Germany Questions West-to-East Aid

Since German reunification in 1990, trillions of dollars have flowed to what was once East Germany. But now in tough economic times, some in the former West now question whether the investment is worth it.

Global Politics

The German city of Dresden has experienced something of an economic rebirth since reunification in 1990. Other areas of the former East Germany aren’t so lucky. (Photo: Kolossos)

Germany is no longer divided between East and West – the country was reunified in 1990.

Soon after reunification, Germany embarked on a massive, and expensive, effort to rebuild the Eastern part of the country.

More than $2 trillion worth of aid has flowed to the East. But now, with certain states and cities in the Western part of the country feeling the economic pinch, some are beginning to question whether money sent East is money well spent.