Promoting Local Identity

Tasks

On behalf of the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom, the Dresden Branch of the ifo Institute investigates the emotional attachment of citizens to their own local community ("local identity") and the significance of local identity for political attitudes and social commitment. The study is based on representative surveys of the German population between 1981 and 2017.

Methods

The study shows the development of local identity in Germany over time. Moreover, it compares local identity with regional and national identity in Germany and in some western countries. We analyze differences in local identity according to place of residence, socio-economic characteristics and party preference. We use regression analysis to examine the role of local identity in social and political activities and attitudes. In addition, we identify factors that go along with higher local identity.

Data and other sources

European Value Survey, World Value Survey

Results

Four out of ten citizens in Germany have a high local identity. Socio-economic and institutional factors have an influence on this identity, and local identity plays an important role in local social engagement and political attitudes.