Only in this manner which has always been employed successfully by great nations in the history of their conquests quiet can be restored.
3. The following directives are to be observed:
a. In each case of revolt against the German occupation force Communist sources are to be suspected regardless of what the individual circumstances are.
b. To nip the plots in the bud the most drastic means are to be employed immediately at the first provocation in order to make the authority of the occupation force prevail and to prevent further spreading. Attention should be paid to the fact that a human life in the countries concerned often means nothing and only by unusual severity can a deterrent effect be achieved. In these cases the life of one German soldier must be atoned for by the death sentence for 50 to 100 communists, as a rule. The manner of execution shall further increase the deterrent effect.
The opposite procedure to use relatively mild punishment first and to do with the threat of more severe action as a deterrent is not in accordance with these principles and therefore should not be employed.
c. The political relationships between Germany and the respective country in question are irrelevant for the attitude of the military occupation authorities.
To the contrary, it is to be considered and emphasized by propaganda that striking with energy will also liberate the native populations from communist criminals and result to their benefit.
Clever propaganda of this kind consequently will not cause undesirable reactions of the friendly parts of the population on account of the severe measures against the communists.
d. Native men will generally be a failure in the execution of such measures of force. Their strengthening brings an increased danger for our own troops and therefore must not be allowed.
However, prizes and rewards should be lavishly offered to the population in order to ensure its cooperation in a suitable way.