In brief
On its 150th national day, Liechtenstein declared a historic change to its royal succession system, moving from male‑only primogeniture to absolute primogeniture. The reform means the first‑born child, regardless of gender, will become heir to the throne. King Prince Hans‑Adam II confirmed the change during a triumphal forum at the castle, stressing continuity for the current heir, Hereditary Prince Alois. The law will create a new succession line for the children of Alois and his wife Sophie, while leaving the present line intact. The move joins a growing trend of monarchies modernising regnal rules, echoing Britain’s 2011 reform.
In a strike‑shaped declaration during the National Day parade, the tiny Alpine nation announced a sweeping change to its monarchy. The new rule replaces male‑only primogeniture with absolute primogeniture, allowing the first‑born child, regardless of sex, to inherit the throne.
Prince Hans‑Adam II, who has held the crown since 1989, made the speech at the castle grounds, lime‑filled with thousands of citizens cheering under a clear sky. In a solemn statement, he said: “With this change in the law, we want to ensure that both the Principality of Liechtenstein and the Princely House are led by the person who has been best prepared for this responsibility.”
The reform will take effect only for the descendants of Hereditary Prince Alois and Hereditary Princess Sophie. At present the heir is Alois’s eldest son, 33; the law will ensure that his eldest child—whether a boy or a girl—will be the next monarch.
The decision mirrors earlier reforms in other European monarchies; Britain updated its succession in 2011, and several other countries are reviewing their constitutional frameworks. For Liechtenstein, the change signals a modern approach while preserving the state’s traditional governance.
Witnesses at the castle reported the atmosphere of excitement and pride. “We are proud to lead the change while keeping our heritage,” added Alois on the main balcony.
Click the comments section below to tell us what you think about this new rule and whether other monarchies should follow suit.
