THE SOUTH TYROLEAN INSTITUTE OF ETHNIC GROUPS
International research on ethnic groups with a strong South Tyrolean reference
The South Tyrolean Institute of Ethnic Groups is a non-profit organization chartered under civil law. It was founded in 1960 with the purpose of:
- studying the difficulties faced by the German and Ladin-speaking ethnic groups in South Tyrol and working out practical suggestions for solutions, and
- making a contribution, in the spirit of solidarity, to the solution of the problems of ethnic minorities throughout Europe through research, exchanges of experience, and international cooperation.
The Institute functions as a center for research, scholarship, and information, as a point of contact, and as a forum for open discussion. It is not affiliated with any political party nor with any other organization, and it has no connection with any economic interests.
AREAS OF ACTIVITY
Compared to other institutions, which are also active in the area of ethnic
group research, the SVI is characterized by a completely autonomous
content-based approach with a strong South Tyrolean reference, which is not
perceived in any similar way by any other institution.
PUBLICATIONS
In the course of its existence, the SVI has published over 250 publications. One of the most important is the three-volume series "Handbook of European National Minorities", which is considered to be a standard work in the field of ethnic group research.