Annual Report 2024: Research for a better understanding of our society
Flood of votes and analysis of popular opinion
The political year 2024 was characterized by no fewer than eight referendums – an all-time high. The Liechtenstein Institute accompanied all ballots with scientific surveys and analyses. The vote to repeal the law on Radio Liechtenstein was particularly revealing – a decision that raised not only political but also media law issues.
Important publications published
A new standard work on Liechtenstein politics has been published in the form of the 650-page handbook “Das politische System Liechtensteins”. The volume, edited by Wilfried Marxer, Thomas Milic and Philippe Rochat, marks the start of a new series of publications by the Liechtenstein Institute at the renowned Nomos publishing house. Liechtenstein’s relations with Switzerland were also examined in detail in a separate publication to mark the 100th anniversary of the Customs Union Treaty.
Making research understandable – for everyone
The Institute and its partners from the Liechtenstein University Network presented themselves to the general public as part of the event “Liechtenstein as a location for science – making research visible!”. There was hands-on science in the form of panel discussions, poster exhibitions and a science slam.
Focus on social issues
The II Historians’ Day, organized by the Department of History, highlighted the topic of “family” from a historical perspective. The wide range of presentations met with lively public interest.
Three faces of research
Research is never anonymous – it thrives on people and ideas. Interviews with three researchers from the Liechtenstein Institute complement the annual report. Karin Frick, a political scientist who recently joined the Institute, talks about her approach to political research. Cornelius Goop explains why women’s biographies have led a shadowy existence in the Historical Dictionary to date and how this should be changed. And lawyer Patricia Schiess analyzes the legal landscape surrounding Liechtenstein broadcasting.
Science as a compass
“Maintaining existing knowledge, creating new knowledge, offering guidance” – this is how Institute Director Thomas Meier summarizes the activities of the Liechtenstein Institute over the past year. And President Guido Meier is convinced: “Once again, the Liechtenstein Institute has provided us as a society, our country and our understanding of the state with reliable knowledge.” The great challenge for science in today's world is now the question of how it can gain the necessary attention beyond the political topicality and hectic pace without falling prey to simplification.
The annual report can be viewed here.
Delighted with the publication of the annual report (from left): Cornelius Goop, President Guido Meier, Director Thomas Meier, Karin Frick and Thomas Milic.
