Liechtenstein’s parliament has narrowly approved a proposal to legalize abortion during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, but the measure is unlikely to become law after Hereditary Prince Alois pledged to veto it.
The citizens’ initiative passed by just 13 votes to 12 in the country’s 25-seat parliament. It would also remove restrictions on providing information about abortion and allow the procedure to be covered by health insurance.
Liechtenstein currently permits abortion only in limited circumstances, including when a woman’s life is at risk or when pregnancy results from sexual violence. Women seeking abortions outside those exceptions generally travel to neighboring Austria or Switzerland.
The proposal was led by Tatjana As’Ad of the left-wing Free List party, whose campaign gathered 4,970 signatures. Lawmakers nevertheless rejected a separate proposal to put the issue directly before voters.
Liechtenstein last held an abortion referendum in 2011, when 52% of voters rejected legalization. Nearly 80% of the country’s population identifies as Roman Catholic.
Hereditary Prince Alois, who exercises broad constitutional powers, has made clear that he considers the proposal insufficiently protective of unborn life. The Princely House has suggested that narrower reforms, such as easing restrictions on abortion-related information, could be considered instead.