Yes, hang gliding was effectively banned or strictly prohibited in East Germany (GDR) during the 1980s, primarily to prevent citizens from using them to escape to West Germany, according to UPI Archives. The government viewed the sport with deep suspicion, viewing it as a security risk rather than a leisure activity, notes The Wall Museum.  http://www.upi.com +2
Key Aspects of the Ban:
Preventative Measure: The prohibition was a response to several attempts, including successful ones, by East Germans to fly over the heavily guarded border.
Stifled Sport: The sport was restricted and closely monitored by the Society for Sport and Technology (GST), allowing for little freedom to fly.
Restriction Removal: The ban was only lifted in early 1990 after the fall of the Berlin Wall, with restrictions being removed from air traffic legislation, according to UPI Archives.
Early Clubs: In early 1990, enthusiasts began forming clubs in East Berlin to teach hang gliding, notes the Los Angeles Times.  http://www.upi.com +2
Despite the strict regulations, a few daring attempts were made with homemade gliders, often resulting in arrests, say The Wall Museum.  Wall Museum

next time: was the ban due to a telescopic hang glider acccident in Sylmar California?