Revelations from Neubrandenburg: Stasi files open to visitors!

Revelations from Neubrandenburg: Stasi files open to visitors!

On November 5, 2025, the Stasi Records Archive in Neubrandenburg invites everyone interested to take an exciting tour. At a time when the shadows of the past are becoming clear, the event offers an insight into the activities of the Ministry for State Security (MfS), better known as the Stasi. This archive houses an impressive 2,500 linear meters of documents, including over 800,000 index cards and numerous image and audio documents. These collections document almost four decades of Stasi surveillance in the Neubrandenburg district. According to Bundesarchiv, visitors can experience the methods and work of the Stasi up close on a tour.

Particular attention is paid to the so-called “Kararten” and the secret apartments that were maintained in the district. With the help of the archive staff, visitors learn how the Stasi operated and how the extensive collection of files came about. This is not only informative, but also essential material for personal reflection for many who have been affected by the surveillance apparatus.

Insight into the history of the Stasi

The Stasi, which was active from 1950 to 1990, played a central role in monitoring and controlling society in what was then the GDR. It is considered one of the most repressive police organizations in the world. According to Wikipedia, psychological tactics such as isolation and threats against relatives were used to terrorize the population and suppress dissent. With a ratio of one Stasi employee to around 166 citizens, the organization was omnipresent. Their methods also included denunciation, which fueled fear and distrust in society.

In Neubrandenburg, the tour takes visitors through index and magazine rooms. It explains how the Stasi collected and used the information. A good opportunity to get an idea of ​​this dark era and to understand the complexity of historical processing.

Access to files and personal processing

The day will be particularly interesting for those who are affected themselves. On November 5th, visitors can submit an application to inspect files by presenting an ID card. For many, this ability to view one's own surveillance records could mean a painful but necessary trip down memory lane.

The events surrounding and the history of the Stasi are not only part of German history, but are also important for coming to terms with one's own identity in a changing society. The tour is not just a visit to the archives, but rather an exploration of one's own history, which remained hidden to many. On this day, anyone who wants to learn more about the mechanisms of surveillance and is looking for the truth can visit the archive and learn more about this part of German history. The event is part of the “On the Road in the Archives” series, which aims to make historical topics tangible.