Berliners Deeply Engaged With GDR History, Survey Finds

Berliners show strong interest in the past. Majority backs teaching GDR history in schools.

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2025 November 5 . 7:01 AM

1 min read

In this image I can see a historical plaque in the center of the image with some symbols and text.

No Forgetting: Survey Shows Interest in GDR History - Berliners Deeply Engaged With GDR History, Survey Finds

A recent survey has revealed that a significant majority of Berliners remain deeply engaged with the history of the German Democratic Republic (GDR). Conducted by Forsa among 1,643 residents aged 16 and above between August 15 and September 28, the poll indicates that 48 percent have delved intensively or very intensively into the past. Today, at 11:00 a.m., the complete results will be presented by an unnamed commissioner.

The survey underscores the enduring relevance of East Germany's history, with 80 percent of respondents emphasising the importance of keeping the memory of political persecution alive. Nearly 36 years after the fall of the Berlin Wall, this topic continues to resonate with the city's inhabitants. Notably, only 14 percent saw no reason to continue engaging with the subject, while a mere 11 percent have never explored it.

Support for integrating visits to memorial sites into school curricula is also high, with 84 percent backing the idea. This suggests a collective desire to educate future generations about the GDR's past and its implications.

The survey's findings highlight Berliners' sustained interest in and respect for the history of the GDR. As the city continues to evolve, so too does its collective memory, with a significant majority of residents eager to preserve and learn from the past.