Overview
Alpine communities’ quality of life is currently facing several challenges such as the depopulation of remote areas, reduced provision of services of general interest, the impacts of climate change, and mistrust of governance. These issues are not only reshaping the Alpine territories but also impacting the daily lives of its inhabitants. Despite the urgent need for responsive and inclusive governance, there is currently a significant gap in understanding and addressing quality of life at the local level which our project aims to address.
Focusing on the local governance, GOVQoL offers a transformative approach by empowering Alpine communities with the necessary tools, knowledge, and skills to integrate quality of life into their policy-making processes. The project recognizes that local governance plays a crucial role in improving the daily lives of residents and ensuring that quality of life is embedded in long-term strategies. Through GOVQoL, we aim to build the capacity of local administrations, engage diverse stakeholders, and create place-based solutions that are not only responsive to local needs but also aligned with broader Alpine policies.
By increasing local governments’ and stakeholders’ knowledge with exchanges of best practices, and by supporting them in developing local roadmaps for action, GOVQoL aims to contribute to a more inclusive, sustainable, and resilient Alpine region. With its focus on local governance and community-led participation, this project will empower policy-making in the Alpine communities and make it more place-based and considerate of quality of life.
Factsheet
- 2021 – 2027
- Cooperatively managed and developed Alpine region
- SO 4.1 - Enhancing institutional capacity of public authorities and stakeholders to implement macro-regional strategies and sea-basin strategies, as well as other territorial strategies
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- AG2 Economic development
- AG3 Labour market, education and training
- 01/2025
- 12/2026
- 442.500 EUR
- 331.875 EUR
Description
Objectives:
- Analyse the current state of the local governance concerning quality of life
- Improve the skills of the local administration
- Empower the governance capacity of Alpine communities by embedding quality of life in long-term policy-making
- Increase stakeholders’ knowledge and awareness to be more sensitive and proactive in considering quality of life as a relevant policy issue
Key activities:
- On-site workshops with local communities to evaluate the current state of quality of life governance in selected Alpine communities, identify gaps, and build tailored solutions;
- Awareness raising seminars to increase understanding of quality of life governance and highlight the impact for Alpine communities;
- Place-based roadmaps for the development of actionable local strategies to integrate quality of life in policy-making processes on a long-term basis;
- Alpine umbrella roadmap gathering best practices and governance instruments in a handbook, available in all Alpine languages.
Project partners:
Lead partner: University of Ljubljana – Slovenia
www.uni-lj.si/
Naja Marot, naja.marot@bf.uni-lj.si
Community Network Alliance in the Alps – Germany
alpenallianz.org
Katharina Gasteiger, info@alpenallianz.org
Politecnico di Torino – Italy
www.polito.it/
Erblin Berisha, erblin.berisha@polito.it
French committee of the International Commission for the Protection of the Alps – France
www.cipra.org/fr/cipra/france
Julika Jarosch, julika.jarosch@cipra.org
Partners
- Lead partner
- Slovenia
- Zahodna Slovenija (SI04)
- Ljubljana
- Naja Marot
- naja.marot@bf.uni-lj.si
- Germany
- Oberbayern (DE21)
- Übersee
- Katharina Gasteiger
- info@alpenallianz.org
- Italy
- Piemonte (ITC1)
- City Torino
- Erblin Berisha
- erblin.berisha@polito.it
- France
- Rhône-Alpes (FRK2)
- Grenoble
- Julika Jarosch
- julika.jarosch@cipra.org
Outcomes
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Identification of governance gaps and local needs for preparation of place-based policies concerning QoL within the Alpine area
Multiple organisations co-operate to identify governance gaps and the needs of Alpine communities in regard to QoL and societal well-being. The co-operation first materialises within 5 Alpine countries (AT, DE, FR, IT, SI) due to language limitations. Afterwards, the outcomes of WP1 are jointly evaluated and summarised in an on-site workshop to elaborate on Alpine specifics of QoL governance and its gaps. PPs, Alpine convention(observer) and some of the local communities participate in this. -
Roadmaps to strengthen and improve local governance in regard to QoL
Each of 10 local communities use collaborative approaches to prepare 2 roadmaps: 1st aims at strengthening local governance: integration of QoL into existing policies and policymaking processes on various gov. levels. Second one aids local civil society to monitor how local adm. is performing in regard to their societal well-being. -
The Alpine roadmap on better local governance for the quality of life
Finally, the Alpine roadmap is prepared jointly by PPs to guide Alpine organisations, active in governance, pursuing QoL as policy topic on supranational level. Alpine roadmap represents a synthesis of the work done on the local level and includes guidelines on how Alpine communities can intensify sensitivity to QoL in the governance, and which instruments/tools appeal to the Alpine context most and could be transferred. -
Roadmap development process as pilot action in the local communities
Pilot action consists of the roadmap development process in 10 local communities. PA entails inclusion of the representatives of the communities into knowledge capacity building seminars to teach them about available governance tools, engagements of various local stakeholders in the workshops and other activities, all with the purpose to prepare two roadmaps for each of the communities. Pilot action results in a technical report on the process of co-development and validation of roadmaps.
Pilots
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Jesenice (Upper Carniola), Slovenia
Jesenice is a Slovenian municipality with about 22.000 inhabitants and a surface area of 76 km² located in the northern Gorenjska region bordering Austria, and precisely situated in the Sava valley. This valley serves as a connection between Central and Southeastern Europe as it is located along a major transport corridor. Jesenice was historically an industrial town highly dependent on the steel industry. Tourism is not a key industry in Jesenice as there are predominantly day tourists, however there is potential due to the municipality's proximity to the Triglav national park, and the touristic hotspot Bled, the surrounding mountains as well as cultural and sport events that take place.
ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND TERRITORIAL CHARACTERISTICS
- Besides heavy industry the economy has diversified to services, trade, construction, and small manufacturing enterprises.
- Working-class community, formed through internal migration from other parts of former Yugoslavia, attracted by industrial employment.
- Great logistic relevance due to its location in the Sava river valley functioning as a connection between Central and Southeastern Europe
- The Karavanke Mountains form a natural barrier to the north, while the Mežakla Plateau rises to the south
- Healthcare is provided through the general hospital offering specialized care, pharmacies as well as elderly care
- Childcare and education including kindergartens, primary schools and secondary schools is available
- Access to Culture centers and a public library
- Offers for indoor and outdoor sports activities
- Infrastructure in the form of public transport and well-developed road connections to Ljubljana and Austria
- Jesenice serves as a regional center in the Upper Gorenjska region
- Job losses through the decline of heavy industry and limited job opportunities for younger residents
- Integration of diverse ethnic groups due to the town's history of migration for industrial employment
- Majority of the housing stock requires modernization to meet modern energy efficiency and comfort standards
- Through the history of heavy metal industry, the municipality still struggles with industrial pollution requiring continuous investment in environmental improvements
- The linear urban form along the Sava valley limits spatial expansion to the sides and contributes to traffic congestion which affects the residents' quality of life
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Črna na Koroškem (Carinthia), Slovenia
Črna na Koroškem is a small and rural municipality with about 3.000 inhabitants and a surface area of 156 km², located in the west of the Koroška region, bordering Austria. It is situated in the narrow Upper Meža Valley under the Peca range which gives it an Alpine character, in a remote area where the population density is at 20 inhabitants/km² which is significantly lower than average (105 inhabitants/km²) and among the least densely populated municipalities in Slovenia. . Institutions such as secondary schools or specialized healthcare is not available, and residents are required to go to Ravne na Koroškem, Slovenj Gradec or Celje. Concerning the mobility infrastructure the closest motorway exit is nearly 50 km away; there is no railway and bus connections are scarce.
ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND TERRITORIAL CHARACTERISTICS- Historically the region was mostly dependent on mining which shaped the spatial development of settlements as well as the landscape
- Surrounding landscape and mountains attract visitors in summer and wintertime, so tourism is increasing
- The remote location leads to limited access to certain services or employment opportunities, which leads to an outwards migration and ageing of the population
- The municipality has a comparatively large surface area of 156 km² in mountainous terrain, which is predominantly covered by forest
- Basic healthcare is provided by a medical center and a pharmacy, whereas specialized care can be found in Ravne na Koroškem or Slovenj Gradec
- At the moment, elderly care is still under construction
- For education and childcare there are kindergartens as well a a primary school in Črna
- Access to secondary school only is available in nearby towns
- Recreational infrastructure is provided mostly outdoors (e.g., zip-lining, cycling, and hiking)
- The infrastructure needs improvement as public transport is poor, and some remote hamlets lack internet connection
- Limited employment opportunities require younger residents to move to urban areas
- Population ageing (average age is 47 years, compared to the national average age of 44 years)
- As the older population increases, demanding for healthcare and social support is growing
- Both population ageing and outward migration reduce the local labour force, limit the community’s vitality and can lead to isolation amongst residents
- Accessibility and connectivity issues are being faced, both in terms of transport and digital infrastructure being demanding in sparsely populated mountain terrain
- The availability of services is limited, some of the existing services operate only limited hours (e.g., library)
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Nationalpark region Kalkalpen (Upper Austria), Austria
The National Park Region lovated in Upper Austria, unites 22 municipalities, covering 1,618 km²—the largest LEADER region in the state.
Over 44,000 residents live across the Ennstal, Steyrtal, and Pyhrn-Priel areas. At its heart lies the Kalkalpen National Park, spanning 20,850 hectares of protected nature.
Mission statement: “The quality of life of the people in our region is at the heart of our work!”
ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND TERRITORIAL CHARACTERISTICS
The region is characterized by small-scale agriculture, forestry, and a growing tourism sector focused on nature, outdoor recreation, and sustainable development.
While traditional industries such as wood processing and craftsmanship remain important, many residents commute to larger nearby towns like Steyr and Kirchdorf an der Krems for employment.
CHALLENGES OF QUALITY OF LIFE
Demographic change and out-migration of younger people present ongoing challenges, but the area benefits from strong local identity, active community initiatives, and increasing investment in eco-tourism, renewable energy, and regional value chains.
The overall quality of life is high, supported by intact natural landscapes and a commitment to sustainable rural development. -
Nenzing (Vorarlberg), Austria
Nenzing is a market town in the district of Bludenz, in the Austrian state of Vorarlberg.
Located at 533 m above sea level, it covers an area of 110.31 km², making it the fourth-largest municipality in Vorarlberg.
About 49.3% of its area is forested and 21.1% is alpine. The highest peak is Panüler at 2,859 m. As of January 2025 the population is 6,528.
ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND TERRITORIAL CHARACTERISTICS
Nenzing is characterized by a balanced mix of industry, services, and agriculture.
Many residents work in nearby industrial centers such as Bludenz and Feldkirch, while local small and medium-sized enterprises support employment within the municipality.
The economy benefits from its location along major transport routes and proximity to the Rhine Valley.MAIN FUNCTIONS/SERVICES
Nenzing’s spatial development concept (REK) promotes balanced growth between housing, employment, and nature to maintain a high quality of life.
The municipality has a good cooperation within the Regio Walgau.
Liebherr and other companies provide jobs and business tax revenue – they seek a high quality of life for their employees.
The municipality’s “Wohnraum mobilisieren” initiative activates vacant housing and supports affordable living for local residents.
Through regional cooperation such as “Sozialraum ist Lebensraum,” Nenzing focuses on inclusive community development and strong social infrastructure.CHALLENGES OF QUALITY OF LIFE
While living standards are high, with well-developed infrastructure and modern educational facilities, Nenzing has no overarching strategy and no monitoring. The new mayor puts his focus on maintaining social meeting points, youth involvement and volunteer work.
Tourism, forestry, and alpine agriculture contribute to the local economy, complemented by a stable housing market and active cultural life.
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Grassau (Bavaria), Germany
Grassau is a market town in the district of Traunstein, in the German state of Bavaria. Located at 538 m above sea level, it covers an area of 35.66 km², lying in the foothills of the Chiemgau Alps near Lake Chiemsee. About 45% of its area is used for agriculture and 35% is forested. The highest point in the municipality is the Hochplatte at 1,587 m. As of January 2025, the population is 6.910.
ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND TERRITORIAL CHARACTERISTICS
Grassau has a well-balanced and stable local economy. It acts as a small center for the Achental, with shops and medical services.
The town benefits from its proximity to Lake Chiemsee and the Chiemgau Alps, making tourism a key economic sector alongside small-scale manufacturing, crafts, and services. Agriculture and forestry also play an important role in maintaining the region’s rural character.
MAJOR FUNCTIONS/SERVICES
The LEADER strategy for the Chiemgauer Seenplatte region, including Grassau, aims to enhance quality of life by strengthening community cohesion, sustainable mobility, and access to local services. It promotes vibrant village centers, cultural identity, and climate-friendly living environments.
Beside the LEADER-region, Grassau ist cooperating with the municipalities of the Ökomodell Achental, in fields of sustainable development, renewable energy, mountain farming and nature protection.
Grassau focuses on balancing economic activity with environmental protection to maintain a high standard of living in a close-knit, nature-oriented community. The municipality does not have one strategy document, but concepts for various fields, such as a retail concept or a new land use plan.
CHALLENGES OF QUALITY OF LIFE
Many residents commute to nearby urban centers such as Traunstein and Rosenheim for work, supported by good regional transport connections.
Grassau enjoys a high standard of social life, with strong community structures, active clubs, a cultural center, sports infrastructure, a youth center, year-round events, etc. -
Ala (Trentino), Italy
Ala is a municipality, granted city status by imperial decree in 1765, located in the valley of the Adige River in the southern part of the Autonomous Province of Trento. Historically and geographically a borderland between the Austro-Hungarian Empire and the Kingdom of Italy, as well as between the pre-Alpine region and the Po Valley. The territory includes vast green areas by extensive forests, pastures, and alpine farms, mostly under public ownership.
ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND TERRITORIAL CHARACTERISTICS
The city has a diversified economic base:- Agriculture, particularly viticulture, remains central, with one of the largest vineyard areas in Trentino.
- Forestry and alpine pastures further contribute to its rural landscape
The population has remained stable in recent years, and local social life is dynamic:- Low unemployment and a strong employment rate
- More than 50 active associations for supporting social life.
Civic participation also faces constraints, with young people less involved in community life, while the growing demand for elderly care requires renewed welfare solutions.
Ala acts as a junction between different cultural and economic areas:- A borderland between Austria and Italy; the Alps and the Po Alley
- Located in the Adige Valley along the Brenner corridor
MAJOR FUNCTIONS/SERVICES- Education and culture: nursery school, public library, Provincial Museum of Textile Arts and Textiles
- Sports and leisure: swimming pool, gyms, and a tennis center.
- Mobility and health: railway station, hospital unit, and day center for the elderly.
- Public administration: well-structured system of municipal services.
- Tourism and culture: difficulty in positioning the municipality in relation to nearby attractions (Rovereto, Monte Baldo, Lake Garda).
- Urban vitality: commercial desertification of the historic centre.
- Housing: limited supply of adequate and affordable housing.
- Heritage: preservation of architectural, historical, and traditional assets in both the town centre and rural/mountain areas (malghe).
- Demographics: growing need for services for non-self-sufficient elderly people.
- Youth: Difficulties in the engagement of younger generations in civic and cultural life.
- Economic transition: balancing rural traditions with industry, crafts, and services.
- Social spaces: need for renewed places of daily interaction for young and elderly citizens.
- Participation: necessity to foster innovative and participatory models of civic involvement, including the renewal of third-sector organisations.
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Lanzo Torinese (Piedmont), Italy
Lanzo Torinese constitutes the gateway of the three homonymous Alpine Valleys, that are located at the heart of the Graian Alps. Located in Piedmont, on the border between Italy and France, this area is home to the highest mountains in the region and historically the birthplace of Italian mountaineering.
ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND TERRITORIAL CHARACTERISTICS
Lanzo Torinese is a rural municipality with a population of slightly over 5,000 inhabitants.
Despite its rural characteristics, it constitutes the main centre of the area, and the gateway of a comb-shaped system of dead-end Alpine valleys.
Agriculture- The fastest growing sector of Lanzo’s economy.
- Many young entrepreneurs under the age of 39 are involved in this sector, and there is a lot of food production by local craftsmen.
- The number of craftsmen once at the heart of the local economy and business development, is decreasing.
Lanzo Torinese is located in the Metropolitan Area of Torino, 34 km away from Torino and 11 km from Cirie Municipality.
The area comprises the three valleys, and the end of each valley is reachable only by one way; therefore move around the valley, it is necessary to go forward and backward to Lanzo Torinese.
MAJOR FUNCTIONS/SERVICES- Education and culture: nursery school, public library
- Sports and leisure: swimming pool, gyms, and a tennis center.
- Mobility and health: railway station, hospital, and day center for the elderly.
- Commercial activities: grocery, local farmers’ market, specialised shops, pharmacy
- Public administration: well-structured system of municipal services.
- Decreasing population and lack of community engagement
- Economic and commercial difficulties for local shops and farmers
- Ageing population and social fragmentation isolates elder people from the city life