Starting young – recruitment at schools

The Ministry of State Security’s permanent recruitment campaign began among schoolchildren already. It used the recruiting system of the National People's Army (NVA) which was established at the schools. Specially selected teachers tried to interest their pupils for a long-term career with the NVA. The Stasi received a copy of the list of those applying to become officers and chose suitable candidates. Often the parents of these young people where already serving in the Stasi or were at least members of the Socialist Party (SED). Incentives like the prospect of an interesting career, such as pilot, or other carrots like a place on a much sought-after degree course made it easier for the youngsters to agree.

In year 7, interested schoolchildren were able to submit an informal application to their teacher to later on work full-time for the Stasi. One year later they completed the official application form, which also had to be signed by their parents. Special Stasi agitation displays familiarised schoolchildren with their future responsibility: the struggle against Western aggressors and imperialism – the arch-enemy of socialism.

By writing out a pledge in their own handwriting to inform their Stasi officer about their friendships and love affairs, the new recruits – at the age of 18 – finally fell completely into the clutches of the Ministry of State Security. All children, regardless of whether they decided to join the Ministry of State Security or not, had to undergo pre-military training at school. In year 9, for instance, they attended the ‘defence camp’.