[Implementation of the Rodewisch Theses in East Germany--attempted analysis from the current viewpoint]

35 years ago the so-called Rodewisch theses were developed as the results of an international symposium on psychiatric rehabilitation. They were a recognised guideline in psychiatry in the GDR. During the implementation of the theses, ideological and financial limits were soon reached. Several aspects of the theses, such as decentralisation of psychiatric care, the creation of an open psychiatric system and continuity of care are still highly relevant today.