Liechtenstein’s Hereditary Prince Alois has vetoed legislation that would have legalized abortion on demand during the first three months of pregnancy, preserving some of Europe’s strongest protections for unborn children.
The bill narrowly passed Liechtenstein’s 25-member parliament by 13 votes to 12 in September. It would have amended the country’s criminal code so that abortion performed by a doctor during the first three months of pregnancy would no longer be illegal.
Prince Alois announced that he would withhold the royal sanction required for the legislation to become law.
The Princely House said Alois remains convinced that the proposal is “not compatible with ensuring adequate protection of unborn life.” He instead called for stronger assistance for women facing difficult pregnancies.
“I am convinced that many people share the objective of providing the best possible support to women in difficult situations while at the same time protecting unborn life,” the prince said.
Liechtenstein currently prohibits abortion except in limited circumstances, including when continuing a pregnancy would pose a serious danger to the mother’s life.
The prince’s position also reflects the work of his wife, Hereditary Princess Sophie, who founded the Sophie von Liechtenstein Foundation. The organization provides counseling, psychological assistance, and financial support to pregnant women and families facing difficult circumstances.
Under Liechtenstein’s constitution, the monarch retains the authority to veto legislation, a power reaffirmed by voters in a 2003 referendum.
The decision means the proposed abortion expansion will not take effect. Instead, Liechtenstein will retain its existing protections for unborn children while the royal family continues calling for practical support for mothers before, during, and after pregnancy.