Overview

• From July 1, around 5,800 former East German political prisoners in Berlin will see their monthly pensions rise from €330 to €400.
• The law ends means-testing so beneficiaries no longer need to prove financial need for these entitlements.
• Starting in 2026, the pension will be adjusted annually to mirror general German pension developments.
• The legislation broadens eligibility to include victims of Stasi operations outside the former GDR and allows previously denied applicants to reapply.
• The law sets up a hardship fund and streamlines the process for recognizing health damage from SED-era persecution.