Liechtenstein announced a change in its monarchy succession rules, allowing daughters to inherit the throne. The declaration came on the nation’s National Day, 15 August, amid celebrations across the small principality.
The country, home to about 44,000 people, has historically followed male‑primogeniture. Prime Minister Prince Hans‑Adam II’s rule began in 1989, and the new law does not alter the current heir, Hereditary Prince Alois, who has handled most official duties for the past two decades.
The House of Liechtenstein confirmed that the order of succession will now follow absolute primogeniture. From now on, the first‑born child of the royal line—regardless of gender—shall become the next prince or princess.
Lord Alois added, "With this law we ensure that the Principality and the Princely House are led by the person best prepared for the responsibility."
The change applies only to the four children of Hereditary Prince Alois and Hereditary Princess Sophie and their descendants, leaving the present line of succession unchanged.
Liechtenstein sits between Switzerland and Austria and its prince wields significant political powers, unlike many other European monarchs. In 2011 the United Kingdom broadened its succession eligibility to allow a monarch’s eldest daughter to inherit the throne.
