Approximately 5,800 ex-prisoners from the former German Democratic Republic (GDR) have been granted increased pensions by Berlin.
Scoop on Berlin's Boost for Ex-DDR Convicts
Yo, here's what's up: As of July 1st, roughly 5,800 ex-prisoners of the former East German regime (DDR) who've registered in Berlin will be receiving fatter pensions, thanks to a fresh federal law enacted back in February. Now, this ain't just a small-time deal, sis! Nationwide, there's an estimated 36,000 folks eligible for this upgrade.
So what's all this about? Well, this new law is gonna boost the pension for ex-DDR inmates by 70 euros, raising it to a shiny 400 euros a month. Plus, future increases will be linked to general pension growth, and there's no more means test required to apply! That's right; you can toss your worries about income to the wind.
Action on Pressed-Down Past Injustices
This law don't just boost their bank balance, it's also making it simpler for former SED (East Germany's ruling party) victims to prove health implications from their suffering. What's more, they'll establish a hardship fund for extra support. In Berlin, the Local Health and Social Office (Lageso) will be responsible for distributing the pension and compensation related to forced relocations, while social offices will handle the rest.
And guess who's gonna be keeping you posted on application procedures and such? That's right, the ever-helpful Lageso crew! Their president, Alexander Straßmeir, was feeling pretty chatty: "This law brings about meaningful improvements for politically persecuted individuals in the DDR, and keeps their past struggles in the spotlight," he said, give or take a few choice words.
Curious about what's on offer? Head on over to the Lageso website to find out! Remember, holding onto justice for those who've been through the wringer is always the right move. Boom!
This new law, focusing on policy-and-legislation, is a significant step in the politics of Berlin, aimed at providing reparations for ex-DDR convicts. The law involves general-news such as simplifying the process for former SED victims to prove health implications from their suffering, establishing a hardship fund for extra support, and making the Local Health and Social Office (Lageso) responsible for distributing pensions and compensation related to forced relocations. For updates on applications and procedures, keep an eye on the Lageso website.
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