We warmly welcome you to the Documentation Centre for Displacement, Expulsion, Reconciliation. By entering the centre, you acknowledge the following regulations. Instructions of the security and supervisory staff or the staff of the Documentation Centre must be followed. Violations of the house rules may result in a ban from the premises.

 

General rules of behaviour

The fate of millions of people who had to leave their homes is the subject of this documentation centre. It provides information about the causes, dimensions and consequences of displacement, expulsion and forced migration. We see ourselves as a place of historical education and lively debate in the spirit of reconciliation. The permanent exhibition sheds light on politically, ethnically and religiously motivated forced migrations, particularly in the 20th century in Europe and beyond. The focus is on the displacement and expulsion of Germans in the historical context of the Second World War and the National Socialist policy of expulsion and extermination.

All visitors are expected to show consideration for one another. The dignity of the institution is to be respected. Activities or actions that disrupt operations are not permitted. The display and wearing of clothing or symbols that are commonly understood as an expression of extremist views is prohibited. All noise is to be avoided. Mobile phones are to be switched to silent mode in the exhibition rooms; telephoning is not permitted. This applies in particular in the Room of Stillness, where the focus is on the contemplation of the individual.

With the exception of assistance dogs for the disabled, dogs and pets are not permitted.

Posters, flyers and other printed matter may only be displayed with the consent of the Foundation for Displacement, Expulsion, Reconciliation.

Library & Testimony Archive

Separate user regulations apply to the use of the Library & Testimony archive.

Food/drink and smoking

The consumption of food and open drinks is not permitted. Smoking (in any form, in particular e-cigarettes and vaporisers etc.) is not permitted.

Photography and filming

Photography and filming without flash for private purposes is permitted. Commercial photography and filming require prior notification and (written) consent from the Foundation.

Wardrobe

Bulky (e.g. rucksacks, bags - larger than DIN A4 format -, suitcases, umbrellas) or sharp-edged objects may not be brought in. Lockers are available for storage on the ground floor. No liability is accepted for valuables in the lockers. Lost keys will be replaced for a fee of €5 each.

 

We thank you for your understanding and wish you an informative and pleasant stay in our house.

 

The Director

Berlin, August 2026