** Bundestag Adopts Resolution to Recognize and Support Victims of State-Organized Doping System in East Germany**
Berlin, January 28, 2025 – The German Bundestag, Germany’s federal parliament, has unanimously passed a resolution calling for the recognition and enhanced support for victims of the state-organized doping system in the former German Democratic Republic (GDR). The resolution, titled “20/14702: Motion to Recognize and Better Support Victims of the GDR’s State-Organized Doping System (PDF),” was introduced by a cross-party group of lawmakers and comes after years of campaigning by victims and their advocates.
Background
During the Cold War era, the GDR implemented a systematic and widespread doping program aimed at enhancing the performance of its athletes. The program involved the administration of performance-enhancing drugs, often without the knowledge or consent of the athletes themselves. Thousands of athletes across various sports, including swimming, cycling, and athletics, were subjected to the regime.
The consequences of the doping system were severe, with many athletes suffering from long-term health problems, including infertility, heart disease, and cancer. Additionally, the athletes faced social stigma and discrimination, and their careers were often cut short.
Recognition and Support
The resolution passed by the Bundestag recognizes the victims of the GDR’s doping system as a group of victims of political persecution. This recognition entitles them to access to specific support measures, including compensation, medical and psychological assistance, and rehabilitation programs.
The resolution also calls for the establishment of a central contact point for victims to access information and support. Additionally, it urges the government to increase funding for research into the long-term health effects of doping and to support initiatives to raise awareness about the issue.
Reactions
The resolution has been welcomed by victims and their advocates, who have long campaigned for recognition and support. Britta Schilling, a former swimmer who was subjected to the doping system, said, “This is a landmark decision that endlich brings justice to the victims of the GDR’s doping regime. We have been fighting for recognition and support for decades, and it is a great relief to finally see our voices being heard.”
The German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB) has also welcomed the resolution, saying it is an important step towards addressing the wrongs of the past. DOSB President Thomas Weikert said, “We are committed to supporting the victims of the GDR’s doping system and ensuring that they receive the recognition and assistance they deserve.”
Conclusion
The Bundestag’s resolution is a significant step towards recognizing and supporting the victims of the state-organized doping system in East Germany. The resolution provides a framework for providing victims with access to essential support services and acknowledges the long-term health and social consequences they have suffered. This decision is a testament to the commitment of the German government to address the legacy of the past and to uphold the rights of victims of political persecution.
20/14702: Antrag Die Geschädigten des staatlich organisierten Dopingsystems der ehemaligen DDR als Opfergruppe anerkennen und besser unterstützen (PDF)
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