Liechtenstein's royal house has announced a change to its rules of succession, which will allow women to inherit the principality's throne in the future. Hereditary Prince Alois revealed the decision during his national day speech, stating it was approved by a two-thirds majority of eligible family members on Wednesday.
The shift moves the line of succession from male primogeniture to absolute primogeniture, meaning the first-born child will inherit the throne regardless of gender. Prince Alois indicated this change reflects a principle of balancing continuity with renewal, a practice he believes has served the royal house well throughout its history.
A statement from the princely house clarified that this change will only affect descendants of Prince Alois and Hereditary Princess Sophie born in the future, and thus will not alter the current line of succession. Prince Hans-Adam II remains the head of state, though he transferred most of his powers to his eldest son, Alois, in 2004.
Liechtenstein, a country of 40,000 people situated between Switzerland and Austria, has a monarchy with significant power by European standards. The ruling prince holds the authority to veto referendum outcomes, appoint judges, and dismiss the government. The principality has a history of conservatism; it was the last European nation to grant women the right to vote in national elections in 1984, following a referendum approved by male voters. Brigitte Haas became the country's first female prime minister last year.
Prince Alois and Hereditary Princess Sophie have four children. Their eldest is Prince Joseph Wenzel, 31, followed by Princess Marie Caroline, 29.