How East and West Germany shaped women's lives in the 1970s–80s

State childcare vs. housewife expectations: How two Germanys defined womanhood. The legacy of these policies still echoes in workplaces today.

, and Administrator

2026 March 15 . 10:00 PM

1 min read

The image shows an old book with a drawing of three women in traditional Bavarian clothing on the... — The image shows an old book with a drawing of three women in traditional Bavarian clothing on the cover. The women are wearing colorful dresses with intricate patterns and designs, and one of them is holding a plate with a heart-shaped object on it. The text on the book reads "Riaderadatich, September 1918".

How East and West Germany shaped women's lives in the 1970s–80s

A new poster exhibition is examining the contrasting lives of women in East and West Germany during the 1970s and 1980s. Hosted by the Rheinisch-Bergisch district, the display challenges long-standing assumptions about gender roles under socialism and capitalism. The travelling series is part of an educational programme by the Federal Foundation for the Study of Communist Dictatorship in East Germany.

In the German Democratic Republic (GDR), women worked alongside men on an equal footing, with state support like paid 'baby years' and household days. Financial independence was common, and relationships often functioned as partnerships. Meanwhile, in the Federal Republic of Germany (FRG), many women stayed home, needing their husbands' permission for basic rights like employment. Those who pursued careers were often labelled 'career women'.

After reunification, East German women faced sudden job losses and collapsing childcare systems. Many had to retrain or find new ways to earn a living. Despite these struggles, both East and West German women shared similar goals by the 1990s: greater equality and emancipation. Today, German public administration reflects progress, with better childcare and work-life balance policies. Yet the exhibition highlights ongoing challenges, particularly as women still handle most care work while maintaining jobs. Organisers stress the importance of enabling women to return to work as early as possible.

The exhibition offers a side-by-side look at two very different systems and their lasting effects. It shows how past policies shaped today's workplace and family dynamics. Visitors can see the posters at the Rheinisch-Bergisch district administration building as part of the ongoing educational tour.