Liechtenstein prince’s ‘surreal’ abortion veto dismays campaigners

The hereditary prince of Liechtenstein, Alois, has exercised his veto for the first time in his reign, rejecting a bill aimed at aligning the principality's abortion laws with those of much of Europe. This legislation, which was approved by Liechtenstein’s parliament last month following a citizens’ initiative supported by approximately a quarter of the nation’s voters, has left campaigners in the country disheartened.

Tatjana As’Ad, who led the initiative and is affiliated with the small left-wing party Free List, expressed disappointment, stating, "We’re not really surprised, but still disappointed. It’s surreal what’s happening right now in 2026 in a state in the middle of Europe." She noted that the veto would not prevent abortions from occurring, as women would continue to seek procedures abroad.

In Liechtenstein, abortions are permitted only under specific circumstances, such as when a woman’s life is at risk or in cases of rape. Since 2015, women have been legally allowed to travel outside the country to terminate a pregnancy, circumventing local restrictions.