100 Escudos of Portugal 1986 CuNi UNC - Regional Autonomy of the Azores

The Regional Autonomy of the Azores refers to the special political and administrative status granted to this Portuguese archipelago in the Atlantic. Since 1976, the Azores have enjoyed significant autonomy. They have their own institutions: a regional government, a legislative assembly, and a representative of the Portuguese Republic. Regional competencies include areas such as education, healthcare, economy, and environmental management, while foreign affairs and defense remain under Portuguese control. The Azores also benefit from fiscal autonomy and specific support as an outermost region of the European Union.