BStU (Federal Commissioner for the Stasi Records)

The BStU (Federal Commissioner for the Stasi Records) is a German government agency responsible for managing and preserving the archives of the Stasi, East Germany’s secret police. Its role is to provide transparency by allowing individuals to access their personal records, support research, and promote understanding of the Stasi’s operations. The BStU also safeguards the integrity of the files and promotes discussions about privacy, history, and human rights related to East Germany’s surveillance activities. Overall, it aims to ensure accountability and remember the impact of state security measures on individual lives and society.