself
publicly for the GDR, they establish, among other things so that the Stasi
was due to his knowledge of the mood of the population better able to detect
and correct, as the party abuses.
The justification of cooperation due to the circumstances at the time
of recruitment or trauma in the life story helps other volunteers to declare
their willingness to cooperate with the Stasi. A former IM whose parents had
divorced during his childhood, said: In an intact family, it would not have
happened. For two interviewees fathers had gone to West Germany and had the
families left alone in difficult conditions. Ms. Vogel, who was for
subversive activities in prison, they promised to reduce the sentence of ten
years auffnf if it were then willing to cooperate with the Stasi. After they
had already made terrible experiences in pre-trial detention, she believed
not to survive ten years GDR prisons.
For many, the relief of their former actions and the possibility of
distancing is given by the fact that they keep their messages for irrelevant
and are convinced that we have harmed anyone. Some even believe through their
collaboration with the Stasi other people, especially opposition groups to
have protected by supplying meaningless or trivial information. This clearly
shows the subjective hiding the fact that secret surveillance is never in the
interest of Observierten and represents an invasion of privacy.
In the justification for trying the IM activities in addition to the
individual situation in family and working life and the biographical
influences the living conditions in a dictatorial society are called. It was
not safe estimate for many former IM, with what sanctions they would have to
reckon with a rejection. Concerns ranged from loss of the profession, the

103

3 Overall Assessment

injury of family members to prison terms. From studies of objectors (Kaiser,

1997; Mller-Enbergs, 2000. U Hecht Praschl, 2002), although we know that not
all who refused cooperation, had to reckon with sanctions. But why condemn
all IM for lack of courage, the issue is not justified. Another question that
is asked sometimes, is that, why, have not revealed even after the turn of
the extorted who were victims of the GDR dictatorship. Their reluctance,
however, can be understood because of their shame. They did not have the
expectation that others would have been willing to understand their former
weakness. Such an understanding can be applied taking into account the
biographical backgrounds, without this being the examinee could be absolved
of any liability not in public, but only in individual talks.
We asked the former IM also about their attitude to public criticism of
the State Security and the unofficial collaborators. In the evaluation, we
found three types of reactions. A small group considers the criticism is
justified, and calls for disclosure of all names and an equal treatment for
all. You see the conflict of the past as necessary steps to address the
consequences of the dictatorship in the GDR. Several consider the
condemnation of the IM as unjustified, since they had not committed any
unlawful acts, but fought for their country. In particular, former HVA staff
and SED members reject the public condemnation of unofficial collaborators. A
member of the Society of civil rights and human dignity in which former
party members and supporters of the GDR have joined together, rebelled
against the prohibitions of unofficial collaborators. An IM said the one
hand, dismissive of the Stasi hysteria after the fall, on the other hand he
was willing to admit that some citizens of the GDR was treated badly by the
Stasi. Four did not comment on this issue. The majority of examinees
considers the critical examination of the Stasi and its staff as necessary to
make up for the many committed against dissidents and alleged enemies of the
state injustice, but the extent of punishment in many cases, find no
justification. On the one hand they see fit, that a review takes place,
however, emphasize that it is important to consider whether anyone forced
collaborated with the Stasi, if he has hurt others and which information was
given. Some of the former Stasi employees was stressed that the name
unofficial collaborator did not know at the time of the GDR and did not
know that they were led as secret employee. Only after the turn to them the
extent of the monitoring it became known and they were shocked that they as
IM eingruppierte because they had not seen in their discussions with the
enforcement officers as traitors. Under IM, since I have always imagined,
this is someone who speak every day goes to a dead drop and once somewhere
collects money every month.
Also, some of the interviewees, who are self-critical, find the
conviction of former IM exaggerated. They accuse their fellow citizens, it
too easy to make, if they do not see their own adaptation in the dictatorship
and instead show with his fingers on the IM. It falls to them hard to
understand, that the full-time staff of the Stasi not prosecuted, but the
unofficial makes scapegoats. For this question, it is clear that the
processing of the conspiratorial activities as specified in the Stasi Records
Act, of course, can never take into account all individual stories and
biographical backgrounds. The assessments by the authority of the Stasi and
the subsequent workplace inspections carried out have led in some cases to
unjustified decisions which caused quite the opposite of what was intended,
namely, to gain insight into the individual offense and the willingness to
adapt. Instead, we look at those who have expressed guilt and shame, only a
low level of confrontation with the past.

104

4 File location and personal statements of those interviewed

4 File location and personal statements of those interviewed

We asked the interviewed us whether they would agree to an insight into their
Stasi file. We were interested in doing the comparison between interview
findings and filing information. This, however, not everyone agreed. Three IN
allowed us for various reasons do not access to the file In the following
report, the document evaluation is thus based only on the documents which
must be studied a consent was given. The formulated by Helmut Mller-Enbergs
files excerpts are complemented by italicized comments of Ingrid Kerz-Rhling
and Tomas Plnkers. In these comparisons between files excerpts and
interviews similarities and differences are presented.

4.1 Ten acts perspectives (Helmut Mller-Enbergs)

4.1.1 Motives that arise from the Stasi documents
What is in the files of those who responded to the interview? First turns out
as a result of the investigation, that of the twenty participants no files
have been handed down in nine cases, at least no record for appointment as
unofficial collaborator. The evaluation in this case was based on a
predetermined grid of the authors, comprising a dozen of points of which were
not determined in any case. These are the reasons the State Security Service
for advertising of candidates, the assessment of its readiness and further
details on the obligation and the selection of the cover name. Then the shape
of the initial contact, cooperation and duties assigned. Investigate were,
where possible, the place and the number of meetings as well as the reports
evaluating the unofficial work by the case officer and, if given advantages
for the IM. Finally, details are given for the life of the collaboration,
stating the reasons for the termination and the consequences for the
potentially affected individuals.
In the thus prepared ten events can be found in each case several
design levels that are only partly separated. In that regard, it can be
limited by ideological motives, differentiate personal benefit considerations
or pressure experiences, as is shown below. Because in the vorzustellenden IM
files always formed from the perspective of the respective management
officer. It depended on him as he accurately calls and perceptions in his
respective IM documented what he emphasized or concealed. More than that
served only the files of documentation earmarked action, namely to raise the
target specific information. Formally it can be seen that the case officer
should gain a comprehensive picture of its IM. In the practice encountered
only those issues are mainly taken into consideration, have the influence on
the unofficial work or could take. In that regard, the IM acts in two senses
a limited view of the respective actor is - it is merely the earmarked
perspective that arises from the files. More still be enforcement officers
often were content with just a few keywords to suspected motive for
cooperation, which itself failed at times strikingly stereotyped. Guided
sometimes over several years operations and interview notes can be contained
but differentiated refer motives, which is limited only in the cases where
the files thinned, therefore incomplete.
In order to carry out a comprehensive evaluation of possible acts, it
is necessary to consider the personal rights tangential aspects. Therefore,
it was completely omitted here Credits.

105

4 File location and personal statements of those interviewed

4.1.2 The lack of IM records

The nine missing files can probably assign two groups: on the one of those
who has been created by the Enlightenment section of the Stasi, the Central A
(HVA). The files usually had to meet higher standards than those of the
defense area, which was therefore responsible for the suppression functions
in the GDR. The HVA has been able to largely destroy their documents on their
own responsibility. Insight into motives purposes only traditional IM
statistics of the HVA. Within the present knowledge had from their active
West German sources and unofficial collaborators (as of December 1988) about
6 0 percent, a political and ideological motif, 27 percent a material
interest, and seven percent had personal affection for caregiver decisive
Erstmotiv. Less than one percent had been advertised under pressure. Four
percent suspected a different connection partner as the State Security
(foreign flag). In that regard, in the subjects of this group who made the
interview, initially predominantly ideational motive to suspect. Proven four
we interviewed persons were recorded for this service unit. The long periods
of cooperation of these employees speak according to experience also for nonmaterial motivation, recruitment through pressure cannot be assumed.
The remaining five undocumented IM operations can usually be assigned
to the defense area of the Stasi. This IM files are possibly led to the end
of the Stasi, but was then destroyed by the full-time staff. Perhaps dive
this or any of them in the course of reconstruction work on again. For nonretrieved files are, inter alia to Mrs. Pohl, which has been detected by the
Stasi since she was 22 years old. In other cases, the code names and
registration details are not preserved. Three interviewees rejected the
insight into their files for various reasons. They wished to no longer be
confronted with the past, kept the written down in the record facts for not
applicable or rather gave himself insight into some files excerpts because
they thought due to the assessment by the BSrU to have no confidence in the
Authority. In the following files extracts the anonymizing used in the
interviews be used instead of given by the Stasi codename.

4.1.3 Mostly ideological motives

Mr. Mahler (16} *
During his military service the 20 year-old Mr. Mahler was approached
intelligence-led by a captain. Previously both had official contacts to chat
with each other. The responsibilities of the captain counted the protection
of a military unit, the special attention was paid to soldiers who had a
negative attitude to the GDR. The choice fell on Lords supper, since he
was considered politically reliable, a solid class position have and
dispose over good to very good military and political results in training.
An otherwise conventional contact conversation took it considering this
situation did not seem; it is recorded none.
I.
Mr. Mahler undertook in writing in June 1973rd As a motif from his case
officer conviction indicated. The captain had gone out of a trouble-free
advertising, a legend he is not related. Mr. Mahler was to negative people
gather information, that is, in particular detect especially his roommates
moods and opinions. Documented are seven meeting that took place in the
period from July 1973 to April 1974, where from 1973 until March 1974, was no
November meeting is recorded, so that the effective working time is

106

4 File location and personal statements of those interviewed

unofficial limit to five months. The meetings were all held in the office of
the Stasi captain.
Apparently Mr. Mahler presented only two handwritten reports who the
case officer not very convinced. He found the assessments of its IM vague, a
bit insecure even underestimate this the dangerousness of a fellow
soldier. Otherwise, the captain made notes of the details of Mr. Mahler,
including comments on the World Youth Festival, which took place in East
Berlin 1973: It would have to rain shit, we go to Berlin rum and celebrate.
Or When the festival is now canceled, we could save a lot of money. About
the State Council Chairman Ulbricht, who had died at that time, gave Mr.
Mahler, the utterance of a soldier with the words again: Pity they have
Buchenwald shut. (...) They could burn W. Ulbricht. The ovens are still
intact, that needed to be cleaned only. The company exists also. My
grandfather made the poker.
The positive political attitude of Mr. Mahler disabled nevertheless
access to particular interest negative people, even more so seemed the IM
to be feared to jeopardize by such contacts, the recommendation of the
company commander for his studies, because the company commander otherwise
no good evaluation could write to him, but he needed for his enrollment .
II.
Obvious benefits could not pull the IM from his conspiratorial activities. It
ended after 26 months on 1 September 1975, although the last meeting dated
back five months. The Act was the absence of perspective closed. When asked
if he was prepared while studying, to support the Stasi, he waved his hand:
He expressed that he would like to do so after graduation like. During the
period of study but do not want to be an additional burden, since he had a
lot to catch up.
III.
Consequences had not his information clearly. However, had been considered
with senior NVA officers to take political-educational measures. Whether
and in what form this is done, it is not apparent.
Comment:
The reason to select him as IM is formulated purely political in his Stasi
file, politically reliable, solid class position, good to very good
military and political results in training. Looking at the other hand, in an
interview the self-description of the IM as socially excluded soldiers when
sexually inexperienced, grown up without a father young man and as a single
high school in his company, it is clear that the political reasoning of the
case officer is a time socially compliant rationalization in order to
legitimize abuse of a young soldier for spy purposes. This is not to call
into question the alleged political orientation: From the interview with Mr.
Mahler is clearly evident that he abgewann the idea of a socially just
society much. However, the reasoning of the case officer can straight out
those vital dimension, the Lords supper he made corruptible for the purposes
of the Stasi.
The information provided by the IM in the Interview and the case
officer in the Act to the actual work for the Stasi agree amazingly well.
Also it is clear that Mr. Mahler at that time did not seem veifat with great
ambition reports. This corresponds to the refusal to continue working while
studying for the Stasi. The formulated in the Act whereas initiate
political-educational measures with Mr. Mahler, also suggests that it
cannot have been far away with the solid class position of the IM, but that
just yet, the above mentioned psychological constellations crucial were for
short-term cooperation with the Stasi. For this, there is no language in the

107

4 File location and personal statements of those interviewed

Act: If there had been, they would be the full extent of the abuse, which
lies in the functionalization of a young man for the purposes of the Stasi,
made manifest. By contrast, the political rationalization of cooperation
helped then both sides to maintain a semblance of a legitimate collaboration.
Mr. Stahl (15) *
In February 1972, the 18 year-old Mr. Stahl came to the attention of the
Stasi. The trainee had contacts with critical musicians and noticed as the
security organ was looking for someone who could tell from their environment.
I.
Discussions that had led to the FDJ secretary of its operation in February
1971, Mr. Stahl, the State Security offered some initial pointers. Three
years earlier, had been sentenced to long prison sentences for military
espionage, which the two sons had distanced his parents. The lack of parental
home, the FDJ functionary, had been offset by social labor. During a meeting
of the Stasi case officer with the FDJ-line operation, a conversation with
Mr. Stahl, in which he is relaxing immediately trust in a personal matter
to the representative of the Ministry turned. So learned the Stasi, that the
only surviving brothers of the Federal Republic had received visits, which
seemed well informed of the parents and the children insured that they were
not alone. Another visit was in prospect. During this time she also received
a Western package of textiles, which they brought to the visit in
conjunction. In Mr. Stahl had the Youth League as well as the prosecutors
office, which had led the action against the parents informed. The case
officer of the Stasi had been carried out elsewhere informed why he, as he
noted, this bridge used to intensify the contact. Just one month later, at
the first encounter, gave Mr. Stahl is a first written statement, which was
delivered six months later with the election of a cover name again.
II.
The cooperation lasted four years including the period of military service.
Up to its inaugural meeting twelve reports had arisen. Reports wrote Mr.
Stahl rarely. Three are located in the file that were related partly to the
operation, partly on the musicians and during military service on drunken
soldiers. In concise form the case officer saw what they hear. Altogether can
be found in the file a few details that suggest a motive. In advertising
proposal there is evidence of skills of Mr. Stahl as sociability and
reliability. Later he had, after he had been commended for his information,
expressed, that it was natural for him to fulfill all his responsibilities
by the Stasi duties conscientiously. For a young person the reproduced
utterance a nuance is too pathetic.
III.
The benefits from its operational work are low for Mr. Stahl. But a kind gift
worth 96, 10 Mark recorded the Act. The cooperation ended after the military
service due to lack of applications in January 1974, the Act wandered in
April 1975 to the archive. Direct consequences for the people rated him
cannot be identified. Rather be with this, been determined by formerly
hostile attitude, an approach to the line of the SED, to which Mr. Stahl had
contributed through its positive political occurrence. Also read acts
overstretched and clearly suggests that only one reason was sought to bring
the file to the musicians to finalize them.

108

4 File location and personal statements of those interviewed

Comment:
His report in the interview is true with regard to the data and the
recruitment of tasks as agreed with the IM file excerpts. However, the
reasons for its willingness to cooperate are much more sophisticated than
they are described by the case officer in his subjective experience. Mr.
Stahl Felt left alone after the arrest of the parents and ashamed as FDJ
member for the betrayal of the father to his state. His longing for a good
father and a need to help parents in prison by collaboration with the Stasi
and to prove that he was a good Socialist, recruitment could approve him. The
case officer took advantage of his helplessness by offering itself as a
substitute parent, also appealed to his conscience and took him into a kind
of guilt by association. About the duties assigned to him reported Mr. Stahl
in the interview much more detail as it is clear from the file. His described
in the Stasi files a positive influence on the Observierten and to get closer
again with his supporting line of the SED, was reported similarly from him.
That he did not hurt his friends and still has a good relationship with them,
relieving him of any guilt. Also the files can be seen that the rated from
him people have taken no harm.
Ms. Pohl (7) *
24 years old was the journalist Mrs. Pohl when she has been commended by an
unofficial name Peter of the State Security as an interesting person. She
moved in circles of independent journalists and artists frequented the local
scene.
I.
She had in principle positive to subject an image of the GDR, but seemed in
the eyes of the Stasi various variations and negative influences, which
were a matter of urgency caused by the West stations and their environment,
including decomposed and demoralized circles. The first encounters with her
case officer that began in August 1962 were very pleasant. He sought out in
her apartment, a visit to which it wants to have maintained. Previously,
they had reached reminders due to frequent visits and their funny way of
life. Even at this meeting they have expressed their agreement to cooperate
and immediately given about their environment information. Differentiating
led the case officer in preparation for the actual advertising for their
motives a partial recognition of the need, some adventure and to a lesser
extent, the hope aufpersnliche benefits to. In April 1963 she signed her
written undertaking. You should, that is defined in the tasks, so live as
before, seek certain local and close acquaintances, sometimes deliberately,
what you - if the targets are unknown - photos were shown. From then on she
met soon monthly with their case officer, carried out the dispensation to the
year 1968th In total 38 meeting reports have been preserved. The meetings
were generally held in conspiratorial apartments, three could be identified,
sometimes in the home of Ms. Pohl, rare in restaurants or in the car.
II.
Ms. Pohl was hardworking rapporteur. In the five years she wrote 7 9
handwritten reports, without exception, people. They often referred to these
as pessimistic, intelligent, positive or reactionary. Mostly it was
work colleagues and acquaintances, often including artists or journalists.
Their reports were sometimes meaningful and contained information on level of
education, occupation, political affiliation, friendly relations, financial
circumstances, family, intimate or emotional relationships and indeed West
contacts. Moreover, there were remarks on the character, appearance, to

109

4 File location and personal statements of those interviewed

outward appearances, but also abnormalities as smoking cigarettes and West

for talks and rumors about possible contacts with the Stasi.
In August 1963, she brought an indication of an attempt to escape a
premium and the four affected imprisonment a. She had learned of this
company, because one of the participants his belongings deposited even with
her, she was informed in the next well of the plans. This betrayal, guessed
her case officer, have brought them in internal conflicts, a suspicion
which he rejected again, after he had exchanged with Mrs. Pohl about it and
found out that she had found her attitude to be right.
III.
My case officer gave Mrs. Pohl a shining testimony when he confused views
and ideological confusion stated also with her. He estimated reliability and
punctuality, but also posted a specific material interest, since they earned
relatively little and through their way of life spends a lot. In addition to
the premium for the betrayed escape attempt in the amount of 250 marks, there
were 1485 Mark, with whom they should finance their stay in public places.
The connection to the Stasi ended when she met a foreign partner to whom they
wanted to move. Opposite to this, which apparently was also IM, they
dekonspirierte itself. A stay in Bulgaria was considered by the Stasi as a
possible escape attempt, triggered the investigation. Skepticism prevailed
against now higher than previous trust and the Act stated an ever stronger
decrease in hostile ideological positions. Moreover showed Mrs. Pohl,
henceforth not to want to talk about their environment. She seemed listless
and uninterested. On 14 January 1968 she was entpflichtet.
IV.
In subsequent years, it was even target of the Stasi. The suspected to be
fled the republic, continued until 1971st In early January, a case officer
made contact and noted, Mrs. Pohl did indicate that they would continue the
unofficial work. Politically, it sounded positively. Cooperation held then on
until July 1985th During these years she met once to twice a year with the
case officer, 23 meeting reports noted the Act. They even took from a total
of 28 hand- and machine-written reports. Again this affected their
environment, even if they unexecuted this with intensity, like in the 60s.
She received this total 2,050 marks, usually in amounts between 100 and 800
marks. This process is also ended like the first: Mrs. Pohl show no more
willingness to educate negatively enemy attacks the enemy and report. Despite
intensive efforts, no opportunities through educational influence were to
achieve a change of attitude. In the absence of appropriate conditions the
cooperation was terminated. Consequences for others should not be taken
during their second unofficial phase of their acts.
Comment:
Between the filing remarks and those made in the interview, there are no
major differences. There was an element of uncertainty for the Stasi, as Mrs.
Pohl, in spite of their basically positive image of the GDR, because of
their contacts to England the official critique of the West did not share.
Upper the tasks assigned to it, we learn in the interview no details what can
be attributed to the fact that Mrs. Pohl their information not considered as
special secrets, because everyone knew about her which political stance they
took. A crisis of conscience, she experienced only after the betrayal of the
attempted escape of acquaintances and their imprisonment. That this inner
conflict was dispelled as soon as the case officer described it in the Act,
cannot be confirmed from the interview. After this event, Mrs. Pohl tried not
to give a person damaged ends more information. The temporary interruption of
their IM activities in 1968 was established in an interview from her with the

110

4 File location and personal statements of those interviewed

arrival of the troops in Prague and their disappointment with the Soviet
policy. From financial contributions in the interview was no question, as
Mrs. Pohl probably regarded this as a natural compensation for their
expenses. Upper the date of termination, there is a contradiction between the
instrument and the information in the interview. For Mrs. Pohl cooperation
ended in 1980, the Act was not until 1985, however, closed, although there
were no further meetings after 1980 more.
Mr. Erler (13) *
The applied to Mr. Erler files are remarkably extensive. His personal file
contains 541 pages, his work record, in which the services rendered by him
were recorded, comprising 2020 pages. So overall the testimony of a thirtyyear cooperation with the State Security, who was so diverse that they
require a fuller account.
I.
Attentive to the 30-year life scientists Mr. Erler the Stasi was a work
colleague who was active as IM p. . Thus as his frequent trips abroad were
known, especially to his father in the West, who worked at a prestigious
company as an authorized representative. Originally mainly operating interest
in the father, but it did Mr. Erler hardly promoted. In August 1956, the
Stasi approached Mr. Erler, this was employed at an institute and had for p.
jobs done as the description of individuals working his fathers place,
locations of the occupying powers, and he also had pictures of military
facilities from the aircraft of added. p. mediated contact with the Stasi.
p. introduced Mr. Erler in a safe house in person and then withdrew. He
declared himself, says the report for advertising in September 1956 writing
willing and expressed that he regards it as a matter of course, to do its
part. On another occasion his operation Guide recorded on cooperation, this
was based on political conviction and partially the ideal interestedness.
For the State Security Mr. Erler was apparently a stroke of luck, because
they realized that he shows great interest in participating and would be
even if he can give interesting information. In that regard, Mr. Erler was
aware with whom he held talks.
II.
Mr. Erler left a comprehensive oeuvre to various people, in particular to
scientists in East Germany and from abroad. In addition to their professional
development, technical knowledge and scientific work he characterized their
political beliefs, family circumstances, stays in West Berlin before the Wall
was built, connections abroad, but also their moral behavior. Sometimes he
hinted that people could make further details.
He was stingy not to process proposals such as when a member of the
Society of Biological Sciences, in which he indeed no conspiratorial
connections to the opponents imputed, but did not consider it expedient to
allow him to go abroad, because his wife apparently critical to DDR is set.
In another member of this society, he conceded an interest in pornographic
literature. In a next he surmised not insignificant accounts in the Federal
Republic, which is why a departure in the Federal Republic cannot be
endorsed.
Mr. Erler pointed to problems in the research. In other cases, he
reported on possible reasons for runaways took place as professional overwork
or light of life, and pointed, as in February 1979, on specific skills such
as through the administration of anabolic steroids. A woman he panelist as a
loose woman, led him to recommend her good looks than not unintelligent
highlight and for the unofficial working for the Stasi, as it would be to

111

4 File location and personal statements of those interviewed

perform specific tasks are. This prediction was followed by the Stasi and
planned their recruitment.
Secondly, Mr. Erler was stopped to take to a colleague in the West
contact, so as to arrive at scientific studies. To this end, he got a fake
passport, but the action brought no result. For Western colleagues he has
compromising facts cannot find his extramarital relationship with an employee
would offer no point, because this would be tolerated by the wife. The IM was
applied for this reason, to examine the more operational perspective this
contact: This question is also crucial in that in order to prevent that are
made on our part further substantial investments that fall under any fertile
soil. The essential question remains to be clarified whether Prof. (...) is
interested in the DDR-science person may be hostile act or has great
influence in the West German life science. (...) For the tactical approach
was recommended the IM, the question (...) to test whether he would be
willing to interesting material to the GDR for sale, which will not be
published. This task took on Mr. Erler, but it stayed with successful levies
on topics such as the use of anabolic steroids or remarks to colleagues. In
this way, Mr. Erler also received annual reports of the Institute.
Furthermore, Mr. Erler had an interest in a Munich scientists who should be
charged to East Berlin, however, announced this offer out that he wants to
consult his competent staff of MAD. The contact should be developed in the
long term, said Mr. Erler should be careful to leave the Munich initiative
that also took this. By September 1989, he announced his visit to East
Berlin.
The father of the IM came not out of sight, where Mr. Erler had to pay
particular attention to compromising information to employees of the company.
Thus, for information on stolen bricks, find nightly stays in bars, where the
chauffeur sometimes had to teach 450 DM from the company in order to induce
his passenger can. Also held Mr. Erler his sister in mind that as he worked
in an institute. So he reported visits from the Federal Republic with her and
were some recommendations to the Stasi. The recital of his sister, wanting to
caring for dependent parent in the West, the Stasi should modestly negative
since care could not be found. Likewise, he knew about his sisters children
to report.
When Mr. Erler in February 1989 prominent Contact the Permanent Mission
of the Federal Republic received in the GDR, his case officer was concerned
about the personal security of the IM, which is why he told him to,
possible to refrain from anything that could dekonspirieren him. This saw a
Mr. Erler, as recorded, since it anyway, his status as a recognized
scientist did not want to jeopardize.
Proceeding knew of IM often via specialized institutions at home and
abroad to report, also through conferences, congresses and symposia. His
focus was on sensitive issues such as anabolic steroids. Even in private
holiday trips he stayed sometimes as IM in the service, made photos and
reports of contacts of traveling companions to German citizens. For this
information profile includes coverage of opinions among his colleagues, as
well as criticism of shortages.
III.
Overall, the record of Mr. Erler has 337 meetings out in the 60s usually five
per year, in the 70s almost every month, with an increasing trend in the
80s. Most encounters within one year found place in 1989, namely 18. In the
early years, he met with his case officer in a safe house, later mainly in
the Institute and in 130 cases in the private residence, which was therefore
encouraged by the attitude of his wife, who knew of the unofficial work of
the husband. Rarely has there been meeting in the car, only once in a hotel.

112

4 File location and personal statements of those interviewed

The case officer logged in more than 300 cases, the information given
by Mr. Erler, in a dozen cases, the IM wrote by hand, in 55 cases, with the
typewriter. In 79 cases, both saved the work through the use of a tape
recorder. As a result of this information density originated 75 operational
information, which were passed on within the Stasi. It can be found in the
Act also correspondences of IM, so far as it apparently had operational
relevance, and West German magazines.
IV.
His case officer was satisfied with his limitations with IM. For desirable,
however, he thought as he noted in 1974, a little more consistency and
deferral extant scruples, then would be the IM more successful. He was
awarded the Medal for faithful service in silver and the Medal of the NVA
in gold. This award, which he was allowed to keep at home, he thought, as
stated, as a real vote of his, as he said, modest support. Anltich the 25
anniversary of the Stasi, there was a one-time bonus of 1,000 Mark. Otherwise
outweighed bouquets, brandy or a crystal bowl and vase.
In addition to these rather minor benefits he was often supported by
the State Security. Exits to his parents living in the West paved the Stasi
as well as various trips. Sometimes unsuccessful, as there were not coveted
by Mr. Erler trip to China. He had also taken his quest for a lectureship
significantly and could, as the Act is apparent, well imagine, as the owner
of a Peugeot. Whether the Stasi, which had tested its relevant ways, was
successful, reveals itself not contained in the files. After all, Mr. Erler
acquired the desired vehicle a year later, and as it a border crossing
medication had been taken earnestly, his case officer could be this itemizing
later personally.
V.
The cooperation of Mr. Erler with the State Security Service lasted from 13
September 1956 to at least December 12, 1989, when the last noted in the Act
encounter took place. The end is certainly seen as a result of the upheaval
in the GDR. Even on the eve of the Berlin Wall it says in the file that the
IM had stressed the Stasi always reliable and faithful to that to stand and
the unofficial cooperation his word redeem. On 5 December 1989, the IM
expressed its concern expressed to be dekonspiriert. He was assured,
wrote the case officer in the Act, that all necessary measures are taken by
the signatories to ensure the safety of his person by our institution. This
concern held apparently also to the next and the last on record meeting on
12. December 1989 onwards. The IM may, it is, with no other employees of the
security organ continue to work together as the familiar to him since 1961,
case officer. The process has been archived, out of it is not clear whether
the information provided by the IM had consequences for others.
Comment:
Both in the interview and in the Act his political convictions is given as a
motive for collaboration with the Stasi. During the case officer, he / it
describes the detailed reports by Mr. be very helpful for the State Security,
we learn in this week, up on his contacts with a Western scientist, little
details of his IM activity. Especially reports of colleagues and family
members are hardly mentioned in the interview. His contacts with a Western
counterparts, the exchange of technical information and his trips abroad take
contrast in an interview a large space. The reports of colleagues and others
meant for the Lord he / it no psychological burden. As a member of the SED,
it was natural for him to work for his country, so that the case officers
were very pleased with him. Neither in the documents nor in the interview was

113

4 File location and personal statements of those interviewed

to identify whether their information for those concerned had negative

consequences.
Mr. Voss (14) *
Only 47 Journal of the personal file of Mr. Voss have survived. She has
obviously been cleaned up. In that regard, allow the fragmentary
documentation even less insight than can offer a complete dossier.
I.
The 32 year-old Mr. Voss got into the visor of the Stasi, when it looked for
a suitable unofficial collaborator at his workplace. There had already been
talk contacts, in which the state security believed to recognize the
readiness to support. He had written a gag order, without this has been
preserved even in the Act. The proposal to its advertising also refers to a
comprehensive self-made material for the surgical assessment of the
situation, the Mr. Voss had created. It regards its possible co motives in
his political development, positive attitude and referenced his interest
in conspiratorial activities. During his recruitment he had, according to the
advertising report of March, 1986, expressed his conviction given that the
unofficial work essential to protect the GDR contributes, and that this
realization emerged under his previous information Development of the Stasi
have , This formulation suggests possible initially existing reservations
with Mr. Voss at least. He was obliged, however, already in a safe house,
which the State Security Service has shown him a certain confidence bonus;
that on a failure of the obligation would possibly of the apartment Shunting
IM have been burned. Mr. Voss will, as the report states, have written
commitments, however, the corresponding for held ready envelope without
contents.
II.
The concrete cooperation with the Stasi reveals itself not in the file.
Although there are references in the area of responsibility, the
enlightenment of his workplace as the continuous backup of a battle group
in front, however, the location and number of meetings as well as the type
and number of reports not visible.
III.
In fact, it will have come to an intensive unofficial work. The assessments
can conclude this. In January 1986, states: The candidate constantly strove
for objectivity. In the course of his work for the Stasi he evaluated
accumulating problems increasingly security policy standards. Furthermore,
with him is an increasing interest in the work of the Stasi noticing. The
candidate is committed to fulfilling tasks asked extensively and quality. He
has appeared previously prepared on time and well to set meetings. He
reported openly and realistically to the problems at the (...). He proved
diligence and reliability. In discussions about the need for unofficial work
he declared his willingness to support the Stasi unreservedly in its
activities.
This commitment already shown during the contact phase is also found in
various justifications for awards. A cash prize of 300 marks he received in
June 1986 for the advantage of its key position, one of 500 marks he
received in June 1989, when he had been engaged to perform connect to a
surgically-interest group of people made, the with educational problems in
the GDR translated apart in preparation of the Pedagogical Congress and had

114

4 File location and personal statements of those interviewed

prepared an event in the ecclesiastical context. His dedication has helped

to get the activities of such persons under operational control.
In addition to these 800 marks he received refunds for expenses in the
amount of 250 marks.
IV.
The final meeting report dated 30 November 1989. Just three weeks after the
fall of the wall listed the guidance officer: Mr. Voss explained his
willingness to work with the Office for National Security. He wants to do and
prevent the process of turning is aimed against the socialist foundations of
the state his contribution to greater enforcement of law. He is actively
working with the new forum. The process remained open until the very end.
Comment:
The fragmentary existing documents the personal file give little evidence of
the motives and conspiratorial activity. Our knowledge of his willingness to
cooperate with the Stasi from the interview are much more comprehensive. What
is described in the Act as a policy development and positive attitude,
probably refers to the time of contact, as Mr. Voss should read scientific
literature and check. It, however, did not go to him, as described in the
Act, a interest in the work of the Stasi, but the reading of scientific
publications. The second phase, the work in the operation and observation of
the colleagues and the working group are described only briefly in the
absence of labor acts. His conflict with regard to the stakeout of a
colleague and his increasing alienation from party find barely mentioned in
the existing documents, nor the psychological burden and the threats
repeatedly made by the relatives in the West. In contrast, a special
commitment is highlighted, but which was available only for the initial phase
in the Academy after the interview. The last phase of collaboration with the
Stasi in the fall of 1989 was for Mr. Voss is no longer of great importance,
because it should not give information about individuals, but was only sent
to demonstrations in which his knowledge were present staff after many
unofficial. As Mr. Voss had left already in the summer of 1989 from the party
and because of its contacts with the working groups a critical attitude
towards the GDR occupied, the last sentence in the Act seems less reproduce
his attitude as the wishes of the leadership officer, when it writes: He
wants to make and prevent the process of turning is aimed against the
socialist foundations of the state his contribution to greater enforcement of
law. That Mr. Voss observierten people might have harmed, is not visible
from the files. About the features mentioned in the Stasi documents Awards
and cash prizes he has not reported. The major advantages for him, however,
were entrusted to him scientific reading and research opportunities.
Mr. Pollok (11) *
The 25 year-old Mr. Pollok was the recommendation of another IM. He had been
involved within the student community, which had developed from the
perspective of national security to a place of negative hostile discussion.
The recovery of Mr. Pollok should pursue the objective of giving the state
and party provides sufficient grip to be able to restrict the work of the
student community.

115

4 File location and personal statements of those interviewed

I.
The State Security made contact with Mr. Pollok and had the effect influenced
him during three calls to attend the events on behalf of the Stasi and to
put particular attention to the student chaplain. In January 1974 she went to
see him at his workplace, was - also due to the unsatisfactory external
conversational situation - merely provide that the youth organization of the
CDU, the Young Union, had expressed during the World Festival 1973 in East
Berlin their interest, compounds with teenagers want to expand in the GDR.
This should be discussed in a further conversation she agreed.
Two weeks later, Mr. Pollok told the case officer in detail on his way
to the ESG. He was there immediately found a hoard of denominational
students who had a critical relationship to DDR. He had tried with a friend,
to give the discussion a positive turn what was but failed. The interest of
the Stasi, with which political issues are dealing the student community,
he came to meet. At the next meeting Mr. Pollok handed the program and
informed about an event.
The case officer listed on the subject of cooperation: . The
unofficial collaboration with the Stasi resulted from the conviction of the
IM, that socialism is the only correct order of society and must be protected
from negative active and passive actions He had thus a positive political
conviction .
II.
He chose a pseudonym. He was obliged, however, only verbally what was
intended to advertising proposal: It is envisaged that the candidates taking
into account its moral and ethical attitude based on the conviction (...) to
oblige you with a handshake. His scheduled tasks corresponded to the
practice He informed about events and - as it was called - decomposed the
Working Group Marxism. Several times he had to approach certain people,
including German citizens and one French journalist. In the six years of
cooperation 77 meetings were held, on average, a dozen a year. In 1977 alone
there were 17, in the following years they declined in 1979 there were eight,
in 1980 only three. Its activity slowly declined, apparently because of
private problems by Mr. Pollok. Meetings were usually held in safe houses,
where he met three. There were short meetings as well as encounters in the
workplace and in restaurants. 26 reports he wrote by hand, usually not
signed, sometimes provided with its code name. 77 reports were drafted by the
case officer on the basis of his information.
Alone 50 reports concerned the member circle of the student community
and not remain without consequences. Mr. Pollok have, so it comes from the
file produced, circle privately visited and utilized an opportunity to find
a book manuscript of circle in a suitcase, the intention of this, to be
published in the Federal Republic. In subsequent years, Mr. Pollok
intensified the relationship with him. He procured a specimen signature of
the typewriter under the pretext of wanting to tap this a request for a
telephone. In addition to this evidence, he designed an apartment sketch and
pointed as another hiding place for the book manuscript on the cabinet wall
in the bedroom. Time told Mr. Pollok how the Act can be seen that circle
and his wife from the Stasi would questioned and possibly the house search
will be carried out. Mr. Pollok asked in this context, therefore, to also be
heard in order to prove his authenticity. In fact, the wife of circle had
to have something other than Mr. Pollok suspected betray the work on the book
manuscript.
When Mr. Pollok was summoned as a witness in the case against circle
in September 1978 he prepared himself thoroughly with his case officer out
front. Simultaneously, the IM was pointed out that he should look for in the
way of his argument that no suspicion of the accused may occur to him. There

116

4 File location and personal statements of those interviewed

was the IM no signs of concern or scruples before the trial, although it him
was uncomfortable, but that he should be heard as a witness. The IM was
oriented so that the wife of the accused shall be present in court. He should
tell her that burden him the court proceedings; he condemn it, that he was
here with his appearance known to state bodies. The IM shall try to contact
with the wife of the accused to further intensify in order to elucidate
further projects. The prosecutor complained afterwards Mr. Pollock
provocative behavior in court and amended in favor of the accused
statements. This was not without consequences for Mr. Pollok, who did not get
awarded an expected point position. By contrast, no suspicion against Mr.
Pollok drew the couple circle On the contrary: Its behavior in court I
won, by the accurate and independent IM operative action, continue to be used
for further control of the wife of the convicted person and its handling loop
instruction. A suspicion of collaboration with the Stasi by the convicted
person or his wife and handling circuit was not known. In the aftermath of
the case officer had the impression as if Mr. Pollok of guilt plagued that
he had wanted to overcome by would address the hostile attitude of the
circle.
As a circle was released in November 1979 in the German Democratic
Republic held in the Federal Republic, the contact to Mr. Pollok revived, but
which in his reporting had reserved. The detention was at the IM obviously
strong psychological aftereffects leave.
III.
The assessments of the guide officer fell from differentiated. In June 1974
Mr. Pollock was considered openly and honestly. In January 1977 his
sympathies for the singer-songwriter Wolf Biermann voted questionable, but
these were seen as tactically in order to enter into the appropriate student
circles can and trust to win the pastor. Reporting, fail discipline and
order fulfillment were considered good. Through a second IM in the student
community its details could be confirmed. In June 1977, stated that his
reporting successes Predominantly in oral form, what due to convenience
is. In political discussions, the case officer asked him a certain
restraint firmly. In the discussions for the surgical work, he is also a
bit reluctant and one must interrogate him on certain issues directly before
it gives its views. Although the IM to me a calm and factual impression made,
also appeared modest, I could (...) not really satisfied. In general, I
appreciate it, however, as an honest employee A, which provide various
weaknesses.
The detention of circle appeared, as already indicated, the
information changed behavior by Mr. Pollok. He presented claims how the Act
can be seen: He brought in another unofficial work to express that he is
ready to talk about people and situations, but want to know why or why this
information is needed. He does not want people burden the exercise legitimate
criticism of certain social developments in his opinion. On the other hand,
he argues that real enemies of the GDR and socialism must be rendered
harmless. (...) In his report puts the worth that his opinion or views on
certain people or situations to be heard, and we deal with these thoughts.
IV.
When he took a new job in another city, slackened the cooperation with the
Stasi. The last meeting is recorded for March 1980 the Act was signed in
January 1982nd The final report states: The detention and subsequent
judicial condemnation of the processed in the OD circle person left strong
psychological effects in the IM, in the result of which he was dodging the
other unofficial cooperation, reporting on people and situations rejected
when he did not know , were what the information needed and used. He himself

117

4 File location and personal statements of those interviewed

was defeated strongly the influence of negative social phenomena and took the
view that each authorized certain social phenomena can criticize and needs.
In March 1980, the IM then an occupation took in church institutions and
refused to report on this as people working there as well. Mr. Pollok has
his promise to report after taking up his duties, not respected.
As a direct financial benefit received Mr. Pollok 3050 Mark, this
presents worth 280 marks and even $ 100 in connection with the operation
circle. Despite these significant amounts he was apparently not keen on
money. In December 1979, stated: For the unofficial cooperation said should
be handed over in a financial recognition. This was rejected by the IM on the
grounds that it carries out that activity from inner conviction and is itself
located him in mind to talk with me about him interest issues and problems.
An acknowledgment in the form of a prominent he would agree. He had earlier
had a bad feeling, if he had taken money.
Comment:
Mr. Pollok, who already knew his acts at the time of the interview, was
reproduced there adequately broadly its IM activity. Even when comparing the
interviews with the above given file extracts itself creates the impression
of a broad consensus. Even with Mr. Pollok see the case officer as a motive a
positive political convictions. This corresponds to the former
Begeisterungfr the cause of socialism, of the Lord Pollok reported in an
interview. But the interview revealed beyond a very different, more decisive
dimension: Mr. Pollok grew with an often absent father, a 200 percent SED
Member, and a more experienced as unloving and distant mother, experienced
the divorce of his parents in adolescence , then much lived with his
grandparents. His poorly trained self-esteem just learned through the offers
of the Stasi, to make an important contribution to the cause of socialism,
a narcissistic supply, which must be seen as a decisive reason for the
willingness to cooperate. The enthusiasm for socialism may have been
motivated by the unconscious search for the SED father. This dimension was
then but probably neither case officer still in conscious, yet they have been
operating in her, she gave for the Stasi, the decisive constellation for the
abuse of a young man for their purposes spy ago.
The record shows, however, in the detailed presentation much clearer
than the interview with what great energy Mr. Pollok its mission circle
fulfilled, even his critical attitude to the trial of Circle was discussed
in advance with the Stasi in detail. This enabled him to observe circle
also by this method nor the wife of. The file noted significantly higher
financial benefits from the Stasi when Mr. Pollok in the interview indicates.
This reinforces the assessment of the time effectively BEEN psychodynamic
constellation, acting in the Lord Pollok one against the father, opposition
has even share projected on the friend circle and fought there in
cooperation with the Stasi. Unconsciously he thus securing loyalty to the
absent father, but then had to increasingly make the experience that he
Stasi father really could not win as a moral integrity and present father
also.
The Act confirms accordingly also its more or less ambivalent expectant
attitude, his growing sense of guilt, its developing distancing from the
Stasi.

118

4 File location and personal statements of those interviewed

4.1.4 Mostly benefit considerations

Mr. Opitz (I) *
Even as a 18 year-old Mr. Opitz had come into the sights of national
security. The occasion was his Brietkontakt with a friend who had moved with
her parents in 1979 in the Federal Republic.
I.
In June 1982, it was in this context, a debate brought about when in
conversation should be sampled also whether a possible operational utility
was given. Under the pretext of wanting to clarify a personnel matter, he was
invited to the Peoples Police District. Mr. Opitz, meanwhile soldier had
surprised and a little astonished acted as his two interlocutors presented
as employees of the Stasi. You want to get a picture of him, it was
introductory, and wanted to learn which ideas reconvened comrades have come
to the army, as these are met, about the problems in the unit and personal
problems. After initial reluctance, Mr. Opitz have shown willing to talk and
open-minded, they say prepare accounts. The Stasi took him for a suitable IM
candidate, however, was still undecided about his future life. Conversation,
he had expressed his interest in art history.
A month later he was on duty in the criticism of what a debate with
his platoon commander had the consequence, of the conflict, in his report in
which Mr. Opitz was:
I do not know if I should say it. I was called by the Stasi in the
VPKA where I received an order to report to the reunion in September on the
unit. For me personally it is not to inform. I cannot do that. Why should
I do that, I do not know. Maybe I should be enlisted. Why cannot it?
Even at school (EOS) I was considered wrong, that I have a friend who
is traveling in 1979 with her parents legally to West Berlin. It is also in
my judgment, that I do not have a firm position.
Before the NVA I wanted to study, for example, Story. I tried to study
places, but nowhere was a bit free. Now I stand in contradiction. The Gen.
the Stasi, I have about this matter (Study) told and they promise to support
me. Now I think to myself that if I may begin in (...), am committed to
continue working on the other hand, if I do not give the necessary
information in September, my study is messed up. And also because my
girlfriend in West Berlin.
This memo was still in the contact phase to Mr. Opitz. When he reached
the competent case officer in the Stasi, this took on the same day to contact
him on to - as he wrote - to encourage, to give him all the information
requested in September 1982nd With regard to the interests of Mr. Opitz he
remained vague in his note: In the end he has to answer the questions of his
life itself. I can only be a help to him there - nothing more but seems to
be the case officer to have felt internal resistances of the candidate,
because he refers to him as fragile and stressed the need for the
anticipated permanent instructions .. In fact, the contact rests almost
half a year, which, as can be seen from the file, is related to the unsettled
operational perspective of IM candidates. When it came to a further meeting
in March 1983, the case officer of readiness assured. And noted: He
reiterated that he has it considered thoroughly, and he has come to the
conclusion that it is necessary to support our institution. Recent security
did not seem to possess the case officer, as found in the sum of eight
Contact talks held until he decided to draw up a proposal for commitment in
June 1984th The decisive factor may have been the information about an
intended escape attempt of two schoolmates, will still come back to the. As

119

4 File location and personal statements of those interviewed

perspective it seemed to Mr. Opitz its contacts with the political

underground vorzuschweben because these use direction he fixed in the
proposal.
II.
Mr. Opitz have, as it says in his file to his subject, showed appreciation
of necessity. Looking at the political attitude perceived by the State
Security This has partly plausible, overlooking its study desire not: The IM
assumes a loyal attitude to the social conditions in East Germany, the result
of its changing influences, which he in the past was subjected. Lately,
however, is a strong internal process of change detected here. He looks at
the development of society increasingly critical and thereby approaches the
positions of Marxism-Leninism more and more. This process is related to his
unofficial contact with the Stasi. However, compared to its colloquial and
Friends of IM represents unchanged fluctuating positions. His commitment was
made in June, 1984, he signed with his pseudonym, the user-written statement.
III.
The to-do of Mr. Opitz unofficial duties act unexpectedly, a thread is not
clear from his record. He had to keep his environment detained schoolmates
link to visit cultural events and later to focus attention on the Liberal
Democratic Party. About his girlfriend he had to gain information about their
colleague, who had applied for resettlement in the Federal Republic. In the
five years of his conspiratorial commitment he made about two dozen reports,
mostly he met as often conspiratorial apartments, but sometimes also in the
surrounding areas. His case officer was largely satisfied with it, however,
criticized sometimes tardy appearance at the meeting. Costs and benefits
would rarely a unit form, which is why he considered, submit the case to a
district office, to which it should arrive in April 1987th Mr. Opitz was
despite his occasional tardiness as honest and reliable.
IV.
In addition to a cash reward of 250 marks as a reward for the prepared GDR
deserters followed in the years that smaller gifts in the amount of 30 to 50
marks, mostly for birthday or recognition. It was limited to this small cash
benefit, the translucent whereas to initially promote the study
opportunities, were not redeemed on the file. The last meeting is recorded
for September 13, 1989, thus ending the unofficial connection only as a
result of the autumn revolution of 1989 by external action after five years.
His involvement was not without consequences: His knowledge of the planned
escape of schoolmates who had tinkered a balloon, thwarted the plan. For the
participants, this ended with prison sentences.
Comment:
His report in an interview about the recruitment and conspiratorial
activities showed no major differences to the presentation in the files to be
dissension regarding the expected him tasks is also reflected in the
documents into consideration. The desire to find a supporting him,
instructive father, is recognized by the case officer, who writes that Mr.
Opitz was unstable and constant guidance expected. Ultimately he has to
answer the questions of his life itself, I can only be a help to him here thats all. With the offer of a study place you came to meet his desire for
support. About this property and the refusal by Mr. Opitz, there are no
details in the files. The description of the activities for the Stasi
corresponds to the messages in the interview. But he himself had the
impression that they have much less reported, as he noted later in the file.
The fact that he contributed with his information to the Stasi to the arrest

120

4 File location and personal statements of those interviewed

of schoolmates, was later recognized by Mr. Opitz. The Act reflects his
ambivalence reflected in terms of cooperation, just as we found it in the
interview. The doubts expressed by the case officer at the willingness of the
young man for cooperation demonstrated by the fact that he led eight contact
calls, until he decided to create an obligation. Mr. Opitz took the lead
officer on the one hand a supporting him and senior father, on the other
hand, he was full of rebellion against requirements, which he regarded as
impositions.

4.1.5 Predominantly printing experience

Mr. Jahn (2) *
As regards the case of Mr. Jahn, so it should be noted that he was indeed led
by the Stasi as IM, but has not signed any undertaking and not as unofficial
saw employees.
The 36 year-old Mr. Jahn came in the spring of 1972 in the visor of
state security. He had noticed, because he may have had access to a federal
citizen named K., which was suspected to be in connection with a US
intelligence. His record is not fully passed on, in particular the work of
the state security file was destroyed. Remained in addition to the personal
file of some leaves that had been stored at K..
I.
In May 1972, the case officer drafted a strategy for the contact, after which
he wanted to identify themselves to Mr. Jahn as Stasi employees and provide
as themes general questions about the residential area and a flat neighbors.
The real concern should not be addressed. In July 1972, the case officer took
Mr. Jahn on contact. At a meeting at his workplace, he was confronted with
the pretext that his address is known a DDR-hostile organization, if he could
explain how they had got there. Mr. Jahn had replied willingly and without
any fear, cited as a possible reason his frequent attempts at literature in
the Federal Republic. Moreover, he reported in detail of his living in the
Federal Republic of father. As a result, he declared himself ready to try
another call with employees of the Stasi and meanwhile about to become more
thoughts as his address in the Federal Republic could have become known.
Previously, he had handwritten explains, that I am willing to hold further
talks with the representatives of the Stasi. I will adhere to the given
instructions and rules of conduct and all the problems of a hostile suspicion
toward the employees handed over - and signed with his real, not a
pseudonym. By contrast, he should, if he called-what his case officer has
come - Report with aliases.
A month later, took a one-hour conversation in the safe house Schmidt
instead; Mr. Jahn had interrupted his vacation for this purpose. With regard
to the address he had thought made and suspected behind a relative who
would be working at the Criminal Investigation Department and from whom he
received occasionally delivered parcels. Then the case officer directed the
conversation to K., whose brother was a classmate of Mr. Jahn. Mr. Jahn
reported then circumferentially about the family K.. It finally came to
talk to the last statement made by Mr. Jahn, was noted to in the Act: You
Keep Your full force and effect for each additional week. Further talks
agreed to Mr. Jahn, what a week in August 1972 in the safe house was agreed.
Documented but this is not, but there will have been other meetings, such as
a report of November 1972, refer to:

121

4 File location and personal statements of those interviewed

The IM was contacted for the purpose of operational processing of K.

under Legend. As early as the first contact talks its willingness to clarify
the facts legendierten and further support our institution was recognized.
(...) In all carried out with the IM meetings turned out that he adhered to
the instructions given in the order processing and order fulfillment
precisely designed. He reported regardless of a person about his official
manager, and other personal contacts. (...) By the fact that the IM had its
meetings well legendiert opposite the place of work and the family, shows
that he is interested in compliance with the conspiracy and has already
acquired skills to conspiratorial work.
With regard to his subject and operational cooperation is carried out:
The contacting and advertising of IM was based on the conviction. The
motives for cooperation based on the progressive setting of IM for
development in the GDR. (...) It was found further that the IM
conscientiously fulfilled his duties, and although so far carried out the
coverage only on tape, but a strong bond of IM was achieved at our
institution.
II.
Furthermore Mr. Jahn was stopped, the contact to K. Expand on their East
German nationals. But let this present tape transcripts and notes of
telephone operation leader imagine the intensity with which Mr. Jahn his
operational work will be tackled. Also can be seen from the file that these
facts in no relation to the first related by the Stasi legend to his address,
even more should be seen as a willingness to information delivery to the
Stasi.
In December 1973, Mr. Jahn accepted an invitation of the family of
K.. His spoken on tape report is detailed striking. An example: We arrived
at 14:30 in front of the family house and were greeted right at the gate of
the K.. At the doorstep Mrs. K. came and greeted us. In the hallway we were
greeted by the K. from the FRG. She greeted me with a handshake, so how to
greet people one knows just said or did not mention my name here. She greeted
me completely at ease. She also gave my sons hand and looked after
immediately around him. She helped him out of the anorak. She busied herself
to continue with the boy. Then we went into the living room of Mrs. K., which
is very small and not modern. It was prepared a coffee table. We drank coffee
immediately. While Drinking discussions of a general nature were performed.
The K. participated not because they dealt with the boys. There came a
light conversation about sports, music and things like that house with the
wife K.. Efforts by Mr. Jahn, in the further with to talk K. were
unsuccessful.
In return, Mr. Jahn invited this family a week later at his home. On
this occasion he wore on K. the request for literature from the Federal
Republic of zoom, which meet it held out the prospect. Mr. Jahn described it,
according to the tape transcript, so: She was very poorly dressed. She was
not prepared to go out. I cannot judge, in which guise she goes to the
theater, which I have not seen. She had half-long, about straw-blond hair,
very strong glasses. Jewelry I have not seen. Their appearance, as for me
personally, was extremely cautious.
In April 1979, he did tell, as also provided in a tape recording that
K. have not forgotten the concerns of Mr. Jahn, only it cannot be realized
due to overwork. Although K. broke its promise, but it is clear their
tendency to refrain from further contacts from further reporting. Mr. Jahn
nevertheless endeavors. In June 1976 Mr. Jahn told his case officer verbally
that he had tried several times to contact with K. produce. Telephonically
he sent word his thanks for the gift, but he also wanted to pay in person,
connected with the transfer of a record. This encounter was not possible K.

122

4 File location and personal statements of those interviewed

time. Half a year later, as a K. again visited her mother, Mr. Jahn knew
only inform his case officer that he had not received an invitation to K..
His invitation was granted negative since the family K. would have a small
program already and very little time would be free. The family of IM should
apologize, but if possible, it calls in this regard once again to. For this
purpose, it had not come.
III.
Gradually, Mr. Jahn seems to have been averse to the cooperation with the
Stasi. In November 1978, is noted in the record that he did not appear to the
agreed meeting. At then yet conducted meetings had come it to discussion,
in which Mr. Jahn directly detect its rejection of further assistance
could, and about the meaning of a connection to the Stasi issues occurred.
Similarly, it is reproduced a year later: After several years of maturity of
the IM could clearly see that he was no longer willing to support the Stasi.
When asked about problems of his extensive connections to the FRG, he did not
specify, this would be private and he explained that this is not a hostile
compounds. He further stated that he could not develop the sniffer or spy
and hell be pure play not by the employee or the Stasi in such a role.
This he refuse for ethical and moral reasons. Despite repeatedly guided
debates, he stressed that he is no longer willing to support our institution
and he could not see any reasons for the need. Consistently he allowed
himself to deny or more of the meetings at work. The process was filed in
December 1979. Recognizable consequences had not his work. As attention he
has, according to the Act, obtained a brandy worth 100 marks.
Comment:
The Act includes a large discrepancy to Mr. Jahns memories in an interview to
the prescribed when contacting legend that was a not uncommon method in the
eyes of the Stasi, to attract people, meant for Mr. Jahn that against him due
to contact hostile to a Secret Service was raised. He declared himself ready
for further talks, as he saw it as the only way to defend themselves against
the charge of anti-state actions. This means that the Act leaves out or
reformulated the experienced Mr. Jahn extortion. How not to be seen from his
statement and signed with his real name and pseudonyms, bedeutetenfr him the
talks no conspiratorial activity.
He saw himself as defendant who wanted to get rid of a suspect and not
as an unofficial collaborator. As Mr. Jahn told credibly in an interview, he
tried through his reports on the family friends and colleagues, to protect
them from the accusation of anti-state actions. The triggered in him by the
prosecution alleged fears and his attempt to conscientiously remove any
suspicion moment be so interpreted by the case officer, as he would
conscientiously fulfill his conspiratorial task. The same facts, namely the
attempt to prove his innocence and his friends and colleagues, thus takes a
very different interpretation. As Mr. Jahn reported in interview that he had
not given spontaneously in December 1973, the information on the K. family,
but he was subjected to by the case officer of a survey. Since this is not
mentioned in the protocols, it appears as though Mr. Jahn would make all the
inconsequential for him remarks about the family spontaneously. The 1978
attempted rejection of further contacts shows again how different the meeting
of both sides were understood. While Mr. Jahn was hoping to finally be sure
to have refuted the suspicion and therefore refused further meetings, will be
held in the acts that he did not want to continue the support of the Stasi.
For Mr. Jahn was never about the support of the Stasi, but the rejection of
the allegations made in the legend. His statement, he could not to snoop and
spy develop, shows m. E. once again very clearly that he looked up to this
point, the talks with the representatives of the Stasi as a possibility of

123

4 File location and personal statements of those interviewed

rectification and saw no need to come to the meeting, when he thought he had
refuted these allegations. Only the last held in the file sets, namely, that
he rejects ethical and moral reasons cooperation from making it clear that
he did not consider the meeting as an activity for the Stasi, but as
evidence, no hostile connections to Germany to have. The example given by Mr.
Jahn becomes clear how the Stasi using the legend intimidated and forced to
the addressed contacts without that he could see through the pretense. The
question of whether it would have been possible for him to recognize the
abuse by the Stasi, can be answered in the negative, taking into account his
biography rather.
Ms. Ring (3) *
The procedure to Ms. Ring, despite its scope, three acts of the person for
more than two work files, not completely preserved. In a personal file, only
the file cover is preserved. Moreover, the Act has proven itself out as a
non-prescribed, disorder is noted.
I.
The Potsdam State Security was looking for an unofficial source within the
Catholic Church of the East, which is why their attention fell on the 23
year-old woman ring, which was interesting because of their Catholic
socialization and her mother, who had held one in the parish leading
position. Due to an alleged offense is a point of reference was given, which
was played out in advertising and was reflected in the Declaration of
Commitment: From the standpoint of a reticle from further criminal procedure
measures against my person, Ms. Ring wrote, I declare myself as part of the
reparation for ready support of the Stasi.
Initially, the State Security has not been seen. A friend of hers had
repeatedly sought in vain the right to leave the GDR and wanted contact with
his request to the Permanent Representation. Before he reached the building,
he was prevented. In advance he had already taken up with a West Berliner
press inquiries, should call the wife ring for the case that he would
imprisoned. This favor she did him, and the Berliner Morgenpost reported
with the result that her boyfriend was jailed for treason. In this context,
she was interrogated by the State Security, who had long since decided to
abstain due to insignificance of criminal computationally clear consequences.
It was not known woman ring.
Two years later, another case officer came to the course, Mrs. Ring was
very excited: First they asked the question, what I - the case officer of a people think that tells of other little ( spies?). These and other
questions will be answered as you could, that could be a motivation for
further cooperation reached or expanded and strengthened their confidence
that the cooperation is necessary and is in our mutual interest. Doubt shine
again by the Act. In strain Year is listed there: In the previous
cooperation with the IM repeatedly occurred phases in which she drew a
termination of cooperation into consideration, especially in existing
stressful situations.
Three years after she had unofficially cooperated with the Stasi, she
met her life partner who was tethered itself to state security as IM. Across
from him, she pointed to their commitment to the national security, what
their partner told his case officer. He himself had been instructed to keep
his cooperation towards her silence.
II.

124

4 File location and personal statements of those interviewed

Ms. Ring reported on people and events of the Catholic Church, in particular,
on Catholics meeting in Dresden in July 1987. About 45 reports are about the
circle of young adults before, later on The Ark. Again, were events at
the center of its communications, the composition and the self-image of the
group. They also reported on private discussions and to concrete people as
method, who had his move sought in the Federal Republic, and the
oppositionists K.. They also reported five times on the Buddhism Institute
in Poland and the Buddhists Babel Tower, three times more than the
Jehovahs Witnesses, twice over another parish, the group contacts as well
as further details about the relocation applicant Z.. There are also
indications of a list handed over to homosexuals and the New Forum. This
comprehensive commitment collided with the care of her small child, then she
took the suggestion and payment of the Stasi a babysitter (IM B.) during
their unofficial use.
In the five years up to the autumn of 1989, 70 meetings were held, an
average of 14 per year. In fact took place in 1987 and 1988 around two dozen.
They met often in the safe house for example with their case officer,
sometimes in her apartment, in the city, a restaurant or in a car. The
reports produced on the guide officer what he once began a tape. They rarely
wrote reports that they - never signed with their deck or real name - with
one exception.
III.
Despite their high level of commitment there was rarely perquisites. In the
period of November 1985 to September 1988, she received a total of tangible
gifts worth 280 marks. Incurred costs were reimbursed her in the amount of
700 marks. In the spring and because of attorney in 1988 there were a total
of 500 marks each of premium. Eight restaurant visits with total expenditure
amounting to 300 marks are also recorded. In addition to these material
benefits helped her the case officer at the admission to distance learning in
which there had been difficulties in August 1987, their remedies had been
promised her. In fact, they took the study a month later on. Also with regard
to the divorce from her husband in October 1987, the Stasi related for a
swift implementation and the awarding of the children to her.
IV. The last encounter with her
Case officer is listed in the Act with 10th November 1989th Shes more
willing to work informally with the Stasi together. At the same time Mrs.
Ring said to have been clear that is in the current situation needed their
help. Follow their commitment to third parties are not given in their acts,
although they reported specifically on five persons to whom the State
Security had applied operations.
Comment:
In the incomplete file though an offense of the contestant and the request is
called the restitution as a starting point for advertising, but again there
is no indication to the extortionate measure by the Stasi. Because of alleged
aid to GDR deserters Ms. Ring was interrogated for a day and then so
pressured that we would take her daughter and put in a home. This massive
extortion is described in the Act as criminal proceedings action. Ms. Ring
should act as source within church groups. Not only the pressure measure in
the advertising is downplayed, but also the subsequent threats to make their
collaboration with the Stasi on their holdings publicly if she would
terminate the contacts, are not mentioned. In contrast, their reports on
ecclesiastical circles and other groups in the Act are more detailed than
reported Ms. Ring. Although she repeatedly tried to cancel the IM activities
and refused to release the name, the case officer praised their commitment.

125

4 File location and personal statements of those interviewed

The great psychological distress and suicide attempt during this period are
not mentioned in the Act, this information would have asked the supposedly
good cooperation in question. Tangible gifts and the compensation of expenses
shall be confirmed by Ms. Ring. Their effort not to harm the observierten
people seems to have been successful, because consequences for those affected
are still mentioned neither in an interview in the Act.
Ms. Vogel (12)*
The process of female bird falls in the years from 1956 to 1962. The starting
point was their conviction in September 1956 for alleged espionage to ten
years in prison. The 22 year old had her underage brothers sake in November
1953 in Western Berlin Technical books ordered from the RIAS and picked up
there. By an employee of the radio station it was, the Stasi, recruited as an
agent E.. In subsequent years, she reported that about their jobs and
received the sum of 500 DM.
I.
Three weeks she was as convicts in M. in prison when she was approached by
the State Security in search of cells informers. According to a report in
October 1956 after she was the seriousness of their offense unaware been.
After three weeks of detention in a basement it had long since repented of
their deed and will behave in such a way that it can have hope of being once
more dismissed a few years. They undertook in writing as Mrs. Vogel. The
desire to end the detention prematurely, but was probably not solely motif
making, because repeatedly referenced material interests: Sometimes,
however, the impression, noted her case officer, six years later, as if
they were by the cooperation with the Stasi financial benefits hoped for
Another four years later we read:. Finally, the question was clarified why
the GI (Mrs. Vogel) cooperates with the Stasi. For this purpose, he stated
that the interrogators have said about their espionage activities, they would
have made spying for emotional gratification. The guided discussion showed
that the GI leads associated with us from talking pleasure in the experience
with a financial subsidy. Even after the detention, she continued this
cooperation. The case officer suspected, this does not take place in
consciousness, but primarily of financial interest.
II.
During her detention she shared her cellmates, including questions about what
they have concealed their crimes with regard to whether there was sabotage,
who demanded charcoal tablets, Kassiber ship, etc. It was in the course of
detention to 13 conspiratorial meetings. You wrote at that time 16
handwritten reports, mostly about the mood in the detention center.
After their amnesty in July 1961 she reported on colleagues at their
workplace. By 1964 at least 24 meetings were held, mostly in safe houses as
mushroom, fox or Venus. At times, she was led by another IM F.
subordinated, in which then held meetings. Repeatedly there were also
meetings in restaurants. For the case officer of the operation in November
1965 was considered complete. During this time she wrote 34 handwritten
reports that she signed mainly with their aliases, in one case with the name
..., under which it was conducted the RIAS. Seven other reports she wrote
with a typewriter, a single comes from the pen of the case officer. The aim
of the cooperation was initially in the wake of their connection to the RIAS,
but this was unsuccessful. Later she was commissioned, targeted to specific
individuals establish contact, but - not consistently followed by it fizzled. There were a few people assessments. In one case it was noticed at a
station people, especially their very prudent behavior, which is why they

126

4 File location and personal statements of those interviewed

wrote down the car license plate. This weather notice was in fact followed
and led by Mrs. Vogels help to identify these people. In that time she had
married, and her husband was engaged as IM. After 1964 it was quiet, meetings
are not documented to the 1965th
In October 1966, the connection was activated again and finally ended
again in July 1970th Occasion for renewed contact was the desire of the State
Security, that they should get in touch with a former, now living in West
Berlin inmates connection. Which they came to. Also they should get in touch
with a colleague at work, but in which not sexual satisfaction in the
foreground stand should, but to identify specific information. In addition
to these orders, they also carried out observations in different places.
III.
The relationship between Ms. Vogel and the case officer was largely based on
trust. This opens up for example from a meeting report of April 1967: In a
report he stated that he had met a person who appeared operatively
interesting him. Therefore, the GI with this person even admitted intimate.
The GI was told that such acquaintances when they expire in such form, have
no value for us. *
Already in the final report to the unofficial labor during their
detention period Ms. Vogel was classified as very attentive and willing,
assessed their work as well. However, the reviews were subject to change.
1965 was their accuracy discipline as poor. This dissatisfaction may be due
also from an incident in October 1964, when it was suspected of
misappropriation of funds at work, and she had dekonspiriert completely.
That it could have been in this respect to a point load of Stasi
collaboration, is evident from a report in 1970, as their work was carried
out since 1956 unofficial always rated as good.
IV.
Many an advantage moved Ms. Vogel from their cooperation. During her
detention she received money for the purchase of clothing, and for several
months she was in her cell furnishings. When she was in 1966 once again
become delinquent, according to the Act without the relevant documents are to
be found there, she had been arrested and released because they had been
willing to continue cooperation with the Stasi. Even in their area the Stasi
might have held the hand over them. As in April 1972, after their active
unofficial work, initiated the criminal investigation to their
investigations, these learned from the Mayor: According to their own words,
they should work for the Stasi. In the past, allegedly tried to bring into
the dark sides of the CID light. But this could not go on because the Stasi
said to have been behind it.
Certainly it can be seen as an advantage that they got a car two years
rather than intended, because her husband had unofficially good services
provided. In addition, they also had material benefits. Until 1961 she was
awarded fees in the amount of 260 marks for expenses, 20 marks for a
Christmas present and restaurant visits in the amount of 50 marks. In the
period 1966 to 1968 there were in total 280 marks for search costs
(cigarettes and drinks), reimbursement of expenses in the amount of 1050 Mark
and the following years now and 30 or 40 marks. Not long ago a 14-year
unofficial work rather clear amounts.
V.
The cooperation ended in August 1972. In the corresponding final report is
given as a reason: The IM undertakes despite constant education and multiple
prison sentences repeatedly criminal acts, mainly fraud. In those days again
ran an investigation because Ms. Vogel your car to others against had

127

4 File location and personal statements of those interviewed

disposed of down payment. Through this ongoing criminal activity of IM for

the operational work was worthless, and there is always the risk of
discrimination of our institution by the IM. Even before the officers of the
lead officer had noted their displeasure with this IM: When will the IM is
depreciated ? On the last meeting it says in the Act:
The IM saw his mistakes made one, confirmed that he had abused the
trust of the Stasi, and declared that he does not establish any claims on the
Stasi. The case officer had drafted a release from liability, which is
recorded in: I have committed in my release from prison, a number of
criminal acts, for which I was not taken with the help of the Ministry of
State Security to account. By representatives of the Ministry of State
Security a variety of pronunciations and instructions were given to me, which
should serve to prevent criminal acts. However, the IM declined to signing
the accompanying dispensation from. He burst into tears and said that he
would hang himself rather than to sign the dispensation. He justified his
actions by saying that he did in spite of criminal acts done everything for
the Stasi and continue to be ready to carry out each job. He had always
reported honestly and comprehensively, and he is of the opinion that the
signature was an admission of dishonesty and the refusal to cooperate with
the Stasi under the dispensation. The IM was not convinced to sign the
dispensation itself.
VI.
A renewed beginning made Mrs. Bird by calling a district office of the State
Security in July 1984. She felt of the Jehovahs Witnesses harassed (ZJ)
and asked to conduct recommendations. When then made contact in the
apartment, she reported on the religious orientation of their neighbor,
according to the Act. The case officer suggested her, either to release the
connection to the ZJ or educate illegal organization for years to come on
behalf of the Stasi this. Mrs. Bird declared aloud protocol immediately to
the unofficial work ready. In a second meeting soon after the Stasi Mrs.
Vogel appeared again quite open. She told of her loose contacts to the
last case officer to 1979th
The State Security put on them to a file with the pseudonym M., which
clearly shows skepticism about this self-provider. Information they should
not receive, but to prove that it meets at least in the field of educating
the ZJ requirements for an IM. There were a few meetings took place in her
apartment until they In September 1984, written with the code name M ...
pledged to cooperate.
Despite the skepticism, the assessments have been favorable: The
candidate has an eventful life of crime behind. Surprising that they so gives
herself without hesitation of unofficial activity. Unlike earlier unofficial
activity they already compromised more citizens to their political beliefs
stated:. He takes politics as such a completely disinterested attitude, are
being represented positive responses in conversation. The motivation for
cooperation in the field of combating ZJ could only be so elaborated /
controlled One year later, it says:. The IM is not for the first time, he
is biased. Certain behaviors have become out of his past self. The IM has a
criminal record and against the State liable for payment. To IM a term coined
by confidence contact was expanded regardless of which is used to gather
information. The IM is negative adjusted for DDR. For personal reasons, he
will continue to be non-voters. Nevertheless, his political position so that
it is citizens of the GDR up and a good job -. Not only for the Stasi It is
noteworthy that her yet as a motive assigned conviction and the interest in
the method of work of the State Security were. Something else said in a
review report from December 1985, The information in the IM have been
confirmed so far all. It was always important that the IM is not on the side

128

4 File location and personal statements of those interviewed

of the GDR, but in his unofficial activities only was the so-called
intelligence gathering operations in the foreground.
Already in advertising report Ms. Vogel was encouraged to expand their
relationship Jehovahs Witnesses to report on them and to gain insight into
connections abroad. At the same time, she had usually without knowing it, the
task of monitoring, control and two more in. Operationally it appeared the
state security as a sense that woman and her bird of his time living in the
household 20 year-old son move to Berlin and thus access to Berlins
Witnesses received Jehovah. In this context, they should operate their
disability and to her son so act that he changes his job without
complications. In Berlin, the son could not find a job, especially since his
formerly posed relocation request indulged him. In this regard, however, the
State Security already measures for obtaining a job had caused
VII.
In the approximately two-year unofficial work there were 23 meetings. Goods
in 1984 only four there, recorded the Act for 1985 and eleven in 1986 nine
encounters. Sometimes, Ms. Vogel also call their case officer. In 20 cases,
the case officer made a report, noted in 23 cases, female birds handwritten,
in principle without any signature or code names. Once she handed a 30-page
notebook with information that they had made from March to July 1985 on the
Jehovahs Witnesses. The meetings were usually held in her apartment, rarely
elsewhere. Its content has, as evidenced by the documents before specializing
in a couple of Jehovahs Witnesses, to which the contact after their change
of residence to Berlin in December 1985 broke off. After all, 20 reports are
listed above. Proceeding informed them about the activities of the ZJ,
contacts and rituals, but sometimes also on advertising projects for ZJ. In
sighting was another, but living in separation couple, through which they
produced eight reports.
VIII.
In total, the state security was satisfied with Mrs. Bird, although reserves
are recognizable. Thus we read about it in September 1984: is very
interesting that the candidate, unlike then, today submitted detailed written
reports with kompromittierendem content. Possibly interesting because it once
against the Stasi remarked that it was now an end to the crime Elsewhere
runs: These reports could until today a dual role - reason. Even vendors not be detected. These factors to be considered compel einzukalkulieren only
a temporary collaboration with the candidate, since this could work in the
optionally active against the ZJ. Perhaps from the point: I will yet again
not criminal or similar. Operational powers to evaluate such developments of
the candidates are available. At the present time cannot yet be estimated how
long the candidate is operationally available.
Six months later, the case officer put it over them: uses the IMs by
ZJ initiated contacts (...) extensive and was thus able to establish a budget
for this moment of trust. The objects are solved excellently through
targeted instruction from the IM. It stands out a multi-year integration of
IM in the ZJ from which must be constantly aware that the IM in no way
identified with the content of faith the ZJ and it will therefore be very
difficult to IM without baptism anyway at the ZJ to keep.
In December 1985, it is then: To this day, the IM was monitored
commissioned to ZJ and he fulfilled his orders carefully, which he was always
ready to describe the way of gathering information.
As a motif of the case officer took Mrs. Vogel predominantly material
and personal benefits to. The State Security tried to promote ideological
foundations. It has been suggested, as spies not with the heart and with the
purse to work. When she had a physical bottleneck in December 1984 she asked

129

4 File location and personal statements of those interviewed

the guide officer by telephone to support that he gave her with 200 marks.
Additional 200 marks she received because she has her son from the relocation
(SPD) can hold. In the Act, the reads as follows: Furthermore, the IM held
control of a PTS and contributed significantly to the fact that this person
could be committed. Furthermore, the reactions of this person to the actions
of the Stasi could be worked out. In sum, she received three awards each in
the amount of 200 marks, coffee and cigarettes in the oeuvre of 131.25 marks
and a gift bonus of 50 marks.
IX.
The cooperation ended in September 1986 by a dispensation. Decisive factor
was their Dekonspiration against a couple, from the Stasi to the surprise of
Ms. learned: Ms. Vogel made information on their prison time in terms of
espionage, and that they would be hoping committed to early release for
cooperation with the Stasi. Meanwhile, they would work for the Stasi back and
an employee would come to specially from Potsdam to Berlin. Your order would
be the ZJ shadow to. Since she had retired to their activities extend to
West Berlin. The IM, who gave this information, Ms. Vogel certified a hostile
attitude to the GDR, she had no regrets and would not bind the GDR would, at
any time, want to go to the West, which they disregard only with regard to
her son. The State Security severed the connection to her - under a legend.
Supposedly likely unofficial connections to Berlin not to be entertained.
This decision had Mrs. Bird with the words commented that she had already
experienced the Stasi: in / out of the potatoes. She expressed, the
Berliner want do not feel let blunder into the craft. The second
dispensation she signed without hesitation and wept then. Consequences for
third parties cannot be found in this Act.
Comment:
The Act has many contradictions compared to interview According to Stasi
documents committing itself already during their detention when to act as a
Cell Informer. For women, however, the bird conspiratorial activity began
only after the detention. In the interview, she remembered not to the
allegedly first collaboration, but only to the terrible conditions and their
suffering in prison, which is considering the trauma that she has suffered,
and the subsequent consequences of course. That you may have the Stasi gave
information during detention, it can be concluded that they have some
advantages, such as a doctors visit by sat. However, this was not judged by
it as a collaboration with the Stasi. For them, the conspiratorial work began
only after the detention, as the interrogators took care of it. In their
distress after discharge without a job shed bargained for financial
benefits. The type of activity described in the documents is in line with
that of Ms. Vogel told largely without being suspected, however, what
significance had their inconsequential information about their mostly unknown
persons in hotels and restaurants and from the work area for the Stasi.
Fearing further sanctions, for example, being arrested again, she felt well
set later again under pressure and was ready to fulfill the orders. From the
case officer, however, these fears are not seen, and instead classified the
services of Ms. Vogel as very attentive and willing. That they no longer
came to rest since the detention and suffered from depression which required
psychiatric treatment, is not considered. As in other documents there is a
tendency, the motives and the work to assess positive and thus denying the
intimidation, with the unofficial collaborators were bound by the Stasi.
There is no mention in the interview of Ms. Bird also about an alleged
offense more 1966th However, she describes how she still felt pressured and
even their children were threatened. So her son should be a voluntary
suspension as Cell Informer jail. He was under suspicion because he applied

130

4 File location and personal statements of those interviewed

to leave and did not want to go to the army. However, they could help to
reject this recruiting him. In the Stasi file this self-weirs is not held
against ever new threats of punitive measures against her family. Although
the case officer the view expressed in the interview negative attitude
towards the GDR is mentioned, yet is called as a motif of Mrs. Bird
conviction. That Ms. Vogel was recruited again after an interruption with
alleged dispensation, does not meet its specifications. She felt since the
release from prison of the Stasi and continuously bonded sought help there,
when they got into trouble, such as Jehovahs Witness. Their objections to
further contacts with these people were barely taken into account, except
with the sentence, that the IM in no way identified with the content of
faith the ZJ and it will therefore be very difficult to IM without baptism
anyway at the ZJ to hold . The given her financial support helped Ms. Vogel
in their emergency situation after imprisonment because she found a new job
only after a long time and did not deserve enough money. In addition, the
remuneration it reimbursed served to finance the demanded by the Stasi
restaurant visits and trips. Their struggle was eventually successful by
becoming unusable due to their resistance, their alleged criminal acts for
the Stasi. Their refusal, in the dispensation again offenses admit, where it
is uncertain whether she has actually committed in the form shown by the
Stasi is understandable, because they are not felt guilty, but after the
detention a constant battle with the Stasi austrug. The second dispensation
according to the documents before it came after an interruption because Mrs.
Vogel is dekonspirierte at a couple, by speaking of her detention and the
forced collaboration with the Stasi.
That the contradiction between documents before and interview is
particularly great in this case, has different reasons. From Stasi Although
the Criminal reduction was cited as a motive, but the effects of his
imprisonment and the fears of Mrs. Bird of renewed sanctions if they did not
meet the demands of the Stasi, be disregarded. For women, however, the bird
trauma while in detention have been a constant presence, she had to be
treated psychiatrically already in GDR times for depression. Ms. Vogel sees
its total cooperation from the perspective of their fear of renewed arrest
and possible negative effects on their children. In her loneliness and
helplessness, especially after the separation from which it disappointing
husband offered her to the case officers help, which is why they have any
problems, turned to her, which was detained by the Stasi in the Act as a
self-provider. The story of Mrs. Vogel shows very clearly, as seen from
different perspectives perform the same facts to conflicting assessments. So
the question remains open whether the Act suppresses the opposition of IM or
whether the self-activity of the Stasi was not named in the interview.

4.2 Conclusion
The preceding examples confirm the results of a remarkably insightful
empirical study of motivations from 1967, which had been made by the State
Security. (Hempel, 1967) Thus was asked about their motive a representative
sample of IM.
As a result, 60.5 percent called the recognition of the social
requirement and after all, still 49, 1 percent a moral obligation
Experience and coercion of conscience. Personal benefit considerations
initiated only 27.4 percent, live practical objectives and 39.9 itself
motivations 11.9 percent. Pressure or coercion experiences gave
remarkably, 23.4 percent of respondents as a recovery image. (Ibid., Vol. 1,
p 83) The vast majority of respondents i.e. political and ideological
factors as crucial for the unofficial cooperation to. Nevertheless, the

131

4 File location and personal statements of those interviewed

authors of this study evaluated the proportion of pressure and coercion

experience Senn as unexpectedly high, especially since this was stated by
22.1 percent of respondents as a minor component. Consequently occur almost
every other subjects when prompted to unofficial collaborators as internal
factors of anxiety, fear-or. Duress or pressure on experiences and motivate
behavior . (Ibid., p. 85)
This study is also apparent that significant differences between the
motives of women and men nor made as between those of different ages. Even
the professional activity, so the investigation cannot have any significant
influence on the design content. (Ibid., p. 90 f.)
Other results are, however, in front with respect to the partypolitical bond. Members of the SED or the block parties recognized for 83 or
about 55.5 percent of the social need; 68.5 per cent of the recruited SED
members and 42.1 percent of Block Party members felt even a moral obligation
Experience and a conscience forced to unofficial cooperation with the State
Security. When recruited nonparty IN these components were pronounced weaker
with 41.2 and 31.2 percent. The conclusion in the study is: Positive
political and moral attitudes and approaches to the socialist society
calling on the one hand, and anti-society striving for personal benefits as
a motive of behavior on the other hand significantly inhibit the emergence of
unofficial cooperation. Negative political and moral views and attitudes on
the other hand bring forth the opposite effect. (Ibid., p. 94)
When the ratio of advertising art and design the study concludes that
claims the pressure and compulsion experience when using compromising
material 54 percent as a main component; such as 62.5 percent of the people
mentioned above material interest. Indes gave 62.3 percent of those who were
recruited because of political conviction, on the recognition of the social
requirement. (Ibid., Vol. 1, p 97, u. Vol. 2, p 6)
In the current study design was also asked about the change of
Gewinnungsund. The answers showed that significantly alter the motivations
of unofficial collaborators in the course of cooperation. Shares still 60.5
percent as a major component of the extraction subject, the recognition of
the social requirement, so it was time of the study 78 percent. By contrast,
took advantage considerations of 27.4 from 21.6 percent, pressure and
coercion experiences from 23.4 to 12.6 percent. Striking however is the
increase in an end in itself experiences from 11.9 to 25, 4 percent. This
increase, the authors of the study explained the fact that the actually
experienced conspiratorial operation in some ways as an irritant, the fluid
of the interesting and the extraordinary as an emotional side effects in
many cases, and thus the behavior of the State security forces in the course
of closer to an increased extent positively influence getting to know the
work. (Ibid., p. 101) With increasing duration of the collaboration, the
study concludes, find a visible shift in the frequency of motifs clearly
related to society by topic content instead. (Ibid., p. 104) had 50.2
percent of the respondents at the beginning of the unofficial cooperation
concerns, only 44.4 percent had allegedly not. Time of the study, however,
the share of doubters had fallen to 28.6 percent, no concerns had now 68.7
percent. Thus have substantial changes during the unofficial cooperation
arise (ibid., P 129), where it the most important role the explanations and
teachings of the IM-leading employee taking (ibid., P 136).
To sum up, the study considers the realization ready that research
into the settings of the unofficial collaborator must be an ongoing task in
the process of cooperation. The precise and detailed knowledge of the
respective current motivations and moral ratings and their changes necessary
to adapt to the changing personality traits and the management and
educational tasks. These changes are to be considered when granting object
and determining the expected behaviors. (Ibid., p. 164)

132

4 File location and personal statements of those interviewed

4.3 Considerations for comparison between interview and record

When comparing the individual interviews with the files is noteworthy that at
the working out of political conviction unofficial collaborators fewer
differences found than in those who were recruited through pressure and
blackmail. Most conflicts arise with the information on the motivation, the
assessment of the significance of the information and the statements on the
acceptance of advantages.
For the differences between files and interviews, different reasons can
be cited. Since the activities of the Stasi, in particular, the recruitment,
often lagged for many years, some interviewees could not remember the exact
date and the details of the first contacts are. However, missing or modified
by subsequent experiences memories do not appear to us to be the only reason
for these differences. Why IM was recruited by the Stasi, he could often only
be guessed and remove only after the disclosure of the personal file in part.
In describing the motives for cooperation although there is often
superficially a certain consensus in the files but the motives are associated
with little differentiation specific categories. In the talks, the
presentation of the motives often took on the other hand a large space, as it
was for former unofficial collaborators important to better understand why
they were recruited. By working out the unconscious connections between life
history and willingness to conspiratorial activity, were obtained for the
interviewees partially new insights.
The Stasi subordinate, as can be seen from the documents, frequently
positive motives such as recognition of the needs of society and moral
obligation Experience and consciences of men, while pressure and blackmail
were mentioned in our cases. These differences can be found rarely in the
convinced politically than in those in which templates personal reasons. But
even with the convinced resulted from the interviews a variety of motives,
which was not recorded in the files. The extent to which the description of
the reasons for co-operation in the interviews of the retrospective
justification is, today can no longer be determined with certainty. In most
of the examined by us but this did not matter. From Stasi the full extent of
the fear and helplessness of the recruits was obviously not taken into
account and their employees therefore often highlighted as a particularly
conscientious, attentive and willing while we respondents mainly by their
fears. The expectations of the Stasi and the recruits were often far apart,
were conducted on both sides with different interests. The enforcement
officers legitimized themselves to their superiors in that they stressed the
readiness of the IM positive.
Differences between acts and interview can also be found in the tasks
to be performed. This can inter alia be due to the fact that many IM could
not recognize the importance had given orders for the Stasi. In assessing the
information the assessments of IM therefore vote multiple times does not
coincide with those of case officers. The cooperation has been open, honest,
willing, reliable, and very committed described in some cases on record as
what but no confirmation was in the interviews, so that it can be assumed
that the enforcement officers in this way so that rather the success of their
own wanted to emphasize educational work.
As regards the persons to be monitored, the interviewees have often
described similar situations as it is in the files. When asked about the
consequences for the Observierten gave those who had to report on certain
persons, namely that this example were arrested, but at the same time trying
to justify himself or to reduce their share of exposing the alleged enemies
of the state. A conflict of conscience is at this personal betrayal in all

133

4 File location and personal statements of those interviewed

subjects more or less clearly. To what extent they have already suffered at
the time of IM activity from guilt, cannot say for sure, theres rarely noted
in the file that an IM of conscience refused further cooperation.
Over the duration of the co-operation and the completion of the
meeting, there are some discrepancies, but rather can be attributed to errors
of memory over the long past events as aufbewute falsification of data.
About the termination of IM activity is missing in the interviews often
accurate information because the unofficial collaborators often was not known
when the file was closed.
The large number of contradictions in the statement of financial
benefits refers inter alia that it was shameful for many of those
interviewed, to be let for their conspiratorial activity, albeit with small
sums reward. Although in almost all files contributions are noted, these were
reported by only a few.
Since not all 20 interviewees templates the files or could be
evaluated, our statements restricted to a small number of comparisons with
the files. Despite the few examinees we can assume that these findings not
only on the true of us interviewed, but also for a large number of unofficial
collaborators have validity. Similar results when comparing files and selfdescription can be found in a study of Barkleit and Dunsch (1998), the
unofficial collaborators of the Stasi surveyed in companies of high
technology. It remains unclear in our study, have contributed to what extent
gaps in memory, conscious denial of facts and subsequent constructions on the
IM activity on the part of IM and the distortions of the case officers in the
files to the contradictions.

134

5 Detailed representation of two selected cases

5 Detailed representation of two selected cases

In the following we present to give a more immediate impression of our
interviews the reader, two of the interviews and the comprehensively
following the run with extensive quotes without further comments before. All
that occur in names have been changed for reasons of privacy protection.
Mr. Voss
The conversation with Mr. Voss was held at his workplace and took about three
hours. He tried very hard to give a clear, concise report, and to make me the
motives for his collaboration with the Stasi understood. The passages are
displayed From the interview history, which are the motives, personality
development and the IM activities is important.
At the beginning of the conversation Mr. Voss describes its sporting
and professional ambition which made him the offerings of the Stasi against
seduced.
Shall I start, so the last part of my school years because of what my
motivation, especially relates to achievement motivation, plays a role. I was
during the years 68, 69, 70 to 73 in competitive sports. (...) So in the
teenage years I was in competitive sports, which was not under pressure from
my parents, but I had as a child and teenager recently been an enormous
benefit entitlement. I was there first time in such a sports school until
1969, and was then retrained, 1970, to Berlin and am there almost went to
school until graduation. And having considered my acts Ive noticed that I
noticed in 1971 for the first time. I had a distant relative in West Berlin,
which is not related physically with me who has somehow when visiting times
mitgekriegt that I am at the sports school and sent me a packet, and this
packet has been felted. From the moment I was somehow recorded. (...) Also,
the occasion was described in my file, that is, since 71 I was out
somewhere. I then made my education as a teacher, as a teacher had also
worked only once, in the whole 70s to 1980, there was no contact.
Then hit a supervisor Mr. Voss due to its good performance in front of
an academic career. He took the offer to like, although the lack of party
affiliation difficult admission to a specialized academy. So far he had
rejected all Anwerbeversuche the party.
I am struck by specific performance, I would say that. And asked me
how would that be if I would be interested, and I said to myself, I have a
job, I would do it. If I can do it, its good, if not, Im starting as a
teacher again. And my own goals would have been well to make this Aspiranz
well for three years to complete a doctorate and then either go back to a
school where I can continue to teach, or more in adults. Kindergarten
teachers or teachers I would have liked formed. That was a dream. Anyway,
closed the this Postgraduate. I began that had the pulled also from 1980 to
83. In that time there were first time in the three years of postgraduate no
Anwerbeversuche. (...) And on the institution in which I have a doctorate,
where I am then also remained ultimately as employees, there were about 40
employees, and of the 40 employees was a secretary, the caretaker and I, we
were the only nonparty. And of course that was difficult, so I was the only
academic who was not in the party. (...) Since you have already agitated and
all nose long tried to move me somewhere, to make an application.
After due consideration Mr. Voss finally agreed to become a member of
the party. He had married in the meantime, and two children, for which he had
to make.
I had developed a philosophy for me at the end, I said, well, stand
outside and complain, anybody can do that, youll times member, then you have

135

5 Detailed representation of two selected cases

a) a little more rest, youre b) more involved, I then also started to work
there, and perhaps changes in this state are indeed possible.
The recruitment by the Stasi, the psychological situation of Mr. Voss
was used cleverly by luring him with an interesting offer for him scientific.
Now the following happened, from the year ago 1985 end of 84 or early
85. I suddenly received a note on the table, should I report times in the
central party leadership, in such and such a space, because of my party
order. That was normal, that somewhere said or written gets that thou shalt
times back there. I also have it waiting that someday someone what I want.
That anyone wanted to talk about the central party leadership with me, which
was only times clear, but there was another gentleman there. That was the
first one who recruited me. And who has also reported briefly. I can
remember, who had showed me any identification. (...) And then the two have
offered me a legend, which is actually not a legend but fact was truth. And
although we had the early 80s repeated instances where research findings from
the field of social sciences, social science research reports, concepts or
reports of investigations that have been made, rather than published in the
West were in the east. That is, there were leaks somewhere, and there was
also research topics that seem so important to the other side that they have
to be protected. (...) And the task that it could be deduced ultimately for
me, was that I was a good man professionally, you knew me well over the
years, to consider whether it would be as possible when corresponding me
research documents is that now look through thoroughly and in a sense to be
classified in terms the extent to which they might be of interest to the
other side. If you like, I have even found a term for it, something like
preventing scientific espionage. That was the legend. I have let myself in
for this job, and I was inside. That was exactly taken a partially true
situation, which was used as a background for me to motivate me, and I have
also had it only once in the situation no conflict of conscience.
When I asked him if he had at that time also thought to reject the
cooperation, Mr. Voss told me that he regarded the order as an official
working task.
No, not at all. I remember that I was pretty excited. But I think even
if the Herbert (his first case officer) would not have been there, I would
have been excited, because the floors have had themselves rarely do.
The whole thing began yes then beginning to 85 period. There was later
a conversation with Herbert, my first case officer, a young man middle grade
degree, I guess, who was also beginners. He was always very excited, having a
date agreed with me at my house. He said we cannot take in the work area,
which is not good if we are seen together. And it is then only came twice to
my house, then also told me that would not be good if he shows up at my
house.
Although Mr. Voss told his wife of the order, so dekonspirierte, the
Stasi held on to him, but they tried to keep the family.
Therefore, the so relatively quickly from the apartment got me out So
our meeting, we met twice since no one was present. Who has always previously
satisfied by phone if we are alone, and it also has penetrated. He said it
would not be good if some people are included, not even family, especially
when it came to the content. And from that point then, after the second
meeting, so there was only so conspiratorial meeting in apartments. As I was
informed, an address and a statement, as I have to behave myself, so that I
should not park the car in front of the door, but somewhere else to go-out
and, and then stands there and turn there a name. (...) Over the years, then,
the whole game was indeed over four years, in the four years I have five
apartments to know which were partly flats of old ladies who were the widows
of former party veteran, I suppose, i.e. that State were very connected and
have proven their apartment. They actually even put down a cup of coffee, but

136

5 Detailed representation of two selected cases

remained invisible. And partly it was apartments in residential areas or in

the border area schwervermietbaren to West Berlin, where so massive were
those flophouse apartments. There were names on it because you might ask whom
you wanted because anyway nobody knew, who lives where. So a couple of times
down near ... west. I think that there were two such apartments, which were
really only set up for these purposes, the other apartments were inhabited
dwellings where people lived.
These meetings called Mr. Voss produced very mixed feelings. Just as
earlier in the sport, he wanted to accomplish good performance at this work,
be better than the others, on the other hand bothered him the conspiratorial
activities.
Well, so, that was a strange mixture of feelings. On the one hand, a
feeling of doing something special, on the other hand a very strange feeling,
because this is nothing official. (...) I also think that belonged to a
little so to my inner attitude, easy to be interested in the changes, but
should not lead to changes in the system ultimately. So a task that was
important for this socialism DDR, but from others, I am exaggerating now
aware that stood out from the other desk perpetrators. I have tons of people
met in the Institute who made war their content that they push a stack of
paper from left to right and big speeches at meetings held, but did not work.
(...) I was then also after a relatively short time after these meetings
started from the Herbert pointed out that I so to outsiders, no matter who
that is, family members, colleagues may disclose any information. And this
teaching (gag order) I had to sign.
Mr. Voss met every four weeks with his case officer. In the meantime,
he read interesting research reports, to which he would otherwise not have
access, and then discussed it with the case officer. When he asked after the
meeting he was given an evasive answer. As related in 1985 in the West
deposed, he had to file reports. Contrary to his expectations, he got no
trouble. However, there was another case officer, supervisor of Herbert,
approached him with a new task. With Herbert Mr. Voss had been able to speak
openly.
So the things weve discussed here, as we have also many so debated
back and forth, because you almost can get the impression that this state was
interested in the state of changes in the GDR. (...) From todays
perspective, I think thats been a conversation tactic to simply unlock the
employees to make easy, who you turned it also does not knit. Youre working
with on the right thing, youre a good man, you have done your work reliably
that matched that. Okay. And in this breach sprang purely also the next to
Helmut. So the manager of Herbert. Herbert said goodbye then again said, so,
Helmut will now go with you, because I was quite taken aback, because Helmut
came in the first week, where both were still together, with a history, with
which came the next job. And in retrospect, I realized that the thing with
this year and the research reports was really so incredibly important or not,
I cannot judge. I personally take that time as a kind of test phase for me,
how reliable I am and how I am able to afford even what. I summarize times
the whole story in advance so together: with the telephone monitoring and so,
this is in a sense the collection of information, this years work, now what
was sometime at the end, a very practical test phase has been. The Helmut
came with a story that had so mitgekriegt at which research topics I am
interested, for example, that actually something would have to be made that
one more would have to interview teenagers really authentic u. . This has
the taken up and asked me one day, tell me, could you imagine to go through
with such investigations, conduct interviews, analyze, write research report.
Maybe youll get even ne premium of your institution for it. In a large
company, with apprentices, so 18 years. (...) I say, clearly I would be
interested in such a study, but first of all is not that national education

137

5 Detailed representation of two selected cases

system in operation, secondly completely different would as likely to sit on

such orders it and not me as an employee in the Institute there but do, would
I already. Well, says the, lets say, I would set the course for you.
Starting with the Education Ministry, then the Ministry of Education in the
Academy, of the Academy towards your institution and of your institute
director about you. And youd get, so what to do the job. Preparing
Conceptually the research, make the surveys, work out the questionnaires.
This tempting offer could not resist, especially since he initially did
not know which order the Stasi was connected so that Mr. Voss with his
ambition and research interests. He was not afraid that colleagues are
suspicious and might learn to connect with the Stasi.
The well was not on. It did not noticed, because it ultimately went to
my subject. I have worked in the field of Early Childhood Education, and it
was about the influence of the parents in the process of career choice and
career development among youth in the GDR. Namely, in a very selected area to
do research on normal apprentices in a normal Berlin operation, and not some
special groups. (...) And this job was a legend, so to speak so cleverly
prepared by Helmut and employees, I suppose, a deputy of the Honecker in the
corresponding service area within the ministry, which had to do with us. The
dove then at any service call as an idea on the same idea I had sometimes
even expressed. So it really was on the plane, as I said, really would have
such an investigation also make time with young people, so even current
experience the family, but that was not arrived that way.
Mr. Voss saw the offer as before inclusion in the sports school in
recognition of his excellent performance.
It was quite exciting, and was also an award, yes. I still did not
know until then what it is all about those. One must say, I am at the stage
now when I watch so back, so to speak, with some lucrative, so let lure with
such an activity. The whole thing was then allowed only times a little time.
Then these information channels have built up, and at some point the order
was there, discussed with the Director of the Institute and my own boss, then
we have tinkered together the documents, and then it was clear, thats my
thing. It is manageable, doable for a person and should also take a period of
approximately one year to complete. Really with individual interviews, 30
people, develop questionnaires, which prepare everything, so a normal way.
And the whole thing should take place in a combine operation. (...) Thats
when I introduced myself and started the work, so it was no problem. And
then, rather quickly, then came naturally of Helmut and who initiated me,
what was at stake. And from the moment I have to honestly say it was me quite
queasy. (...) And then suddenly so ridiculous stories came through. So that I
have no contact with the two (his relatives), who went to the West, thats
very strange, you cannot remove me. The contact was good but previously
between you. And then let the so look through the flower, its pretty
difficult, that are from your family two to the West. This was expressed not
as a threat or not extortionate, but I got with that suddenly mattered,
namely, whenever I asked strange questions. It was very unpleasant for me.
And, well, I wanted nothing unpleasant. So, this thing was running, and
relatively quickly the Helmut then has made clear even the job that has made
quite bluntly clear in the operation, if you da tell yourself imagine and
your research, youll meet a young officer in the operation. This is Mr. A.,
who is five years or six years of youth commissioner. (...) Was the
background, this man was a little older than me. He was the late 60s, noticed
early 70s as a student at the Humboldt University (...) because it was
through actions that were so in the political underground. He was then
expelled from the university, completed his studies cannot make the end, is
further been politically active in the underground and was then deported more
or less in this operation. That is, who knew that is quite capable,

138

5 Detailed representation of two selected cases

intelligent man. (...) The Lord is not only an enemy of socialism, if you get
to know the, youll remember, is a very strong advocate of the socialist
idea. But he can with this State, as it is, do nothing. And that was, of
course, somewhere on my wavelength that. And the reason why we must pursue
this man was, there are ambitions that he made that stupid function as a
youth representative, where he was completely unchallenged, sometime also
again aspirations has to go out to change the operation to evolve, and you
wants to make sure if something happened, that he is not politically active
in the underground. That is, my job was, within the framework of this
research project, as it were, to this gentleman to contact a legend, to build
a relationship with him, and somehow supposed to find out whether that is
politically active in the underground.
However, this was not just about one person, but to the groups in which
he was active. Mr. Voss should also report on the working groups.
Thats what he told me, that will inevitably arise if you get a
contact that suddenly even any working groups play a role. As is logical that
we want to have from you the information where it is and who it is and such.
But the order was based on that person, supposed to find out whether he is
politically active, to see what you can tolerate him. (...) And from the
moment I have to say, and in the course of further work, where I got to know
the man well, quite a mess in me arose, so in my emotional life. So, until
then, was somehow at first quite acceptable to me even, then this lucrative
business with the research mission, and from then on was me quite
uncomfortable. (...) That I should a person under surveillance had to make
very clear information, also had a very clear mission, what must I do. I got
in touch with the yes, in the operation, it was not a problem.
There were no direct threats if he refused the order, but Mr. Voss was
repeatedly addressed to his relatives in the West and was torn between his
research interests and his concerns about the contract.
Anyway, Ive taken this contact with him and realized now I skip just
so a few things that took forever to get to the man and to me had confidence.
I did not just dare, we had to do with one another by the apprentices and
then made war with so that we are sympathetic, the course was again serious.
So, who was sympathetic to me, and I was sympathetic to him. (...) Over the
months is created in me an attitude, I thought, scared you now have in both
directions, i.e. to the man you have a very bad conscience, because that is
not good, what are you doing , and in the other direction youre scared. It
was this strange feeling mixture. And I have a kind of escape inwards
committed in the course of months, so very gradually, as I have developed an
attitude, as do the check because what I tell and what not. What I could say
is first time in my mind what I write, is on the paper, and what we then talk
to each other, thats still going to be a different matter. And so I drove a
ridiculous strategy, so quite a Rumgeeiere. That is, the contact with the
Lord is actually arrived at. We have become sympathetic, we have had private
contacts, but have left our families out. So I then deliberately hit me with
the time somewhere in the caf or visited him at home, or me in the morning
if he could make it through his shiftwork also met once with him, when my
wife was traveling. I have avoided that any family members thus have
contact.
To my question about guilt responds Mr. Voss: At that time I thought
my guilt cannot wegreden who have stayed, but they were small. (...) Helmut
went a little harder with me as to Herbert, he had a clearer line. He was
also very face and critically. He said, in this work, which is a very
confidential and secret story that happened here. You know that by now, you
have to expect that this person is being observed by others, i.e., we can
also check fairly well, if thats true, what you tell. (...) But that he
views is also in other, he said, so you have to expect, and that is so

139

5 Detailed representation of two selected cases

practice with us, you yourself must be expected that you will also under
surveillance. Thats what he said quite clearly that of course, has been
working in me. I am actually not such a cool guy, but I have already done
anxiety. In any case, the contact with the Lord has actually quite well
developed. And I realized that the first, is a highly intelligent and
politically unlikely interested man and that at the time was further
developed mainly from his aborted studies. Who has had incredibly good
knowledge of literature, who has dealt mainly with war literature. (...) And
what was most interesting for me, of course, has had sources, I knew not. He
had books from the West. And he has repeatedly sometimes lent me what. (...)
Yes, at the end, it took a long time until we were ready, so maybe nine
months. Then he gave me that, and practically the history of the Soviet Union
times by another author, as far as I knew it, that has read quite
differently. That is, for me have really opened up by getting to know the
Lord a new world that I have never known before, and which, in fact purely
fit well in my own political thinking in terms of this system for me.
That Mr. Voss taught himself in trouble when he read Western books, he
took into account. I have some, also made of the information that I had no
bones. In discussions we had in the work area, as history yes was also
displayed as it was sold to us. I then partially also once said, well, you
can read other things, because it is written differently. This then gave way
a little trouble, I was somehow in the workspace an uncomfortable guy.
Despite his increasingly critical stance GDR Mr. Voss did not dare to
refuse contacts with the case officer, but was trying to protect the
Observierten.
I had to write about each meeting with an audit report, and there were
again at intervals of several, well, four to six weeks, there was meeting
with Helmut, by the way, this research story ran on. (...) Ive noticed that
my strategy is working. That which I have written, who bought it. (...) He
has played a very important role in the working group, he never told me what
function within the structures he has, but I have known, with the skills that
he has, that he political an executive in this subsoil is and have them just
not write anything more. I wrote banalities. (...) I have his attitude to
communism, his attitude to the Stalin era, his critical analysis of the
policies of the GDR leadership, so things that other guarantees of him knew
in principle that I have again written. (...) They were satisfied that were
satisfied at first. Then came as remarks from Helmut, the boss pushes that
are no concrete statements, whether of or whether that is not active now. And
then I have these periods, we have agreed not met, I said, I did not sign up
again, Im waiting times until the contact again. Then there were times eight
weeks, but now we have time to make an appointment again, since surely what
has been. Nope, I said, who has been ill. That is, I have flayed time and
have done so on a bit stupid and have noticed that the going relatively well.
They were a bit restless and dissatisfied, but nothing happened.
However, Mr. Voss dared not the case officer directly to say that he no
longer wanted to participate.
I came rather the idea partially to reveal me the A. because my
relationship with him was actually really quite good. But then I have had so
much fear and so much shame, that I said, what I can do to protect him, Ill
do it, but I did not manifest. (...) That would have been too embarrassing.
At the time there were so working groups within the library environment,
there was the (...) Peace Circle, who was known to me, and I have simply left
the things. He can be partly reached by car from me up there when we were out
in the evening, I knew exactly where the going. Who has worked in the print
shop (...), has edited articles, which itself wrote that was active,
definitely.

140

5 Detailed representation of two selected cases

After one and a half years, Mr. Voss had completed the project and
issued the research report. He then left again the operation and went back to
the Academy. However, it was only the start-up phase, after which he was to
meet colleagues privately. And it came again, another case officer, yes,
with Helmut that ran somehow not on, suddenly a third person was there, that
was Detlef. Detlef was my feeling after him. Who have not presented their
ranks, but I got even with well how have spoken of, and the names were indeed
between times, which must obviously have been the supervisor of the work area
again, the next in the hierarchy. And Detlef has already then again made a
little pressure on me so Now look, because what must sometimes slow to come,
I say, there but nothing is further. This contract was to find out whether
that is active in the underground or not, more than meet me privately with
him. I have a good relationship with the one who has faith in me and that
gives me stuff to read that are forbidden to us, I say, more is not, I can
only write what I live.
When asked Mr. Voss whether one could let the Observierten work in a
publishing house, he sat very one for him. That colleague this place
eventually got, Mr. Voss very relieved. It was for him so clear that he had
caused no harm.
It was to become the fact of working shift without any trouble, which
is out of this rubber pad out as a youth delegate and is a lecturer in
publishing this. And so I was inwardly pleased.
But Mr. Voss has still not left in peace.
And 89 since escalated so then the whole story. I noticed that the
job that I had actually times that was no longer there somewhere. I was then
ordered to go more often to talk, and suddenly, the order should change
again. So, from the beginning of 89 very small groups were active in the
GDR, church groups, peace groups, which gave these services, as under the
roof of the church was very much in motion. And who had mitgekriegt, and
above I have partially indeed even expressed myself writing that I am in this
peace circles and external. (...) And then there was even a remark from the
Helmut, Id rather be construed so jokingly, who said, well, pass on, we know
that you are doing in the (...) Peace Circle with drinhngst and we know that
people are there, and which we are anyway known for years, look to it that
you do not even doing as leadership. So I ended up doing more so recognized,
well, in principle, the more helpless. They had made an attempt to keep this
movement somewhere in the view and to practice control. There was such a
meeting in (...) because they stood on the roof of a large residential
building with the camera and have everything in the garden observed, that was
ridiculous, yes, that really bordered on absurdity, and I also noticed that
absolutely no clear mandate more came that times are getting longer, and that
even no longer so interested. (...) They are expected of me, that I may
impart, where I go, there I was at various points times, yes, I was in some
cases even sent. They then said, at some point was once again a call, you, we
need to take time, theres a large demonstration in the (...) Church as are
2,000 people wholl go with pure and Horch new items. Well, this church
region because you needed only to walk around because you knew, there are
around 100 people at least from the Stasi, in addition to the police, who was
still there, and in the church were also enough there. This has cost me but
then a smile, because go in and say, there was a great atmosphere, there was
humor. In principle, who have tried this scene, it was no more scene, there
was a movement to watch anyway, but had to intervene no more ambitions. The
have also informed me that way. So they said, Look, there is no personal
orders more, we think something is happening here, we only want to see that
nothing out of the ordinary, and we observe this movement. (...) For example,
if I were now mitkriegen in such meetings or circles that any violent
demonstrations or should run something where risk to humans arises, it would

141

5 Detailed representation of two selected cases

be good if I do notice. So in this sense. But that never happened, because

they were all peaceful stories because nothing happened.
After Mr. Voss had been released in autumn 1989 from the Academy, as it
is no longer considered him politically reliable, he founded with fellow an
association within the framework of youth work. Until there anliefen the
first projects, he was unemployed in 1990.
We have immediately been in contact at the time, when the Wall was
gone to West Berlin to the university, the Narcotics Division, we have
constructed in the direction of seeking help, addiction prevention a club. We
have then begun, and the matter was underway. So it was logical for us that
this operation is handled. (...) I started in the time to build this
association, which then went well, we had the first projects, have gained
experience with institutions that have tried ranzuschaffen money, have made
projects, which went quite well, and we were out of this whole Institutskram
and have since also never had contact again. (...) So, in the year 89, in
the summer, as for me also was so clear whats going on and what political
stance also the education system maintains still that it was the not provide,
in the year I left the party again and have the work set on my B-promotion.
The impossibility to continue his academic career, and the insults in
the dismissal from the academy stressed Mr. Voss very mentally. Even in his
private life, there was the collaboration with the Stasi difficulties
Ive had a fairly acute alcohol problem over the entire 80s. I have
this mental pressure under which I stood, even be able to withstand hard and
was such a typical workday drinkers. I did not want to admit over the years
that I had become dependent, not physically dependent, Ive done a lot to
keep me physically fit, but I was mentally in such a function that I drank
daily in principle about ten, twelve years evening. (...) With my marriage
that did not work, that is to say, I have mentally increasingly degraded over
the years and was the summer of 89 physically and emotionally far at the end
that I could not. I was completely burned out, had no desire to continue
working. But the idea to build something new together with these women,
because I felt, that gives me renewed hope and energy.
In the second part of the interview Mr. Voss then comes to his private
life and his career as an athlete to speak. He was so successful that he took
part in the Olympic Games. But as in his professional career, it is not even
there he managed to achieve his goal, which is to win an Olympic victory.
Even if he tries to ward off his disappointment, by presenting his current
life situation as satisfactory for him, his sadness is palpable.
Well, I would like to become top. Maybe I could have become world
leaders, but in this sport, it is difficult, it was a lot that Im still
become the national team, so it was a performance that has made me proud, but
I have noticed for a world leader it is not enough I was there realistic.
(...) Posted, I would much rather have to give up, because Ive taken me
completely with it, and because I have also internally no longer identified
with this second story. So, I have to say things with which I identify
myself, I have never given up. (...) I am many years later, now in my
therapeutic work, become clear under which massive pressure to perform, we
were, and that Im actually a man who has also joined with a good motivation
this pressure very much. (...) So my coach has understood what I told him and
he said, Look, we have every few weeks Coaches Council meeting, where we need
to talk about your development as well. Ill just let slip that your limits
are reached, that from you is no longer to be expected and you can be fired
in honor. So, we were now namely four people from the same vintage, who
wanted to go, other coaches have certainly not have reacted, two of my
friends have been kicked out of one because he allegedly had contacts with
the West, and the other, because he wanted to press.

142

5 Detailed representation of two selected cases

Based on his childhood experiences we can better understand the reasons

for his great willingness to perform.
I think that my father, who has been hampered war, was proud. That
said, I have a brother and stayed in the family also looked after me a lot,
need to do a lot, and I think I have quite a lot done to it that my father is
proud of me. (...) He lacked an arm, but if the right arm is missing, its
just handicapped in certain matters.
When I asked him whether he felt as the right arm of the Father,
responds Mr. Voss:
I was the right arm of the Father. And that was really good. I only
have so met him and also knew that Father would be if I am a hardworking boy.
I am from my parents as has also been politically not influenced at all. If
my father has told in the 50s when I was a little boy, about the war, I was
amazed, then later as an adult, as balanced and as out of himself, he has
described the. He has the system in which he grew up described, he has
described the development after the war, and he has always made it clear you
have to look at the system that made you what is. See that you do not wake up
in some filthy shack loud as I, where only noise and dirt is, but can make
you somewhat.
The locksmith was by profession, then could not go to work, for a while
worked as a forestry worker. Since the money was not enough for the family,
and then, still times than 40 years developed in the actual operation, in
which he has also previously worked before the war. (...) I have my father
see only work, his life, and hes always nerves have been under pressure with
a bunch responsibility for millions of dollars, with a bunch of partially
rotten people around rum itself, one can say so, where he was responsible
for. He has much told about it, he always said, boy, do something, so that
you never wake up in such a dump.
That is, the Father has exerted no direct pressure, but his model
forced Mr. Voss to emulate him in order not to disappoint him.
Exactly, he was engaged scary, was a lot socially, has directed a
choral society, sports club was a member, I think he was after the war, one
of the first members of the Peasant Party.
I wonder if the father wanted to demonstrate that you can do much with
only one arm. Responds Mr. Voss: I think so, to my knowledge. If I so
einschtze, there was actually for an outsider not what the man did not
attempt it. (...) There were only things, simple things in everyday dealings
with him, where I knew I must help him, so he could not tie shoes, Velcro
straps did not exist.
The mother tells Mr. Voss also as a hardworking woman who is no rest
indulged and sacrificing for others. I think that has little talked about.
My mother is a woman who never complains, which, I guess, she has many fears.
She is such a woman who is the last shirt for others and to oneself does not
think so from her type. So, boiled before Christmas and bakes and cleans and
makes her until she was slain in the end, broken and satisfied is when the
others have a full plate, and himself eats nothing.
I tell him: . In both of these models, you have it cannot afford to be
lazy So, what was being lazy, which has triggered an affect with my father.
Father was a very just man and a very loving man, but he has had quite broken
nerves. This has also had something to do with the war wound. He has not to
be in certain things bring calm. But I noticed when something happens where
small children him his disability suddenly, then could the so freak, within
three seconds could go up like a rocket, and before that I was afraid,
definitely. (...) When he told me, for example, had said, get me a stinkin
shovel has her or so issued any order. As a 10-year-old has not always feel
like, and I made a sullen face and am going trotting, so there flew the
tatters as could the be so mad when he mitkriegte that I was somehow now lazy

143

5 Detailed representation of two selected cases

or did not want to work or something that is already aware of me. Otherwise,
he was but a very, lets say 90 percent is a very peaceful, a completely
peaceful father, but could barely curb in emotional situations.
In spite of family circumstances he described as positive Mr. Voss left
the age of twelve his home without separation difficulties.
One question that is still not entirely clear to me why I decided
years than 12 to go away from home, even though I had it so good. I had a
really great home in the village, a lot of space could, I live athletic, had
friends, the school was going well at home, that was actually fine too. I had
at that time as a few idols, guys who were in the sports school, two guys who
were little older than me, and I did not realize when the weekend had time to
visit, what those guys that has me already irritably. But I think, between
the stimulus, so what to do, to have enthusiasm for the sport and the
decision, I go away from home to boarding school, thats a step. (...) I
cannot remember that I was homesick me. I think the real homesickness was my
mother.
In my interpretation, that he was so identified with the father, who
could admit no weaknesses, Mr. Voss agrees and describes how hard life was
for him in the sports school.
This is tough, so we had normal schooling and parallel to it 35 hours
training. So, up to three units a day, and before competitions or any because
there was this Spartakiad, so there have again acquired a tooth.
By the end of his studies, Mr. Voss has good these burdens endured,
then began his drinking problem.
At 21 I am become a father for the first time, with 22 the second time
father. The second child was severely disabled, which I have kept for a year
until it is then died, and then I finished my university time, am there was
again fairly magenommen. (...) So was born precisely in the year when the
second small, was the last academic year. And since I was also studying in
one of the top people in the field of sport, I was always there for special
tasks.
When he should participate in a sports festival and a preparation camp
and therefore his child should have to leave you alone, Mr. Voss fought back
for the first time against the requirements. Only with the help of support
from a professor, he was able to get his wish.
Through this story in the year, I ended up being so struck nerves so
badly that I was just too sick. And it was the time the end of May, beginning
of June, and shortly before his first birthday this little boy then died.
Then my sick leave was over, I had to return to the Institute, (...) and then
has this section director, that was our coach, who then said, so, ladies and
gentlemen, Mr. Voss is now back among us, and the has just told me that he is
fully available again after he was sick. That was the only time in four
years, where I was sick.
From this time on, Mr. Voss was thinking more of his personal needs and
put back his power pursuit. When finally even was come, the separation from
his wife, he fell into a severe crisis. According to this story, which I
have submitted my party card, my B-Promotion, which stood at 80 percent, and
have said, is no longer. Because the looked at me like that, you do not mean
seriously, you have to be crazy, well, ok if it is so. (...) I could not. No
longer physically, psychologically no longer. I was 89 in such a difficult
situation. There was then a period, either you are doing now what, or you
take the car and drive into a tree. So rather I did not have clearance, I was
now also clear that the alcohol problem was very acute, so that to keep the
effort that I have operated to get somewhere in handle limited to normally
live outwardly, to make, that I no longer have this energy in my work.
I was just so at the end that I had no more reserves, maybe that would
have been even make sense, I do not know. I have in any case in the

144

5 Detailed representation of two selected cases

situation, the work was gone, nerves and health, I was at the end. (...) And
in the situation I then broke up and have noticed that the real thing that
has held me for years of it to make that decision, was the relationship with
the children. So I felt somewhere that my father role was the only thing that
kept me alive. (...) I was then 1991 on an invitation to tender in the press
a work in the field of addiction prevention. (...) From 1991 to 94, and of
course that was a godsend for me. I have since had a play fair and
technically good line manager, a very great man who has accepted us as Ossis
and also trying to form mixed teams. (...) At the same time I had the club,
so it was incredibly active, now my present wife had met who was also the
first woman, the first man to actually, I have opened in my alcohol problem
and one year later in the story, what the Stasi was concerned. She is also
the only person who is initiated there, and she has somewhere processed for
himself, said, yes, this is so. For me, then a difficult time is come again.
When set in the (...) management was clear that we get submitted any personal
information sheet. That was easy for me a difficult situation, the place was
like a rescue. So, at the time, the spring 91, I stood there, newly
divorced, with 810 marks net salary, of which 480 Mark maintenance for the
children, shortly after an addiction career, i.e. also in poor health, and
with this Stasi story in the neck. So, I knew that I must operate lifesaving.
(...) But I had had courage to start anew, because it also presents no health
felt better again. I knew that I have to cheat in this personal information
sheet. That was as clear as the Amen in the church for me. That I am all in
the situation, August 91, how should I say, let alone felt. Well, I need not
explain, it would have been for me an absurdity. In the situation in this
personal information sheet, where indeed the question was asked, you had
contacts with the Stasi, because I have no reingeschrieben and have the full
consciousness of doing what is sometime, after verification, happen. I just
needed a buffer time when I recover, where I can earn money and be on the
water. This burden of conscience has naturally been gnawing at my health,
i.e. in the years 91, 92, 93, I was again really overloaded with this
association work in (...) and also my new family. Im so nervous been quite
at the end, have been working constantly on the limit. 93 Was my review
over, and in December 93 I got a letter from the management that it has thus
given the information as part of my review, and I am asked for an interview.
Since it was clear to me that all fairs are sung. I knew that the day will
come, but that really hit me like a hammer. (...) I did not have the problem
with this guilt, to have done, but simply the fact after I have since remade
three years hard work, having to just go, it was clear to me. I have in the
meantime over the years, I think, the same 1991 mitgekriegt that these A.
(the under surveillance), at issue so that the moved to (...), there has
somehow found a new function where he has arrived really good. I have picked
out his address from the phone book and have tried to establish contact with
him, wrote him several letters, but he never reported, this will have his
reasons. That was a small pity, I would have gladly taken up the contact with
him one more time to talk with him a few things. I simply what I have
described today, written him in detail.
Mr. Voss lost after reviewing his work. In the interview with the
Review Commission, he was held up as a reason for dismissal in particular
that he had the personal information sheet 1991 is not filled honest.
And these reasons I have not accepted. The was also untenable for me.
I know that later in the year, so 93, 94 was already so different methods,
differentiated, but in August 91, no one can tell that because I had had a
chance to me. And so I guess I just took it in stride. And I have a very good
service certificate got from my superiors. That was really great, as it has
assessed my work and how I could apply myself well. And then I have
considered for me if I want to get out with my wife and with my family from

145

5 Detailed representation of two selected cases

(...) because my wife was also unemployed for the birth of the little one.
(...) I then looked at me after this time converted more or less throughout
Germany in the field of youth welfare, children in villages I demand. My idea
was actually, after this time in the youth services which for me also, apart
from the dismissal thing again so was an intermediate phase that I already
gladly wanted to continue their education in the field of addiction work and
somewhere wanted to develop.
At his new job, the problem arose again in the short term, but without
adverse consequences for him. I was hired, have also had interviews, and I
saw no reason to talk about it. For me it was clear when Im asked, I must
answer. For me it was also clear that I was at the time, after I was through
checked gegauckt certain extent and there had to go, that I. In the case,
when Im asked, would stand by it, that was clear But not asked. So that was
also first time a non-issue for me.
On a subsequent request of his superiors, he told her the affair, after
he received the opportunity to view his file to the Authority.
But Im willing to give information to all things, if you want, and if
that should somehow touch my employment. Thats the reason why I explain not
so sweeping, wanting to be checked. Yes, she says, that is acceptable. But if
I would be ready for review. She has explained to me the process path, she
had already ask what colleagues can ever be checked, even if they were
prepared to do so, and if they can at least ask in relation to me. I say, if
you see it now so you can ask me. And then they got the answer, months later,
that with me no further review is possible. (...) After this message came
from the Gauck Authority that no verification takes place, the management has
brought me again and said that the matter is settled in order for us.
At the end of the conversation, we like to mention how he stands on his
IM activity today. His disappointment that the colleague under surveillance
did not reply to his letters, he has overcome. Him busy especially the
question of why he has agreed to cooperate and how he deals with the guilt.
I have at the moment no more ambitions. This has come in me to rest. I also
think thats my inner attitude, Im not religious as a human being, but as of
my ideological position as I see it, everyone is in the course of his life
with debt laden in any form. And how far-reaching is this debt, is certainly
different and with the guilt every person must live somehow. And I will, if I
can no longer talk to him now it not be in the course of my life, sick or
broken, but pretty much what Ive designed my life now as I continue to
develop myself, I can well live. (...) I just noticed that there are
different ways to keep yourself alive, which was only times important. I
merely definitely made a decision for me, or two decisions I make in my life
not a member of any party, and I will in no way more research. This decision
was made at that time already.
The problem of guilt because of the collaboration with the Stasi and
the observation of colleagues, Mr. Voss tries to solve for themselves. This
first year since that has not bothered me. I think the thing with the A.,
which was really stressful thing. I speak it not so nice, thats clear, this
internal retreat, which I have made, meant that you could not blame him.
Without being able to blame him what he has to change his job and thus (...)
can work in the publishing house. I would basically just write in a set need
where the worked, then they would have had him by the collar again. And so I
say to myself, is the damage that has arisen, rather low, yes, I was a cog in
the work, that is clear. (...) I have no one harmed. I have protected him.
The interview saw Mr. Voss despite a certain fearful expectation as a
relief. I have often employed me in the last few weeks so. And the first
occupations were more burdensome than the current conversation. I rather felt
it was pleasant, easy to sometimes describe that. Thats what Ive been never
done before.

146

5 Detailed representation of two selected cases

Selected passages from the interview to show how much Mr. Voss his
desires for dependency and care fended since childhood, in order to meet the
ideal and the demands of parents, superiors and the party or the Stasi. The
desire to show everyone on what scientific achievements he was able initially
made him receptive to the offers of the Stasi. The right to benefits, he
dared not withdraw until it under the massive psychological stress eventually
became depressed and took to alcohol. Only after 1990, he managed to resist
the pressure and to lead a satisfactory, retired life.
Mrs. Quindt
The interview took place at the home of Ms. Quindt and lasted three hours. In
following the thematic course of the interview are outlined and highlighted
several passages that seem both the reported her content, but also in terms
of psychodynamics to be important to us. Introduction, I ask Mrs. Quindt by
their current life circumstances. Would you have told me earlier, you are
now moved here, she answered this question with a dramatic violence scenario
in 1993 by these shootings there, and we had the sniper on the roof in
Berlin, in the Blumenstrasse. (...) The Radicals (...) Skins and the squatter
in the Mainzer Street. That was out of date. The trams have been fired
because a woman was inside. And in these brawls between police and these
people, I would say (...) Then they set fire to a Trabant with us in the
Boxhagener road! And the man has really struggled like a madman: who had
waited ten years later, and shortly before the turn he got his Trabi. And the
Kindle at him, and he could not defend the car. I have all that followed from
the balcony so, and I could not go away too. I was so fascinated, I had to
sit and watch because, even though I knew it is not good for me.
At the same time I have the impression that this fascination even in
our conversation is immediately present. I feel overwhelmed me through this
opening, because it allows me no gradual introduction to this topic. This
corresponds to their way of speaking in very short, incomplete sentences. You
can obviously take no time to organize the content of their message
intellectually and verbalize, but is under a strong affective pressure which
makes its statements more to a kind of evacuation instead of communication.
She wants desperately to get rid of something. After this dramatic opener she
accesses her lying ready file documents and reads me the dates of their
detention before. She was housed a total of over seven years in prisons and
mental hospitals. Spread over a period of 16 years, she was deprived of these
seven years of their freedom. You count me on the data of six arrests. They
founded the first detention with a planned escape from the GDR, which was
motivated by a sexual abuse by her stepfather. They then told me about the
loss of her mother at age 16, the mother came in 1951 in a mental hospital
for syphilis and was never released from psychiatry, where she died also.
This is followed by the announcement that a grandmother and two siblings had
died of starvation. She speaks very confidential to me of Mutti, e.g.,
Mutti had been taken to the mental hospital. She then goes on to talk about
her father, who did not care about it: After I then from the youth factory
farm came at age 18, I went home, my father has but not taking care of me. He
has met another woman who is drawn to her. And then I sat in the apartment:
there was no light, there was no water. And he also gave me nothing to eat,
(...) Then appears another eroticized story: I am then staying in Erfurt,
because ... well, I should probably have a little looked delicious, and the
chief of his fingers was not very safe. And to protect the woman and not to
hurt her, because she was very nice to me, then Im gone away in Erfurt, went
out.

147

5 Detailed representation of two selected cases

Shortly afterwards, the portrayal of another disaster, but I got

pregnant, and the father had not married me. I was too poor for him.
Immediately afterwards, they reported a second detention and a contact with
the Stasi. Although they agreed to the employees, but dekonspirierte shortly
thereafter: Then I had the second prison, where I was in the workhouse, in
Hohenleuben. And because I want to go on it, because that was the first
contact, where the Stasi has come into the prisons and the Republic
fugitives, antisocial or in this direction punished enlisted to IM
activities. And it should indeed be not only in the activities, we should be
properly trained so as agents against Western countries. I had the first time
... I was so excited. And I let it all only once poured out on me and I said,
Im with, because I wanted to see what are they doing there? I could hardly
believe that ... And who recruited us, I was not the only one. And we should
only times mutually sound out to us. (...) And I said to myself, you cannot
vote, what you should start here? Since one has now had an appeal every day,
where we have been counted. And since Im just stepped forward and said: Yes,
I can recite. (...) And since I have spoken of this recruitment of the
Lieutenant rtel. That has enlisted me there and that I was not the mitmache.
I should spy on you.
The result was Bunker detention and psychiatric involuntary commitment:
... and brought me into the bunker. In the toughest bunker, so properly with
concrete bed and a blanket and only once a day coffee. (...) And on the
fourth day the woman came Lieutenant rtel down where I was starving so
beautiful, and brought me in as a bowl, - who eats once from the tin bowl, so
the memory - a bowl of steaming right peas, really great. So what I have not
eaten for a long time. But I have realized immediately what she wanted. She
wanted to lure me with the food that withdraw and me again classified as
prisoners.
And then you would have talked about it, and then that would have been
removed from the world. And since I took the bowl and have it tilted her
face. It was a bit hot, but I have at the moment frozen together in anger,
anxiety and all sorts. And then shes out, she has had the power of the keys,
has again been completed. And maybe so ten minutes later three nurses
Epoletten came with white coats, but with so plan well. And she too. And then
they caught me, beaten, and finally I then located with the face on the
concrete floor and then they have torn down my pants and have injected me in
the butt. And then I was gone within a few seconds. Woke up, I am in prison
hospital for psychiatry in Waldheim, in chub.
The next disaster is the birth of her daughter Ulrike 1966. It mentions
no father. The child was zwangsadoptiert with about four years, which
represents woman as a result of persecution Quindt, fraud and ambush, and she
responded with her first suicide attempt: And 66 I had my first child was
born, the Ulrike. (...) I had the forced deportation in Wrnitz at a mayor
family (...). And who had always taken care of the child. There remained only
where, and I barely got there. The woman has always pulled the child to her.
She had four children himself and played a lot with my daughter. And as has
been said, I can sometimes go dancing. Wrnitz is jwd. So, this is really
only the village, because there are no events, because there is only one pub,
and since only men were allowed in. A woman was not allowed. And when I went
to Eisenach for dancing. And since there were only two buses, at noon and in
the eleventh hour clock. And the bus by 24 clock I missed I was standing at
the bus stop and had to now through the Thuringian Forest back to Wrnitz.
And now I could imagine what unravels itself because if I cannot do, because
I needed hours to get through the woods. As I have asked the police. I say
who I am and what happened to me, that I have come from dancing and I have
not got the bus, perhaps talked too long or something, even though Ive
always looked at the clock. And tell those who can only drive me to the

148

5 Detailed representation of two selected cases

outskirts, the other they must not do. And the suburbs was already the bus
stop, so what should that. And then Im around in the dark, have looked for
the stars that I somehow do not crashing somewhere and then get to Wrnitz.
And then I was only at six at home. And since my daughter was gone. (...)
Then Im the Meiers, the Mayor family, and wanted to tell whether Ulrike
slept there. I could only now come back because the bus ... And began as
yelling at me: that my child will be withdrawn immediately virtue of his
office, and that the supervisory neglect is, in the most rugged nature (...)
And from the. day I could no longer see my daughter. (...) As I asked the
mayor, but give me back the child, and he gave me such a thundering, that I
am here, popped in the hall, in the anteroom of the mayor apartment to the
heater. And when he says: Because you need not rumzuheulen that believes you
anyway no one that I smote thee. And went into the apartment and took me just
standing like that. So I went to the pharmacy and got me Dormutil ... a
sleeping pill. Thats what I stirred into a pot of coffee, as great as is,
and swallowed Because, I thought, no, in prison you do not go back more!
(...) And when they see me lying there, have the emergency service brought to
Eisenach, and who then saved me.
Then describes me her second psychiatric training 1970: Since I had a
work therapy. I had to work in the pathology and women tissue samples from
these breast examinations under the microscope and so I had to cut on the
dissecting table in the portions and lie there for the professor. It has
shaken me, but what could I do, I had to make it so! I had the fetuses from
the glasses that have been delivered since-because there are indeed a
forensic clinic was-in throwing the furnaces there. I burned the soul They
told me about there lives housed murderers: And from whom they also have the
genitals added: ... and I had the photos below in a filing Books series. Or
cross sections of Kehlchen of infants who had swallowed a cherry pit, where
the suspicion of the murder was or something in this kind. With so what have
in the work therapy employs me ... I had thought that worse may be in a
concentration camp not have been!
Then she describes me another psychiatric abuse: And one day I was
summoned by the work therapy and am at once ... I was on the open station ...
That was right, and the left was closed in the same house. And since my
sister has caught and said: You never will walk a sister in the stomach
again! I do not know whom I should have entered there. I came home from work
therapy. And they brought me in as a Tobe cell where a recessed bed was only
a bed sheet so tightened, and a blanket with linen, linen, otherwise there
was nothing drinne in the room. Only those large white window, and the shops
were shut. I thought, what is now, what is happening now - I could only
freeze, tremor, anxiety .-- Then they touched me, one from top to bottom, one
pulled up, a pulled down, because I was naked again. This went ratzfatz as
fast as you cannot defend yourself. You know not where you should first
touch. Since they have undressed me and threw there on the bed and fixed to
his hands and feet. I thought, what is this now, why? It was not even
intended to do me any investigations .-- I know only afterwards that I have
been sprayed. And it may be that someone has been a Bndel over me since. I
do not know. I only know that something has been taken purely as a radio in a
car. Then I knew nothing more. I am then eventually woke up and thought I had
slept only a day or a night. And then there were three weeks. Since me three
weeks must have lowered so in a coma-like sleep or how shall I say, as a
guard sleeping maybe. I had to eat somehow or something. All I know is I was
totally dirty. This may of course have been his last of the hour or the last
day whether who nursed me at all, because I could not say anything at all. It
stunk terribly. I have never been so smelly ... like I come as a man in the
bed ... I was just at the closed station again. And when I asked why? And it
has been answered me never really. I would know everything myself ... Have it

149

5 Detailed representation of two selected cases

but not catch that unwarranted incarceration has been organized in time.
Namely, for the purpose, because my daughter has been adopted at this time.
She then describes me another escape attempt through the forest in
Czechoslovakia. Inbound she describes her neglected state in the forest, but
also in the interview culminates chaos: Yes, I have stopped me just in the
forest. The people I had to avoid. If I see people today ... Im trying since
withdraw. There is always trouble with people. AND then there was an amnesty,
1972. And thus I am again ... stop, no, now I throw it all messed .-- Thats
bad. - (scrolls) --Wo I was now? Oh, Potsdam, at this time, but when am I
because come in psychiatry Tollpitz - No, --Gerichtsgutachten. The time to
notice under section 16 or 15, if Im sane. And as a forensic order had got
from the prosecutors office, and should examine me. And at this time there
were already conflicts. I did not do anything to me always. They have my
private things that I could have even in the pre-trial detention, taken away,
and so what. There were frictions. Sometime escalated then also because we
beat each other. The ward nurses and the other two sisters and me. And when
they caught me, as I said, again the same song. Above and below, on the bed,
fixed. And who then calmly splashed me. Sedated. And they did so well
committed three days to me (...)
My already initially present feeling of being swamped by these disaster
reports, intensified since an even begin wise talk about these experiences
was impossible. On one hand, I had the impression that Mrs. Quindt wanted
deposit these undigested disasters with me, on the other hand strengthened my
suspicion that she unconsciously held a director who should put their Stasi
collaboration in a sacrificial context that clearly to the question of
personal guilt others delegated. Her childhood she describes me catastrophic:
it tells of two brothers who were starving in 1948 and 1951, and of her
father: (...) and my father is from 48 captivity of Russia (...) He was
four times in captivity. France, across the Rhine, as the British were. From
the British to the Americans, and the Americans to the Russians. He came in
48, 4 9 back home. Total emotionally neglected. And he was no longer the
man, as he went to war. He really had time loving his children properly. But
who had become cold. He has beaten us. Since he has now woven baskets and
prams Korbmacher was, he had the willow branches are always in salt water,
made canes. And with that he has but we really hit on the bare that the
calluses are cracked! For the smallest and lowest negations. Or if he has
caught, and we were not there on the doorstep and are pure. Then we had to
line up in threes, and because he then reacted to us, at his nasty life that
he now had with the war.
An exception to this catastrophe reports makes the depiction of
memories of the early years with her mother. And that has the Prof. K. me
only brought out again I was totally forgotten. The years were gone. Namely,
Mr. K. had noticed my behavior and these blackouts associated with these
times ... And since he has had excavated the: first time that I ... that my
father had trespassed against me. And then he went even lower and then had
the child ... So good times. Then he asked if I cannot describe, a good
moment. As I said, yes, the most were always times as a child ... Since I can
remember that on the way so there was snow. But even so the earth. And that
there was really liberated, has been looking forward properly, no burden here
or something there. Or where I liked to play. With my old stroller and with
my dolls there. And since he also brought ... noticed how my mom has
attracted me. The death of my grandmother, who was starved to death there.
That I had not so mitgekriegt as a child. Thats what I afterwards learned
only later why they had died. And the house where we lived drinne. The whole
family, the garden, toys and so on. He had saved me the six years that I then
... Where we had the work-up, this therapy. One and a half years, because it
was so heavy, he then brought in me again. Brought into this childhood. He

150

5 Detailed representation of two selected cases

says six years have been enough to strengthen my personality so ... So well,
that was the foundation for the man ... Yes, he meant that it was not only
bad, there were six good years. No matter how it has leaked, but six good
years with Mutti. And I was very closely connected with my mother, have
rumgeklebt only on her apron (laughs), nothing else.
Mrs. Quindt came in 1951 in a childrens home after the mother - as she
says, because of a syphilis - was psychiatrically hospitalized. There she
describes a military education: Yes, we have been so militarily educated.
(...) There was every day appeal. Because the flag was hoisted, these folk
songs or socialist marching songs were sung. It has also been rehearsed. We
also had a large choir are also performed it. So, what is culturally been
commanded us, only not love. Food was adequate. As it is, in large kitchens.
Interviewer: But no love, you say.
No love. That they could not. They would then have had 40 children on
the neck. 40 children were drinne in a group. So, they have withdrawn. I do
not know a physical touch! Not even that. And then the dormitories. With us
as in Zeitz, on Knittel wood. This is now part of Potsdam, the Foundation.
This was previously a military girls orphanage. Of soldiers, officers, the
children who are left orphans. And all the clothes, as that was left after
the war, the orphanage had taken. And we wore the clothes of these military
girl. (...) Since they then cut off the epaulettes. We are really in the old
clothes ... The shoes, which were huge mountains. Since were picked out for a
couple. The cobbler had patched it. We had frozen our feet. Was not
sufficient, the clothing. It was a very, very tough time. And then certainly
for the orphans or for admissions. (...) From the navel, because we have the
dirt under rausgespachtelt mess we helped ourselves. An educator can now not
all supply. Since we had also had a five-, six-year-old child who was our
loveable. We idolized, the little one.
At this point the interview scratching a cat at the door. Mrs. Quindt
opens the door and says: As someone wants pure. A Discarded, we have taken.
She continues: And - as I said, this military rigor was precisely what
had influenced us. Obedience absolutely. There were no demands. It has always
been said that if an arrangement is that must be carried out. Afterwards we
can discuss. But if now comes a command, which must be carried out. And later
you can talk about whether that was right or not. In this sense it is also
educated But even in this context, they can at least appoint a good man:.
The director of the home, which made sure that the children were also given
time to eat extra servings from the farmers or with them to the Baltic Sea
into the tent camp drove. They also emphasized the maintenance in the
childrens group, how much they have held together. When she reached puberty
later, which was connected to them apparently with fears: I wanted to stay a
child. I did not want to like the adults. They were made up who were mean,
who smoked, so everything. I found terribly grown-up people. The dismissal
from the childrens home was connected to them with the sexual abuse by the
stepfather. I have not spoken to anyone, I could not tell which. Because, he
has also said that if I tell this, then he kills me, then he beats me with an
ax dead. Thats what he told me. She no longer be able to speak to him about
it later. My sister ... But he has not touched! Funnily enough. And Ive now
told recently my sister Elke. And as she said it was revenge, because you
were not his child. He has raised you, he has paid the money for you. 30
marks a month. And that he then brought back, thereabouts. She was also
appalled. But she said, he has not touched me.
After about one and a half hours we arrive on their first contact with
the Stasi during her first imprisonment to speak. The first contact was ...
Im going back in the youth choir factory farm near Magdeburg. We have had to
work in the fields in the LPG. Pig and arable farming. And on the field I
have a leaflet found. I have taken that have read the. And there was of West

151

5 Detailed representation of two selected cases

Berliners an address. And since you should indicate ... As always fluttered
such silver linings on the fields around, the destruction of transmitters
should be or something like that. And I have found such a leaflet. So A5, and
have answered that. I should indicate about the milestone, where I have found
that, from the street up. Then I should say, if there is the next Russian
barracks, base is. What are plants there, factories, and how the atmosphere
is. Then it was also cover address. And as I have written down. And the
letter was intercepted. Well I never knew: that really is a leaflet from over
there have been, or was it a ploy by the Stasi? (...) They have intercepted
the letter and she came back in the youth factory farm. Since I was
interrogated. I was then so bad mentally ... They have me so made ready I was
brought up in a single room. I was really deep ill chills, broken, the entire
circuit must be me because messed gone in fear. And then they said: All
right, I have to stay until 18 drinne. Otherwise I would namely previously
skillfully already out. But since I have answered the leaflet and treason
have operated, I had to stay up to 18 .
Important for their future Stasi collaboration was their selfish desire
for men: I have been a very wild rock n roll, foxtrot dancer. That was my
world. With music, I could abnebeln me by humanity. Since I had my own world.
Also had good contact always. Was very contactless ready for men also. And
also sought there tenderness or love, or wanted to be married, to be loved
like everyone else maybe. And that became really like an addiction. I could
not be without a man, it has vexed me really. And I am thus also become
conspicuous for the Department of the Interior and also against the
population. It said: the whore! Either way, yes. And inside I was not ready.
I thought it was beautiful, it was pleasant, no one has been injured the
other. Warming was me perhaps more important than the make of the sexual
act.
The second contact with the Stasi then arose during the second
detention, when she agreed to spy on fellow prisoners and subsequently
dekonspirierte. After her release from prison she had a social worker who,
like himself-was for them later turned out-a Stasi employees. Which she told
of the advances, which made her a West Berlin lawyer who was probably also
involved in border crossing services company: And this harassment of which I
have this supervisor says that he keeps the me from the neck. And I did not
realize what Ive thrown. Now they have indeed now fallen to, though I now
knew what it was because ... So she had involuntarily the Stasi delivered a
first important piece of information. A renewed commitment to cooperation
stemmed from her view by a blackmail maneuver after another detention: And I
had had a sentencing. And half an hour before that ... brought me right in
the office of the public prosecutors office, the county prosecutor. Since
there were two gentlemen. (...) And as they have over the sentence spoken by
the last sentence and said I would because such good contacts with the
underworld, and as I imagine that if I had given birth to the child, and ...
Well, she could ensure that I could stay out. But I did not know that I could
have stayed there. They had not given me this selection, not given to me to
note .... But I did not know that I can be free and so would. And there have
also been afraid that they take away my son. And I was also very, how shall I
say - as fascinated. I do not know what the trigger in me. (...) And I have
to say ... my Sexverhalten. As a woman ... if I liked, I had to have him.
Something like that. And that made me really from the physical and the
psychic totally confused. Then came the pressure, we can be different, then
the child goes up for adoption as your firstborn, and you stay in detention.
And he had emigration applications, and one was approved. And one has not
delivered me. (...) And the pressure, detention continues, child away, and
training in psychiatry, as I said, for my child, I sign, and for my freedom.
And I thought, oh, because certainly nothing will play, youre the bend, and

152

5 Detailed representation of two selected cases

away you are. Ive really thought nothing of it, nor thought to work for. But
psychologically brought the ready that everything went off so smoothly at
once. So many signatures as I have given, I do not know what I signed. I did
not know how failed the judgment, which fascinated me, the fear of the child.
I cannot imagine ... I was really in a mill there, you then reports of a
first job. They should lure the aforementioned lawyer who helped to escape
from East Germany, to Leipzig. And then I was out on parole, and then came
to me of, and which was then interesting. I did not know what I had touched
since. I thought an attorney is anyway taboo. (...) But in my reports is
drinne that the X. entry ban has gotten for the GDR, because he has been
recognized as smugglers. And now came to: I should go with this lawyer in
epistolary connection. I should report interest in him from escaping. And I
should recruit him to come to Leipzig, where we should meet. And there would
have accessed. And since I have met in a night club, somewhere in Berlin
someone. And since I have given a card, he wants to be so nice, and they want
to give to the X: he shall not enter into the DDR. Nothing more. Do not
respond to my letters, my calls, nothing, he should do so, as if nothing had.
Nor let it be in his answers that I had informed him. The Act of operation
there.
An important motive for collaboration with the Stasi must have been
some kind of sexual bondage for women Quindt: It is built on what between
the case officer and me. How connectedness. I wanted him to entice sex. At a
meeting I have opened the door naked or just wearing a towel in front of it.
And I let him tempt, and then theyre only come in pairs. (...)
Interviewer: But he did you like obviously Mrs. Quindt. Ah, absolutely my
type Interviewer: Youve fallen in love with? Madam Quindt: Yes. And but
also the correct type that already knew what my type, set on me, where I
would absolutely leave Interviewer:. What would you say, what kind of guy?
Mrs. Quindt: RTL, This Newscaster: - clapper. So a guy. Great, charisma,
charisma, everything, it all fit. Only I have not so because Ive done more
on obedience. I was very punctual to these surveillance operations ... The
attracted me more and more, although also sometimes told me things that have
hurt me a lot. I felt as if I would give myself necessarily always lower in
his power, that he talked about me ... increasingly Ultimately only from me.
That was very funny. This power has perhaps not every man, but who had the
had. I like he thought, whether one now called brainwashing, I do not know.
At the same time she and her child from the Stasi were provided with an
apartment with their facility. Also their maintenance has been paid by the
Stasi, as long as they still had no job in Berlin.
Your Stasi working area were the night bars and hotels Inter: And I
had actually given the job of taking care in the bars when someone asks me if
hes a butt or a Busengrabscher. What he thinks, what he does. But so
directly, whether he is an agent or if he wants to escape or something. This
question was not asked that. I told more out of my experiences. And every
weekend, so once a week I had to phone register with the Department of the
Interior and the Stasi: that I am here, that I should go to work and what
there is of special features. Where I am going, with whom I make myself. And
once every fortnight or every week, I do not remember exactly, Friday I had a
stakeout. Since I have been told how to assess people had, starting up of the
head, the shape of the face, the eyes, the size of the growth. Yes, such as a
police officer when making its finding as such a physical description. And I
was obliged, with whom ... Although they have always said I do not need it,
if I do not want. But it always came to sexual intercourse. And only once
with my instinct ... which I do not klarkam. And that had consciously taken
into account. They also wrote that they had to take into account in order to
maintain this Observierung this conspiratorial activity, they had to let me

153

5 Detailed representation of two selected cases

run wild and still help the fact that I verwildere even more, in-sexual
area.
But they worked for the Stasi also outside this range. So they got in
touch with the witness to Jehovah. I had there as Jehovahs Witnesses in the
apartment ... They put the foot in the door, and I was with my baby alone
with my child. And I was scared. With my past and everything that kind of
people, and what do they want from me? And with us, Jehovahs Witnesses are
what have been quite bad. Those were sects kill people. Correct. And it was
true. They wanted to recruit me, and that I have Peter (their case officer;
dV) told. I say, what am I going to do, you can help me and do to me someone
in the apartment when the come back? And then he said, let you advertise. And
until the christening out I had to take handwriting samples by any ...
(inaudible) ... Bible readings. And somehow I managed that one specimen
signature be there. And there were identified and arrested. Actually from my
primal fear of being exposed to these people. Who knows what theyre doing.
(...) And then busted because of what I had been chattering. It was not
provided to me that to denounce or something. It is simply unwound way. And
then I had a purely because they had then given me the job. And I had also
done me no thought, because the sect was banned from us.
In the Gauck Authority be found later in her Stasi file a total of 31
reports. Through descriptions of this kind is clear how much women Quindt
strives to convey to me that their collaboration with the Stasi less
corresponded to their personal conscious will, but that she was a driven, so
to speak, happened all this. Here she seems to see me as potentially
threatening. Someone, before they have to justify himself because he could
condemn them.
And the friend alcohol was of course my constant companion. Ive only
got drunk. Im half-drunk only once gone, because I afraid to enter a room
where people are. And certainly if ... Ive always had the feeling that Im
going to get smaller and go back ever. And so Ive been drinking. As I have
had courage and could do it all because it all went easy. (...) Thats what
Ive been chattering or written, half-drunk or something, which I have yet
not registered correctly! I had trouble sober to get my head and so to lay a
report. And because the have liked to have heard, I have said, it ended up in
bed. To end all my things. But it was actually-through my eczema, I always
have a bit of peeling (scratches his arm) - showed actually just ... Lustlos!
But I just had to show that I Peter ... That to me is good.
Moreover, it is important for her to tell me that she had her work did
not understand the purposes of espionage, but that there was also for them
what the legend says the Stasi jargon, so an acceptable justification story
of IM varied to IM and was always tailored personally: ... I do not feel as
a spy. Im not a spy. I did not catch what it was actually there. And I said,
I inform of what if someone ... Because who always said, these are all sex
offenders that they bring me their sights there. I want to help, that no
child or no more young people are raped or that abuse is or so only. I was
always there on it, these are criminals. So ordinary citizens or that it was
a political matter not, but that they were criminals. (...) Because who
always told me these are sex offenders, these are people who are women ... I
am sent as a decoy through the forest, and there was a murderer drinne.
Whether that was really there drinne, I do not know. I had to go through the
forest and knew only that which is somewhere close to me. But thank God, was
not there. Such abuse has also happened. For that I was not worth anything. I
have had the not understood.
The end of their IM activity came with her marriage in 1981: At some
point the dormant but slowly. And the reason was because I married my
husband. Ive told my husband everything. I told him about the safe house, I
told of the meetings, I have to do. Then he had to join a while endure,

154

5 Detailed representation of two selected cases

because they had not yet been released me. As he tried to hold me back with
my child. Because I half-drunk evaporation of again. And there were clashes
with an egg clap on your hair, so I do not ... I had to do so again
beautiful. He always wanted to try to keep me there. I could not yes. I was
not allowed to yes. I knew what follows. And that he could not understand so
well. And as a man he was also injured. He knew that there was sexual stuff
out. Even my boy ran after me on the street and wanted to hold me. I was not
allowed. I had the boys push back and had to go on.
And then I got married and have written, I would like to be rid of it.
Now that I have a marriage, cannot agree more. And I thought that was the
right reason, that to me because no one can say married, Im protected.
Previously we have only ever tried to live together one year. Since the
matter was not just so, and he has all this yet so experienced, very bad
things, and always drunk. And then we got married, because in Friedrichshain.
And then we both understood each other but slowly getting better. But there
was no sexual intercourse. That was from. My husband was doing no more with
and complained that he was in pain. And then I did not want to because I did
not experience what I experienced with other men. And that was too drab. And
then ... I was always interested in seeing my family ...-- shall we say, not
marriage and marital obligations - my family is now not torn again by a
disease like the mom, the children go to Home , all go, everything is broken.
Because most of it is so, if the mother fails in the family, breaks the whole
family. I wanted the kitten necessarily. And Ive done it! Ive also got the
curve. My husband had then found me another job. And then she was then
working in the National Memorial Sachsenhausen in sales for books, etc. Later
she Ansteckplaketten at Deutsche Post in accounting.
On the turn they responded with physical and psychological symptoms: I
got a sudden hypertension. (...) And the doctor noted cardiac arrhythmias and
anxiety, guilt. Everything chaos, yes, helplessness and panic! Then came yes
... I was now at the post office ... and we had to take the S-Bahn ... I did
not even know that I cannot drive in the train that I have claustrophobia.
(...) The people, the people I was scared. Above all, if they were more than
two. And that was so bad, I got my head is not high, in order to talk to
them. I had, when I spoke, lowering his head. It was like so rigid. This went
over the whole brain. I was forced into this position ... And if someone
spoke to me, that hurt me, then rev the head. As if there were managers who
came from West Berlin. With our people I could talk quite different again,
because I was not as self-conscious. And ...
Interviewer: Do you have an idea of what you feared? Mrs. Quindt: I
do not know. Since I did not even know that there are so morally human rights
violations. I have not considered that. Afraid I had faced Interviewer:.
Due to the cooperation with the Stasi Mrs. Quindt: Nah, before the people,
all people. I could not explain it. I have to my husband and said, I have
terrible fear. Bin then there always driven over in a tense situation, and we
had had this highly embarrassing conversations, because we were asked to the
Stasi employees. That was a special ... an ombudsman from the post office.
The came from Bonn with his people, and then who us ... And as I have told
the truth, that I am in. I told the alias and had shown me 89 in November in
Friedrichshain to the prosecutor. Because I no longer klarkam as with the
problem of what I am now? Am I now a republic Volatile? Am I a victim? Am I
perpetrator? It has now also everything slowly brought into the media. And it
was like a race with death, with death, with the public death for me. This
Stasi was not so attacked, but these spy. And then we made war with, that the
arrests were that releasing them again. That actually those who had brought
us to had actually made us the second time to the victims. These things as
join. The were dismissed, and the media and the general public ... I suddenly
had a whole nation of enemies. They would have stoned me, if I had outed me.

155

5 Detailed representation of two selected cases

It was really, I would also say that there were deaths. (...) I have informed
the prosecutors office, what I experienced. That triggered that I had a
hearing with the Chief of Police Berlin-Tempelhof. As Ive told everything.
Had no effect. Nothing. Have I not insulted. Quite nice really dealt with me.
Only, I could not tell. It was all drinne, and yet was not there. And a woman
Mink, that was the name, I believe, who had to talk to me. They had to let me
come a second time, then I could tell better. But she realized there was
something in me what worked. And it has helped me as far as she could. She
also has not pressured me. And then she has also made a log. And since I have
never heard what it. I had then asked for insight into the Gauck Authority.
Since I myself am gone. And since I have had a conversation with the
spokesman. As I have said about me that I did fish a IM. But victims have.
And I feel that haunts me. What I have to do. And, Ill kill myself, I cannot
stand that. And who then causes I then immediately got my insight also. And
since I have records --- but really, three or four such thick folder. And all
I could ... They knew everything! All reports in the psychiatric, all
gathered from the doctors about me. I am a psychopath, Im paranoid, so I
must have been a very bad mental patients.
They told me further that then officially their unlawful treatment in
the GDR has been determined. And I also get the capital compensation. In
seven years. As you can imagine, that was ne mass money. And I have wasted
nothing, I have everything invested in the land.
To her surprise, she found out after the fall of the wall the first
time from an existing GDR era opposition. Then I went sometimes, I do not
know in which corner it was, at the Nikolai Church in Berlin, or where that
was. That was ... Since the Wall had fallen. And I have purely streamed in
such a gallery or loft with the other because ... There are tons of people
down there and were our intellectuals and fought. Or introduced themselves
with their concepts, as they wanted to lead the DDR. So I claim the family
minister ... mostly women. And as I have for the first time in my life heard
of the Greens, of civil rights activists. Because I was for so many years in
prison, I never, I swear, of a movement against the GDR! Never! I had even
seen, that the Church has gekuscht and has made common cause with the GDR. I
have never heard. I have only heard of Republic fugitives who were imprisoned
like me, or have received sentences, because they were on the run, were not
working, that they are anti-social. And have been sentenced as asocial. But I
knew neither what a woman Bohley or ... They would not accept us. It could
have been that students eventually ... But since we would not be hard to get
to the sections of the population. Because who had had their drawers, lets
say so, had their privileges. The could not leave with us, that was where
their ... How is that supposed to express? They only lived with their peers
on a plane. Who did not leave us down. Above all, the artists. And that is
because maybe been. But in this world we have cannot daily. (...) They are
sometimes abused as pretty girls or so, yes. At their parties. But we did not
know what theyre doing. And then I was so shocked when the went to the
podium since. Absolute power only desire! Which it was not about a work-up,
but they wanted to enforce against the Westerners that have the position and
the West does not spill over us. Such a situation was. But all departments
what there is to government. About politics in the sense has not spoken. Or
that the GDR was such a Schandland. Not at all. It was only a distribution of
power!
The real character of their IM activities it has recognized only after
the fall of the wall: Through the television, I then mitgekriegt what that
was for a work ... Interviewer: How did you feel then, when you heard that?
Mrs. Quindt: Bad. Poor. I could not place it. And that is why I say yes,
Ive had these failures, that I am right and then collapsed had fallen ill.
(...) And then I ... The guilt was then so hot. And these attacks on the

156

5 Detailed representation of two selected cases

population. I look today ... as if I want to hurt yourself, this program of

informers. And since I want to kill me .-- And since my husband has found,
and my son ... but this time with alcohol. Because I wanted to have a real
great effect, that you cannot save me again. Interviewer: In what year
Mrs. Quindt: was that? 89. Nee, baloney, 98. (...) (Crying) That was ten
years. And I have also perceived as persecution .-- And I was about to do
with the suicide an end.
You told me then of her only western travel, a spa stay on a North
Frisian island, where she felt like in a strange world. From her current
residence, she says: This is my safe jail. Thats my cell, and if I do not
want, I do not open the door ... and Im almost a year did not go by land,
until the Lord K. then forced me out, by the therapy. At the end of
conversation, I ask her if she because today have the impression that all
these things could slowly back to them a little in the past. Not yet: For
this she says. That has absorbed me so, I only live in this tunnel. I do not
know why. I want-Im looking, looking, and there is no end. The body no
longer let me go. Its really like an addiction. Why, why, why, why me? And
if it has really given, the civil rights and which has been approached with
me not in the whole forty years to me. That is why I also cannot keep up when
the say of six months or a year I stick imagine my seven year against what I
had experienced there. And jumped am I, where they then said that we are the
worst human, there is. This went against the capital compensation. Since I
have however brought before the Administrative Court of Cottbus, and has been
upheld. They also said that there was a strategy by the Stasi, that all the
doctors as the Stasi together ... and that I was not able to autonomously
decide whatever that is. I only know the sentence.
We are at the end of our conversation. Mrs. Quindt asks me now then,
what the word autonomous really means.

157

6 Final considerations

6 Final considerations
6.1 Subsequent editing of biographical narratives
The told us stories of the former IM and her portrayal of collaboration with
the Stasi are marked as all the reports of eyewitnesses by subsequent
machining. The current life situation, social conditions as well as the
interaction with the interviewer have influence on the current releases.
Verbalized memories are therefore no objective reproductions of past
events, but subjective creation, serving the current design of a relationship
between interviewee and interviewer. Past seems to in the light of the
present. That memories are often patchy, is attributable to the fact that the
meeting with the Stasi back are some IM for many years, so that details are
no longer remembered. On the other hand are the memories actual shame and
guilt, touch some painfully experienced situations. By 1990 it was uncovering
and public condemnation of many IM they were forced to justify and document
their willingness to secret loan activity partially offset by legends before
him other. Historical facts out in autobiographical memory in accordance with
the current self-perception often acceptable for the narrator forming.
Dissonance between current settings and previous perspectives be resolved in
favor of the current and developed the idea that he had never thought
otherwise or traded. After the demise of the GDR and the discovery of the
extent of the monitoring and pursuit of enemies of the state, many took a
more critical attitude to IM their country, as they had not at the time of
the existence of the GDR. It is thus understandable that in the interviews
they rated ten years after the turn of the system critical, than they were in
the GDR without that one can speak of a deliberate falsification of the
previous setting so. In psychoanalysis, this modification of the past is
known under the concept of screen memory. Occurs another which is less
stressful and conflictual and more acceptable to the current self-image to
replace the actual memory of an unpleasant experience full. This replacement
ideas are compromise formations in the defensive struggle of the ego against
traumatic experiences or intolerable conflicts between moral requirements and
the actions of the person. The phenomenon of self-in-one-eye-blind placing
can be used as an explanation for the differences between historical and
subjective truth. Facts that do not fit to their own self-image will be
hidden. One sees, for example, be just as someone who was interrogated by the
Stasi, and is blind to the signs that indicate that it was even used as an
informant. These defenses against memories of its own culpable actions must
be distinguished from deliberate lies. They are the victims unaware, because
they serve precisely to protect themselves from psychological stress,
especially guilt. On the other hand they also mean no exculpation. However,
it would not be helpful to accuse all former IM in the review meetings of the
denial of their entanglements with the Stasi. Of course there will be many
who want to protect themselves by conscious denial of their cooperation
before sanctions. To arrive at a fair assessment, however, it is necessary to
consider the biographical background, the personality and unconscious
defenses. Only under these conditions it will be possible for the parties
concerned to achieve insight into their involvement and to ensure a fair
processing.
Another factor influencing the story of former IM is their expectation
of the interviewer and in the course of the conversation evolving
interaction. The willingness to be candid the persons addressed by us
depended on what the interviewee is expected of their interlocutors,
psychotherapists from West Germany, to understanding and support. In the

158

6 Final considerations

working out of conviction for the Stasi employees biographical memories were
mainly characterized by their group membership and their current social
situation. The loss of their more or less large share of power in the GDR and
the questioning of their political convictions after 1990 they tried thereby
to deal with, that they tried, the interviewer as a non-GDR citizens from the
advantages of socialist society and the legality to convince their work for
the Stasi. For them, there is no doubt that the Stasi was the BND and the
protection of the constitution in West Germany to be equated, even if it was
not about democracy in the GDR. Although they admitted some mistakes of the
SED regime as the restriction of freedom of East German citizens, but could
total no doubt that their actions were lawful and intended to protect their
state. This attitude towards the interviewers certain both the biographical
narrative and the representation of the collaboration with the Stasi. They
saw it as their duty, continuing to struggle after the end of the GDR for
their ideals. The fact that many of the details of their IM activities were
not or only mentioned in passing, especially when it came to the betrayal and
the injury of individuals who are reconstructing their Stasi work was very
difficult.
Three of investigated by us had already held talks with journalists or
academics. With them played among other motives the desire for publicity and
self-expression play an important role. We got the impression that they have
constructed in the course of their multiple repeated tales, a life story that
is consistent with both their moral ideas as well as their personal and
political ideals, its relationship to historical truth, however, is difficult
to detect. Of these biographical narratives, the interviewees themselves were
so convinced after a few repetitions, it was difficult in the talks to gain
new insights that would have put the previous design in question.
A larger group of interviewees, who suffered after the disclosure under
job losses, cuts in pensions, social isolation and mental illness, used the
conversation to get understanding and support. In their reports about their
often troubled childhood and adolescence and the stresses during IM
obligation they presented themselves as victims, as victims. Without
intending to ask the really traumatic experience in question must
nevertheless be borne in mind that this representation of deprivation had in
family and society also has the function to justify himself and to see itself
more as victims than as perpetrators. The difficult economic and social
situation in which some interviewees were present during the investigation,
was also not without influence on her report. Since many of the former at a
disadvantage professional and financial nature suffered, the stories about
the stresses took a large space. In this way they tried to win sympathy and
understanding for themselves. They succeeded by partially causing a big
consideration when the interviewers so that they refrained from requesting
information, or intense confrontation with contradictions in the reports, in
order not to fall into the role of a prosecutor. That the two interviewers
are West German, is certainly not without influence on the talks have been.
Firstly, it was hoped that due to the distance a greater understanding than
of GDR citizens that may have been victims of the Stasi, on the other hand
could be objected to them that they did not know the conditions in the GDR as
a West German and try some facts on this way to hide.

159

6 Final considerations

6.2 Why it was many GDR citizens not possible to evade

recruitment by the Stasi?
To oppose the state security put forward courage, i.e. stand up for ones own
convictions, to endure the fear of sanctions and social isolation and to
waive the protection of authority. How difficult it is to break away from
dependency and to face alone the power, Freud describes in 1910 in The
future prospects of psychoanalytic therapy: The least civilized people are
capable, without dependence to exist to others or even to cases only an
independent judgment , The authority addiction and internal instability they
cannot imagine bad enough. (Freud, 1910d, p 109) If it is difficult even in
democratic states to show political disobedience, as in dictatorships to
overcome fears in the face of serious consequences very much larger.
Nevertheless, even in the GDR citizens have the courage to resist the
pressure of the Stasi, without suffering serious sanctions in any case, must
(Mller-Enbergs, 2000). But that also persons who are working with the Stasi
violated their moral values, although not said no, was, inter alia, the fact
that they could not assess the consequences of resistance would have pulled
up. Not only this uncertainty made the mentioned citizens anxious and without
resistance. Growing up in the era of National Socialism or the GDR, they had
experienced no education, which would have been the development of an
autonomous, self-confident personality conducive. To develop self-reliance
and self-confidence, it is necessary to experience both in the family and in
society security and recognition and to be encouraged for autonomous action.
The socialist education for people in the GDR, however, had the goal of
integrating the individual into the collective and to declare independent
thought and action, which did not agree with the Party as subversive. Was a
citizen of not willing to assist this adaptation, remained his only exit or
escape, or he had to try to find in an opposition group with likeminded
people. Only then he had the opportunity, not to be totally isolated in his
criticism and to get support. Members of church or other opposition groups
found it easier to resist the recruitment by the Stasi and endure the
conflict with the state organs. They were, as we have described it by the
example of Ms. Ring, won only through pressure or blackmail. As the few
studies of objectors cooperation show, but there were also always individuals
who, despite the threat of punitive measures rather than their conscience
obeyed the calls of the Stasi. They were helped in many cases the
Dekonspiration unless they had the courage to direct refusal. In several of
the examined by us, which actually could not agree with their conscience to
betrayal, fear of the penalties was either stronger or lacked insight into
the importance of the information they provide. Others succumbed to the
seduction by the enforcement officers, who offered them assistance and
recognition and thus acted as a substitute parent. The neglect in the family
made them receptive to the offers of the Stasi. Since GDR citizens in many
areas of life state dependency relationships experienced, for example, at
school, in the FDJ, the army, the workplace, etc., to adapt to the demand of
the enforcement officers appeared to be nothing extraordinary. In addition to
the collaboration with the Stasi, the illusion was connected, even to
participate in power and to free themselves from the powerless position.
Often recruited IM was in a similarly difficult situation as the under
surveillance, for example, in prisons or the army, and could, by betraying
the other, even escape sanctions and gain recognition in the authority. Since
all IM negotiated on behalf of the powerful institution, it was possible for
them to delegate responsibility, they needed to have no guilt. In our study,
we therefore found rather than shame-guilt. It was ashamed of the situation
at the time of recruitment does not recognize and no to have said. But for

160

6 Final considerations

the deeds you did the Stasi responsible, in whose name the surveillance had
been carried out. It was many IM in the GDR did not succeed, a personal ego
(Mitscherlich, 1966) to develop, that would have been a prerequisite for from
the embrace of socially mediated constraints (ibid., 143) to free. The
project, funded by the state educational measures collective I certain
their standards and moral ideas. The previous considerations are less of SED
members and convinced of the socialist objectives citizens. Your hopes for
the realization of a socialist society prevented them from perceiving the
reality of oppression and persecution. The wish-fulfilling thought they had
to accept the repression as a means to an end. It filled her rather proud to
contribute to this development, which is why they reacted after 1989 with
disappointment, hurt and sadness at the loss. Why they had come specifically
to their conviction was evident in the study only partially because of their
family experience, but also a result of subsequent identifications with role
models.

6.3 Processing of surveillance and repression in the GDR

For many citizens who have suffered in the GDR under surveillance,
decomposition and detention, after 1990, the need was great to understand how
it had come to such measures and who were those responsible. The victims of
the Stasi demanded justice, detection and punishment of the perpetrators.
Through the resolution adopted on 20 12. 1991 Law on the Records of the State
Security Service of the former German Democratic Republic was established, as
the victims access to the files must be ensured and procedures for former
employees of the Stasi to be checked. Den in the GDR are persecuted access to
the file, the opportunity to learn how the Stasi has affected their lives.
More difficult proved to be the application of the law for the unofficial
collaborators, since these had been monitored in some cases even by the
Stasi, and forced to work together. The review of parliamentarians and staff
in the public service has been solved so that the authority of the Federal
Commissioner for the Records of the State Security Service (Stasi) of any
person who had been out on record as IM, authorized examiner for inquiries by
the employer or other bodies information are. In these reports, the manner
and duration of the collaboration with the Stasi described. To represent the
IM activity from the case, the person concerned will not be heard by the
Stasi, which many of the participants experienced on our investigation as
unfair because they had no way to rectify distortions of enforcement
officers. Especially in the first period of existence of the authority, as
yet existed no experience of the relevant request reimbursement, some former
IM felt misjudged because their partial refusal of information or avoiding
meetings with the enforcement officers has not been taken into account for
their relief. Only when reviewing workplace, the former IM usually the
opportunity to comment on the allegations and may represent the activity from
its perspective. As some of the interviewees portrayed credibly, only the
fact of cooperation, but not the circumstances surrounding the recruitment,
type of activity and the attempt of an indirect resistance were taken into
account in their review committees. For the decision of the commissions, the
competition for jobs or enmities among colleagues were in some cases more
decisive. So could e.g. when necessary in an institution headcount
reductions, the argument of IM activities are used to dismissal, even if that
had been blackmailed on record as IM Guided itself. The accusation of unfair
treatment raise some former IM also because not all institutions and
employers put questions to the authorities and checked their employees. As
Mller-Enbergs (1999) in his article in the materials of the Commission of
Inquiry overcoming the consequences of the SED dictatorship in the process

161

6 Final considerations

of German unification describes the verification commissions used no uniform

evaluation scheme with regard to the continued employment or dismissal of
exposed persons. Even with the IM-definition existed in StUG problems because
the rules of the Stasi was initially not yet enough known. The methods used
by labor and administrative courts benchmark in assessing IM activity also
led to different judgments. As Mller-Enbergs notes the process of
verification, the composition of the committees and the evaluation standards
were so different, that structurally cannot be assumed to justice, even
though in many places a careful and appropriate procedures, including a
verifiable dealing determine is (ibid ., p 1392).
Former IM, who are not engaged in the public service can, in many
cases, are beyond the disclosure of the secret activity. So it was, for
example, a doctor who was observing his patients for the Stasi, possible to
work after the turn undisturbed in private practice while teachers lost their
jobs in many cases solely on the basis of the documents before the Court,
without further investigation. With these arguments the IM we interviewed did
not want to make any verification in question. The justice gap was reason to
talk in the interviews more about the injustice done to them than their deeds
for many interviewees. They were concerned mainly to the unequal treatment
which made it difficult for them to feel not disadvantaged compared to other
occupational groups or to be sent stealing from the responsible politicians.
With the large number of IM is a work-up that meets all, hardly feasible.
Nevertheless, the question arises whether a provision which would have been
the same for all IM, would rather encourage the willingness to reflect on
ones own responsibility.
Even when we go out in our study of a very small number, so the most
different persons are represented in this group that critically evaluate each
others arguments the workup by StUG. You feel scapegoated, while many of
those who were involved in the repression in the GDR or had adapted without
contradiction, are not held accountable. In our analysis, the question under
what conditions the individual IM most likely would be willing to come to
terms with his conspiratorial activity and hence potentially to offer the
victims satisfaction.
As unhelpful be victim-offender discussions proved, because the roles
are clearly defined in these conversations between culprits and victims from
the outset and by the victims cannot be expected to show understanding for
the motives and circumstances of the offender. To cope with their suffering,
they need admissions of guilt and repentance of those who observierten and
harm them. The insistence on the innocence on the part of the perpetrators in
these discussions often led to new violations of the Stasi Observierten.
Publicly admit their guilt are willing neither former party members still
convinced supporters of the GDR. However, the pressurized or extorted
experience not as a perpetrator of criminal acts, but rather themselves as
victims. Few interviewees, who betrayed no great hardship alone professional
benefits for acquaintances or colleagues, confessed guilt or shame a.
More than in victim-offender discussions can open discussions with
employees in neutrals, if at all there is a willingness to do so is former
unofficial. Only in a conversational atmosphere in which it is not about
accusations and defense, in the IM can expect a differentiated, their
circumstances taken into account attitude, a reflection on the conspiracy is
to be expected. Some of those interviewed stressed that they as
psychotherapists could talk openly about their mental health problems, their
fears and the lack of courage to resist with us first. From a Observierten
who has been damaged by the information of one IM, one cannot expect that he
applies tolerance and understanding.
As our discussions should not only deepen our knowledge about the
motives of unofficial Stasi employees, but we wanted to offer the

162

6 Final considerations

interviewee, even if only very limited help in dealing with the past, most
were willing to give us an insight into their biography and in their to give
reasons. That can be such talks only perform with a small number of former
employees, however, should not prevent to consider whether the use of the IM
would not lead to more insight and acceptance of responsibility, if you take
the standard sentencing, as it is often in the press or for anonymous
publication of names of former IM happened, would be willing to listen to the
presentation of those concerned about their past. A prosecution or dismissal
from the civil service in relevant offenses should therefore not be excluded.
Since we know that people especially the Stasi picked with the help of
operational psychology in the recruitment of IM, which appeared due to their
mental health and living conditions especially for the conspiracy to be
suitable, please refer to our interviewees, many mentally burdened people. It
would be useful to consider in addressing the former unofficial collaborators
that had a lot of family and psychological problems and the case officer knew
exploit their needs sent. In our collective came a lot of the people from
broken families, was without father or grew up in homes. When assessing the
unofficial collaborator differentiation between victims and perpetrators is
not always clearly based solely on the files of the Stasi. It raises the
question of who is actually an offender. The one who committed treason
conviction, due to professional benefits or out of revenge and envy, or even
the one to whom he was threatened with imprisonment or the removal of a child
and thought he could not bear the consequences. It is not easy for a man who
was blackmailed because they needed an informant from an opposition religious
group to see themselves as a traitor, especially when he tried to mention any
names, and nothing other could have hurt to betray, , To deal with its IM
past, cannot, as it is expected in the public often consist only of the
admission of guilt, but for the individual is often to deal again with his
traumatic experiences in childhood and adolescence, the occasion were for his
consent to cooperate with the Stasi. If a grown up in homes young woman who
had no firm bond and little confidence had in others, let yourself be seduced
by the attention and support of a friendly guide officer, so this must be
assessed differently than if an IM of his career under surveillance because
colleagues. There can be no all set in the valid conditions for a meaningful
handling of conspiratorial activity, but it turns out that the existing,
established in StUG procedure brings many difficulties.
Apart from the mentioned obstacles for working up some of our
interlocutors complained of the fact that they could not access their work
files, but only in their personnel files. That is, they were not allowed to
see the reports drawn up by themselves or by the enforcement officers after
the meetings. This gave them the opportunity to declare these protocols as an
invention of the guide officer and to escape in this way because they have
not been directly confronted with their actions. Only when it came to a labor
dispute by dismissals, they were aware of the charges. Since we are not
concerned in our investigation to the criminal processing of the SED
injustice, but about the possibilities of each IM to understand his motives
and to identify ways in which he has contributed to the surveillance and
repression in the GDR, we are interested in the precondition for access to
their own fault and responsibility. In the interviews, it was important for
us to be about our own assumptions in the talks in the clear to still be the
accuser neither the defenders of the interviewees. Our psychotherapeutic
attitude that we could not maintain such therapy in discussions in the
interviews with witnesses in the same form, however, helped us not be too
hasty to condemn and not unilaterally taking sides for the interviewee. Not
abandon this neutral stance, was difficult in some interviews, because the
respondents were trying to convince us of their vision. Our interest in the
biographical backgrounds for conspiratorial activity and willingness to

163

6 Final considerations

pressures on the IM before and to listen after the turn without performing a
conviction, it allowed some of the interviewees, guilt and shame expressed to
express concern about the Observierten and To get insight that it would be
necessary in the future raise more civil courage. For many, however, the
self-pity was greater, since their current difficulties, the past deeds were
pushed into the background.

6.4 Generalization of findings possibility and validity of

interpretations
In the small number of examinees, the findings are difficult to generalize.
The impossibility of interviewing a representative sample has led us to
select a diverse group of former IM with very different motives and political
settings. With the help of an employee of the Stasi, Mr. Mller-Enbergs, we
have managed to come up with IM different backgrounds and work towards this
week so that we could get a picture of the diversity of people
conspiratorially. It can be found in our collective both people who were
willing to cooperate with the Stasi out of political conviction, for career
reasons and of naivety, as well as those that have been put under pressure.
If we assume that these were the main reasons for the collaboration with the
Stasi, so we have acquired with our investigation even with the small number
of those interviewed a wide range of people for the Stasi. Despite the
singularity of the life stories of the 20 interviewees can therefore be drawn
from these findings conclusions about motivation and processing of various
groups of IM.
In order to achieve an objective assessment as possible in the
evaluation of the transcribed interviews, each week of five psychoanalysts
was assessed individually, and then match and differences were recorded in a
consensus rating. It could be corrected in this manner subjective prejudices.
Differences in the interpretation of narratives occurred occasionally between
the interviewers and other experts. This could be one part to the personal
knowledge of the unofficial collaborator by the interviewer attributed, on
the other hand were able to also unreflective presuppositions of the
interviewer to be elucidated. As a review of the interpretation not as in
psychotherapy by the progress of the treatment is possible, the accuracy of
an interpretation can only be detected at the logical consistency with the
entire interview text. The validation was also ensured by the fact that in
the detailed discussion of each expert had to justify his interpretation with
the text again and could clarify contradictions in this way.

6.5 Social and individual disease

From a psychodynamic perspective, the DDR was filled with a paranoid
atmosphere: the enemy, which could bring the system to collapse, seemed
everywhere to moderate and demanded surveillance in a constantly rising Emden
extent. This suspicion arose of an assessment made by the system itself split
between the self-definition as well, and socially progressive and the
definition of any form of opposition as evil, antisocial and reactionary and
their attribution to the so-called imperialist countries. The fundamental
inability to recognize that immediate correspondence between people is the
exception rather than the rule, gave this country its totalitarian character.
It was an attempt to realize a society in which there were no conflicts and
could be discharged. This gave the GDR their collective regressive nature,
incapacitated its citizens, but also - what is often overlooked - the rulers.

164

6 Final considerations

With the split between good and evil, between socialism and imperialism, but
the evil was averted not only outside society. The own projected onto the
enemy evil Shares threatened repeatedly to penetrate and to spread in their
own society. To control them, the apparatus of the Stasi was increasingly
expanded over the years. The GDR began large energy, human and financial
resources to fight enemies of the state. Despite the heterogeneity of the
life stories presented here show very clearly how there was an interaction
between institutional and personal regression, all those involved with it
have become carriers of them unconscious process that the apparently returned
to their own countries evil always make anew arrest and wanted to
externalize.

165

Appendix

Appendix
Abbreviations
ABM

Arbeitsbeschaffungsmaacquisition

IMK

Unofficial collaborators to
secure the conspiracy and
the connection system

AfNS

Office for National

Security (successor to
the Stasi)

IMS

Unofficial collaborator who

was in charge of securing
social areas or objects or
for political and
operational penetration and
securing
Veranwortungsbereichs

BDM

Association of German
girls

KPD

Communist Party of Germany

BND

Federal Intelligence
Service

Concentration
camp

Concentration camp

BStU

The / The Federal

Commissioner for the
Records of the State
Security Service of the
former GDR

LDP / LDPD

Liberal Democratic Party of

Germany

BUCIA

Occupational disability
Central Intelligence
Agency, American
intelligence

MAD

Military
Counterintelligence

EOS

Advanced High School

Stasi

Ministry of State Security

IT G

Protestant students
community

NSDAP

National-socialist German
Workers Party

FDJ

Free German Youth

NVA

National Peoples Army

Gen.

Comrade

PDS

Party of Democratic
Socialism

GI

Secret Informant

PKW

Passenger cars

GM

Secret employee

POS

Polytechnic High School

HIM

Full-time employees
Unofficial

RIAS

Radio in the American

Sector

HVA

Headquarters A
(Enlightenment)

SED

Socialist Unity Party

IN
THE

Unofficial collaborator

SS

Protection Squad

IN
THE
B

Unofficial collaborator
with enemy compound or
for immediate processing
in the enemy activity
related persons suspected

StUG

Stasi Records Act

IME

Unofficial collaborators
or for a special use

PTS

bersiedlungersuchende / r

166

Bibliography

USA

United States of America

VPKA

Peoples Police District

Bibliography
Appy, G. (1992): What does Auschwitz today? Clinical Considerations for
emptying a destructive symbol. In: Year of psychoanalysis, Supplement 14, pp
21-46.
Aretz, J. and floor, W. (1997): The forgotten victims of the GDR. 13 shake
reports with original Stasi Ak Bergisch-Gladbach (Lbbe).
Barkleit G. and Dunsch, A. (1998): Vulnerable promoted. Unofficial
collaborators of the Stasi in companies of high technology. Reports and
Studies No. 15 Hanna Arendt Institute. Dresden.
D. Beckmann, Brhler E. and judges, H.-E. (1972): The Giessen Test. A test
for individual and group diagnosis. Bern (Huber).
Behnke, H. K. and Fuchs, J. (eds.) (1995): Decomposition of the Soul.
Psychology and Psychiatry at the service of the Stasi. Harn (Red Book).
Behnke, H. K. and Wolf, J. (1997): Children in the Stasi. Psychology Today,
Vol. 9, Issue 5, pp 64-67
Bion, W. (1962): A theory of thinking. In: Spillius, E.B. (1990) (ed.):
Melanie Klein Today. Volume 1, Munich (Publisher Intern psychoanalysis), pp
25-235.
Diewald-Kerkmann, G. (1998): an informer is not equal to an informer. In: H.
K. Behnk and Fuchs, J. (eds.): Stasi in the schoolyard. The abuse of children
and adolescents by the Ministry of State Security. Berlin (Ullstein).
Erikson, E. H. (1950): Childhood and Society Stuttgart (Velcro).
Fenichel, 0. (1946): Psychoanalytic theory of neurosis. 3 vols. Olten /
Freiburg (Walter) 1975.
Fischer, G. and Riedesser p. (1998): Textbook of Psychotraumatology. Munich
(Reinhardt).
Florath, B., Mitter, A. and wool, S. (eds.) (1992): The Ohmmacht the
Almighty. Secret services and political police in modern society Berlin (Ch.
Links).
Freud, S. (1910d): The future prospects of psychoanalytic therapy. GW 8, pp
104-115.
Freud, S. (1940 a): Outline of Psychoanalysis. GW 17th
Fritze, L. (1998): offenders with a clear conscience. About human error in
dictatorial socialism. Cologne / Weimar (Bhlau).
Gieseke, J. (2001): Mielke Conc The history of the Stasi from 1945 to 1990.
Stuttgart / Munich (German publishing house).

167

Bibliography

Hartman W. (1995): The variety of IM activity: a discussion paper on the

occasion and Ulrich Schrter article on the chip and on assessment criteria
of IM activities. Zwie-week No. 5, pp. 14-32.
Hecht, M. and Praschl, G. (2002): Ive said no. Courage in the GDR. Berlin
(Homilius).
Hempel, M. (1967): The effect of moral factors in the behavior of the
guarantee the German Democratic Republic to Inoff cooperation with the organs
of the Ministry of State Security. Potsdam dissertation, 2 vols In:. BStU,
ZA, Stasi JHS 21775th
Hennig, H. (1997): fainting, power and rivalry - to psychodynamics of
denunciation. In: Jerouschek, G. et al (Ed.): Denunciation. Historical, legal
and psychological aspects. Tbingen (edition discord), pp 224-257.
Jerouschek, G., Marolek, I. and Rckelein, H. (eds.) (1997): denunciation.
Historical, legal and psychological aspects. Forum psychohistory. Tbingen
(edition discord).
Kaiser, R. (1997): Silent Heroes. An empirical study on denials and for
refusal to unofficial collaboration with the Stasi on the example of the
district administration Potsdam. Thesis. Potsdam.
Kalinka, W. (1997): fate DDR. Twenty portraits of victims and perpetrators
Berlin (Ullstein).
Kerz-Rhling, I. (2000): conviction, fear, seduction or revenge? What motives
play a role in the Inoff cooperation with the State Security Service. Z.
Psychoanalytic theory and practice. VI p 85-105.
Kerz-Rhling, I. (2002): blindness in seeing eyes. Denial and
misinterpretation of perceptions with the aid of substitute ideas and legends
in social conflict situations. Journal Political Psychology 10, pp 343-360.
Kerz-Rhling, I., Plnkers, T. and Fischer, R. (2000): Continuity and Change.
Mental processing the political changes of 1989. An empirical psychoanalytic
study of high school - and high school teachers in the Czech Republic and
Eastern Germany. In: Kerz-Rhling, I. and Plnkers, T. (2000) (ed.):
Socialist dictatorship and psychological consequences. Psychoanalytic
contributions from the Sigmund Freud Institute. Volume 4, pp 37-90.
Kothe-Meyer, I. (1997): denunciation - a psychoanalytic view of individual
and collective psychic happenings. In: Jerouschek, G.u.a. (Eds) (1997):
denunciation. Historical, legal and psychological aspects. Tbingen (edition
discord).
Kukutz I. and Havemann, K. (1990): Protected source. Talking with Monika H.
aka Karin Lenz. Berlin (base pressure).
Lift R.J. (1986): Doctors in the Third Reich. Stuttgart (Klett-Cotta).
Maaz, H. J. (1992): The indignation. Germany, Germany, Stasi, guilt and
scapegoat. Berlin (argon).
Mergenthaler, E. et al (1986): The transcription of conversations. A set of
rules with a Beispieltranskript Ulmer Textbank.

168

Bibliography

Miller, B. (1999): Narratives of Guilt and Compliance in Unified Germany:

Stasi informers and Their Impact on Society. London (Routledge).
Mitscherlich, A. (1966): The social and personal ego. Cologne Journal of
Sociology and Social Psychology 18, pp 21-36.
Moser, T. (1992): This is madness, this schizophrenia. Political or
pimping: A Life for the Stasi. In: Moser, T. (1992): Visits to brothers and
sisters Frankfurt (Suhrkamp).
Moser, T. (1993): The Stasi as therapeutic Large Institution. The coverage of
the ambulance Fhrungsoff and unofficial collaborators. In: Moser, T. (1993):
Politics and spiritual ground. Frankfurt (Suhrkamp).
Mller-Enbergs, H. (1995): Why is an IM? For motivation in Inoff cooperation
with the State Security Service. In: Behnk K. and Fuchs, J. (eds.) (1995):
Decomposition of the Soul. Psychology and Psychiatry at the service of the
Stasi. Hamburg (Red Book), pp 102-129.
Mller-Enbergs, H. (eds.) (1996): Inoff employees of the Ministry of State
Security. Guidelines and implementing rules. Science series of the Federal
Commissioner for the Records of the State Security Service of the former GDR.
Volume 1 u. 3, Berlin (Ch. Links).
Mller-Enbergs, H. (1999): How to deal with employees Inoff - justice in the
legal state? In: Materials of the Study Commission overcoming the
consequences of the SED dictatorship in the process of German unification,
Volume IV, 2 / German Bundestag (13th legislative period). Baden-Baden
(Nomos), pp 1335-1398.
Mller-Enbergs, H. (2000): the art of refusal - Why citizens did not want to
cooperate with the Ministry of State Security. In: Kerz-Rhling, I. and
Plnk: T. (2000) (ed.): Socialist dictatorship and psychological
consequences. Psychoanalytic contributions from the Sigmund Freud Institute.
Volume 4, pp 165-195.
Mller-Enbergs, H. (2003): The motivation for intelligence work. The example
of the State Security. In: Hanak, G. and Pilgram, A. (eds.): The phenomenon
complaint. Yearbook for legal and criminal sociology. Baden-Baden (Nomos), pp
141-166.
Richter, H.E. (1962): The Psychopathology of the traitor. In: neurologist 33,
S. 532nd
Judges, H. (2001): The operative psychology of the Ministry of State Security
of the GDR: research result on the topic: The recovery Inoff employees and
their psychological conditions. Frankfurt (Mabuse).
Sauerland, K. (2000): 30 pieces of silver. Denunciation - past and present.
Berlin (Volk und Welt).
Sweet, S. (1999): Political abused? Psychiatry and State Security. Berlin
(Ch. Links).
Wanitschke, M. (2001): Methods and human image of the Mini for State Security
of the GDR. Cologne / Vienna (Bhlau).

169

Information about the authors

Information about the authors

INGRID Kerz-Rhling
Born in 1941, Dr. med, specialist in psychiatry and
neurology, psychoanalyst. Since 1978 Wiss. Assistant
at the Sigmund Freud Institute, a training analyst
at the Frankfurt Psychoanalytic Institute.
Publications et al to obsessional neurosis,
folie deux, psychoanalysis and underclass problem
of objectivity psychoanalytic narrative;
Publications about the transformation processes
after 1989 in the former GDR.

TOMAS Plnkers
Born in 1950, psychoanalyst, Dr. phil., Dipl.Psych.; research associate at the Sigmund Freud
Institute and settled in private practice; Training
analyst at the Frankfurt Psychoanalytic Institute.
Research interests: epistemology and practice of
psychoanalysis, history of psychoanalysis,
psychoanalytic social psychology.
Numerous publications, among others
psychological aspects of the dictatorship.

170

Analyzes and documents

Analyzes and documents

Scientific Report of the Federal Commissioner for the Records of the State
Security Service of the former German Democratic Republic
Published by the Department of Education and Research Edited by: Siegfried
Suckut, Ehrhart Neubert, Walter Sweet, Roger Engelmann, Jens Gieseke
Karl Wilhelm Fricke
Wen-insight
Reconstruction of a political persecution
4., nude. Ed .; 264 pages; Softcover
ISBN 3-86153-099-6; 17.50 31.10 CHF
Siegfried Suckut
The Dictionary of National Security
Definitions for political-operative work
3. durchges. Ed .; 4 72 pages; Hardcover
ISBN 3-86153-111-9; 20.50 36.00 CHF
Clemens Vollnhals (Hg.)
The ecclesiastical policy of the SED and the State Security
An interim report
2. durchges. Ed., 464 pages, hardcover
ISBN 3-86153-122-4; 24.50, 42.90 CHF
Sonja S
Politically abused?
Psychiatry and state security in the GDR
3rd edition, 776 pages. Hardcover
ISBN 3-86153-173-9; 29.50, 51.60 CHF
Jens Gieseke
The full-time staff of the State Security
Personnel structure and living environment 1950-1989 / 90
616 pages; Hardcover
ISBN 3-86153-227-1; 24.50, 42.90 CHF
Ch. Links Verlag, Schnhauser Allee 36, 10435 Berlin, www.linksverlag.de

171

Analyzes and documents

IM inserts in prison
Rita Slitrenny
Double monitoring
Intelligence investigative techniques in the DDR-trial detention centers
518 pages, paperback
ISBN 3-86153-311-1
24.80, 43.50 CHF
Who came in the GDR with the law in conflict, it got to do not only with the
police and the official judicial institutions, but also with undercover
agents, whose existence in the public nothing was known.
This guide uses the secret loan investigative techniques in the DDR-trial
detention centers are presented systematically for the first time. It deals
with the author of both the practices of investigative bodies of the Ministry
of State Security, the so-called lines IX and XIV, as well as the secret
operating police units of the department K- To illegal practices were a
covert evidence and the use of unofficial cells informants in the prisons ,
For the first time now come the precise structures, the responsibilities of
each department and the working methods of the actors involved to light -an
indispensable work material not only for historians, but also for the
individuals themselves.
Ch. Links Verlag, Schnhauser Allee 36, 10435 Berlin, www.linksverlag.de

172