Liechtenstein Reforms Throne Succession, Expands Prince's Power
The House of Liechtenstein introduced reforms granting equal inheritance rights to women in the line of succession and expanding the powers of Prince Alois, who now has greater control over the dynasty's structure and decisions, including pardons, without needing approval from the family council.
Consensus
- The House of Liechtenstein introduced a reform to the line of succession, granting equal rights to women and men.
- The reform applies only to future descendants of Prince Alois and does not affect the current order of succession.
- Prince Alois now has the authority to determine the composition of the dynasty, regulate the use of family names, titles, and coats of arms.
- The family council no longer has mandatory approval power over pardons; consultation is now sufficient.
- The reform was approved exclusively by members of the royal family, not by parliament or the general public.
- The changes were announced on August 15, during Liechtenstein's National Day.
- Women in the royal family now have the right to vote on internal family matters, a right previously reserved for men.
Points of divergence
- 70 percent of adult male members of the dynasty with succession rights supported the changes during a vote on August 12. — vm
- The reform was approved in secret, behind the walls of Vaduz Castle, and was described as being done 'in secret' and 'without the knowledge of subjects.' — vesti
- The family council will be expanded from three to five members. — vm
- The family council will be expanded from three to five, but will lose a key control mechanism. — vesti
Coverage (2 sources)
- FT: The wealthiest European royal dynasty in Liechtenstein strengthened its power — Вечерняя Москва
- Heir to the Principality of Liechtenstein cunningly strengthened his power, reports media — Вести