RE EAST GERMANY-EMIGRATION

• Document Type: CREST
• Collection: General CIA Records
• Document Number (FOIA) /ESDN (CREST): CIA-RDP78-01634R000100120003-5
• Release Decision: RIPPUB
• Original Classification: K
• Document Page Count: 2
• Document Creation Date: December 19, 2016
• Document Release Date: September 29, 2000
• Sequence Number: 3
• Publication Date: March 2, 1959
• Content Type: MISC

Approved For Rele#se 2002/07/22: CIA-RDP78-01634R000V 120003-5
2 March 1959
Re East Germany - Emigration
1. I have had a fruitful discussion largely on the element
of GDR Planning and emigration with 0 25X1A9a
2. He says under the 5-year plan there have been indications
in heavy equipment that although quality and design have not been
up to Western Standards, this equipment is suitable for under-
developed countries. Orders rushed for planning purposes inclined
to be faulty. Basic vulnerability in GDR lies in:
1. Insufficient raw materials.
2. Insufficient orders from abroad.
3. He also attributes to GDR1s faulty planning the question
of emigration to West Germany, a GDR responsibility. Reasons for
emigration:
a. GDR violation of private and public life standards
of citizens.
b. GDR pressure on citizens to decide between "black
and white".
Professions
a. If better off economically would not think of leaving
GDR. Disadvantage in GDR to be the son of a professional
man.
Small business men and farmers
a. Little economic hope for future, - no amenities.
b. Future not permanent enough.
Under these circumstances East Germans think (referring to
the West Germany) "Why not try it over there"?*
* East g,#rmany desk here 4hould have figures on emigration and re-
emigration.
Approved For Release 2002/07/22 : CIA-RDP78-01634R000100120003-5
 Approved For Release, 2002/07/22 : CIA-RDP78-01634R0001,90120003-5
25X1A9a
Approved For Release 2002/07/22 : CIA-RDP78-01634R000100120003-5