D-Mark, Einheit, Vaterland: Das schwierige Erbe der Treuhand

The documentary delves into the events of 1990 when the West began overseeing the harmonization process between East and West Germany. It examines how the Treuhand agency was responsible for transferring East Germany’s industrial assets, leading to the rapid privatization of the economy. With around 8,000 public companies and 4 million employees affected, this period marked a crucial shift for the former GDR.

Birgit Breuel, the head of the Treuhand and a member of the Christian Democratic Union of Germany, plays a central role in the narrative. Her leadership was met with both acclaim and criticism, reflecting the contentious nature of the privatization process. The film provides insights into the challenges faced by the Treuhand and the broader implications for German society during this transformative era.