Liechtenstein's parliament has narrowly approved a citizens' initiative to legalize abortion during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, a move that also seeks to lift restrictions on providing abortion-related information and make the procedure eligible for health insurance. The measure passed the 25-seat parliament with a vote of 13 in favor and 12 against.
However, the initiative faces a significant obstacle: Hereditary Prince Alois, the country's de facto ruler, has previously stated his intention to veto the legislation. Supporters of the initiative argue that there is widespread public backing for legalizing abortion in the principality.
Despite the parliamentary approval, lawmakers rejected a separate proposal to put the issue to a public referendum. Liechtenstein's population is approximately 41,000, with about 80% adhering to the Roman Catholic Church, which opposes abortion.
The country last considered abortion legalization in 2011, when a referendum on the matter was defeated by 52% of voters. At that time, Hereditary Prince Alois also indicated his opposition to such a change.
Abortion is currently permitted in Liechtenstein only under limited circumstances, such as when a woman's life is at risk or in cases of rape. Violators face severe penalties: up to three years in prison for performing an abortion outside these exceptions and up to one year for the woman undergoing the procedure.
These strict regulations necessitate that women travel to neighboring countries, primarily Austria and Switzerland, to obtain abortions. Since 2015, women have been able to do so without legal penalty, though the cost is not covered by health insurance.
The citizens' initiative to reform the law was spearheaded by Tatjana As'Ad of the small left-wing Free List party. Her group successfully gathered 4,970 signatures, significantly exceeding the threshold required to bring the proposal before parliament. The proposed 12-week limit aligns with the timeframe established in many other European nations.