Günter Schabowski Pressekonferenz - 9. November 1989: Berlin Wall Press Conference Reenactment

On November 9, 1989, Gunter Schabowski, the GDR's secretary for information, announced a new travel regulation allowing GDR citizens to travel abroad without prerequisites. The announcement, made without prior notice, led to confusion and immediate implementation. The regulation permitted travel through all border crossing points, and permits were to be issued promptly. Despite technical questions about passport issuance, the regulation was to take effect immediately, marking a significant shift in GDR policy.

Who was the GDR official that announced the new travel regulation on 9 November 1989?

• Willy Brandt

• Gunter Schabowski

• Egon Krenz

• Erich Honecker

What was the significant change in travel policy announced by the GDR?

• Travel was restricted to only neighboring countries.

• Citizens could travel freely without specific reasons.

• Only diplomats were allowed to travel abroad.

• Travel required a special government permit.

What was the role of the People's Police District Offices in the new travel regulation?

• To provide travel insurance.

• To monitor citizens' travel activities.

• To restrict travel to certain areas.

• To issue travel permits at short notice.

What uncertainty was mentioned regarding the new travel regulation?

• The issuance of passports.

• The cost of travel permits.

• The exact date of implementation.

• The countries citizens could visit.

When was the new travel regulation supposed to come into effect?

• At the end of the year.

• Immediately, without delay.

• Following a public referendum.

• After a parliamentary vote.