Liechtenstein royal family adopts gender-neutral succession for future heirs
Liechtenstein’s ruling house voted to replace male-only inheritance with absolute primogeniture, allowing a daughter to inherit the throne.
During the national day address in Vaduz, Hereditary Prince Alois revealed that the Liechtenstein princely family has approved a shift from male-only succession to absolute primogeniture, following the required two-thirds majority among voting relatives. This amendment ensures that the eldest child, whether a son or daughter, will inherit the throne in the future. The immediate order of succession stays unchanged, with Prince Hans-Adam II still serving as head of state and Alois handling most governmental powers since 2004.
Alois’ eldest child, Prince Joseph Wenzel, remains the next in line. The reform aligns with recent domestic advances, such as the election of Brigitte Haas as the country’s first female prime minister, and reflects Liechtenstein’s traditionally conservative yet evolving political landscape.
Why it matters
The rule change opens the throne to women, marking a historic step toward gender equality in a monarchy with significant political power.
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