On August 15, 2026, Liechtenstein’s royal family announced a significant change to its succession rules, allowing women to inherit the principality’s throne. Hereditary Prince Alois shared this development during a speech marking the national day. The change was approved by a two-thirds majority of voting family members.

The text of Prince Alois’s speech, available on the princely house’s website, specifies that all female descendants of the Princely House will now have the same rights in matters governed by House Law as male descendants. The succession will shift from male primogeniture to absolute primogeniture, meaning the first-born child, regardless of gender, will be the heir to the throne.

This adjustment, however, does not affect the current line of succession immediately. Prince Hans-Adam II remains the head of state. However, in 2004, he transferred most of his powers to his eldest son, Alois, who continues in this role. Alois is the father of Prince Joseph Wenzel, who is next in line.

Liechtenstein, with its population of 40,000, borders Switzerland and Austria. The nation’s monarchy holds substantial power. The ruling prince can veto referendum outcomes, appoint judges, and dismiss the government. Despite its traditional conservatism, Liechtenstein has shown progress in gender equality. It was the last European country to grant women the right to vote in 1984, a move barely approved by male voters through a referendum. Last year, Brigitte Haas was appointed as the country’s first female prime minister.