Liechtenstein’s heir apparent blocks proposed abortion-law reform

Liechtenstein’s heir apparent, Prince Alois, has refused to approve a proposed easing of the country’s abortion laws, blocking a reform backed by a majority in parliament. The move leaves the current restrictions in place, according to a statement from the Liechtenstein court reported by Nieuws.nl. [1]

Parliament submitted the proposed changes on 2 September. They would have allowed abortion during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy without criminal prosecution and lifted a ban on information about abortion.

Alois maintains that the proposed law would not adequately protect unborn life, the court said. It added that he had spent recent months studying the issue and discussing it with others.

The prince said he was open to relaxing the restrictions on information, including lifting the advertising ban. He also supports improving information, counselling and support for women before, during and after pregnancy, according to the court’s statement. [1]

Liechtenstein’s ruling family retains a formal role in the country’s affairs. Alois took over day-to-day leadership of the principality from his father, Prince Hans-Adam, in 2004. [1]