Autonomy
Dashboard
South Tyrol
The Autonomy Dashboard South Tyrol presents relevant statistics on South Tyrol, its autonomy and minority protection. It brings together data from various statistics institutes, research organisations and public institutions on one platform. The dashboard allows you to identify trends or make comparisons so you can draw your own conclusions.
Demography
The autonomy of South Tyrol has a clear geographical and territorial focus: it applies to all people living in the area of the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen - South Tyrol. The demographic data presented provides an overview of the composition and development of the South Tyrolean population. Many other indicators in the dashboard are directly related to these figures. The population of South Tyrol has been steadily growing and contemporaneously aging in recent years. The population growth in South Tyrol is not least due to immigration from both within Italy and abroad. Immigration and emigration also have a direct impact on the linguistic composition of South Tyrolean society. It is important for the autonomy, which aims to maintain a balance between the three language groups. At the same time, the figures show that South Tyrol has a linguistic and cultural diversity that goes beyond the three official language groups.
Index
- 01. Total population
- 02. Territorial distribution of the population
- 03. Age structure of the population
- 04. Population change
- 05. Internal migration
- 06. International migration
- 07. Foreign resident population and countries of origin
- 08. Residential population by region of birth
- 09. South Tyroleans in the Register of Italians living abroad (A.I.R.E.)
01. Total population
The total population includes the number of individuals living or residing in a specific area at a particular time. The population figures are based partly on censuses and partly on population registers. Certain data points have been interpolated in the infographic to optimise the visualisation. This means that missing data has been replaced with estimated values derived from the available data in order to ensure a continuous chart of population trends.
Last updated: 29.5.2024
02. Territorial distribution of the population
The territorial distribution shows how the population is geographically distributed in South Tyrol’s district communities and the Ladin valleys. The district communities are entities of public law and comprise several geographically related municipalities. They have the task of coordinating the cultural, social, economic and ecological development of the member communities. In addition, the district communities serve as statistical districts. The Ladin valleys do not form their own district community and are assigned to other district communities. The Val Badia/Gadertal belongs to the district community of the Val de Puster/Pustertal/Val Pusteria, the Val Gardena/Grödnertal to the district community of Salten-Scilier/Salten-Schlern/Salto-Sciliar.
Last updated: 20.6.2024
03. Age structure of the population
The age structure describes the distribution of people between different age groups within the population.
Last updated: 15.5.2024
04. Population change
Births, deaths and migration have an impact on the development of the residential population in a region. The birth balance (difference of births and deaths) and the migration balance (difference of immigration and emigration) reflect these changes. The population change shows in summary how the number of inhabitants changes due to the difference between the birth balance and the migration balance. If the number of births or immigration increases, the population is growing; if the birth rate drops or the emigration outweighs it, the population is decreasing. The values refer to 1000 inhabitants.
Last updated: 31.5.2024
05. Internal migration
The term internal migration generally refers to migration within a state. In the South Tyrolean context, internal immigration refers to people who move their residence from another region of Italy to South Tyrol. Internal emigration describes the reverse phenomenon: People moving their residence from South Tyrol to another region of Italy. The migration balance indicates the difference between internal immigration and emigration. It is positive when more people move than leave. A negative migration balance means the opposite. These figures allow a distinction between the internal migration of persons of Italian and foreign nationality.
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06. International migration
International immigration refers to people who move their residence from abroad to South Tyrol. International emigration, on the other hand, refers to people who move their residence from South Tyrol to another country. The migration balance indicates the difference between international immigration and emigration. It is positive when more people move than leave. A negative migration balance means the opposite. These figures allow a distinction between the international migration of persons of Italian and foreign nationality.
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07. Foreign resident population and countries of origin
The foreign resident population includes persons who do not have the nationality of the country in which they live. Thus, the figures show the number of those people living in South Tyrol who do not have Italian or foreign citizenship per 100 inhabitants. The citizenship provides information on the country of origin.
Last updated: 14.5.2024
Last updated: 4.6.2024
08. Residential population by region of birth
The resident population by region of birth indicates in which regions the people living in South Tyrol were born. Hence, conclusions can be drawn about the migration background of the population.
Last updated: 20.6.2024
09. South Tyroleans in the Register of Italians living abroad (A.I.R.E.)
The register of Italian citizens resident abroad (A.I.R.E.) records the data of those citizens who permanently live abroad, that is for more than 12 months, as well as that of their relatives. The number of South Tyroleans is basically the sum of those who had their place of residence in South Tyrol before emigrating. However, it also includes their children who were born and raised abroad and have Italian citizenship. Registration in the A.I.R.E. is a right and a duty of citizens and is a prerequisite for the use of a range of services offered by the consular missions abroad, as well as for the exercise of important rights. This includes, for example, the possibility of participating in national elections and referendums by postal ballot.
Last updated: 15.5.2024
Languages and language groups
The Autonomy Statute of South Tyrol recognizes three official language groups: German, Italian, and Ladin. The language group census, which is carried out every ten years, provides information on the size of the language groups. Based on these official figures, positions in public administration or certain resources in the provincial budget are allocated. The language group variable is also statistically considered in many other surveys. Since the language group census de facto only takes into account the three official language groups, it is only possible to draw limited conclusions about the actual linguistic diversity of South Tyrol. However, the figures presented here from the language barometer study by the Provincial Statistics Institute ASTAT, together with other figures, show the complexity of the language group dynamics and relationships. The school system also follows the logic of language group separation. The figures presented here show how pupils are distributed across the three school systems (German, Italian, Ladin).
Index
- 01. Language group census
- 02. Language group declaration and affiliation
- 03. Participation in the language group census
- 04. Households by language group
- 05. Sense of belonging to a language group and mother tongue
- 06. Identification
- 07. Multilingualism
- 08. Success rate for the bilingualism test
- 09. Success rate for the Ladin exam
- 10. Knowledge of the German dialect
- 11. Percentage of students in the three school systems
- 12. Percentage of students with foreign citizenship
- 13. Friendships among young people
- 14. Students at Italian and Austrian Universities
01. Language group census
Every ten years, all Italian citizens over 14 years old residing in South Tyrol are asked to participate in the language group census and to declare to which language group they belong: German, Italian, or Ladin. For children under 14 years old, the parents decide. The first language group census took place in 1981. The results of the 2023/2024 census are expected to be available in autumn of 2024. The pandemic and the preparations for the digitalisation of the language group census have caused a delay.
Last updated: 15.5.2024
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02. Language group declaration and affiliation
Every ten years, all Italian citizens over 14 years old residing in South Tyrol are asked to participate in the language group census and to declare to which language group they belong: German, Italian, or Ladin. For children under 14 years old, the parents decide. This is referred to as the (anonymous) language group declaration. However, there is also the option of the language group affiliation. People who, for various reasons, do not wish to declare themselves as belonging to one of the three language groups, can choose to affiliate themselves to one of the three groups at the census. The numbers related to the language group affiliation provide information on how many people have made use of this option. The option of language group affiliation has existed only since 1991.
Last updated: 15.5.2024
03. Participation in the language group census
Every ten years, all Italian citizens over 14 years old residing in South Tyrol are asked to participate in the language group census and to declare to which language group they belong: German, Italian, or Ladin. Participation in the language group census is mandatory for all Italian citizens residing in South Tyrol. For children under 14 years old, the parents decide. Foreign citizens residing in South Tyrol are not allowed to participate. Consequently, the participation rate in the census, measured against the total population, is declining.
Last updated: 15.5.2024
04. Households by language group
As part of a study conducted by the Provincial Statistics Institute ASTAT on the income and living conditions of households in South Tyrol, the distribution by language groups was also surveyed. These figures differ from the language group census as households were chosen as the reference point. A household in this case is defined as a community of persons who are related by marriage, kinship, in-law relationship, adoption, guardianship or otherwise and who live together. Individual persons can also be considered households. The sample size of the study was 1355 households.
Last updated: 15.5.2024
05. Sense of belonging to a language group and mother tongue
Which language group do you feel you belong to? These figures on the sense of belonging to a language group and mother tongue are based on the language barometer study by the Provincial Statistics Institute ASTAT. Unlike the official language group census, this study didn’t limit options to just German, Italian, and Ladin. In addition, multiple responses were allowed for mother tongue and foreign nationals were also interviewed. The sample size of the study was 1532 respondents.
Last updated: 15.5.2024
06. Identification
What do you identify as? This question regarding territorial, ethnic, and national affiliation was part of the language barometer study conducted by the Provincial Statistics Institute ASTAT. Respondents were allowed to make multiple selections. The sample size of the study was 1514 respondents.
Last updated: 15.5.2024
07. Multilingualism
These data from the language barometer study conducted by the Provincial Statistics Institute ASTAT indicate the percentage of the population who self-identify as multilingual or monolingual. However, the degree of multilingualism cannot be deduced from these figures. The sample size of the study was 1514 respondents.
Last updated: 15.5.2024
08. Success rate for the bilingualism test
To work in South Tyrol’s public administration, one must demonstrate knowledge of German and Italian. Typically, the bilingualism test is required to prove proficiency in both languages. The four test levels (C1, B2, B1, A2) correspond to the knowledge required for the various positions in public administration, in accordance with the educational qualifications required. Bilingualism tests were introduced in 1976 in implementation of the Autonomy Statute and have been conducted since 1977. In 2014, the test modalities were changed, which limits the comparability with previous years’ figures.
Last updated: 3.6.2024
09. Success rate for the Ladin exam
In order to fill a position reserved for the Ladin language group in the public administration in South Tyrol, it is necessary to be in possession of the trilingualism certificate. This applies in particular to public jobs in the Ladin communities. In addition to the bilingualism test, a Ladin test is also required. The four test levels (C1, B2, B1, A2) correspond to the knowledge required for the various positions in public administration, in accordance with the educational qualifications required. The Ladin test was introduced in 1976 to implement the Autonomy Statute and has been conducted since 1977. The Ladin test is offered for the two Ladin idioms of Val Gardena and Val Badia. In 2017, the test modalities were changed, which limits the comparability with previous years’ figures.
Last updated: 3.6.2024
10. Knowledge of the German dialect
A particular feature of the linguistic landscape of South Tyrol is the prevalence of the German dialect. These data show how South Tyroleans rate their level of competence in the German dialect by mother tongue. The figures show the number of people who stated that they could understand or talk about everything, in terms of listening comprehension and oral competence. The sample size of the study was 995 surveys.
Last updated: 19.8.2024
11. Percentage of students in the three school systems
Educational statistics provide insight into how students are distributed among the three South Tyrolean school systems: German, Italian, Ladin. The numbers for primary and middle schools are the easiest to compare.
Last updated: 15.5.2024
Last updated: 15.5.2024
12. Percentage of students with foreign citizenship
Educational statistics provide insight into how students with foreign citizenship are distributed among the three South Tyrolean school systems: German, Italian, Ladin. The easiest numbers to compare are those for primary and middle schools. Persons with dual citizenship, when one of which is Italian, are not counted as part of the foreign student population.
Last updated: 15.5.2024
13. Friendships among young people
One of the questions asked in the youth study conducted by the Provincial Statistics Institute ASTAT was whether South Tyrolean young people (aged 14-25) have friends with a different mother tongue. Specifically, the survey asked whether the young people had more than two friends of the respective mother tongue. Multiple answers were possible. The sample size of the study was 1622 respondents.
Last updated: 15.5.2024
14. Students at Italian and Austrian Universities
Every year statistics are published on the number of South Tyrolean students in Italian and Austrian universities. Consequently, the figures presented here do not represent the total number of South Tyrolean students, as there are no reliable figures for South Tyrolean students outside Italy or Austria. South Tyrol includes the following institutions: Free University of Bozen-Bolzano, University Training Center for Health Professions ‘Claudiana’, Philosophical-Theological College of Brixen/Bressanone. Innsbruck refers to the study location encompassing all university institutions.
Last updated: 15.5.2024
Politics and administration
The Provincial Council of South Tyrol, as the central democratically elected body, shapes the autonomous legislation of the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen - South Tyrol. The data presented here depict, among other things, the electoral trends of recent decades as well as the composition of the Provincial Government and Provincial Council by language groups. The language group dimension is also significant for the public administration, as the filling of public positions must adhere to the ethnic quota system, meaning it must reflect the size of the three language groups. The data indicate that this distribution key cannot be adhered to in all areas. Additional survey data collected here provide insights into public opinion on autonomy-related issues.
Index
- 01. Results of the provincial elections
- 02. Representation of the language groups in the Provincial Council and in the Provincial Government
- 03. Application of the language group veto
- 04. Gender distribution in the Provincial Council
- 05. Voter turnout
- 06. Number of provincial laws passed
- 07. Public employees of local administrations
- 08. Public employees of state institutions
- 09. Dissatisfaction with the bilingualism of civil servants
- 10. Opinion on the autonomy
- 11. Opinion on the ethnic quota system
01. Results of the provincial elections
The Provincial Council of South Tyrol is the central body of the autonomous legislation of the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen - South Tyrol, particularly since the entry into force of the Second Autonomy Statute in 1972, which transferred numerous responsibilities from the regional to the provincial level. Over time, the number of members in the Provincial Council of South Tyrol has gradually increased from an initial of 20 to 35 members. The Provincial Council has also the task of electing the President as well as the Provincial Government. It should be noted that only the situation at the beginning of the legislature is shown here, and subsequent changes, such as resignations or party splits, are not reflected.
Last updated: 15.5.2024
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02. Representation of the language groups in the Provincial Council and in the Provincial Government
The composition of the language groups in the Provincial Council of South Tyrol is crucial for the formation of the Provincial Government. According to the Autonomy Statute, the Provincial Government must reflect the ratio of the language groups in the Provincial Council. To determine this ratio, the language group declaration of the elected members of the Provincial Council is made public. It should be noted that only the situation at the beginning of the legislature is shown here, and subsequent changes, such as resignations or party splits, are not reflected. In the infographic, the so-called substitute provincial councillors are not included in the number of members of the Provincial Government.
Last updated: 15.5.2024
03. Application of the language group veto
According to the Autonomy Statute, the majority of representatives of a language group in the Provincial Council can request a vote by language groups if it is assumed that a legislative proposal violates the equality of rights between citizens of different language groups or the ethnic and cultural characteristics of the language groups. If the request for a separate vote is not accepted or if the legislative proposal is adopted despite the opposition of two-thirds of the representatives of the language group that made the request, the majority of that language group can challenge the law at the Constitutional Court within 30 days of its promulgation. However, the challenge does not have suspensive effect. In practice, this mechanism is rarely used because consensus is usually sought in advance to avoid a challenge at the Constitutional Court.
Last updated: 15.5.2024
04. Gender distribution in the Provincial Council
The gender distribution in the Provincial Council indicates how the seats in the Provincial Council of South Tyrol are distributed between women and men. This is a very important factor regarding the current provisions for the election of the Provincial Government. According to the current electoral law, the composition of the Provincial Government must reflect the ratio of women and men in the Provincial Council. It should be noted that only the situation at the beginning of the legislative period is shown here, and subsequent changes, such as resignations or the replacement of candidates, are not reflected.
Last updated: 15.5.2024
05. Voter turnout
Voter turnout describes the percentage of eligible voters who actually participate in an election. It indicates how many people vote in relation to the total number of eligible voters. A higher voter turnout suggests more active political participation, while a lower turnout can indicate low interest or dissatisfaction.
06. Number of provincial laws passed
With the entry into force of the Second Autonomy Statute in 1972, numerous legislative powers were transferred from the Region of Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol to the provincial level. Only then did the Provincial Council of South Tyrol and the Provincial Council of Trentino become the central bodies of autonomous legislation.
Last updated: 15.5.2024
07. Public employees of local administrations
Positions in the public local administrations of South Tyrol must be filled according to the proportions of the language groups as determined by the language group census. Local administrations include the provincial administration, municipalities, health service, teachers in state schools (primary, middle, and high schools), and other local bodies. These local bodies include the following institutions: Provincial Council, regional administration and Regional Council, Special Agency for Social Services Balsan/Bozen/Bolzano, welfare institutions, public radio and television agency (RAS), Institute for Social Housing, Chamber of Commerce, tourist offices, trade association. Only workers and employees with a public law employment relationship are considered public employees. Persons with a private law employment contract who work in public administrations are not counted as public employees. Substitute personnel are also not included in these figures. For teachers in state schools, the mother language was partly used as a criterion for language group membership. In 1997, 2000, and 2001, teachers in state schools were not included. Therefore, the total number of public employees in these years is lower.
Last updated: 20.6.2024
Last updated: 15.5.2024
08. Public employees of state institutions
Positions in the public administration of South Tyrol must be filled according to the proportions of the language groups as determined by the language group census. This also applies to personnel stationed in South Tyrol who work for state institutions. These include public employees of state administrations, social insurance institutions, as well as the state railway and postal services. The state administration includes the following institutions: Government Commissariat, Ministry of Economy and Finance, judiciary (excluding judges and prosecutors), and other ministries. The social insurance institutions include the National Institute for Social Insurance (NISF/INPS) and the National Institute for Insurance against Accidents at Work (INAIL). Only workers and employees with a public law employment relationship are considered public employees. Persons with a private law employment contract who work in public administration are not counted as public employees. Neither is substitute personnel included in these figures. Although the police and the military are part of the state administration, they are exempt from the rules of the ethnic quota system and are therefore not included in the presented figures. In 2022, around 2,670 police officers and around 2,540 military personnel were stationed in South Tyrol.
Last updated: 15.5.2024
Last updated: 15.5.2024
09. Dissatisfaction with the bilingualism of civil servants
As part of a survey conducted by the Provincial Statistics Institute ASTAT on citizens’ satisfaction with public services, the reasons for dissatisfaction and negative assessments were also analysed, including the insufficient bilingualism of civil servants. This aspect was examined for the services of the municipalities, the provincial administration, the district community, the health service, and the National Institute for Social Security (NISF/INPS). The sample size of the study was 1912 respondents in 2018 and 2270 respondents in 2023.
Last updated: 15.5.2024
10. Opinion on the autonomy
As part of a survey conducted by ‘apollis’, an institute for social research and demoscopy, among other things, people were asked for their opinion on various predetermined statements on the autonomy of South Tyrol. The question was: Please think about the special autonomy for South Tyrol and its effects: To what extent do you agree with the following statements? The percentage indicates the respondents’ agreement with the statements. The sample size of the study was 700 respondents.
Last updated: 15.5.2024
11. Opinion on the ethnic quota system
What do you think of the ethnic quota system? This question was asked in the context of a panel study by the Provincial Statistics Institute ASTAT. The percentage reflects the respondents’ consent to the given statements. The sample size of the study was 1317 surveys.
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Economy and finance
For South Tyrol, the Second Autonomy Statute of 1972 was associated with the hope of an economic upturn and prosperity for all. In fact, key figures such as gross domestic product show a corresponding trend although this must certainly be seen in the context of overall European economic growth. It is difficult to measure how much South Tyrol’s autonomy has actually contributed to the country’s positive economic development. However, it is undisputed that economic development has had a direct influence on South Tyrol’s financial autonomy. Around 90 per cent of the taxes collected on South Tyrolean territory belong to the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen - South Tyrol. Positive economic development therefore increases tax revenues at the same time. This enables the province to finance its diverse legislative competences. The figures presented here on financial autonomy also show how high the share of the individual types of tax in total revenue is. The fact that economic prosperity is not always evenly distributed is illustrated by the data on household income and the risk of poverty.
Index
- 01. Gross domestic product per capita
- 02. Gross value added by economic sector
- 03. People employed by economic sector
- 04. Company size
- 05. Unemployment rate
- 06. Household income
- 07. Per capita household income
- 08. Risk of poverty
- 09. Housing subsidies
- 10. Revenue of the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen - South Tyrol
- 11. Taxes ceded by the state to the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen - South Tyrol
- 12. Provincial taxes of the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen - South Tyrol
- 13. Expenditure of the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen - South Tyrol
- 14. Credit rating
01. Gross domestic product per capita
Gross domestic product (GDP) per capita is an economic measure of the total value of all goods and services produced in a country over a given period. Dividing the GDP by the number of inhabitants gives the average economic output per inhabitant. The figures presented here are GDP at market prices. They therefore reflect the price level of the respective year.
Last updated: 31.5.2024
02. Gross value added by economic sector
Principally, three economic sectors or areas are distinguished in the economy. The primary sector covers all activities of agriculture, forestry and fishery. The secondary sector covers all activities of the producing industry. The tertiary sector includes all activities of the service sector. Gross value added indicates how much enterprises or sectors of the economy have actually produced and contributed to the economy. The goods and services required for production are deducted from the value of total production. The figures listed here are gross value added at market prices. They therefore reflect the price level of the respective year.
Last updated: 15.5.2024
03. People employed by economic sector
In principle, three economic sectors or areas are distinguished in the economy. The primary sector covers all activities of agriculture, forestry and fishery. The secondary sector covers all activities of the manufacturing industry. The tertiary sector includes all activities of the service sector. The figures for persons employed by economic sector indicate how many people are employed in the primary, secondary or tertiary sectors. The figures from 1951 to 1991 correspond to the results of the census. The figures from 1995 onwards are based on extrapolation. In the census, some other categories were used, but these were assigned to the three economic sectors for better comparability.
Last updated: 15.5.2024
Last updated: 20.6.2024
04. Company size
The figures on company size show the importance of the different types of companies in relation to the overall economy: micro-enterprises (0-9 employees), small enterprises (10-49 employees), medium-sized enterprises (50-249 employees), large enterprises (> 250). Turnover refers to the total revenue that companies generate from the sale of goods or services in a given period.
Last updated: 15.5.2024
05. Unemployment rate
The unemployment rate is the percentage of the employable population that is unemployed and actively seeking employment in relation to the total labour force. The relatively large difference between the figures for 1988 and 1989 is partly due to the change in the definition of unemployment in 1989.
Last updated: 15.5.2024
06. Household income
The annual disposable income of households consists of the total monetary income of all household members from all sources, that is, direct income and public contributions. Here, the amounts are net amounts from which any taxes and social security contributions have already been deducted. A household in this case is defined as a community of persons who are related by marriage, kinship, in-laws, adoption, guardianship or otherwise and who live together. Individuals can also count as a household. The sample size of the ASTAT study was 1355 households.
Last updated: 15.5.2024
07. Per capita household income
The disposable income per capita of consumer households is the money available to each person in a household. Consumer households are individuals or groups of individuals whose main function is to consume or produce non-financial goods and services exclusively for their own final consumption. The difference between nominal and real values is that the latter take inflation into account. Inflation is an increase in the general price level, which means that goods and services become more expensive. This reduces the purchasing power of money because one can buy less for the same amount of money.
Last updated: 15.5.2024
08. Risk of poverty
A household is considered to be at risk of poverty if its annual equivalised income is less than 60 per cent of the annual median equivalent income in South Tyrol. The equivalised income is an adjusted household income that, taking into account household size and composition, represents a comparable economic situation across different households. In this case, it takes into account the available financial resources, including taxes and social benefits. In 2018, the median equivalised income in South Tyrol was 21,639 euros. Accordingly, the poverty threshold amounted to 12,984 euros, which is 60 percent of the equivalised income. In this case a household is defined as a community of persons who are related by marriage, kinship, in-laws, adoption, guardianship or otherwise and who live together. Individuals can also count as a household. The figures for the Ladin language group are not significant because the sample size was insufficient or there was a so-called standard error. The sample size of the study was 1355 households.
Last updated: 15.5.2024
09. Housing subsidies
The chart shows the number of accepted applications for subsidised housing by language group. According to the Autonomy Statute, the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen - South Tyrol has exclusive legislative powers in the area of subsidised housing. The relevant provincial law stipulates that the funds for subsidised housing are generally allocated according to need and in proportion to the size of the language groups. The needs of each language group are determined annually. This regulation is based on the Autonomy Statute, which stipulates that the funds allocated in the budget ‘for welfare, social and cultural purposes shall be used in direct proportion to the strength and extent of the needs of each language group’. The figures are annual averages.
Last updated: 15.5.2024
10. Revenue of the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen - South Tyrol
The revenue of the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen - South Tyrol is made up of funds that it receives from various sources such as taxes or levies. In detail, these are provincial taxes, levies ceded by the state, current grants, non-tax revenue, investment income, reduction of financial assets, liabilities, revenue for third parties and transitory items. These revenues are used to finance public services, infrastructure projects and other expenditure. Provincial levies and levies ceded by the state are precisely regulated by the Autonomy Statute. These regulations also apply to the Autonomous Province of Trento. Although the legislative possibilities of the Autonomous Region of Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol are rather limited compared to the two autonomous provinces, it is entitled to certain revenues based on the financial provisions of the Autonomy Statute. These include, for example, revenue from mortgage tax, shares of inheritance tax and VAT on domestic trade.
Provincial taxes: The Autonomy Statute stipulates that the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen - South Tyrol may introduce its own taxes in certain areas. These taxes are summarised as provincial taxes, e.g. the motor vehicle tax.
Levies ceded by the state: According to the Autonomy Statute, the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen - South Tyrol is entitled to around 90 per cent of the taxes collected in South Tyrol. The state transfers this tax revenue to the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen - South Tyrol.
Current grants: Current grants are transfers of funds between different units of the public administration. They do not include taxes, investment grants and other capital allocations, which are recognised separately.
Non-tax revenue: Non-tax revenues refer to the revenues of the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen - South Tyrol that are not dependent on taxes. This includes income from public services, assets, interest, profits from investments and other non-tax sources.
Investment income: Investment income is income that directly or indirectly contributes to capital formation. This includes income from financial investments or profits from investments in tangible assets.
Reduction of financial assets: The reduction of financial assets refers to the income from the sale of financial assets, the collection of current and non-current receivables and the reduction of other financial assets.
Liabilities: Liabilities are non-current liabilities or equity transactions, except for those with a term of less than one year.
Revenue for third parties and transitory items: Revenue for third parties is money received on behalf of others (organisations, persons). Transitory items are financial items that only flow through temporarily without any permanent change.
Last updated: 14.5.2024
Last updated: 14.5.2024
11. Taxes ceded by the state to the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen - South Tyrol
The Autonomy Statute provides for the allocation of fixed shares of state taxes and levies to the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen - South Tyrol, generally around 90 per cent of the tax revenue collected in the province. The exact share for each tax is regulated in section 6 of the Autonomy Statute. The taxes ceded by the state to the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen - South Tyrol in accordance with the Autonomy Statute are made up of the following items in detail: IRPEF income tax, IRES corporation tax, IVA value added tax (VAT on domestic trade and VAT on imports), excise duty on tobacco, taxes on the consumption of alcohol and alcoholic beverages, excise duty on energy products, register tax, stamp duty. There was also a variable share until 2018.
IRPEF income tax: The ‘Imposta sul Reddito delle Persone Fisiche’ (IRPEF) is the income tax. It is a tax levied on the income of individuals, based on various tax brackets and rates. The tax rates range from 23 per cent to 43 per cent. According to the Autonomy Statute, the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen - South Tyrol is entitled to 90 per cent of this tax revenue.
IRES corporation tax: The ‘Imposta sui Redditi della Società’ (IRES) is the corporation tax. Companies pay it on their profits. The tax rate normally adds up to 24 per cent. According to the Autonomy Statute, the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen - South Tyrol is entitled to 90 per cent of this tax revenue.
Value added tax on domestic trade: VAT on domestic trade is an indirect consumption tax levied on the sale of goods and services within a country. The VAT rate is added to the value of the goods. The current standard VAT rate in Italy is 22 per cent. There are lower tax rates for certain categories. According to the Autonomy Statute, the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen - South Tyrol is entitled to 80 per cent of this tax revenue.
Value added tax on imports: VAT on imports is a tax levied on the value of imported goods. It is payable at the time of import. The VAT rate is added to the value of the goods. According to the Autonomy Statute, the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen - South Tyrol is entitled to 90 per cent of this tax revenue.
Excise duty on tobacco: The excise duty on tobacco is a tax levied on tobacco products. According to the Autonomy Statute, the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen - South Tyrol is entitled to 90 per cent of this tax revenue.
Tax on the consumption of alcohol and alcoholic beverages: The tax on the consumption of alcohol and alcoholic beverages is a tax levied on the purchase of these products. According to the Autonomy Statute, the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen - South Tyrol is entitled to 90 per cent of this tax revenue.
Excise duty on energy products: The excise duty on energy products is a tax levied on certain energy products such as petrol and diesel. According to the Autonomy Statute, the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen - South Tyrol is entitled to 90 per cent of this tax revenue.
Register tax: The register tax is a tax that must be paid when registering contracts, deeds, protocols and agreements at the register office. According to the Autonomy Statute, the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen - South Tyrol is entitled to 90 per cent of this tax revenue.
Stamp duty: Stamp duty is an indirect tax that is payable for the creation of certain legally defined files, documents and registers. Payment is made by affixing a special stamp or virtually. According to the Autonomy Statute, the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen - South Tyrol is entitled to 90 per cent of this tax revenue.
Variable share: In the past, the variable share of the taxes ceded by the state had to be negotiated between the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen - South Tyrol and the Italian state. Unlike the fixed share, this share could vary. As part of the Milan Agreement of 2010, a fundamental revision of the provisions on financial autonomy, this variable share was abolished. The payments after 2010 are back payments by the state.
Last updated: 14.5.2024
Last updated: 14.5.2024
12. Provincial taxes of the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen - South Tyrol
In accordance with the Autonomy Statute the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen - South Tyrol can introduce its own taxes to a limited extent. Provincial taxes include the regional tax on productive activities IRAP, a supplementary tax to the income tax IRPEF and the motor vehicle tax.
Regional tax on productive activities IRAP: The ‘Imposta Regionale sulle Attività Produttive’ (IRAP) is the regional tax on productive activities. The tax rate can vary depending on the region. In the 2023 tax year, the ordinary IRAP tax rate in South Tyrol was 3.30 per cent.
Additional tax on income tax IRPEF: In Italy, the IRPEF regional surcharge is a supplementary tax to the IRPEF (‘Imposta sul Reddito delle Persone Fisiche’) income tax. The tax rate can vary depending on the region. For the 2023 tax year, the tax rate for income up to EUR 50,000 in South Tyrol was 1.23 per cent. Above 50,000 euros, 1.73 per cent was payable.
Motor vehicle tax: Motor vehicle tax is a tax levied on the use of vehicles. The amount is based on various factors such as engine capacity and emission class. In accordance with the Autonomy Statute, the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen - South Tyrol can set the vehicle tax itself.
Last updated: 14.5.2024
13. Expenditure of the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen - South Tyrol
The expenditure of the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen - South Tyrol relates to the financial expenditure in the various (policy) areas. Specifically, the expenditure is made up of 19 different items. The expenditure is determined by the budget or the relevant law and often reflects political priorities. The figures given here do not consider the so-called earmarked multi-year fund. An earmarked multi-year fund is a fund specifically established for long-term projects or programmes. It is used over a period of several years.
Last updated: 14.5.2024
Last updated: 14.5.2024
14. Credit rating
Rating agencies assess creditworthiness, which refers to the ability and willingness of a state, region, or company to repay borrowed funds. The better and higher a subject is rated, the more likely it is that the incurred debts can be repaid. Conversely, a lower rating indicates a decreased likelihood of reliable debt repayment. Given that the rating agencies Moody’s Investors Service and FitchRatings do not permit regional authorities to have a rating more than two notches above that of the state, the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen - South Tyrol achieves the best possible result. Moody’s Investors Service ratings range from Aaa (highest rating) to C (lowest rating). Baa1, the rating of the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen-South Tyrol, is the eighth highest rating out of a total of 21. FitchRatings’ ratings range from AAA (highest rating) to D (lowest rating). The rating of A- for the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen - South Tyrol is the seventh highest out of a total of 20.
Last updated: 14.5.2024
Timeline
Mid 19th Century
The approximate area of today's Tyrol and South Tyrol came under Habsburg rule in 1363. The region of Trentino was not fully integrated into the County of Tyrol and thus into the Austrian Empire until the beginning of the 19th century. Natural disasters, agricultural failures and economic problems led to widespread impoverishment of the Trentino population and triggered waves of emigration.
End of the 19th century
These issues led to demands from Trentino for greater autonomy within the Austrian crown land of Tyrol, which was never granted by the German-speaking Tyrolean side. Other factions sought national independence. The “Irredentism” movement in the neighboring Kingdom of Italy sought to “redeem” Italian-speaking areas from foreign rule. Since the unification of Italy in 1866, more radical forces have looked to the Brenner Pass on the main ridge of the Alps as a potential new northern border for Italy.
1904
“I fatti di Innsbruck“
In response to the struggle for an Italian-language university in Austria-Hungary, an Italian-language law school was established at the University of Innsbruck. However, when it opened in the fall of 1904, nationalist hostilities and riots broke out. Several Italian businesses in Innsbruck and the new faculty building were vandalized, leading to the closure of the proposed faculty shortly thereafter.
1906
Ettore Tolomei
The geographer and nationalist Ettore Tolomei founded the journal “Archivio per l'Alto Adige”, a publication that was only superficially scientific. He also translated South Tyrolean place names into Italian and tried to demonstrate a deeper “Italian identity” of the region between the Brenner Pass and Salurn.
1914
Outbreak of the First World War
Tyrolean Kaiserjäger (light infantry soldiers), including tens of thousands from Trentino, are sent to the Eastern Front against the Russian Empire.
1915
Secret Treaty of London and Italy's entry into the war
Great Britain, France and Russia assure Italy that it will get the territory up to the Brenner border in return for leaving the Triple Alliance and joining the war on their side. Tyrol south of Brenner and Reschen is called "Cisalpine Tyrol" for the first time.
1918
End of the First World War and 1919 Peace Treaty of Saint-Germain-en-Laye
The Austro-Hungarian Empire was one of the losers of the four-year world war. In the Treaty of Saint-Germain-en-Laye, the region of Tyrol south of the Brenner Pass was ceded to Italy, which became official in 1920 through an annexation law. This marked the creation of the territory known today as “South Tyrol”.
1922
March on Rome
In October 1922, the Fascist Party under Benito Mussolini marched into Rome and took control of the state. This marked the beginning of a period of forced Italianization in South Tyrol: the German language could no longer be taught and was partially banned from public life. The settlement of people from other parts of Italy was also strongly encouraged in the 1930s.
1920s
Passive resistance to forced Italianization took the form of illegal clandestine schools set up in attics, haylofts, and farmhouses. Textbooks and other educational materials were smuggled in from Germany and Austria.
1933
National Socialism
The rise to power of the National Socialists in Germany and Hitler's aggressive foreign policy raised the hopes of many German and Ladin-speaking South Tyroleans that they would be “brought home to the Reich”. In 1934, the South Tyrolean Nationalist Combat Ring (VKS) was founded. It operated underground, spreading Nazi propaganda and running its own emergency schools.
1939
Option
Hitler and Mussolini sealed the agreement for the resettlement of the South Tyrolean population, known as the “Option”. Those who opted for German citizenship were obliged to emigrate, while those who chose to remain in South Tyrol would no longer have the protection of their German and Ladin-speaking identity. Intense propaganda ensued, dividing the population into “optants” and “Dableiber”, depending on whether they wanted to leave or stay. 86% opted for resettlement, but the outbreak of the Second World War prevented their emigration.
1943
On September 8, 1943, the German Wehrmacht occupied Italy and established the “Operationszone Alpenvorland”, which included the provinces of Bozen/Bolzano, Trento and Belluno. Many German- and Ladin-speaking people saw the occupation as a liberation, while for many Italian-speaking South Tyroleans it meant the opposite. “Dableiber”, conscientious objectors, and socialists were persecuted. Members of the “South Tyrolean Order Service” (SOD) arrested Jewish citizens. A Nazi transit camp was set up in Bozen/Bolzano in the summer of 1944 and housed more than 10,000 prisoners until it was closed at the end of April 1945. One third of the prisoners were deported to extermination camps.
1945
South Tyrol was occupied by American troops at the beginning of May and liberated from Nazi fascism. The initially established Anglo-American military administration gave way to Italian civil administration towards the end of the year. The hoped-for reintegration with Austria, as desired by many German- and Ladin-speaking South Tyroleans, does not occur.
1946
Paris Treaty
On the sidelines of the Paris Peace Conference, Italian Prime Minister Alcide De Gasperi and Austrian Foreign Minister Karl Gruber signed a protection agreement for South Tyrol. The “Gruber-De Gasperi Agreement” – also known as the “Paris Agreement” – guaranteed special measures for the South Tyrolean population regarding the development of language, culture, and economy. The agreement is internationally secured as an annex to the 1947 Peace Treaty.
1948
First Autonomy Statute
The Italian Constituent Assembly approves the first Autonomy Statute. It merges the two provinces of Bozen/Bolzano and Trento into a single region, Trentino-South Tyrol, with a regional parliament and a regional government. The South Tyrolean Provincial Council has very limited legislative powers.
1948-1957
Disappointing autonomy
Since the Italian-speaking population is the majority in the region, the concerns of the German- and Ladin-speaking minorities are often overruled. This makes self-government difficult, and essential elements of the Gruber-De Gasperi agreement are not implemented. The dissatisfaction of the German-speaking South Tyrolean population grew, partly due to the internal migration of Italian workers and families, who mostly found employment in the public sector and in large industrial plants. Thousands of German-speaking South Tyroleans were forced to emigrate to Germany, Austria, and Switzerland because they were denied these job opportunities.
1955
Austrian State Treaty
Austria became sovereign, regained its ability to act in foreign policy and could fulfill its “protective function” for South Tyrol.
1957
Rally at Sigmundskron Castle
At a mass rally at Sigmundskron Castle, 35,000 people protested against the failure to implement the Treaty of Paris and demanded autonomy for South Tyrol, independent of Trentino, with the slogan “Away from Trento!”.
1960
South Tyrol question before the UN
On the initiative of Austrian Foreign Minister Bruno Kreisky, the United Nations General Assembly unanimously passed resolutions on the South Tyrol issue: Italy and Austria were called upon to negotiate in order to settle all differences of opinion regarding the Paris Treaty. In the course of the decolonization debate, South Tyrol's concerns receive broad support from states of the so-called “Third World”.
1961
The Commission of Nineteen
The Commission of Nineteen appointed by the Italian Council of Ministers (consisting of seven German-speaking, one Ladin-speaking and eleven Italian-speaking persons) was given the task of dealing with the “South Tyrol question” and submitting proposals to the government. A few years later, the results of these negotiations between Rome and South Tyrol were incorporated into a package of measures, known as the “Package” for short.
1961
Fire Night
On the night of June 11, 1961, the separatist group BAS (“Liberation Committee South Tyrol”) blows up high-voltage power lines. A worker from Trentino is killed. The aim was to draw the attention of the international public to the South Tyrol issue. Italy sends a large contingent of military and police forces to South Tyrol.
1963
First center-left government in Italy
Under the Christian Democrat Aldo Moro, the first center-left government was formed with the participation of the Socialist Party (PSI). South Tyrol's negotiations with Rome for greater autonomy were increasingly heard.
1969
Yes to the “package”
The parliaments in Rome and Vienna voted on the proposals drawn up by the Commission of Nineteen, as did the SVP's national assembly. During an extraordinary party conference in the Kurhaus in Merano, a narrow majority voted in favor of the “package deal”. The term “package deal” refers to the totality of suggestions and proposals drawn up by the Commission of Nineteen. These proposals formed the basis for the 137 “Measures in favor of the population of South Tyrol”.
1972
Second Autonomy Statute
The new autonomy statute promised in the package came into force on January 20, 1972. It ensures equal rights and protection for all three language groups in the province of Bozen/Bolzano, which was given considerably more powers under the umbrella of the Trentino-South Tyrol region.
1965-1980
Economic upturn
When the second autonomy statute came into force, a late economic miracle began in South Tyrol. Tourism became the most important pillar of the South Tyrolean economy alongside agriculture, crafts and industry, which experiences an upswing, especially in the periphery.
1992
Dispute Settlement
The formal conclusion of the South Tyrol negotiations before the UN was completed with the submission of the declaration of dispute settlement by Austria: The most important measures of the South Tyrol package have been implemented, efficient protection of minorities has been achieved. South Tyrolean autonomy remains legally anchored internationally.
1997/98
Schengen Agreement
Following Austria's accession to the European Union in 1995, border controls were also abolished as part of the Schengen Agreement in the winter of 1997/98. This opened up new opportunities for cross-border cooperation at regional level.
2001
Constitutional law on “semi-federalism”
The constitutional law confirmed by referendum extends – at least in theory – the legislative powers of the province of Bozen/Bolzano and enshrined the German- and Ladin-speaking term “South Tyrol” in the Italian constitution. At the same time, however, the province's autonomous powers are increasingly restricted by state legislation and constitutional jurisdiction.
2011
Foundation of the Euregio
The provincial governors of South Tyrol, Tyrol and Trentino found the European Grouping of Territorial Cooperation (EGTC) called “Euregio Tyrol-South Tyrol-Trentino” at Thun Castle on the Val di Non-Nonsberg.
2014
Security Pact
The financial relationship between the state and the province was redefined in an agreement: As a result of the economic crisis of 2008, South Tyrol's participation in the restructuring of the state coffers was stipulated. In addition, it is guaranteed that the state can no longer access funds to which it is entitled through special measures. This and the fact that the taxes collected in South Tyrol remain in the province give the province greater planning security.
2015-2017
Autonomy Convention
Parliament set up a convention to revise the autonomy statute. In a participatory process, citizens draw up proposals for the further development of the autonomy statute, which are still awaiting implementation.
2021
Euregio gets closer to the people
The Euregio is equipped with a citizens' council and a council of municipalities. The aim is to strengthen the right of civil society to have a say in political decision-making processes.
Source
Josef Prackwieser, Georg Grote, Hannes Obermair; on the basis of: Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen - South Tyrol, History of South Tyrol, 6.12.2023