Reading Stasi files

Workshop on sample file collection

In the sample file collection of the permanent exhibition "Insight into the Secret", visitors have the unique opportunity to gain an impression of complete files of the former GDR secret police without having to apply for access to the files. Formerly secret documents, which are otherwise only accessible to those affected, the media and researchers, are available to all visitors as faithful reproductions. Thanks to the consent and support of the people concerned, they contain very little redaction.

Many sample files are linked to topics and cases from the exhibition or to each other. For example, Ulrike Poppe, who was observed and imprisoned by the Stasi because of her membership of the "Women for Peace" group, made her documents available for the educational work at the historical site. Other sample files also document the surveillance - and complicity - of women in the GDR.

Other topics include the surveillance of the GDR soccer scene, cross-border punk culture and the Western military. However, it becomes clear that anyone and everyone could be targeted by the Stasi.

During the workshop, we will explain how the collection is structured, what makes it so special and how you can best approach the documents. There will be plenty of room for questions and independent reading of the sample files. We look forward to your visit.

The number of participants is limited to 12. Registration is required at: or by telephone on 030 18 665-6699.

Translated with DeepL

Meeting point: Foyer House 7

Booking: Participation is free of charge. Pre-registration is required at: or by telephone on 030 18 665-6699.

Next date:

• Date Wednesday, 10/June/2026 17:00 bis 18:00 (1 more date)
• Venue Stasimuseum - Forschungs- und Gedenkstätte Normannenstraße
• Address Ruschestraße 103, 10365 Berlin-Lichtenberg