How East and West German women fought for equality in divided times
A new poster exhibition is shining a light on the contrasting lives of women in East and West Germany during the 1970s and 1980s. The display challenges old assumptions about emancipation on both sides of the divided nation. Hosted by the Rheinisch-Bergisch district, it forms part of a travelling programme by the Federal Foundation for the Study of Communist Dictatorship in East Germany.
In East Germany, women commonly worked full-time jobs, often alongside their partners as equals. Financial independence was the norm, and they shared decision-making with their husbands. Yet despite higher formal representation in politics—thanks to state quotas—many leadership roles remained symbolic, with poor working conditions under state control.
Across the border in West Germany, the picture was different. Most women stayed home as homemakers, and those who pursued careers were often dismissed as 'career women'. Basic rights, like opening a bank account or working without a husband's permission, were restricted. By the 1980s, however, aspirations for equality had grown on both sides. The fall of the Berlin Wall brought new struggles. Many East German jobs vanished, and childcare systems collapsed, forcing women to adapt quickly. Today, women still juggle care work with employment, making early workforce participation vital for retirement security. While progress has been made—such as more women in politics and corporate boards—fewer than 20% of executives in unified Germany are female.
The exhibition highlights how women in both East and West Germany navigated different social structures yet shared a common push for equality. It also underscores the lasting economic and professional challenges they continue to face. The display remains open to the public at the district administration building.
