Liechtenstein allows women to ascend to the throne, ending male-only succession

Liechtenstein is now the final European monarchy to permit women to inherit the throne. The ruling princely family announced on Saturday that it is amending its rules of succession. Henceforth, the eldest child will become the heir to the throne, irrespective of gender. This change ensures that "both the Principality of Liechtenstein and the princely family will be led by the person best prepared for the role," according to Crown Prince Alois. This reform is part of a broader change to family law in Liechtenstein, which has been governed by its own dynastic law for centuries. The law, drafted by the family itself, is integrated into the country's constitution. The new succession rule specifically affects the future descendants of Crown Prince Alois and his wife, Princess Sophie. It does not alter the status of existing members of the princely family. Alois and Sophie have four children, the eldest being their 31-year-old son, Joseph Wenzel. The current head of state, 81-year-old Prince Hans-Adam II, remains the Prince of Liechtenstein, but Crown Prince Alois effectively manages the country's affairs. Liechtenstein was the last European monarchy to completely exclude women from the line of succession. While many other European monarchies have adopted gender-equal succession systems in recent decades, some, like Spain and Monaco, still favor male heirs.

“

With the law change, we want to ensure that both the Principality of Liechtenstein and the princely family will be led by the person best prepared for the role.