21st Bützow Forum on coming to terms with the GDR past
This year marks the 35th anniversary of German reunification. Until 1989/90, Europe and Germany were divided by the "Iron Curtain". At the latest with the complete closure in 1961 ("Berlin Wall"), it became clear that this division was a precondition for the existence of the SED dictatorship.
Between 1949 and 1961, around 2.7 million people had left the GDR. After that, the conditions for escape became drastically more difficult. For the GDR's northern districts of Schwerin and Rostock, the dangerous route to freedom led across the Baltic Sea or over the "green", increasingly heavily secured border on land or through the Elbe.
Looking back, various questions arise: Why did people choose one escape route or the other? What were the border fortifications on land and at sea like? What fate awaited those who failed in their escape attempt? How did life at the sea or land border shape everyday life in the restricted area? And how did people on the other side of the border - in Germany or Denmark - perceive the history of the border and escape?
The conference combines specialist lectures, discussions and a film screening. In addition, pupils from the Sternberg grammar school will present the results of their project work with the "Grenzhus Schlagsdorf" and seek a discussion with contemporary witnesses and the audience. This is not just about looking into the past, but also about looking for references in the present.
Participation in the event WITHOUT hotel accommodation is free of charge. Overnight stays are currently no longer possible as all hotel rooms are reserved. We will be happy to put you on the waiting list.
