Liechtenstein’s prince vetoes bill to legalize abortion up to 12 weeks

Liechtensteinʼs Hereditary Prince Alois has vetoed a bill that would have legalized abortion in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, blocking a measure the tiny European countryʼs parliament passed by a single vote.

The prince “will therefore withhold” approval from the bill adopted by the principalityʼs parliament, the Princely House said in an Oct. 20 statement .

Under the constitution of Liechtenstein, a nation of about 40,000 people between Switzerland and Austria, no law takes effect without the reigning princeʼs approval.

The statement said Alois “remains convinced that the proposed reform is not compatible with ensuring adequate protection of unborn life as a fundamental legal value.”

The statement added that Alois supports better information, counseling, and support for women before, during, and after pregnancy.

Liechtenstein parliament backs abortion initiative, but prince has the last word

The bill would have allowed abortion up to 12 weeks. The activists behind the initiative pushing for legalization also sought to lift the advertising ban and have health insurance cover abortions.

Abortion remains a crime in Liechtenstein except in cases of rape or grave…