Liechtenstein Prince Vows to Veto Abortion Decriminalization: “State Must Protect the Unborn”

Hereditary Prince Alois Philipp Maria of Liechtenstein intends to veto a bill that would decriminalize abortion in the country. In an interview with the Liechtensteiner Vaterland on September 16, the Prince stated that a head of state must take a clear stand and assume responsibility on fundamental issues regarding the protection of life.

The Liechtenstein Parliament approved the bill, titled Fristenlösung für Liechtenstein, by a narrow 13 to 12 vote on September 2. Lawmakers also rejected a proposal to submit the measure to a popular referendum by the same margin. The legislation would decriminalize abortion during the first three months of pregnancy, repeal criminal restrictions on the promotion and provision of abortion services, and add abortion to the mandatory health insurance system.

Following the parliamentary vote, the coalition supporting the measure began a campaign to bypass the royal veto. The initiative committee has sent formal requests to the Prince and leaders from the Patriotic Union and the Progressive Citizens’ Party.