The NDPD was originally established as an instrument of communist influence over two specific segments of the population previously excluded from political life: discharged German servicemen and the 2 million members of the National Socialist German Workers' Party (Nazis) in East Germany. The NDPD's appeal was based on nationalism and patriotism, and its principal goals were to develop support for the security services and to recruit experienced personnel to serve in that capacity. In 1987 Heinrich Homan continued to chair the party, a position he has held since November 1972. Homan has served as a deputy in the People's Chamber and as a member of the Presidium of the National Front.

Data as of July 1987

NOTE: The information regarding Germany (East) on this page is re-published from The Library of Congress Country Studies and the CIA World Factbook. No claims are made regarding the accuracy of Germany (East) National Democratic Party of Germany information contained here. All suggestions for corrections of any errors about Germany (East) National Democratic Party of Germany should be addressed to the Library of Congress and the CIA.