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.

What was the response regarding the issuance of passports during the announcement?

What was the immediate effect of the new travel regulation as stated by Gunter Schabowski?