Volksinitiative in Liechtenstein demanded time limit regulation for abortions
Planned legislative change encounters political resistance – the princely house could have the final word once again.
In Liechtenstein, a popular initiative is advancing the introduction of a time-limit regulation for pregnancy terminations, for which a draft law has now been submitted to the government. Until now, the principality has been among the countries with particularly restrictive laws that permit abortions only in narrowly defined exceptional cases such as life-threatening situations or rape. This was reported by SRF. Under current law, women have not been criminally prosecuted since a reform in 2015 if they have an abortion performed. According to estimates, several dozen Liechtenstein women still seek medical help in neighboring countries each year, primarily in Switzerland. Specialists emphasize that a legal ban does not prevent abortions but creates additional burdens for those affected.
However, the political implementation of the initiative remains uncertain. A similar proposal was already rejected in a popular vote in 2011. Additionally, the monarch has veto power over legislative changes. The princely house reaffirmed its opposing stance and referred to the protection of unborn life as a central ethical fundamental value. After review by the government and parliament, signature collection will first begin. If the required number is reached, either the parliament will decide or, in case of rejection, the population will decide in a popular vote. In both cases, the head of state retains the right not to sanction the law.
Previously, UOJ reported that armed men killed Christians in front of a church in Cairo.
