Austria

As part of the efforts of the Länder in strengthening federalism in Austria Tyrol and Vorarlberg founded the Institute of Federalism in 1975. Later on, Upper Austria (in 2003), Lower Austria and Salzburg (both in 2019) joined the founding states as a supporting member. Since 2001 Univ.-Prof. Dr. Peter Bußjäger heads the institute. The institute conducts individual scientific research and asigns research contracts covering federal subjects as well as matters regarding European law. A number of publications, including the “Annual Report on Federalism in Austria“, cover the individual research results. Furthermore, the institute furnishes expert opinions and provides advice for decision-makers. These activities as well as data collection, documentation, information and public relations work contribute substantially to the continuous development of federalism.