Provision of support services for former political persecuted persons

The provision of support services is aimed at former political victims of the SED dictatorship as well as, under defined conditions, their surviving dependents throughout Germany, who have been rehabilitated under the SED injustice rehabilitation laws or present a certificate pursuant to § 10 para. 4 HHG and are in financial distress. Structured as a grant, the program generally offers benefits of up to €5,000 for affected individuals and €2,500 for surviving dependents. There is an ongoing application possibility without a fixed deadline, allowing interested parties to submit their applications at any time. The unbureaucratic structure is intended to ensure that affected persons receive prompt and targeted support to strengthen their financial and social participation.

A wide range of measures are funded, such as therapies and medical assistance, technical everyday support, mobility improvements, and communication aids. In addition, vocational training and further education, travel expenses – including for visits to memorial sites –, recreational trips, clothing, as well as, in special cases, funeral costs are eligible for funding. A prerequisite is proof of financial distress based on established income guidelines. For the application, a completed application form, proof of rehabilitation or HHG certificate, as well as income documentation are required. The program is administered by the SED Victims Commissioner at the German Bundestag, and applications must be submitted via the Foundation for Former Political Victims in Bonn. This funding offer provides important support for people living in social or financial difficulties due to political persecution.