The European microstate of Liechtenstein, located between Austria and Switzerland, is changing its laws to allow women to inherit the throne. This was reported by “Apnews,” citing a statement from the country’s Princely House.
The heir to the throne, Prince Alois, announced these changes in a speech on the occasion of Liechtenstein’s national holiday. He stated that the new rules were approved on Wednesday by two-thirds of the royal family members who have voting rights on such matters.
“The ability to combine continuity and renewal is a principle we adhere to in the Princely House. The order of succession to the throne will be changed from inheritance by the male line to inheritance by the right of the eldest child, regardless of gender. This means that in the future, the first child will become the heir to the throne, and later – the Princess or Prince of Liechtenstein,” Alois emphasized.
It is also explained that the rule change will not affect the already established line of succession to the throne.
Currently, the formal head of Liechtenstein is Prince Hans Adam II. However, as early as 2004, he transferred most of his powers to his eldest son Alois, who is now 58 years old. The eldest of Alois’s four children is 31-year-old Prince Joseph Wenzel.
As noted by “Apnews,” Liechtenstein is a microstate with a population of 40,000, characterized by a very high standard of living and a traditional monarchy. The ruling prince has the right to veto referendum results, appoint judges, and dismiss the government.
The country is distinguished by its conservatism. For example, it was the last European country to grant women the right to vote in national elections – this only happened in 1984. And in April 2025, Brigitte Haas became the first woman to hold the position of head of the Liechtenstein government.
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