After the borders opened in 1989, the heavy-handed atmosphere of the military began to change; not by choice, but out of necessity. For the first time in the history of the NVA soldiers began to publicly protest their living conditions and outdated customs.  Saddled with high desertion rates and growing discontent, the government made the following concessions:

·        Conscript service was reduced to one year

·        The work week was reduced to 45 hours a week (Monday-Friday)

·        50% of personnel could be on leave (up from 15%)

·        Travel to the West was permitted

·        Could stay out past 10:00 p.m.

·        Soldiers not required to eat in the military canteens

·        Soldiers could keep their identity papers (Wehrdienstausweis)

·        The term “Genosse” (comrade) was exchanged for ”Herr” (mister)

·        Soldiers could wear civilian clothes

·        Early morning sports were eliminated

·        Soldier councils could be formed.