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.
The Institute currently has approximately 70 members. The majority of them represent a broad spectrum of economic, social, and cultural interests and opinions in South Tyrol. In addition, there are also members from outside of South Tyrol who support the objectives of the Institute. The Autonomous Region of Trentino-South Tyrol joined in 1996, and in 1997 the Uniun Generela Ladins dla Dolomites (General Union of Dolomite Ladins) which is the umbrella organization of Dolomite Ladins became members. This were the first occasions on which the membership was expanded to also include organizations.
The Institute is managed by a seven member board of directors, each of whom is elected to a three year term by the general meeting. The board of directors chooses from among itself a chairperson and vice-chairperson.