Liechtenstein Rewrites Royal Succession Law to Grant Women an Equal Chance

Sun Sep 06 2026 05:23:46 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Liechtenstein reforms its monarchy to allow any first‑born—regardless of gender—to become heir to the throne, announced on the nation’s holiday.

Liechtenstein has altered its succession rules to follow the model of absolute primogeniture, meaning the kingdom’s heir will be its firstborn child, male or female. The decision was made on the country’s national day, a celebration that saw crowds gathering beneath Vaduz Castle. Prince Hans‑Adam II confirmed the change would not affect his son, the hereditary Prince Alois, but will apply to his descendants. The move aligns Liechtenstein with Britain’s 2011 reforms and underscores the principality’s tradition of granting its ruler sweeping political authority. The announcement further underlines the country’s commitment to modernizing its royal traditions while preserving its unique political structure.

Liechtenstein changes succession rule to allow women to ascend the throne

Liechtenstein has announced that it has changed its royal succession rules to allow women to become heirs to the throne. The declaration was made on the country’s national day, a public holiday celebrated with festivals and fireworks in the capital Vaduz.

Prince Hans‑Adam II, who has led the principality since 1989, confirmed that the new law will not affect his own son, Hereditary Prince Alois, who has already been carrying out many official duties. The change will only apply to Alois’s descendants.

The House of Liechtenstein said: "The order of succession is being changed from male primogeniture to absolute primogeniture, which means that the first‑born child, regardless of sex, will become heir to the throne." Alois added that the measure will ensure that the principality is led by the person best prepared for the role.

Liechtenstein is a tiny doubly‑landlocked country located between Switzerland and Austria. Its ruler holds sweeping political powers, unlike many European monarchs. In 2011 Britain amended its succession laws, allowing the eldest daughter of a monarch to inherit the throne.