Women gain equal rights to inherit Liechtenstein's throne
Vaduz Castle, residence of the reigning prince (photo: wikipedia.org)
On Saturday, August 15, the Principality of Liechtenstein announced that it is ending the preference for male heirs in succession to the throne. Firstborn daughters can now also inherit the throne, France 24 reports.
"The order of succession is being changed from male primogeniture to absolute primogeniture. This means that in the future the first-born child, regardless of sex, will become heir to the throne and later princess or prince of Liechtenstein," the principality said in a statement.
As a result, women now have equal rights within the ruling family. Liechtenstein had been the only country in Europe where male-preference succession to the princely throne was still in effect.
The outlet explains that Liechtenstein is a constitutional monarchy. Prince Hans-Adam II has been head of state since 1989, although since 2004 most of his official duties have been carried out by his son, Alois, the heir and regent.
"With this change in the law, we want to ensure that both the Principality of Liechtenstein and the Princely House are led by the person who has been best prepared for this responsibility," Alois said in a statement.
Alois and his wife, Sophie, Hereditary Princess of Liechtenstein, have four children. Their eldest is Joseph Wenzel Maximilian Maria, born in 1995.
The Princes of Liechtenstein, originally from Lower Austria, acquired the County of Vaduz and the Lordship of Schellenberg in 1699 and 1712, respectively. In 1719, the two territories were united and elevated to the status of an imperial principality.
Earlier, RBC-Ukraine published 10 facts tourists should know before visiting Liechtenstein.
