Evelyn Zupke, the parliamentary commissioner for SED victims in the Bundestag, has called for permanent financial support for those who were victims of forced doping during the German Democratic Republic (DDR) era. Speaking to the “Rheinische Post” on the 65th anniversary of the building of the Wall, Zupke stated that she was referring to individuals who were exploited by the state as minors for elite sports and who continue to suffer severe health consequences. She argued that these former victims urgently need clear legislative regulation and continuous monthly assistance. Zupke stressed that a draft law should ideally be presented this year.
Beyond the doping issue, Zupke also demanded greater focus on groups that have historically received little attention and require more support. These groups include people who were persecuted in the GDR under the so-called “Asocial Paragraphs,” as well as women and girls who were forcibly detained and mistreated under the guise of gynecological examinations. The victims’ commissioner urged that efforts be made to further investigate the injustices suffered and determine how affected individuals can be better assisted today.
In addition to the legislature, Zupke holds corporations responsible for profiting from the forced labor of political prisoners in the GDR. She noted that some survivors recount dangerous work under inhumane conditions. Consequently, Zupke believes that major companies, in particular, should confront this chapter of their history, thereby helping ensure that this injustice is not forgotten. She mentioned that she is currently in discussions with the company Otto regarding this matter, concluding that “the chapter is not yet closed.”
