Minorities

Given the presence in Italy of different minority groups having ethnic, religious or linguistic features which differ from the rest of the population, the Ministry of Interior is responsible for the protection of ‘old-established minorities’ who predominantly live in the Alpine Arch border areas.

Regions where these groups are traditionally established enjoy a different degree of administrative autonomy and minorities are granted different forms of protection.

The national legislative framework for the protection of minorities is contained in law no. 482 of 15th December 1999.