Liechtenstein Parliament approves abortion legalization initiative

The Liechtenstein Parliament has narrowly approved a popular initiative to legalize abortion during the first twelve weeks of pregnancy. The vote passed with a 13-12 majority among the 25 members present.

The proposed legislation would significantly ease the principality’s current laws, which are among the most restrictive in Europe. Under existing regulations, abortion is generally prohibited, and doctors performing the procedure can face up to three years in prison, with very limited exceptions for life-threatening situations or sexual offenses.

Despite the parliamentary approval, the law faces a likely defeat via executive veto. Hereditary Prince Alois, who has exercised the powers of head of state since 2004, previously indicated he would veto the measure, citing a “central legal interest in the protection of life.”

The initiative, which gathered 4,970 signatures, also saw a motion to submit the matter to a public referendum rejected by a 13-12 vote. If the Prince does not sign the law by the expected deadline in March 2027, the legislation will be considered rejected.