Main Research Areas

Profile Department of History

• We conduct historical research into the small state of Liechtenstein within its European and global contexts. The department is a centre of competence for the history of Liechtenstein and historic small states studies. We also work on selected topics beyond the context of Liechtenstein and small states.

• Based on reflected methodologies and a variety of conceptual approaches we produce both scientifically and socially relevant insights.

• We carry out research in the fields of political history, social history, cultural history, economic history and legal history, as well as public history, covering topics from the early modern period to the present day.

• We are committed to a scientific and critical understanding of history and to academic independence. We share research-based historical knowledge not only through academic teaching but also by different forms of transfer to the interested public. 

Profile Department of Politics

• We are the leading institution for applied social research in the country and the primary point of contact for political science–related questions.

• We focus in particular on analyzing elections and referendums, conducting surveys, and researching political systems and various policy areas. 

• Through applied and basic research, we generate scientific evidence on Liechtenstein that strengthens understanding of politics and supports well-informed decision-making. 

• Our research and teaching are conducted independently and evidence-based.

Profile Department of Law

• We are the centre of excellence for research on Liechtenstein law and the law governing Liechtenstein’s integration into the EEA and its relationship to the European Union. Our focus is on public law, in particular constitutional, administrative, European and international law.

• We address legal issues at an academic level. We focus on both fundamental questions and specific legal problems.

• We take a long-term approach to legal issues relevant to Liechtenstein. In doing so, we seek to explore these topics in depth and build up long-term expertise.

• We are committed to academic independence and quality. This ensures that we are the first point of contact in the country for the areas of law we cover.

Profile of Department of Economics

• We are the central point of contact and platform for economic analysis relating to Liechtenstein and generate insights for society, politics, and business.

• We conduct research to support evidence-based decision-making by Liechtenstein stakeholders and in exchange with researchers at home and abroad.

• We analyze the Liechtenstein economy and relevant contexts with an empirical approach and from macroeconomic and microeconomic perspectives.

• We strive to strike an appropriate balance between academic and applied research, thereby ensuring synergies between high scientific standards and practical relevance.

• We work in an unbiased and fact-based manner and with scientific independence, objectivity, and methodological rigor.